Key Takeaways
- BeachLife Festival 2025 was held May 2-4 in Redondo Beach with over 35,000 attendees.
- Headliners included Lenny Kravitz, Sublime, and Alanis Morissette.
- Multiple stages showcased diverse genres like rock, reggae, and indie.
- Culinary offerings featured Michelin-starred chefs and varied food vendors.
- The festival highlighted community, wellness, art, and charity initiatives.
The salt-laced breeze whipped through the air as the final chords faded into the Redondo Beach twilight. Attendees were there, experiencing the magic, the energy, the sheer joy of the sixth annual BeachLife Festival, and now the memories are swirling like the ocean tide.
May 2nd through 4th, the shores of Southern California transformed into a vibrant tapestry of sound, flavor, and coastal culture, drawing over 35,000 fellow music lovers to its sandy embrace. Let’s relive every sun-drenched moment, every delicious bite, and every unforgettable performance because we’re diving deep into the heart of BeachLife Festival 2025!
Introduction to the Festival
BeachLife 25 is an annual event in Redondo Beach that celebrates Southern California’s beach culture. This three-day festival unites music fans, beach lovers, and locals with live performances, art, and local food. Featuring iconic acts like The Beach Boys and Sublime, alongside contemporary artists such as Skip Marley and Sugar Ray, the festival offers something for every music taste—from rock and pop to reggae. It’s the perfect place to enjoy sun, sand, and great music in the South Bay.
Soaking Up the Southern California Scene at BeachLife Festival
The quintessential California vibe was palpable – sun-kissed skin, the rhythmic crash of waves, and the air buzzing with anticipation. That was the atmosphere that enveloped everyone the moment they stepped onto the grounds of the BeachLife 25. Redondo Beach provided the perfect panoramic backdrop, the sparkling Pacific stretching out like a natural amphitheater. It wasn’t just a music festival; it was a full-on immersion into the laid-back luxury that defines this stretch of coastline.
There was a strong sense of community pulsing through the crowd. From veterans to first-timers, everyone shared a love for great music and good vibes. Co-founder Allen Sanford summed it up: “The BeachLife fire fuels a culture united by our ocean, live music, and each other.” BeachLife Festival 2025 felt like a gathering of friends, old and new, drawn together by music and ocean air. This sixth edition was another clear success, cementing its place as a top Southern California live music event.
Location and Venue: The Perfect Backdrop
The BeachLife 25 is held in the scenic city of Redondo Beach, right in the South Bay. Located on the beach near the iconic Redondo Beach Pier, the venue offers stunning Pacific Ocean views. Totally sublime! Easily accessible by car or public transit, Redondo Beach combines natural beauty with urban convenience, making it the perfect setting for the festival.
Musical Highlights: A Symphony Under the Sun
Ah, the music! The very heartbeat of the BeachLife Festival. Across four distinct stages – the Toyota HighTide Stage, the LA Kings LowTide Stage, Eaze’s RipTide Stage, and the intimate SpeakEasy Stage presented by Grillo’s Pickles – a diverse symphony of sounds unfolded. Festival-goers were spoiled for choice. During their set, Cake performed their hit song ‘The Distance,’ adding to the nostalgic experience and vibrant atmosphere.
Headliners That Rocked the Crowd
Rock icon Lenny Kravitz took the stage, his energy infectious, his guitar riffs electrifying, and the air crackled with the power of his mega-hits. He brought the first night to a close with his hit songs, leaving the audience breathless and wanting more.
Then there was Sublime, a band deeply woven into the fabric of Southern California sound. With Jakob Nowell, the son of the late, great Bradley Nowell, at the helm, they delivered a set that honored the band’s legacy while injecting a fresh energy. Fans sang along to every beloved anthem, feeling the nostalgia wash over them with the tide.
And who could forget Alanis Morissette? Her powerful vocals soared across the festival grounds, her iconic songs resonating with a generation. The crowd felt every emotion, every raw lyric, in a performance that was both cathartic and exhilarating. These headliners alone made BeachLife Festival 2025 an unforgettable experience.
Full Weekend schedule:
| May 2 | May 3 | May 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Lenny Kravitz | Sublime | Alanis Morissette |
| Train | Pretenders | Mt. Joy |
| O.A.R. | CAKE | Jackson Browne |
| Aloe Blacc | Susanna Hoffs (of The Bangles) | The Beach Boys |
| The Struts | Skip Marley | Marcus King |
| Digable Planets | Sugar Ray | Big Head Todd And the Monsters |
| Shovels & Rope | ALO | Lily Meola |
| Milo Aukerman (of Descendents) | Long Beach Dub Allstars | Donavon Frankenreiter |
| Jim Lindberg (of Pennywise) | Greg Graffin (of Bad Religion) | Common Sense |
| SULLVN | Tomorrows Bad Seeds | Michael Glabicki (of Rusted Root with Dirk Miller) |
| Mr. Midway | Too Rude | Saxon Weiss |
| The Rookie5 | The Calamatix | |
| Kyle Smith | ||
| Sitting On Saturn | ||
| Jesse James Pariah |
A Stage for Every Vibe
Attendees navigated between the stages, each offering a unique atmosphere. The Toyota HighTide Stage throbbed with energy, hosting the biggest names. The LA Kings LowTide Stage offered its own powerful lineup, keeping the rock vibes rolling. Then there was the Eaze’s RipTide Stage, where people could sway to reggae rhythms and indie grooves.
For a truly unique experience, many found themselves drawn to the SpeakEasy Stage. Curated by Pennywise frontman Jim Lindberg, this intimate setting offered stripped-down acoustic performances. It was a chance to see favorite artists in a whole new light, sharing stories and songs in a more personal atmosphere. This thoughtful curation truly set BeachLife Festival apart from other music festivals 2025.
Unforgettable Performances Across the Board
Beyond the headliners, the weekend featured nonstop talent. Train’s catchy tunes had everyone singing along, while O.A.R.’s jam-band vibes created a communal feel. The Pretenders rocked classics like ‘Back on the Chain Gang,’ and CAKE’s quirky rhythms kept the crowd moving. Mt. Joy’s indie folk set the sunset mood, and Jackson Browne’s legendary songs resonated deeply with fans.
The special magic of The Beach Boys was undeniable. With special guests John Stamos and Mark McGrath joining them, their set was a pure dose of California sunshine and classic hits. Aloe Blacc’s soulful voice captivated the audience, and Marcus King’s bluesy rock guitar work was simply mesmerizing. Even BeachLife stalwarts Sugar Ray kept the energy high with their feel-good tunes. BeachLife 25 truly delivered a diverse lineup that catered to every musical taste.
Spotlighting the Stars of Tomorrow
BeachLife Festival wasn’t just about the established legends; it also shone a spotlight on exciting emerging talent. Attendees could catch the vibrant energy of The Rookie5, the raw talent of Saxon Weiss, the unique sound of Jesse James Pariah, the captivating performance of Sitting On Saturn, who recently underwent a name change, or the well-deserved victory of BeachLife Battle of the Bands winner Devon Tompson. It was inspiring to see the future of music taking the stage at BeachLife Festival.
Sharing the Sound with the World
Even those who couldn’t be there in person, BeachLife 25 extended its reach through a free livestream presented by Music Gives to St. Jude Kids on Volume.com. This initiative not only allowed fans worldwide to experience the magic but also supported a vital cause. It’s just another way BeachLife Festival showed its commitment to community and making a positive impact. This makes it one of the best music festivals in the US for accessibility and giving back.
Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses
A great music festival isn’t just about the music; it’s also about the food! And BeachLife 25 truly elevated the culinary experience this year. Attendees enjoyed discovering new food and drinks, among other exciting things. The collaboration between Michelin-starred Chef Curtis Stone and BeachLife Executive Chef Dennis Horton was a game-changer.
The Exclusive Captain’s Culinary Experience
Those lucky enough to indulge in the Captain’s Culinary Experience were in for a treat. Chef Curtis Stone brought his culinary artistry to the Captain’s Bungalow, crafting a unique and diverse menu each day. Imagine savoring Michelin-quality dishes with the sound of incredible music as the backdrop – a truly unforgettable experience that sets BeachLife Festival apart from many summer music festival options.
The Debut of the California Surf Club
New this year was the California Surf Club, a VIP dining experience curated by Chef Dennis Horton. Captain Plus ticket holders had access to this exclusive haven. They could enjoy gourmet cuisine, sip handcrafted cocktails, and receive personalized service, all within a comfortable setting that overlooked a main stage and the stunning Redondo Beach coastline. It was the perfect blend of laid-back luxury and prime festival access, making BeachLife 25 an even more premium experience for VIP attendees.
A Delicious Array for Every Palate
Beyond exclusive dining, BeachLife Festival featured numerous food trucks and vendors to satisfy all tastes. Highlights included Kogi’s Korean BBQ tacos by Chef Roy Choi, Mike Majlak’s 10/10 Burger, and authentic offerings from ¡Jaime! Taqueria by Memento Mori Hospitality Group. With vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available, everyone found something delicious to enjoy. Alanis Morissette’s ‘Hand in My Pocket’ added to the vibrant festival vibe.
Quenching Thirst in Style
The beverage options at BeachLife Festival were just as impressive. Craft cocktails flowed from bars sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Jack Daniel’s, Tequila Herradura, Club Kokomo Rum, and Hendrick’s Gin. DAOU Vineyards returned as the official wine sponsor, offering a curated selection of their world-class wines, bringing the essence of Paso Robles to the Southern California coast. Sipping a glass of exquisite wine while enjoying incredible live music with the ocean breeze on one’s face? That’s the BeachLife Festival experience.
Beyond the Music: Immersing in the BeachLife Vibe
While the music was the main draw, BeachLife 25 offered so much more than just incredible performances. The festival grounds were alive with interactive activations and experiences that added another layer of fun and engagement to the weekend. The Norcan foundation was present, emphasizing the use of their product to save lives from opioid overdoses, encouraging festival-goers to engage with their initiatives.
Engaging with Favorite Brands
Throughout the festival, attendees had the chance to interact with various brands through fan engagements, giveaways, product tastings, and fun games. They could capture memorable moments at photo booths, learn about sustainable initiatives, and discover new products. This level of engagement made the festival feel dynamic and interactive.
Art, Charity, and Shopping
The vibrant art installation from Punk Rock & Paintbrushes added a unique visual element to the festival landscape. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in a silent auction benefiting BeachLife’s primary charities, giving back while potentially snagging some cool items. And for those looking to take a piece of the BeachLife spirit home, the boutique shopping offered a variety of unique finds.
Partnering for an Unforgettable Experience
BeachLife Festival’s partnerships with brands like DAOU, So Cal Toyota, LA Kings, Eaze, Grillo’s Pickles, Sketchers, SMKFLWR, Kona Big Wave, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Jack Daniel’s, Tequila Herradura, Ikon Pass, Waterloo Sparkling Water, and St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, among others, played a crucial role in elevating the overall experience. Their presence added value and contributed to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. This makes BeachLife Festival one of the best festivals to attend this summer.
Relaxation and Wellness: Finding Your Zen
After a full day at the festival, attendees can relax with wellness options in Redondo Beach like yoga, meditation, spa treatments, and massages. The festival also offers yoga and meditation sessions to help visitors unwind and connect. With its focus on community and well-being, BeachLife Festival provides a perfect escape to recharge and find balance.
Catching the Next Wave: Looking Ahead
As the sun set on another amazing BeachLife 25, excitement grew for future events. Attendees can look forward to more music, food, and fun in a relaxed, vibrant setting. BeachLife proved that it’s more than a California music festival—it’s a celebration of lifestyle and community. Mark your calendars for the next edition of this best music festival on the beach—you won’t want to miss it!
FAQ
What is the capacity of the BeachLife 25?
The festival can accommodate over 35,000 attendees throughout the event.
How old do you have to be to go to the BeachLife Festival?
Attendees of all ages are welcome, but those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Where to park for the BeachLife 25?
There are several parking options near the festival venue, including public lots and street parking in Redondo Beach.
What to wear to the Festival?
Comfortable, casual beachwear and sunscreen are recommended to enjoy the BeachLife festival.
What food and beverage options are available at the BeachLife 25?
The festival offers a wide variety of food vendors, including gourmet and vegan options, along with craft cocktails and wines.
