Huntington Beach - Huntington Harbour Cruise of Lights

December 18-23, 2024

45 minute tour
$24-26 adult, cruiseoflights.org 
$17-19 ages 2-12 years; Free under age 2 years

Cruise Times

5:30, 6:30, 7:30  p.m.

Huntington Harbour Cruise of Lights narrated boat tour showcases the lit homes from the waterways of Huntington Beach's manmade harbor.

The Experience

It's evening in Huntington Beach and December is typically nice weather. However, an occasional rain can occur. The boats have many covered areas so you can stay dry on the rare occasions when this happens. DO bring a jacket or coat. Temps can drop down into the 50s.

The jolly volunteers shuttle you from Huntington Harbour Place  with ample, free parking in the back of the mall. You are instructed to climb aboard a shuttle or school bus for a few short-blocks ride to the public dock next to Huntington Harbour Yacht Club where ticketed guests board for  their cruise.

Once on board, you can find a seat (or stand if you prefer,)  and enjoy the glistening lights, sparkling reflections on the water, merry music, interesting narration with facts and tidbits, and be amazed at how beautiful the decorated houses and mansions are at night.

The event has become a family tradition for many of us who are lucky enough to live in the area. However, it's also a popular outing for many city parks & rec departments throughout Southern California who bring their residents to this fun adventure. You'll never know you will meet, but count on happiness, good times and holiday cheer as your ticket purchase contributes to great causes.

Also see: Huntington Harbour Boat Parade

Non-profit fundraiser

Volunteer women and men who have tirelessly produced the Huntington Harbour Cruise of Lights Christmas Boat Parade for 60 years have put their hearts and souls into their non-paying work. They have a purpose: help fund music & arts for students.

Of the many California boat cruises or boat parades hosted during the holidays, there are definitely some stand out events. Among them, Cruise of Lights is one of the best. You wouldn't be able to see the decorated waterfront mansions, castles and houses without taking a boat ride made possible through the Cruise of Lights committee. Why?

1. One reason is that it's an incredible challenge trying to get all the residents to put lights on their houses. Some don't care to, some don't normally participate in Christmas displays because of their religions and faiths, and some are new home owners who simply don't know about the fund-raising effort that the community pulls together to produce.
2. Boat insurance is expensive and finding boats to take the public on has provided unique challenges.

Huntington Harbour Cruise of Lights volunteers are truly unsung heroes for the work they do throughout the year(s) to raise funds for programs that were de-funded and no longer offered regularly in schools. These enrichment programs introduce kids to the arts and especially music. By attending the Cruise of Lights you are supporting

Events are not guaranteed. It is your responsibility to confirm before going.