California boat show is best in the nation, USA Today says. What makes it No. 1?
A California boat show is making a splash with USA Today readers.
The publication recently named the 10 best boat shows in America as part of its 2025 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
The Newport Beach International Boat Show ranked No. 1.
America’s top boat shows offer “a unique blend of nautical fun, education, and innovation, often featuring educational seminars, workshops, and engaging demos,” USA Today wrote in a May 7 article.
Here’s which California events made the list:
What makes Newport Beach International Boat Show best in US?
The annual Newport Beach International Boat Show draws up to 20,000 attendees to Lido Marina Village each May.
“Attendees can explore a dazzling array of boats and equipment both in and out of the water,” USA Today said,” with more than 200 vessels on display.
“The Newport Beach International Boat Show turns a picturesque SoCal harbor into a European coastal experience each spring, with vessels ranging from family-friendly watercraft to mega yachts that would make James Bond jealous,” USA Today said.
The Orange County boat show “is more than just a showcase of the finest boats and yachts from today’s top builders and brokerages,” organizers said on the event’s website. “It’s a celebration of the Newport Beach lifestyle and all that it represents.”
What about other California boat shows?
Only one other California boat show popped up on USA Today’s list of the best American events for boat enthusiasts.
The San Diego International Boat Show was No. 10 on the list.
The annual Southern California event, which is typically held in June, features more than 150 vessels and 75 exhibitors.
“Entertainment, food, cocktails, activities, and exhibitions spread over both land and water give attendees plenty to see and do,” USA Today said.
What are top 10 boat shows in the US?
These are the best events for boat lovers in the nation, according to USA Today:
- Newport Beach International Boat Show
Palm Beach International Boat Show in Florida
St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show in Florida
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in Florida
Detroit Boat Show
Newport International Boat Show in Rhode Island
Atlantic City Boat Show in New Jersey
Annapolis Sailboat Show in Maryland
Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show
San Diego International Boat Show
How did USA Today come up with its rankings?
To select the USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for 2025, a panel of travel experts selected nominees in categories ranging from food to lodging and things to do.
The publication’s readers then voted for their favorites to determine the top 10.
This story was originally published May 25, 2025 at 9:00 AM with the headline "California boat show is best in the nation, USA Today says. What makes it No. 1?."