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September 19, 2026
Event date:
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September 20, 2026
Event end:
Overview
The Sea.Hear.Now Festival is a premiere celebration of music, art, and ocean culture held along the beautiful waterfront of Asbury Park, New Jersey. This two-day event transforms North Beach and Bradley Park into a massive coastal playground, featuring multiple stages where world-class headliners and emerging artists perform with the Atlantic Ocean as their backdrop. It has quickly become one of the most anticipated late-summer gatherings in the United States, blending the energy of a major rock festival with the laid-back spirit of a surf competition.
In 2026, the festival continues its tradition of delivering a diverse musical lineup that spans rock, indie, folk, and soul. Beyond the main stages, attendees can explore the immersive art installations that celebrate the creative history of the Jersey Shore. A central feature is the Transparent Gallery, curated by famed photographer Danny Clinch, which showcases original artwork and photography from the performing musicians themselves, offering fans a rare and personal look into the lives of their favorite artists.
Sustainability and community engagement remain core pillars of the festival experience. Organizers work closely with environmental groups to ensure the beach remains pristine and to promote ocean conservation awareness among the thousands of visitors. With its unique combination of professional surfing heats taking place between musical sets and a wide array of local culinary offerings, the festival provides a comprehensive cultural experience that highlights the very best of coastal living.
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Event Highlights
- Headlining Performances: Catch major sets from global superstars like Mumford and Sons and The Strokes across three massive stages.
- North Beach Surf Sessions: Watch professional athletes including Sam Hammer and Balaram Stack compete in high-stakes surfing heats right off the shore.
- The Transparent Gallery: Visit a unique pop-up art space featuring collaborative works and photography curated by the legendary Danny Clinch.
- Stoke Henge Art Installation: Admire large-scale creative structures and local artwork designed to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Asbury Park.
Why Attend
This event is a must-attend for anyone who loves the intersection of live music and the great outdoors. It is ideal for fans of alternative and folk-rock who want to experience legendary bands in a scenic, breezy environment rather than a typical stadium setting. The benefit of attending is the ability to enjoy a high-production festival while still feeling connected to a local, community-driven atmosphere that honors the history of the New Jersey music scene.
The festival also offers a unique opportunity for sports enthusiasts to see top-tier professional surfing up close. Because the surfing heats occur throughout the day, there is never a dull moment, allowing you to alternate between dancing at a main stage and cheering on athletes in the waves. Whether you are a local resident or traveling from afar, the event serves as the ultimate send-off to summer, providing memories of sunset performances and seaside creativity that last a lifetime.
Date & Duration
- Event Date: September 19 – September 20, 2026
- Event Duration: Two full days of entertainment starting at noon and concluding each night at 10:30 PM.
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are sold through the official festival website and authorized secondary platforms in tiered phases.
- Admission Type: Options include 1-Day or 2-Day passes for General Admission, GA+, VIP, and Ultimate tiers.
- Ticket Pricing: Entry prices typically range from approximately $305 for a single day to over $1045 for premium weekend packages.
- Special Seating Options: There is no reserved seating as the event is standing room on the beach and park grounds.
- VIP Options: VIP passes provide access to a private lounge, dedicated viewing decks with prime stage sightlines, and air-conditioned restrooms.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Asbury Park, United States
- Venue Name: North Beach and Bradley Park
- Google Maps Address: Asbury Park, NJ 07712, United States
Contact Information
- Email: info@seahearnowfestival.com
- Official Website: https://www.seahearnowfestival.com/
- Social Media Links:
- https://www.instagram.com/seahearnow/
- https://www.facebook.com/SeaHearNow/
- https://twitter.com/seahearnow
- https://discord.com/invite/thefestiverse
- https://www.tiktok.com/@seahearnow
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Newark Liberty International Airport is the primary hub located approximately forty-five miles north of the venue.
- Nearest Train/Metro Station: The NJ Transit North Jersey Coast Line stops at Asbury Park Station which is within walking distance of the beach.
- Bus Routes or Public Transport Options: Local NJ Transit bus routes serve the Asbury Park Transportation Center from various points along the shore.
- Parking Availability: Public municipal lots and street parking are available throughout the city, though space is extremely limited during the event.
- Directions by Car: Drivers can reach the venue via the Garden State Parkway taking exit 102 for Eastbound travel toward the ocean.
What is this event?
The Sea.Hear.Now Festival is an annual two-day event that brings together music, professional surfing, and visual arts on the New Jersey coast. It features over twenty-five bands performing on stages located directly on the sand and in the nearby public parks.
This event is designed to celebrate the end of the summer season by highlighting the surf culture and musical heritage of Asbury Park. It offers a family-friendly environment where fans can enjoy sports and sound in a beautiful waterfront setting.
Why is it popular?
The festival is popular because it offers a rare opportunity to watch world-class musicians while standing on the actual beach. The combination of a professional surf contest and a high-caliber music lineup creates an atmosphere that is different from any other East Coast festival.
It also draws a large crowd due to the curated art experiences and the involvement of local legends who have shaped the Asbury Park identity. The scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean paired with top-tier production make it a favorite destination for music lovers nationwide.
Tips before you go
- Make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat as there is very little shade available when standing on the beach stages.
- Bring a clear bag for your personal items to speed up the security process at the festival entrance.
- Arrive early in the day if you want to secure a good spot on the sand for the headlining performances.
- Plan to use the NJ Transit train if possible to avoid the heavy traffic and difficulty of finding parking in Asbury Park.
- Wear comfortable shoes that you do not mind getting sandy, as you will be walking between the park and the beach frequently.
Attendee Experiences
- There is nothing like hearing your favorite band play while the ocean waves crash just a few feet away.
- The surfing competition adds such a cool energy to the day that you do not get at other music festivals.
- I loved being able to walk around the boardwalk during the day and then head right back into the music.
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Location
FAQ
Are there water stations at the festival?
Yes, there are several hydration stations located throughout the festival grounds where you can refill your reusable water bottles for free. Staying hydrated is very important since you will be outside in the sun and sand for many hours throughout the weekend. Make sure your bottle meets the festival's size and material requirements before you arrive at the gate.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Outside food and beverages are generally not allowed inside the festival gates to ensure the safety and quality of the event environment. However, there is a massive selection of vendors offering everything from classic boardwalk treats to healthy and vegan-friendly meals. You will find plenty of options to satisfy any dietary needs while you are exploring the different stages.
Is the festival accessible for people with disabilities?
The organizers provide a range of accessibility services including designated viewing areas and ADA-compliant pathways to help everyone enjoy the show. Since a large portion of the festival takes place on the sand, there are specific mats and platforms designed to assist with mobility. You can visit the accessibility kiosk near the main entrance for more specific information and assistance.
What should I do if I lose an item during the event?
The festival operates a lost and found booth where items turned in by staff or other attendees are collected throughout the weekend. You can check in with the staff there at any time, and they often have a digital system to track found items through the official app. If you do not realize you lost something until after the event, you can contact the support email.
Is there a mobile app for the festival schedule?
Yes, the festival releases a dedicated mobile app each year that includes the full performance schedule and a map of the grounds. The app is the best way to stay informed about surprise sets, surfing heat times, and any important safety announcements. It also allows you to create a personalized schedule so you do not miss any of your favorite artists.
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