On the weekend of June 28-29, 2025, the Santa Monica Pier will host the highly anticipated 360 Beach Festival, a celebration of Southern California’s iconic beach culture. This free, two-day event brings together music, sports, food, and family-friendly activities to highlight the region’s coastal lifestyle.
The event is set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, with the famous Santa Monica Pier serving as the perfect venue for a summer celebration. The festival is expected to draw over 30,000 visitors, making it one of the largest beach festivals in the region. It will feature a diverse array of activities, from beach volleyball and surfing competitions to musical performances and arts and crafts markets.
A Festival for All Ages
One of the key draws of the Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival is its broad appeal to people of all ages. Families can enjoy a kid-friendly zone with carnival games, face painting, and interactive exhibits, while beach sports enthusiasts can compete in or watch sand volleyball, surf competitions, and kite surfing exhibitions. Pro athletes from around the world will be competing in these high-energy events, including local beach volleyball legends and professional surfers who call Southern California home.
Live music performances will play a central role in the festival’s offerings, with local bands performing across multiple stages. The lineup includes artists from genres ranging from surf rock to indie pop and alternative music, ensuring that there is something for every taste. The Santa Monica Pier has long been known for its unique atmosphere, combining entertainment, relaxation, and beach fun into one destination, and the 360 Beach Festival amplifies that charm with its vibrant music scene.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices
In keeping with the coastal theme, the festival is also placing a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Organizers are committed to reducing the festival’s carbon footprint by utilizing zero-waste practices and encouraging attendees to use reusable water bottles. Local food vendors will be offering eco-conscious options, such as plant-based dishes, organic snacks, and sustainably sourced seafood. Additionally, festival-goers will be encouraged to carpool or take public transportation to the event to reduce traffic congestion and emissions.
As part of the sustainability initiative, the festival will host a series of environmental awareness workshops, featuring guest speakers from local environmental organizations. These workshops will cover topics such as ocean conservation, beach clean-up efforts, and how to reduce plastic waste—important issues for any beach community.
A Community Celebration of Beach Culture
The Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival is more than just a series of fun activities; it is also a celebration of the community and the cultural heritage of the Southern California coast. Santa Monica has long been recognized as a hub for beach culture, attracting locals and tourists alike to its iconic pier, shopping districts, and restaurants.
Through this festival, the city continues to promote its identity as an integral part of California’s coastal landscape. The festival will bring attention to the city’s strong environmental policies and its role as a leader in sustainable tourism and coastal preservation.
The 360 Beach Festival also serves as an opportunity for local artisans and vendors to showcase their work, with dozens of artisanal booths offering handmade jewelry, surfboards, clothing, and other beach-themed products. These vendors will provide a unique chance for visitors to take home one-of-a-kind souvenirs that celebrate Santa Monica’s creative spirit.
Conclusion: A Celebration of California’s Coastal Lifestyle
As the Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival approaches, excitement continues to build. The festival promises to be a dynamic, fun-filled weekend that captures the essence of beach life in Southern California. From world-class athletes to local musicians and eco-conscious vendors, the event reflects the diverse and vibrant culture of the region, while offering something for everyone—from families to thrill-seekers.
With its unique blend of music, sports, sustainability, and community engagement, the Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival is a celebration of all things that make California’s beaches some of the most iconic in the world.
