5 days
Daily Tour
10 people
English, Espanol
Northern California Summer Beach Bashes and Beach Festivals for 2024!
It’s never too early to start planning for the summer, especially when it comes to the beautiful beaches of Northern California. With warm weather and clear skies on the horizon, it’s time to mark your calendars for the hottest beach bashes and festivals of 2024. From San Francisco to Crescent City, Northern California’s stunning coast has something for every beach lover this summer.
One of the most anticipated events of the season is the Monterey Beach Bash, held annually on the first weekend in June. This three-day celebration is packed with live music, food vendors, and beach activities, making it the ultimate summer kickoff party. Dance to the rhythm of the waves while enjoying local delicacies and shopping from the many artisanal vendors. The highlight of the event is the sandcastle building competition, where creative individuals and teams showcase their talent. With stunning views of the Monterey Bay, this beach bash is not one to miss.
If you’re looking for a more family-friendly beach festival, head to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for their annual Beach Fest. This free event takes place on the last weekend of July and features a variety of fun activities for all ages. An aerial kite show, beach volleyball tournament, and sandcastle building contest are just some of the exciting events to take part in. Plus, the iconic Santa Cruz Boardwalk offers unlimited rides for just $50, making it an affordable and entertaining day out for the whole family.
For those seeking a more vibrant and cultural experience, the San Francisco Ocean Beach Festival in August is a must-visit. This festival celebrates the diverse beach culture of San Francisco and features live music, dance performances, local art, and delicious food vendors. You can also participate in yoga classes on the beach or catch a wave with the annual surf competition. The festival ends with a mesmerizing firework display, making it a magical way to end the summer.
Further up the coast, the small town of Trinidad hosts its annual Sea Glass Festival in September. This unique event showcases the beautiful and artistic creations made from sea glass found on the beach. With live music and local vendors, it’s the perfect way to spend a day by the ocean. Plus, the scenic drive along the Avenue of the Giants to get there is an adventure in itself.
For those who prefer a more low-key beach experience, head to the charming town of Mendocino for their annual Art and Wine Festival in July. Stroll along the beach while sipping wine from local wineries and admiring the works of talented artists. With the picturesque backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, it’s an idyllic way to spend a summer day.
No matter which beach bash or festival you attend, one thing is for sure – Northern California’s beaches are the place to be this summer of 2024. So pack your sunscreen, beach towels, and dancing shoes and get ready for a summer full of sun, surf, and sand!
From the iconic to the unexpected, the city of San Francisco never ceases to surprise. Kick-start your effortlessly delivered Northern California holiday in the cosmopolitan hills of 'The City'. Join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception at your hotel.Welcome Reception
Admire the eclectic mix of architecture, culture and cuisines of one of the world's most livable cities. Embark on a morning exploration that takes you from the lively tourist hotspot of Fisherman's Wharf to Union Square, a historical landmark linked to the American Civil War.
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Napa Valley area before boarding the Napa Valley Wine Train's lovingly restored Pullman cars for a taste of the golden age of rail travel and a enjoy a Regional Meal.
The pinch me moments continue as we follow the sun-kissed California coast, cruising scenic 17-Mile Drive. We return to Monterey for a visit of Cannery Row, immortalised in the John Steinbeck novel.
California's towering redwoods provide an imposing backdrop for this morning as we journey back in time to the era of lumberjacks and sawmills in a re-created 1890s logging camp, complete with general store and railroad depot.
Your tour will conclude in San Francisco on Day 8 of the trip. There are no activities planned for this day so you're free to depart at any time. We highly recommend booking post-accommodation to give yourself time to fully experience the wonders of this iconic city!
Day 1 of this tour is an arrivals day, which gives you a chance to settle into your hotel and explore Los Angeles. The only planned activity for this day is an evening welcome meeting at 7pm, where you can get to know your guides and fellow travellers. Please be aware that the meeting point is subject to change until your final documents are released.
Airport transfers are not included in the price of this tour, however you can book for an arrival transfer in advance. In this case a tour operator representative will be at the airport to greet you. To arrange this please contact our customer service team once you have a confirmed booking.
This tour has an age range of 12-70 years old, this means children under the age of 12 will not be eligible to participate in this tour. However, if you are over 70 years please contact us as you may be eligible to join the tour if you fill out G Adventures self-assessment form.