California Wine Festival Celebrates 20 Years of Oceanfront Indulgence

Images Courtesy of the CA Wine Festival – Photo Credit: Luis Esparza

The California Wine Festival, a nationally recognized celebration of the Golden State’s winemaking legacy, returned in style this year, kicking off a season of signature events along the coast. The series—now celebrating two decades of world-class wine discovery—honors everything that makes California a dream destination for wine lovers: award-winning vineyards, exceptional cuisine, live entertainment, and some of the most scenic settings in the country.We joined the festivities on April 25 in Dana Point for the exquisite Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Perched atop the bluffs with panoramic views of the Pacific, this luxurious event offered a refined and intimate atmosphere for dedicated wine enthusiasts to savor the very best of California’s wine culture.

The evening began with a sparkling wine reception, setting the tone for an elegant night of indulgence. Guests had the rare opportunity to sample hard-to-find and limited-production wines, including exclusive pours from standout wineries like Rombauer, Atlas Peak, and Wine Guy & Wine Gal. The event also offered a unique chance to engage one-on-one with renowned winemakers and proprietors, providing deeper insight into the stories and craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Adding to the experience were delicious treats from JARS by Fabio Viviani, a Laguna Niguel favorite known for its decadent layered desserts, and premium cheeses and butters by Kerrygold, which provided perfect pairings for the wines. Attendees could also personalize their keepsake glass with on-site engraving, a thoughtful detail that added a customized touch to the evening.

Beyond the wine and food, the Dana Point Sunset Tasting featured live entertainment by Adam Lasher, creating a vibrant yet laid-back coastal vibe. A silent auction held during the event benefited the Sandy Feet Initiative, featuring exclusive wines and other curated items, underscoring the festival’s commitment to giving back to the local community.

The California Wine Festival series continues throughout the year with events in Carlsbad, Santa Barbara, and Huntington Beach. Each destination follows a similar two-day format: the Friday evening Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting is followed by the Saturday Beachside Wine Festival, an expansive and interactive celebration of wine, food, and coastal culture.

The Beachside Wine Festival promises an immersive journey through California’s top wine regions, where guests can enjoy unlimited samples of premium wines, craft beers, and gourmet bites from local restaurants, all while engaging directly with winemakers and culinary talent. Live music and ocean views round out the experience, making for a picture-perfect day under the California sun.

2025 Festival Schedule

• Carlsbad — June 20–21

  • Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting: Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, The Gardens

  • Beachside Wine Festival: Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Heron Lawn

  • Tickets available March 1

• Santa Barbara — July 18–19

  • Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting: Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

  • Beachside Wine Festival: Chase Palm Park, Oceanside

  • Tickets available March 1

• Huntington Beach — October 17–18

  • Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting: Paséa Hotel & Spa, Sapphire Ballroom

  • Beachside Wine Festival: Paséa Hotel & Spa, Indoor and Outdoor

  • Tickets available June 1

For more details and to purchase tickets to this 21+ event series, visit CaliforniaWineFestival.com