By Visit Ventura

Posted: Wednesday, Mar 29th, 2017

Updated: Friday, Mar 1st, 2024

6 reasons why Surf n’ Suds Beer Festival is the best way to kick off summer.

Photo by Lucas Dorward
by Visit Ventura

6. Start Summer Early

Don’t wait until Memorial Day to kick off summer. This can’t miss beer festival takes place Saturday, May 20, 2017, and features over 50 craft breweries and 120 beers on tap! It’s the perfect start to a memorable summer.

5. Hit the BEACH

We dare you to think of a cooler location for a beer festival. Sand and surf on one side, a gorgeous mountain backdrop on the other -San Buenaventura State Beach Park tops our list! Nothing like a sea breeze with a cold craft brew. And when it’s time to move on, you’re within walking distance to restaurants on South Seaward or in Ventura’s historic downtown.

A post shared by Surf ‘N’ Suds (@surfnsudsbeerfest) on

4. More than just beer

Okay, we didn’t mean ‘just’ beer -we love beer, but if your palate needs a break from hops, take your pick of ciders and wine. Then head over to the food trucks. We recommend fish tacos. Never a bad choice.

3. Synrgy Reggae, Crosscut 805, and DJ Hecktick

Three awesome reasons to grab a beer and head to the stage for live music.

 2. BeerYeti says so

Surf n’ Suds Beer Festival was voted in the top 10 beer festivals IN THE USA!! by BeerYeti.com.

A post shared by Surf ‘N’ Suds (@surfnsudsbeerfest) on

1. Mega-sized beer pong and corn hole

What’s the point of drinking without drinking games? A little friendly competition pairs great with any craft brew. So take the train, ride your bike and enjoy complimentary bicycle valet service, jump on the Brew Bus from Goleta, Santa Barbara, or Carpinteria. VIP tickets are $65 and allow you to enter an hour early, get a souvenir VIP bottleneck shot glass from Chop Top Bottle Co., and try selected brews that will not be available during the General Admission Session. General Admission tickets are $50 and include as souvenir glass, and unlimited samples from any of the craft breweries, ciders and wineries on site. Don’t forget sun block and a hat. Your Sunday self will thank you (a sunburn and a hangover are never a good combination). See you on the sand!
When: Saturday, May 20, 2017 Where: San Buenaventura State Beach Park Tix: VIP $65, general admission $50, designated drivers $20 More info: www.surfbeerfest.com

Discover More

Get to know Ventura, and discover the best things to do around the city.

Get Inspired Screenshot 2024-01-17 at 7.47.12 AM

Request an
Inspiration Guide

View the current Ventura Inspiration Guide online. And prepare to be INSPIRED.

Be in the know

Visit Ventura
Monthly Newsletter

Sign up for everything you need to know; from new hikes, to new restaurants, to upcoming festivals, music, and entertainment.

Ventura Partners With