where is the event?
All 3 days of the festival take place in one convenient location–The Golden Sails Hotel, located at 6285 E. Pacific Coast Highway in Long Beach, CA. Shows will take place in the historic Crystal Ballroom with plenty of space to be up-close-and-personal with the bands, or enjoy from a comfortable corner of the room. Additional performances will take place in a separate room within the hotel–the PCH Club, AKA The Taboo Tiki Room, which will offer a place to shop for Tiki culture-related items and get away from the main ballroom. And, new for 2025, bands will perform relaxing morning sets by the host hotel pool.
where do i park?
There is ample free parking on the grounds of the Golden Sails Hotel.
is it possible to stay at the hotel for the weekend?
Absolutely, and it is encouraged! One of the most enjoyable aspects of a “weekender” like SG101 is having the opportunity to spend time with like-minded music fans from all over the world! Hang out by the pool, jam in your rooms, get to know one another! Note: rooms at the host hotel are sold out as of 4/22/25.
There are 3 other recommended nearby hotels: Pacific Inn, 600 Marina Dr. in Seal Beach (562-493-7501), Hampton Inn, 2401 Seal Beach Blvd. in Seal Beach (562-594-3939) and Don’s Turf Motel, 4732 Katella Ave. in Los Alamitos (562-431-6563).
do I need a ticket in advance to get in?
Yes, a ticket is required for entry into any of the live music events, seminars, movie screenings and to access the shopping marketplace. Several levels of tickets are available–from single day admission to reserved tables to three-day all access passes. Please buy tickets HERE
can children attend the event?
Yes, surf music fans of all ages are welcome and encouraged to attend! Please be aware that the music can get loud at times and protective ear wear/plugs are encouraged for those with sensitivities.
will there be food?
There will be a kitchen with a limited menu on the hotel grounds offering delicious, filling food throughout the days of the festival, courtesy of Roxanne’s in Long Beach, CA. Vegetarian options will be available.
where does the amazing amplifier backline come from?
The array of authentic vintage Fender Blonde Brownface and similar amplifiers, outboard reverb units and speaker cabinets gracing the back of the stages are generously provided by longtime festival friend and colleague, Ran Mosessco, much respected in the international surf music community for his work with The Astroglides, The Sand Devils and now, with his newest project, The Scimitars. Additional amplifiers are provided by Jonpaul Balak.
will there be alcohol?
The Crystal Ballroom and the Taboo Tiki Room have bars where alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase during the course of the festival.
In addition, this year we will also offer a small bar by the pool.
do i need to bring cash?
Some vendors still only accept cash, so if you plan on shopping, please come prepared with cash on hand. Also, cash is required for purchasing raffle tickets and is always appreciated as a tip.
I CAN’T MAKE THE FESTIVAL THIS YEAR, BUT I’D LIKE TO SUPPORT ANYWAY. HOW CAN I DO THAT?
This is one of the most often received and best questions! First, do what you can to support surf music the rest of the year: make the effort to attend live performances, buy merch directly from the bands and spread the word on social media! If you would like to make a donation to directly assist the festival itself financially, go to the 3 day pass ticket purchase option page of STELLARSHOWS.NET and you can donate whatever you’d like! THANK YOU!!!
Surf Guitar 101 Festival 