5 Incredible Wine Tours In Newport Beach

The 5 Best Wine Tours in Newport Beach

Newport Beach isn’t just about soaking up sun on sandy beaches — it’s also a surprisingly good jumping-off point for exploring Southern California’s wine scene. While you won’t find vineyards right in the city, a short drive inland takes you into regions like Temecula Valley, where rolling vineyards and boutique wineries await. With options ranging from guided group tours to private tastings and even romantic boat cruises, Newport Beach offers something for every wine lover.

In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of five top-rated wine experiences. Whether you want a full-day vineyard adventure with expert guides, a romantic couple’s spa day paired with wine, or a private tour that includes a top restaurant, we’ve got you covered. We’ll highlight what makes each different — from small-group VIP visits to exclusive private tours — so you can pick the one that fits your style and plans.

Expect practical details like prices and durations, insights from reviews, and honest assessments of what each tour offers. Get ready to enjoy Southern California’s wine regions in style, comfort, and with plenty of memorable moments.

Quick Overview

This list includes full-day winery tours, small-group VIP experiences, private custom trips, romantic boat cruises with wine, and art-inspired wine experiences. Prices range from $59 for a fun, casual paint and wine session to $1,400 for a comprehensive private tour with lunch and winemaker meet-and-greets. Duration varies from quick two-hour spa packages to full-day excursions lasting eight hours. Whether you want a guided group adventure or a tailored private day, these options cover a broad spectrum of interests and budgets.

1. Temecula Wine Tasting Tour

This full-day Temecula wine tour stands out for its combination of convenience, quality, and personal touch. For $199 per person, you’ll spend about eight hours experiencing Southern California’s answer to Napa, just 90 minutes from Newport Beach. The tour includes round-trip transfers from hotels south of Newport Coast, so you don’t have to worry about driving.

What makes this tour special is access to boutique family-owned wineries—not just the big commercial brands—and the chance to meet winemakers in person. The small group size (limited to 14 travelers) ensures a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and the professional driver takes care of navigating the winding vineyard roads. You’ll visit multiple wineries, with time for tastings and photo stops along the way. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and beautiful vineyard scenery.

A notable review says, “Eric was a great tour guide, all the wineries were beautiful, and the staff amazing. We purchased a few bottles and had a fantastic day.” This tour is perfect if you want a hassle-free, VIP experience that combines scenic views with excellent wine.

Bottom Line: Great for wine enthusiasts who prefer a guided, all-inclusive day with intimate winery visits. It offers exceptional value for its small-group focus and quality access.

2. Couples Spa Package in Newport Beach with Appetizers and Wine

Looking for a relaxing experience that combines wellness and wine? This 2-hour spa package for couples costs $299 per group (up to two people) and includes personalized treatments like anti-oxidant facials, arm and hand massages, aromatherapy steam, and Himalayan salt detox. The experience is enhanced with a complimentary beverage upon arrival, and afterward, you can enjoy an appetizer platter and a spa gift.

What makes this package stand out is its focus on personalized treatments tailored to your needs, delivered by friendly, professional staff. The spa uses cutting-edge technology, and reviews highlight the pleasant ambiance and attentive service, describing the experience as “memorable” and noting the courteous staff. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or a wine-filled adventure.

While it doesn’t include wine tasting itself, the combination of wellness and wine creates a unique pairing that’s ideal for couples wanting a soothing, intimate escape. The price reflects the high-quality treatments and private setting.

Bottom Line: A wonderful choice for couples seeking a luxurious, stress-relieving experience that complements a day of wine tasting or sightseeing in Newport Beach.

3. Temecula Wine Tasting PRIVATE Tour

For those looking for the ultimate personalized experience, this private Temecula wine tour offers exclusivity and tailored attention. At $1,400 per group (up to 14 people), it’s ideal for celebrating a special occasion or traveling with a small group of friends or family. The tour lasts around eight hours and includes hotel pickup from Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas or The Resort at Pelican Hill, making logistics simple.

This tour provides customized itineraries, allowing you to choose wineries, stops, and dining options. You’ll visit award-winning vineyards, meet winemakers, and enjoy tastings of some of the region’s best varietals. The itinerary includes a stop for lunch at a top-tier restaurant, giving you a taste of local cuisine paired with your wine tastings. The focus on personal service means you can explore at your own pace and dive deeper into the wine-making process.

During reviews, one guest mentioned, “Lou was an awesome guide, very accommodating. We truly enjoyed a picture-perfect day at the wineries.” This private tour is perfect if you want a bespoke experience and are willing to invest more for that tailored touch.

Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups or couples who want a fully customized, luxurious day with the flexibility to focus on their favorite wineries and include a fine lunch.

4. Romantic Boat Cruise with Wine & Cheese or Surprise Dinner

This luxurious two-hour boat cruise combines the joy of being on the water with fine wine and gourmet snacks. Starting at $149 per person, it’s an ideal way to add a romantic or celebratory touch to your Newport Beach visit. The cruise takes place aboard a Duffy Electric boat departing from Marina del Rey, offering scenic views, marine life sightings, and the chance to enjoy California’s coast from the water.

What makes this experience distinctive is its focus on romance and intimacy. You can opt for a simple wine and cheese cruise or a surprise dinner, complete with drinks and charcuterie, making it suitable for celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries. Guests mention the “very pleasant cruise,” appreciating the calm atmosphere and scenic vistas.

The cruise’s small size (up to 10-11 people) creates an intimate setting, perfect for couples or small groups. Since the departure point is close to Los Angeles, it’s an easy add-on if you’re staying in the area.

Bottom Line: A fun, romantic way to enjoy California’s coast, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a different perspective on the water.

5. Premier Paint Wine Experience in Costa Mesa

If you’re into arts and wine, this art studio and wine bar experience offers a creative twist at just $59 per person. Since 2016, it has hosted over 30,000 students, making it a popular choice for a casual, fun outing. The paint and sip sessions include guided instruction, allowing even beginners to produce a decent masterpiece while enjoying wine.

Located in Costa Mesa, this experience is perfect for groups of friends or couples who want to combine a little artistic flair with wine. The classes cover a variety of themes — landscapes, pet portraits, seasonal themes — and no prior experience is required. Guests rave about the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to create something special.

While it’s less of a traditional wine tasting, it’s an engaging way to spend an evening in Newport Beach’s vicinity, with the added benefit of taking home your artwork. The duration is roughly two and a half hours, making it a quick and enjoyable diversion.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those looking for a fun, interactive experience that combines wine with creativity without the need for prior art skills.

How to Choose

Selecting the right wine experience depends on your interests, budget, and time constraints. For a full-day, guided vineyard experience, the Temecula Wine Tasting Tour offers great value and comfort, especially if you prefer small groups. If privacy and customization are your priorities, the Temecula Private Tour is unbeatable for tailored itineraries.

Looking for a romantic treat or celebration? The Boat Cruise perfectly blends scenery and intimacy, while the Couples Spa Package offers a relaxing counterpoint to wine adventures. For creative fun, the Paint and Wine Experience is a casual, artsy option.

Consider your time, budget, and what kind of experience will make your trip memorable. Book early — especially for private tours and popular weekends — to ensure availability.

Final Thoughts

Newport Beach’s proximity to world-class wine regions like Temecula makes it a perfect hub for wine lovers. Whether you prefer a guided group tour, a private customized day, a romantic boat cruise, or a lively painting session, there’s a wine-related experience to match your style. For most travelers, the full-day Temecula tours provide a comprehensive, hassle-free way to enjoy Southern California’s vineyards, while the private options add a layer of exclusivity.

Don’t forget — booking early can help secure spots in these popular experiences, especially during peak seasons. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to learn more about local wines, these tours will help you taste and see the best of the region in style.