03 June,2026 01:07 PM IST | Santa Monica (USA) | mid-day online correspondent
Downtown Santa Monica station on Metro E Line, transfer at Expo/Crenshaw, continue via local bus routes. Photo Courtesy: Special Arrangement
This summer, the world is going to visit the United States of America to witness the FIFA World Cup 2026 across the country.
While there are many venues, for fans who love the water, Santa Monica will be the ultimate beachside base to experience the tournament. Fans will cheer alongside fellow soccer lovers at official activations and local watch parties while enjoying easy access to all Los Angeles matches at nearby SoFi Stadium.
Michelob ULTRA Pitchside Club on the Santa Monica Pier (June 12-25)
Fans who are ages 21 and over are invited to the ultimate World Cup fan event on the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy live match viewing, interactive games and even appearances by athletes at this can't-miss experience.
Watch party at Annenberg Community Beach House (June 25 | 6pm - 9pm)
Enjoy a World Cup Fun & Watch Party fit for the whole family at the beloved Annenberg Community Beach House. This indoor and outdoor event invites all to get in on the action with a live match screening of the USA vs Turkey and Paraguay vs Australia matches, soccer-inspired activities, World Cup-themed crafts and games, all complete with ocean views. Don't forget to RSVP for this free event!
Third street promenade
Home to dining, retail, nightlife, attractions and events, Third Street Promenade is your hub for vibrant days and nights enjoying the World Cup energy. Don't miss special programming and experiences during Golden Hour June 12, June 27 and July 10, and catch the game at one of the Promenade's many bars and restaurants for a viewing experience complete with local fans, refreshing drinks and hearty meals. Keep the energy going each weekend with the Entertainment Zone, inviting guests age 21 and over with valid ID to responsibly enjoy alcoholic beverages from participating businesses while exploring between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard. Be sure to stop in at Culto Futbol as well to shop authentic team jerseys, soccer gear and top sports brands.
Citywide
From bar foods at Barney's Beanery and locally crafted beers at Santa Monica Brew Works to sports viewing by the sea at Big Dean's Ocean Front Café and a plethora of pub-style hangouts, Santa Monica's sports bar scene offers plenty of ways to enjoy the big game alongside local fans.
This summer, Santa Monica transforms into the ultimate hub for all fans to celebrate with high energy events and exciting programming from June 11 - July 19. For all the latest and to plan your visit, check out santamonicaworldcup.com.
World Play Zone (June 11-27 | 10am - 6pm)
Open daily, the World Play Zone in Downtown Santa Monica will host watch parties for all with kid-friendly soccer themed play in Junior Junction. With a large LED screen for easy viewing and dedicated youth activities, World Play Zone is a welcoming destination for families to join the fun.
Golden Hour (June 12, June 27 and July 10 | 2pm - 10pm)
Kick off the festivities with Golden Hour on the Third Street Promenade, featuring exhibitors, interactive experiences and enhanced outdoor dining perfect for pre and post-match gathering.
The Garden Series (June 14 and July 12 | 10am - 3pm)
Recharge for match days ahead with an afternoon in tranquility at Tongva Park. This experience welcomes guests to focus on their wellbeing with crafting workshops, movement and wellness sessions, high end activations and more in a refined, limited capacity setting.
LA Metro Make Music Day (June 21 | 11am - 5pm)
Head to the Downtown Santa Monica Metro Station for a day of celebration centered around music. This free, participatory event invites all to plug into the season's energy with live performances, music workshops, soccer inspired activations and tributes to the Route 66 centennial.
Pulse in the Park (July 4 | 11:30am - 3pm)
Following the beloved annual Fourth of July parade on Main Street, head to Tongva Park for a vibrant celebration of both the national holiday and the global energy of the World Cup. This free event features DJs and local artists, brand activations and social spaces, all with the beauty of the park as a backdrop.
COAST 2026 (July 19 | 10am - 6pm)
Don't miss the grand finale with COAST 2026, a massive open street celebration in the heart of the city. Finish World Cup season strong with live art installations, free and premium interactive zones, tons of food trucks with global flavor, a large beer garden and more at the largest community festival of the year reflecting Santa Monica's spirit as both a home and a destination for those from all around the world.
June 12: USA vs Paraguay (Group D)
June 15: Iran vs New Zealand (Group G)
June 18: Switzerland vs Bosnia & Herzegovina (Group B)
June 21: Belgium vs Iran (Group G)
June 25: USA vs Turkey (Group D)
June 28: Round of 32
July 2: Round of 32
July 10: Quarterfinal
Metro match day direct service: Departing the Santa Monica Parking Structure 1, board a direct bus departing every 10 minutes on match days.
Big Blue Bus + Metro Connections: Route 3 to LAX Transit Center, then a free SoFi shuttle.
Metro rail and bus: Downtown Santa Monica station on Metro E Line, transfer at Expo/Crenshaw, continue via local bus routes.
Private shuttles and Park-and-Ride: Some hotels and local transit partners will offer shuttle services or park-and-ride connections that link into the Metro network or bring fans closer to the stadium.
Cycling: Bike to SoFi Stadium from Santa Monica or opt for an electric bike for an extra boost along the way. Explore local bike rental options here, and don't forget to pick up a helmet and bike lock when renting! Bike racks can be found along the exterior of SoFi Stadium to park and lock your bike while enjoying the match.
Rideshare and taxis: Uber, Lyft and self-driving Waymo robotaxis provide door-to-door convenience. The stadium features designated rideshare drop-off and pickup areas near Kareem Court and Manchester Boulevard.
Santa Monica places travelers at the heart of both relaxation and recreation between matches, all only eight non-freeway miles from Los Angeles International Airport. With 40 hotels and over 400 restaurants across the city, the perfect stay awaits every fan. Keep the energy going with buzzing neighborhoods and coastal nightlife, or recharge with wellness experiences and refreshing pool swims. Whether enjoying easy access to matches at SoFi Stadium, watching the game with fellow fans at local spots or taking in the coastal California lifestyle, Santa Monica welcomes you to book your stay at the ultimate beachside base today.
Several Santa Monica hotels will welcome fans with special packages this season. Book the Summer 2026 Match Experience at Huntley Santa Monica Beach for a USD 300 dining credit when staying three nights or more during Los Angeles match days, and enjoy the Ultimate Fan Stay at Santa Monica Proper Hotel with exclusive offers between June 10 and July 31 including USD 150 dining credit with two-night stays, USD 300 dining credit with three-night stays and even one complimentary night and daily $80 breakfast credit with five-night stays.
