Oktoberfest in Huntington Beach Four Day Itinerary

Fall brings the best of both worlds to Huntington Beach: sunny days by the ocean and cherished Bavarian traditions just a few miles from the coast. Each year from September through November, Oktoberfest in Huntington Beach takes over the historic Old World Village with authentic German food, imported bier, live music, festive traditions, and plenty of lederhosen and dirndls. 

This four-day itinerary pairs the festival fun with beach time, oceanfront dining, coastal adventures, and some of Surf City USA^®'s favorite fall experiences. 

Before your trip, check the latest Oktoberfest in Huntington Beach details for dates, live entertainment, ticket information, and special events happening during your stay. 

Autumn Stay: Oceanfront Resorts & Village Lodging

Make the most of a fall getaway to Huntington Beach by staying close to the experiences on your itinerary. Along Pacific Coast Highway, oceanfront hotels and resorts including Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa, The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel, Paséa Hotel & Spa, and the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort put the beach within easy reach and offer plenty of ways to unwind between Oktoberfest festivities. 

For a stay that puts you even closer to the action, Hotel Europa at Old World is located inside Old World Village, just steps from the shops, restaurants, and Biergarten. 

Day 1: Pacific City & Sunset Beach Stroll

After checking into your hotel, ease into the weekend with some time along the coast. Take a walk along the sand, dip your toes into the Pacific, or simply enjoy the mild fall weather that makes Huntington Beach, California an inviting coastal escape well into the season. 

As the afternoon winds down, head to Pacific City for oceanfront shopping, local bites, and drinks overlooking the water. Grab a table on an outdoor patio for dinner and catch a classic Huntington Beach sunset before ending the evening with a leisurely walk toward the iconic pier. It's an easygoing start before the Oktoberfest fun begins. 

Day 2: Old World Village Festival & Biergarten Festivities

Day 2 is all about Oktoberfest! Start by exploring Old World Village, where cobblestone walkways and Bavarian-inspired architecture set the scene for the day ahead. Browse the village shops and stop by the Dirndl Haus boutique to find traditional dirndls, lederhosen, and accessories to complete your Oktoberfest look. 

Then head to The Biergarten for the main event. Fill up on German favorites like bratwurst and soft pretzels, raise a stein of imported bier, and enjoy live music and other festival entertainment. Depending on when you visit, daytime festivities may offer a more family-friendly atmosphere before the celebration transitions into a lively 21+ experience at night. 

Day 3: Family Wiener Dog Races & Beachside Bonfire

If your visit falls on a Wiener Dog Race weekend, return to Old World Village to cheer on the four-legged competitors as they race towards the finish line. The fan-favorite races take place on select Sundays during Oktoberfest and make for a fun addition to the weekend. Be sure to check the Wiener Dog Race schedule ahead of your visit, and don't leave the village without browsing the Wiener Dog Store for dachshund-themed gifts and souvenirs. 

After the races, trade Bavarian village for beach cruisers. Rent bikes and cruise along the paved oceanfront path, spend a few hours on the sand, or simply slow down to enjoy your afternoon by the water. Wrap up the day around a beach bonfire complete with s'mores and a front-row seat to a classic HB sunset. 

Day 4: Harbor Paddle & Local Shopping

Take it easy on your final morning with a cruise through scenic Huntington Harbour. Rent a kayak or electric boat and take in the calm channels for a unique view of Huntington Beach before heading home. 

Lastly, make time for a little shopping and a final bite to eat. Head back to Old World one more time for specialty finds and souvenirs from your Oktoberfest weekend. 

Family Days vs. 21+ Nights at Old World Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest at The Biergarten offers different experiences depending on the time of day of your visit. During designated family-friendly hours, all ages can enjoy the live music, traditional German food, festival activities, and lively atmosphere of Old World Village. The select Sundays that feature Wiener Dog Races make a great option for families visiting with kids. 

As evening arrives, Oktoberfest transitions into a 21+ celebration with high-energy live music, dancing, German beer, and plenty of Oktoberfest traditions inside The Biergarten. General admission tickets are required for select festival dates and evening events, so check the schedule, age requirements, and ticket information before your visit. Learn more here.

Where to Eat & Drink: Bavarian Bites & Ocean-View Dining

Oktoberfest is just as much about the food and drink as it is the festivities. At The Biergarten, dig into traditional German favorites like schnitzel, sauerbraten, bratwurst, soft pretzels, apple strudel, and more, paired with imported beer and live music. 

Beyond Old World Village, explore more Huntington Beach dining throughout your stay. Head toward the coast for ocean view dining options at Pacific City and along the waterfront, find casual restaurants and pet-friendly patios around Downtown, or sample locally made pours at Huntington Beach breweries. 

Planning Your Visit to Oktoberfest: Parking & Guest Policies

Parking areas at Old World Village are free, with additional parking available nearby, but spaces can fill quickly during popular events. Be sure to arrive as early as possible and review current parking information before making your way to the festival. 

General admission requirements, ticket prices, age restrictions, and event policies can vary by date and time. Before your visit, check the official event information for the latest details. Traditional Oktoberfest attire isn't required to attend, but dirndls and lederhosen are always a festive way to join in the fun. 

For more information on getting around, where to stay, and what to do while in town, explore Surf City USA trip planning resources before your getaway.