Yachting Events

Newport Beach International Boat Show Kicks Off Today

Kate Hampton

May 1, 2025 — 3 min read

image: Newport Beach International Boat Show.

It's Newport Beach's 52nd annual show, with organizers currently estimating a crowd about on par with last year's – though this year, there's purportedly a greater emphasis on kid-friendly activities.

Times, Parking, and Tickets

The show is spread throughout Lido Marina Village off Newport Boulevard, with free parking just up the road at Hoag Health Center and a shuttle to the show that runs every 20 minutes. Today, Thursday, is the pre-show, running from 2pm-7pm; Friday through Sunday it'll open at 10am and close at 7pm, 7pm, and 5pm respectively. The show's website has a map marking the shuttle pickup area relative to the parking garage.

Tickets for the pre-show appear to be still available at the time of this writing for $75, but Friday through Sunday tickets are less, with general admission being $35 and free for children under twelve, and there's a weekend pass for $80. VIP prices vary by day from $145 to $195, with perks including lounge access, drinks and hors d'oeuvres, and music.

What to See

While there'll be plenty of exhibitors on-shore alongside the village's usual shops, some spectacular yachts are ready for the curious in a well-designed (that is, not annoying to navigate on foot) in-water display. It's a great chance to see the stunning Sirena 88 in person– if you need a reason, here's a few:

And our studio-produced full spotlight:

My personal pick that'll be at the show is the Wallypower 58X, with its gorgeous fold-down deck:

Where to Eat

If you're not doing VIP tickets, and with the show closing to those without afterparty access at 7, here are some walkable top picks around the marina:

Mutt Lynch's (open till midnight) — a quirky, busy bar on Newport Beach by the pier that regularly gets rave reviews. Menu

Buona Forchetta (open till 9 Thursday and Sunday, 10 Friday and Saturday) — Italian food that customers praise as both great and authentic. Menu

Cannery Seafood of the Pacific (open till 8:30 Thursday and Sunday, 9 Friday and Saturday) — called "the best seafood in Newport Beach" with a relaxed atmosphere. Menu

The Dock (open till 10:30 Thursday and Sunday, 11 Friday and Saturday) — one of the highest-rated spots in the marina area, with water views. Menu

As with any event, it's always best to call ahead for reservations.

Introducing YachtWay’s Triple Threat: EasySign, EasyClose, and EasyFund

At YachtWay, innovation isn’t a buzzword—it’s how we operate. As we continue to transform the way yachts are bought and sold, we’re excited to spotlight three standout services that are helping brokers, dealers, and clients close deals faster, smarter, and with less friction. "YachtWay is

Revolutionizing Marine Navigation: Tocaro Blue's Proteus Hub

Tocaro Blue's Proteus Hub uses AI to simplify radar, enhancing marine navigation safety and efficiency with intuitive, predictive displays.

Great White Shark Tourism Revolutions in Cape Cod

In the waters off Massachusetts, a new chapter in marine exploration is unfolding—one where conservation, technology, and tourism converge in remarkable harmony. As the Atlantic White Shark population steadily rebounds, so too does public fascination. Thanks to advanced tools like aquatic drones and real-time sensor buoys, a growing number

Heesen Unveils the Magnificent Project Agnetha

Heesen’s Project Agnetha dazzles with sleek design, luxury interiors, and bespoke craftsmanship in a 55m steel yacht.