Ball Drop, Laguna Style: Where to Spend New Year’s Eve in Laguna Beach
Nothing gives you the feeling of a clean slate and fresh possibilities quite like a new year does. It’s a special time to celebrate endings and beginnings alike, surrounded by good company – and beautiful scenery, obviously!
Do you enjoy a simple toast over dinner or do you love staying out late counting down the hours till midnight and a whole new you?
No matter your mood, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to ring in the New Year in Laguna Beach.
Photo courtesy of Skyloft OC Jingle Bar.
Skyloft OC
Skyloft OC’s seasonal Jingle Bar has been a hit this year, and their NYE celebration promises to be a VERY festive way to ring in 2025, featuring live music, a delicious prix fixe menu, and a champagne toast at midnight. Early seating from 4 pm to 6 pm is available for $75 per person, and guests enjoying this seating are kindly asked to vacate their tables by 8 pm. Bar tables are also available for those who prefer a more casual experience. Call 949-715-1550 to secure your reservation.
Photo courtesy of Oto Sushi.
Oto Sushi
For a more intimate and culinary-focused New Year’s Eve, Oto Sushi offers an extraordinary three-course menu. Start with a delightful appetizer, followed by an exquisite sushi board and a mouthwatering dessert. Choose from two dining times—5 pm or 7:30 pm—and toast to the New Year with a complimentary glass of champagne. Prefer to celebrate at home? Bring the experience to your party with their Weekend Sushi Board, featuring a mix of signature rolls and nigiri. Reservations are highly recommended for this exclusive dining experience.
Photo courtesy of The Ranch.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
If you prefer partying a little earlier, head to The Ranch at Laguna Beach where they'll have live music until 8pm. Your friends and family will enjoy hanging out on the gorgeous patio area overlooking the expansive golf course greens. No cover charge and no reservations needed.
Photo courtesy of Laguna Playhouse.
Laguna Playhouse
Celebrate with a touch of nostalgia at Laguna Playhouse’s 'Another Groovy New Year’s Eve.' The evening kicks off with a comedy set by Rita Rudner and features live music from 'Listen to the Seventies.' The fun wraps up with a champagne toast and a balloon drop at 9 pm, letting you celebrate without staying up too late. Tickets range from $105 to $131 and can be purchased online or by calling 949-497-ARTS (2787).
Photo courtesy of The Rooftop Lounge.
The Rooftop Lounge
Catch a romantic ocean sunset at The Rooftop Lounge and enjoy their most popular appetizers with a side of live music. For something a little more lavish, head downstairs to the new Casa Bistro for a classy New Year’s Eve dinner.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Laguna.
Hotel Laguna
Step back in time with Hotel Laguna’s 'Back to the 80's' celebration. This lively event promises a nostalgic night of fun. General admission is $50 per person, but if you’re looking to elevate your evening, the New Year’s Eve dinner package includes party admission for $200 per person. Choose from two dinner seatings at 6 pm or 9 pm, and enjoy a delightful menu before dancing the night away. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.
Photo courtesy of Olivers Osteria.
OLIVER’S OSTERIA
Celebrate New Year’s Eve Italian-style at Oliver’s Osteria with an exquisite four-course dinner followed by dancing. The evening begins with dinner from 9 pm to 11 pm, featuring choices like grilled tomino cheese with black truffle, homemade ricotta and lemon ravioli, and prime filet mignon with Barolo wine sauce. End your meal with a decadent dessert of panettone and mascarpone cream. After dinner, enjoy music by DJ Gio from 11 pm to 1:30 am. The event is $200 per person, and reservations are required. Call (949) 715-0261 to secure your spot for this elegant celebration.
Forest Avenue Promenade
For a good time without cover fees or confined spaces, bundle up in a warm outfit and walk around the Forest Avenue Promenade. Bring the whole family for an outdoor dining experience under the twinkling lights.
For guaranteed rowdy fun, visit nearby hotspots such as Brussels Bistro, Lumberyard, Hennessey's Tavern, and Marine Room. They’ll have live entertainment and plenty of drinks flowing past midnight!