A Travel Guide to Newport Beach, California's Best Concerts & Events

Newport Beach is synonymous with luxury, coastal beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene that attracts visitors from all over the globe. While the pristine beaches and yacht-filled harbor are the main draws, the city also hosts an impressive calendar of concerts, festivals, and special events throughout the year. From the world-renowned Jazz Festival at the Hyatt Regency to the dazzling Christmas Boat Parade that lights up the harbor, there is always something happening in this coastal paradise. However, navigating the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) during peak event times or finding parking on the Balboa Peninsula can quickly turn a fun group outing into a logistical nightmare. That is where Charter Bus Rental Company Newport Beach comes in.

Whether you are organizing a corporate retreat to the Newport Beach Film Festival, a family reunion centered around the Jazz Festival, or a festive holiday party viewing the boat parade, reliable group transportation is essential. Charter Bus Rental Company Newport Beach provides a fleet of charter buses, minibuses, and sprinter vans to ensure your group arrives together, on time, and in style. We serve every neighborhood in the area, from Corona del Mar to Balboa Island and Newport Coast. Let us handle the traffic on Jamboree Road while you relax in a climate-controlled cabin with reclining seats and onboard WiFi. Here is your ultimate guide to the best concerts and events in Newport Beach and how to get there stress-free.

A few of the companies we’ve worked with

The Newport Beach Jazz Festival at the Hyatt Regency

For decades, the Newport Beach Jazz Festival has been a staple of the Southern California music scene, drawing jazz enthusiasts from across the country. Held annually at the stunning Hyatt Regency Newport Beach (1107 Jamboree Rd, Newport Beach, CA 92660), this multi-day festival features some of the biggest names in R&B and Jazz performing against the backdrop of the Back Bay. The event is more than just a concert; it is a lifestyle experience featuring an international food court, vendor village, and pristine views. However, because this event draws thousands of attendees, traffic along Jamboree Road and Back Bay Drive can become gridlocked, and on-site parking is premium and limited.

Avoid the stress of splitting your group into multiple rideshares or fighting for a parking spot by booking a private charter bus rental. Charter Bus Rental Company Newport Beach can set up a shuttle service for your group from local hotels or even direct from John Wayne Airport. A 56-passenger motorcoach is perfect for large fan groups or corporate hospitality events attending the festival. Your driver will drop you off right at the resort entrance, allowing you to walk straight to the stages while we handle the parking logistics off-site. With plenty of undercarriage storage, you can even bring along folding chairs or blankets if you have general admission lawn seating. Enjoy the smooth jazz without the rough traffic.

Concerts on the Green at the Civic Center

For a more relaxed, community-focused vibe, the Concerts on the Green series is a summer favorite among locals. Held at the Newport Beach Civic Center (100 Civic Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660), these free concerts take place on the civic green and feature a variety of tribute bands and local artists. It is the perfect setting for a company picnic, a church group outing, or a large family gathering. The atmosphere is laid back, but the parking situation at the Civic Center and the adjacent library can get complicated quickly as spaces fill up hours before the music starts.

By renting a minibus from Charter Bus Rental Company Newport Beach, you simplify the arrival process for your entire group. We can pick up your party from a central meeting point in Irvine, Costa Mesa, or anywhere in Orange County and drop you off curbside at the Civic Center. This is especially helpful if you are transporting senior citizens or families with small children who may struggle with long walks from overflow parking. Your bus rental can stay nearby, ready to pick you up the moment the encore finishes. Pack your picnic baskets, coolers, and lawn games easily on the bus, and enjoy a quintessential Newport summer evening without the headache of circling for a spot.

The Newport Beach Film Festival

Every year, the Newport Beach Film Festival transforms the city into a hub for cinema, attracting filmmakers, actors, and movie buffs from around the world. Screenings and galas are held at various locations throughout the city, including Fashion Island (401 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660), the historic Lido Theater (3459 Via Lido, Newport Beach, CA 92663), and other venues in the Triangle Square area. With events spread out across the city, moving a jury, a film crew, or a group of VIP attendees between screenings, red carpet events, and after-parties requires precision transportation.

Charter Bus Rental Company Newport Beach specializes in festival transportation logistics. We can provide a sleek sprinter van for VIP talent or a fleet of shuttle buses to move attendees between the theater venues and the opening night galas. Navigating between Fashion Island and the Balboa Peninsula can be tricky due to traffic on PCH, but the drivers know the best routes to keep your itinerary on track. Your group can utilize onboard power outlets to keep phones and cameras charged between events and use the free WiFi to post updates about the films in real-time. Make your film festival experience a blockbuster success with professional, dedicated transportation.

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade Viewing Parties

Hailed as one of the nation’s longest-running holiday festivals, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is an absolute must-see event. For five nights in December, the harbor comes alive with yachts, boats, and kayaks decked out in elaborate holiday light displays. Viewing parties are held at restaurants and public spots all along the harbor, from Marina Park (1600 W Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663) to Balboa Island. During this week, traffic on the Balboa Peninsula and the bridge to Balboa Island is notoriously heavy, often at a standstill. Finding public parking is nearly impossible.

This is where Charter Bus Rental Company Newport Beach shines. We can transport your holiday party, corporate team, or extended family directly to your viewing location or dinner reservation. A private shuttle allows your group to enjoy holiday cocktails and festivities without worrying about a designated driver. We can drop your group off near the Balboa Pavilion or the Fun Zone and return to pick you up once the parade concludes. Inside the bus, you can keep the holiday spirit high with Christmas music playing over the premium sound system and LED lighting to match the festive mood outside. Do not let gridlock steal your holiday cheer—let us handle the driving while you enjoy the lights.

Summer Concert Series at Back Bay Amphitheater

Located within the Hyatt Regency, the Back Bay Amphitheater (1107 Jamboree Rd, Newport Beach, CA 92660) hosts a specific Summer Concert Series that is separate from the Jazz Festival. This intimate outdoor venue offers incredible acoustics and sunset views, making it a prime location for date nights or sophisticated corporate outings. Acts range from classic rock legends to contemporary smooth jazz artists. Because the venue is intimate, it offers a VIP feel that pairs perfectly with a luxury transportation experience.

Book a sleek 20-passenger minibus or a sprinter limousine for your executive team or clients. Charter Bus Rental Company Newport Beach can arrange for a pickup from corporate offices in Newport Center or Irvine Spectrum, providing a seamless transition from the boardroom to the concert. Your bus can be stocked with beverages so guests can unwind on the way to the venue. We handle the valet and parking chaos so your VIPs can walk straight to their seats. Impress your clients with a transportation experience that matches the high quality of the Newport Beach lifestyle.

Private Events at Crystal Cove State Park

For those looking for a more natural setting for their events, Crystal Cove State Park (8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651), located on the border of Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, offers stunning venues like the Crystal Cove Historic District and The Beachcomber Café. It is a popular spot for weddings, private beach parties, and photography workshops. However, parking at Crystal Cove involves navigating lots on the east side of PCH and taking a shuttle down to the beach, which can be cumbersome for large groups or formal events.

Charter Bus Rental Company Newport Beach can facilitate direct transportation for your wedding guests or event attendees. While large motorcoaches may have restrictions on the lower beach roads, we can coordinate drop-offs at the designated accessible areas or shuttle lots, ensuring your group stays together. If you are hosting a beach bonfire or a sunset reception, a charter bus ensures that everyone returns safely to their hotels in Newport Beach or Huntington Beach after dark. With amenities like climate control, your guests can escape the cool ocean breeze and warm up instantly once they board the bus for the return trip.

Lobsterfest at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort

Foodies flock to the annual Lobsterfest held at the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina (1131 Back Bay Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660). This event celebrates summer with whole Maine lobsters, live music, and dancing on the beach. It is a fantastic event for large groups of friends, social clubs, or company summer parties. The venue is located in the Back Bay, and while there is parking, entrance lines can get long during major events.

Rent a party bus from Charter Bus Rental Company Newport Beach to keep the energy high from start to finish. A party bus is the ideal choice for a festive food event like Lobsterfest. Your group can enjoy the open bar at the event without worrying about driving home. Our buses feature wraparound seating, allowing your group to socialize on the way to the Dunes. Whether you are coming from inland Empire, Los Angeles, or just down the street, a charter bus rental ensures that your group arrives hungry and leaves happy, with a safe, reliable ride home at the end of the feast.

Book Your Newport Beach Event Transportation Today

Newport Beach offers a world-class lineup of concerts, festivals, and events, but the coastal traffic and limited parking can be a challenge. Don't let logistics overshadow the experience. Charter Bus Rental Company Newport Beach has representatives available 24/7/365 to assist you with finding the best charter bus to meet your needs. If you’d like a free personalized quote for your next group trip to the Jazz Festival, the Film Festival, or a private beach party, we’re ready to help and we’d love to earn your business! You can reach us by calling 805-702-1137. You can also use our online quote tool for instant online charter bus pricing in under 30-seconds. With just a few pieces of information, you can instantly see images and prices of available vehicles in your area. Let us handle the road so you can enjoy the show!

Frequently Asked Questions About Newport Beach Concert Transportation

How far in advance should we book a bus for the Christmas Boat Parade?

The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of the busiest weeks of the year in the city. We highly recommend booking your transportation at least 3 to 6 months in advance to ensure availability and secure the best rates. December dates fill up incredibly fast!

What if our group size changes before the event?

We understand that plans can change. If your passenger count increases or decreases significantly, give us a call as soon as possible. We can often switch your vehicle to a larger charter bus or a smaller minibus, subject to availability. Our goal is to ensure you have the right-sized vehicle for your group.

Do your buses have storage for beach gear or picnic supplies?

Absolutely. Our full-size charter buses and many of our minibuses come equipped with spacious undercarriage storage bays and overhead bins. There is plenty of room for coolers, folding chairs, blankets, and even picnic baskets for events like the Concerts on the Green or a day at Crystal Cove.

Can the bus drop us off directly at the venue entrance?

We always strive to get you as close to the entrance as possible. However, specific drop-off locations depend on the venue's rules and local traffic regulations. For places like the Hollywood Bowl or Angel Stadium, there are designated bus zones. For Newport Beach venues like Fashion Island or the Balboa Pier, your driver will find the safest and closest legal loading zone to drop your group off.