Solana Beach sits along the scenic coast of North County San Diego. It’s a lively community with rich culture and a full calendar of events. Whether you’re a family enjoying local traditions, a foodie exploring artisanal markets, or a retiree seeking cultural experiences, May 2025 has something for you. From live music to community festivals, here’s a list of top things to do in Solana Beach this May. Each event offers a fun way to connect with the spirit of this coastal town.
1. John Cruz Concert
Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025, 7:30 PM
Location: Belly Up Tavern, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach, CA
Website: John Cruz Tickets
Parking: Limited parking available at the venue. It’s advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transportation.
Music lovers won’t want to miss John Cruz at Belly Up Tavern. This Hawaiian singer-songwriter brings soulful, soothing sounds to the stage. His blend of Hawaiian, folk, blues, and R&B creates a truly unique performance. Cruz’s intimate style makes it ideal for those looking for a relaxed yet rich musical experience. It all takes place at one of Solana Beach’s most iconic venues.
Tickets for the event are priced between $27 and $48, which is reasonable considering the intimate nature of the venue. For those looking to make it a night out, Belly Up Tavern also offers a selection of beverages and light fare. Arriving early for parking is advisable as spaces tend to fill up quickly.
2. Yo La Tengo Concert
Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 7:30 PM
Location: Belly Up Tavern, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach, CA
Website: Yo La Tengo Tickets
Parking: Limited parking available at the venue. It’s recommended to arrive early or use ride-sharing services.
Yo La Tengo, an indie rock band known for their experimental sounds and ever-changing musical style, will be performing live at Belly Up Tavern on Tuesday, May 6. The band has developed a loyal following over the years, thanks to their eclectic mix of music, which combines elements of noise pop, alternative rock, and experimental music.
This concert offers a unique opportunity for music enthusiasts to experience a dynamic and innovative performance. Tickets are reasonably priced, and with the smaller venue size, you’re guaranteed an up-close-and-personal experience with the band.
3. Israel Vibration Concert
Date: Friday, May 9, 2025, 8:00 PM
Location: Belly Up Tavern, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach, CA
Website: Israel Vibration Tickets
Parking: Limited parking available at the venue. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation.
Reggae fans won’t want to miss Israel Vibration at Belly Up Tavern. With a career spanning decades, they’re one of Jamaica’s most influential reggae bands. Their music helped bring roots reggae to a global audience. Expect an unforgettable night filled with soulful rhythms and spiritual lyrics. It’s a must-see for fans of reggae and world music.
Belly Up Tavern offers an intimate setting where every seat feels close to the stage. For reggae lovers, this show will be a highlight of the month. Tickets are available on Seatgeek, so grab yours early before they sell out.
4. Solana Beach Farmers Market
Date: Every Sunday in May 2025, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: 444 South Cedros Avenue, Solana Beach, CA
Website: Solana Beach Farmers Market
Parking: Free parking available at the market location. Additional parking is available nearby.
The Solana Beach Farmers Market is a staple for both locals and visitors who are looking for fresh, local produce, artisanal products, and unique handcrafted goods. Every Sunday, the market buzzes with energy, offering a leisurely yet vibrant atmosphere perfect for browsing and shopping.
The market is a great way to spend a few hours with the family or enjoy an afternoon outing with friends. With live music often accompanying the event, it’s a wonderful way to experience local flavor – both in terms of food and culture. The variety of organic products and handmade crafts appeals to those who appreciate quality, making it a go-to stop for higher-income individuals looking for locally sourced goods.
5. Saved By The 90s Concert
Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025, 8:00 PM
Location: Belly Up Tavern, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach, CA
Website: Saved By The 90s Tickets
Parking: Limited parking available at the venue. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation.
For those looking to relive the music of their youth, the Saved By The 90s concert is the perfect opportunity. Featuring all the best hits from the 1990s, this high-energy show is sure to bring back nostalgic memories while offering a fun, dance-filled night out.
6. Memorial Day Celebration
Date: Monday, May 26, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: La Colonia Park Veterans Honor Courtyard, 715 Valley Avenue, Solana Beach, CA
Website: City of Solana Beach – Memorial Day
Parking: Limited parking available at the venue. Arrive early to secure a spot or consider alternative transportation.
Solana Beach’s Memorial Day Celebration is a thoughtful event honoring the sacrifices made by military personnel. The ceremony will feature a dove release, patriotic music by the Santa Fe Christian School Band, and a historical tour at the Solana Beach Historical Museum. It’s a solemn occasion that brings the community together to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day while offering an intimate experience for all attendees.
For families and retirees alike, the Memorial Day ceremony offers a meaningful opportunity to honor veterans while enjoying the serenity of La Colonia Park. Refreshments will be served, and the entire event is free to the public. This is a lovely way to spend the morning while showing support for local heroes.
7. Fiesta del Sol
Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: Fletcher Cove Park, Solana Beach, CA
Website: Fiesta del Sol
Parking: Free shuttle service available from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Free parking is available along Highway 101 and South Sierra Avenue. Avoid parking on Cedros Avenue to help support local businesses.
Fiesta del Sol is the biggest street fair in Solana Beach. This free, two-day festival features live music, local art, great food, and a strong sense of community. It’s perfect for families, especially with kid-friendly entertainment like Hullabaloo, a beloved children’s folk band. Local vendors offer handmade goods, and the international food court serves up global flavors.
Don’t miss the pancake breakfast hosted by the Solana Beach Firefighters—it’s a favorite local tradition.
Known for its lively vibe, Fiesta del Sol is a great way to enjoy the sunshine and meet your neighbors. VIP seating is available for those who want an upgraded experience. With free entry and plenty of food and entertainment, this event is a must for locals and visitors alike.
Conclusion
Solana Beach has something for everyone this May. Families can enjoy community festivals, while retirees may prefer intimate music events. With a blend of cultural, musical, and charity-driven experiences, this coastal town is the perfect place to create lasting memories.
You can soak up the beachy vibe at the farmers market or catch a live show at the Belly Up Tavern. Whatever your style, Solana Beach offers many ways to connect with local culture and enjoy world-class entertainment.
Thinking about visiting or moving here? Kelli Miller, a trusted local real estate expert, is ready to help. As a long-time Solana Beach resident, she knows the market inside and out. Her deep community ties and personalized approach make her the ideal guide to finding your dream home in this stunning seaside town.
