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 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 Cabana.

CABANA RESTAURANT & BEACH CLUB

If you like your New Years Eve to be a legit party — drinks, dancing, the whole shebang — pop into Cabana Restaurant & Beach Club. Feast on Mexican coastal cuisine and dance the night away with their live DJ and entertainment. Don’t be surprised if there are fire dancers!

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 The Rooftop Lounge.

The Rooftop Lounge & Comedor

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 Comedor for a New Year’s Eve dinner curated by Executive Chef Glen Tinsely. Priced at $150 per person, this five-course prix-fixe menu will be one to remember. Reservations are not required but highly recommended. 

Photo courtesy of Hotel Laguna.

Hotel Laguna

Ring in the New Year at the iconic, historic, and fancy AF Hotel Laguna! Nestled in the heart of town, Hotel Laguna offers a charming laid-back luxurious experience with a view you’ll be talking about all year.

Photo courtesy of Olivers Osteria.

OLIVER’S OSTERIA

Celebrate a Buon Anno (Happy New Year) at Oliver’s Osteria. Enjoy a late-night, four-course Italian dinner from 9pm - 11pm then dance the year away until 1:30am. The price per person is $200 and reservations are required.

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!