Where can I buy tickets for the Off the Hook Seafood Festival?

Tickets can be purchased through the official festival website at offthehookseafoodfest.com or through their Eventbrite page.

What time does the Off the Hook Seafood Festival start?

General admission begins at 4:00 PM on October 19, 2025, with VIP early entry starting at 3:00 PM.

Where is parking available for the festival?

Parking is available at the Santa Monica Pier deck and nearby public lots. Rideshare and public transportation are highly encouraged.

What is included with VIP admission?

VIP guests enjoy early entry at 3 PM, exclusive lounge access hosted by Santa Monica Seafood, premium tastings, and complimentary beverages.

Are kids allowed at the Off the Hook Seafood Festival?

This is a 21+ event, and valid ID is required for entry.

Off The Hook Seafood Festival. Santa Monica, Ca. Oct 19th 2025

Food Journal Magazine
Oct 11
3 min read

Picture this: The iconic Santa Monica Pier, a gentle sea breeze, the smooth sounds of yacht rock, and a plate piled high with the freshest seafood you can imagine. This isn't just a daydream for seafood lovers—it's the OFF THE HOOK Santa Monica Seafood Festival, and it's making a triumphant return on Sunday, October 19, 2025.

Mark your calendars, because this beloved foodie festival is making a splash for its 7th anniversary, and this year it’s extra special as it coincides with the City of Santa Monica’s 150th Anniversary celebration. From 4 PM to 7:30 PM, the pier will transform into a seafood paradise, bringing together the city's top chefs and restaurants to showcase their finest underwater ingredients.

Eat, Drink, and Heal the Bay

What’s better than a day of feasting by the ocean? Feasting for a cause! OFF THE HOOK is more than just a culinary celebration; it’s a mission-driven event. A portion of all proceeds benefits Heal the Bay, a local nonprofit dedicated to keeping our oceans and coastlines pristine. With every delicious bite, you’ll be supporting their vital work in science, advocacy, and community action.

Plus, the festival is leading by example with a commitment to sustainability—it’s 100% free of single-use plastics. So, you can enjoy your day knowing you're helping preserve our beautiful beaches for generations to come.

What’s on the Menu?

Prepare for an unforgettable tasting journey. Your ticket grants you unlimited access to a dazzling array of seafood creations from some of Santa Monica's most acclaimed kitchens. While the full lineup is still under wraps, last year’s event featured mouthwatering dishes like Bluefin Tuna Tartare from Soko Sushi, spicy Octopus Tacos from Vamos Vamos, and classic hand rolls from Blue Ribbon Sushi.

And it’s not just about the food. Your ticket also includes tastings of beer, wine, and spirits. Sip on a crisp chardonnay from Harken, enjoy a craft beer from Duvel, or try a smooth whisky from Nikka. If you’re a true connoisseur, the Big Fish VIP ticket is your golden key. It offers early entry, exclusive access to the Santa Monica Seafood Sustainable Seafood VIP Lounge, curated cocktails from brands like Balvenie Scotch and Dulce Vida Tequila, and premier seating.

More Than Just a Meal

Throw on your best boat shoes and get ready for a full-blown party. The quintessential yacht rock band, The Windbreakers, will be providing the perfect smooth soundtrack for a sun-soaked afternoon.

Feeling competitive? Test your skills at the oyster competitions, hosted by Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete. Enter the "Best in Shuck" showdown to prove your shucking speed and finesse, or join the "Oyster Slurping Smackdown" to see how many you can down in three minutes. Whether you’re competing or just cheering from the sidelines, it’s guaranteed to be a shell of a good time.

Don't Miss the Boat

The OFF THE HOOK Seafood Festival is a highlight of the LA food scene, bringing together community, great food, and a worthy cause against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Tickets are on sale now and are known to sell out. So, gather your crew, grab your tickets, and get ready for a day of ocean-inspired fun you won't want to miss.

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