Spring in Southern California has a certain rhythm to it. The days stretch a little longer, the ocean air feels just right, and weekends are meant for being outside with something delicious in hand. That’s exactly the energy behind the California Wine Festival, returning to Dana Point April 24–25 for a two-day celebration of wine, food, and coastal living.
Set against the sweeping Pacific views of Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa and nearby Sea Terrace Park, the festival kicks off its 2026 season with an experience that feels equal parts elevated and effortless. Think oceanfront tastings, chef-driven bites, and live music, all layered into one of Orange County’s most scenic settings. As Executive Director Emily Kaufmann puts it, the weekend “captures the spirit of California in every glass,” bringing together scenic beauty, culinary talent, and a passionate community of wine lovers.
Wine lovers gather for oceanfront tastings during the California Wine Festival.
Friday evening begins with the Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting, a more intimate affair designed for wine enthusiasts and collectors. Guests can expect access to limited-production pours, conversations with winemakers, and a relaxed, golden-hour backdrop overlooking the coast. The evening also includes a charitable silent auction benefiting the Sandy Feet Initiative, adding a meaningful touch to the indulgence.
By Saturday, the energy shifts into full celebration mode with the Beachside Wine Festival. Held at Sea Terrace Park above Dana Point Harbor, the afternoon unfolds beneath a village of white-topped tasting tents, where guests can sample hundreds of wines alongside craft brews and an expansive lineup of artisan foods.
Gourmet bites are served alongside wine tastings at the California Wine Festival.
Standout Southern California restaurants and specialty purveyors will be serving everything from artisanal cheeses and fresh breads to olive oils, chocolates, and globally inspired small plates. Names like Glasspar, Bluewater Grill, and Trevor’s at the Track are just a few of the local favorites adding flavor to the experience.
Wine lovers can expect pours from an impressive roster of notable producers, including Rombauer Vineyards, Trefethen Family Vineyards, and Piper Sonoma, among many others, offering a true snapshot of California’s diverse wine scene.
Attendees sip and savor selections from California wineries at the festival.
Live Caribbean steel drum music by Upstream brings a festive soundtrack to the afternoon, creating a sun-drenched atmosphere where wine, food, music, and ocean views come together effortlessly. For those looking to elevate the experience, VIP access includes early entry and exclusive reserve tastings.
Beyond the pours and plates, the festival itself carries a larger legacy. Founded in Santa Barbara in 2004, the California Wine Festival has grown into one of the state’s premier outdoor wine events, with a continued commitment to sustainability and community impact, diverting the majority of its waste from landfills and supporting local charities across California
Glassware is set for an afternoon of tastings along the coast.
What makes this festival stand out isn’t just the scale, but the setting. There’s something about sipping a crisp white or bold red with the ocean just steps away that turns a tasting into an experience. It’s the kind of weekend that captures the essence of Southern California living—good food, great wine, and views that do most of the talking.
For those looking to welcome the season in style, the California Wine Festival in Dana Point offers a quintessential coastal escape, no travel required.
For tickets and full details, visit CaliforniaWineFestival.com.
