Best New Year's Eve Activities in San Francisco, California

Looking for something to do on New Year's Eve? There's nothing lacking about this night in San Francisco. If you want to go out with your family or simply kick it up at a party, there's something out there for everyone.

San Francisco Chamber Orchestra - New Year's Eve Celebration

If you're in search of something that doesn't cost anything to attend, and just happen to enjoy chamber music, then this is for you. Come join this event at the First Congregational Church in Berkeley at 8 PM for absolutely free. Schubert's Fifth Symphony is coupled with Dmitr Shostakovitch's bright First Piano Concerto, featuring San Francisco's Robert Schwartz. This year, the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra will be presenting Georg Frederic Handel's Trumpet Concerto in G minor with debut artist Jeff Strong. There will also be a pre-concert discussion 30 minutes prior.

New Year's Eve Fireworks Kayak Trip

Hop in a kayak and paddle your way underneath several scenic landmarks (including the Bay Bridge, Cupid's Arrow, and Ferry Building) to San Francisco's downtown waterfront to watch the spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks. Great for locals and tourists alike, you will get to enjoy the holiday-lit cityscape along the way, as well as the rest of the surrounding bay.

The trip begins at Pier 30, Beach St. and The Embarcadero at 10 PM, and actual paddle time lasts about an hour and a half, led by a guide in a power boat. Short lessons and double kayaks are provided for beginners prior to the actual trip, so don't worry if you know nothing about kayaking.

The cost is $68/person, which also includes a champagne or sparkling water toast to bring in the New Year with.

Hornblower's New Year's Eve Cruises

If you're willing to spend a little bit more in exchange for some New Year's fun, take a Hornblower's cruise into consideration. There are four different cruises to choose from on this night, from 8 PM to 1 AM.

Berkeley Starry Night Cocktail Cruise

For just $139, this cruise offers passed-around and displayed hor'd'ouevres, a chocolate fondue fountain, free house champagne (there's also a paid bar for all other beverages), party favors, and a D.J. for entertainment.

Berkeley Gala New Year's Eve Cruise

This cruise leaves from the Berkeley DoubleTree Hotel Guest Dock and includes a buffet dinner, open standard cocktail bar, party favors, and live entertainment. The price is $189.

Belle New Year's Eve Cruise

This is another $189 cruise, with a wonderful buffet dinner, open standard cocktail bar, party favors, a D.J. for entertainment, and a pre-boarding photograph. Boards at Pier 03, on the Embarcadero near the San Francisco Ferry Building.

Premier New Year's Eve Cruise

For the price of $239, this cruise includes a four-course dinner, an open premium bar, party favors, and a live band for the dance floor.

Hyatt Regency's Crystal Ball

For $125, join thousands of others at the Hyatt Regency in the Embarcadero Center from 8 PM to 1 AM for one of the Bay Area's largest parties. Several stages of liver entertainment are included, of course along with a midnight countdown and balloon drop.

You can also choose to stay at the hotel overnight for extra fees and take on the Crystal Ball package. This includes admission for 2 to the Crystal Ball, two complimentary drink tickets per person, and a breakfast buffet on New Year's Day for two in the Atrium Lobby.