As summer kicks into gear, anticipation has been building for one of the nation’s most cherished holidays: the Fourth of July. For those of us with salt in our veins, Independence Day holds a special resonance. The very birth of our nation, a declaration of freedom, was inextricably tied to the sea. From the intrepid voyages of early explorers to the crucial naval battles that secured our fledgling republic, maritime history is deeply connected and rooted in the story of American independence. Our forefathers, many of whom were skilled mariners or relied on the vast ocean for trade and defense, understood implicitly that liberty on land often depended on dominion over the waves.
As we celebrate with dazzling lights over the water, we subtly honor that profound historical connection. This year, The Log is thrilled to present its annual, comprehensive guide to Fourth of July fireworks displays and special events across Southern California’s stunning coast, harbors, and marinas. It doesn’t matter if you’re planning to drop anchor in a bustling bay, enjoy the festivities from your slip, or find the perfect vantage point from shore, our guide is designed to help you navigate the celebrations with ease.
Within these pages, you’ll find essential details for each event, including its official name, location, and the date and times of festivities — because, as seasoned holiday revelers know, not all fireworks illuminate the sky exactly as they do on the Fourth of July!
We’ve also gathered important information on parking options and potential associated pricing, helping you plan your arrival and departure seamlessly. Plus, our guide identifies a few prime locations for viewing the pyrotechnic masterpieces. Beyond the explosions, discover a curated list of event highlights, from live music and food festivals to unique maritime-themed activities, making your Independence Day truly unforgettable.
Please Note: Details provided in this guide are based on publicly available sources at the time of publication. While we strive for accuracy, event schedules, parking availability, and other specifics are subject to change. To ensure that you have the most up-to-date information available, visit official event websites or local marina offices for the most recent updates before finalizing your holiday plans.
Prepare to hoist your flags, sound your horns, and immerse yourselves in the patriotic spirit that only the Fourth of July — celebrated seaside — can truly evoke. From our crew at The Log, we wish you a safe, spectacular, and joy-filled Independence Day!
SAN DIEGO
Big Bay Boom — San Diego’s July Fourth Fireworks Show
Date: July 4
Location: San Diego Bay
California’s largest fireworks display returns to San Diego Bay with a dazzling 18-minute show launched from four barges and choreographed to music. This free, family-friendly event is expected to draw more than 300,000 attendees who are encouraged to use public transportation or arrive early to secure parking. The Coast Guard and Harbor Police will be on the water to assist for safety. For further details on transportation and parking, visit: bigbayboom.com.
Schedule:
- Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. and are best viewed from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North and South Embarcadero, Seaport Village, Marina District, Coronado Ferry Landing, and on the water.
- 8:00 to 9:30 p.m.: Live broadcast on Fox 5 (San Diego) and KTLA 5 (Los Angeles)
- 9:00 to 9:20 p.m.: Fireworks show with music simulcast on 100.7 BIG FM and 91X FM
- 9:00 to 10:00m.: Delayed broadcast on KGPE (Fresno)
- 10:30 to 11:30 p.m.: Delayed broadcast on KGET (Bakersfield)
SeaWorld San Diego Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration
Date &Time: July 3 at 9:00 p.m. and July 4 at 9:30 p.m.
Location: SeaWorld San Diego, 500 Sea World Dr, San Diego, CA 92109
Honor Independence Day with a dazzling extended fireworks show set to patriotic music over SeaWorld San Diego — all included with park admission. Arrive early to secure your viewing spot. Showtimes are on July 3 at 9:00 p.m. and July 4 at 9:30 p.m. For more information, visit seaworld.com/san-diego/events/fourth-of-july-celebration/.
Red, White & BOOM! at Legoland
Date: July 4, 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Legoland California, One Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Celebrate the Fourth of July with Legoland’s all-day patriotic party featuring games, dance parties, special shows, character meet-and-greets, limited-time treats, and a dazzling fireworks display that turns into Lego bricks with special viewing glasses. Fireworks at 8:30 p.m., DJ dance parties, Hot Dog Guy character games, exclusive scavenger hunt prizes, and themed entertainment throughout the park. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit legoland.com/california/things-to-do/seasonal-events/red-white-boom/
OCEANSIDE
Oceanside Fireworks & Drone Show
Date & Time: Thursday, July 3, beginning at 4:00 p.m.
Location: SoCal Soccer Complex at El Corazon, 3300 El Corazon Drive, Oceanside, CA
Join in the excitement of Independence Day and Oceanside’s 137th anniversary with a dazzling fireworks and drone display starting at 9:00 p.m. Gates open at 4:00 p.m. with picnicking, family games, crafts, food trucks, and family-friendly music at 6:00 p.m. Event entry gates close to incoming cars at 8:30 p.m.; alcohol, dogs, RVs, or buses are not allowed. Parking is $15 at the SoCal Soccer Complex, with free parking available at Ocean Ranch Business Park, which is an approximately 1.3-mile walk. Attendees are also encouraged to take public transit via the nearby Rancho Del Oro SPRINTER Station. Guests should bring beach chairs or blankets and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. For details, visit ci.oceanside.ca.us/Home/Components/News/News/449/14.
CHULA VISTA
Chula Vista Fourth Fest — Independence Day Fireworks Celebration
Date & Time: July 4, 7:00 to 9:30 p.m.
Location: Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, 2800 Olympic Parkway, Chula Vista, CA 91915
Enjoy an admission-free community fireworks July 4 exhibition at 9:00 p.m. following an evening of festivities. A bilingual soundtrack will broadcast the spectacle on Amor 102.9. Gates open at 7:00 p.m.; fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. Enjoy food trucks will be available for food and drink purchases; all-ages welcome; parking is free. Parking is limited to 600 spaces at the training center and New Hope Church. No alcohol, pets, tents, umbrellas, drones, or skateboards allowed. Alternate viewing area available at Mountain Hawk Park. For more details, visit chulavistaca.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/35962/2854?curm=7&cury=2025.
SAN CLEMENTE
San Clemente Independence Day Fireworks Show
Date: July 4, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Location: San Clemente Municipal Pier, 622 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, CA 92672
Revel in Fourth of July fun during this daytime family-friendly event at Linda Lane Park, then cap it off with a fireworks display over the San Clemente Pier at 9:00 p.m. Free San Clemente Trolley Service available from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. For more details, visit san-clemente.org/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/10368/18?curm=7&cury=2025.
Schedule:
- 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.: “Stars, Stripes & Slip ‘N Slides” at Linda Lane Park featuring a 300-foot slide, kid zone, live music, food trucks, and beer garden.
- 9:00 p.m.: Fireworks show at the San Clemente Pier.
DANA POINT
Dana Point Fourth of July Fireworks
Date: July 4
Location: Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA
Commemorate Independence Day with one of Southern California’s best fireworks displays, launched from a barge just off the coast of Doheny State Beach. Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. and are visible from multiple locations around Dana Point Harbor. Plan ahead for traffic and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. For more details, visit danapoint.org/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/17633/68?curm=7&cury=2025
LAGUNA BEACH
Laguna Beach Fourth of July Celebration
According to the city’s official virtual assistant, the city will not be hosting a firework display, and portions of Heisler Park — including the Lawn Bowling Green and Monument Point — will be closed all day. Additional areas between Myrtle Street and the Rockpile Beach stairs at Jasmine Street will close to the public at approximately 5:00 p.m. For updates, visit the City of Laguna Beach’s official website at lagunabeachcity.net/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/4943/15.
According to the Daily Pilot article from Oct. 2024, “Uninspired by drone show, Laguna Beach to bring back fireworks next July 4,” Laguna Beach received mixed feedback after debuting a drone show in place of fireworks during last year’s Independence Day celebration. While the city reportedly planned to return to traditional fireworks in 2025, The Log has not been able to independently confirm those details. This information is based on publicly available sources at the time of publication.
NEWPORT BEACH
Independence Day on the Back Bay
Date: July 4
Location: Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, 1131 Back Bay Dr., Newport Beach, CA 92660
Mark our country’s birth with a full day of family fun and waterfront festivities at Newport Dunes’ Independence Day on the Back Bay. Enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, full bars, water sports, and a stunning fireworks display co-sponsored by the City of Newport Beach.
Important Details:
- Free admission & open to the public
- Gates open at 8:00 a.m.
- Live music from The Class Band: classic rock, Motown, 80s, pop, and more
- Food trucks & full bars: 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Moe B’s Munchies open: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Inflatable water park and rentals: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Fireworks show over the bay: 9:00 p.m.
Parking:
- $100 prepaid parking (main paved lot — enter via Jamboree & Back Bay Drive)
- $50 day-of parking (unpaved lot — enter via Bayside Drive & PCH; 5 to 10 minute walk)
Day-of parking is first-come, first-served and fills up quickly. Arrive early.
No barbecues or grills are allowed on the beach. Shade structures must be taken down before fireworks begin as required by the fire department. The pedestrian bridge will be closed during fireworks. Attendees are strongly discouraged from bringing pets due to their sensitivity to noise. For more details, visit newportdunes.com/independence-day-on-the-back-bay/.
HUNTINGTON BEACH
Fourth of July in Huntington Beach
Date: July 4
Location: Huntington Beach Pier, Main St. & Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA
It’s one of the most iconic Fourth of July traditions on the West Coast — Huntington Beach’s annual Independence Day celebration, which dates back to 1904 and now draws more than 500,000 attendees. This year’s festivities feature fireworks over the ocean, reserved seating on the pier, and an ABC7 live parade broadcast from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Fireworks over the ocean begin approximately 9:00 p.m.
Early entry tickets cost $42 and allow access to the pier at 7:00 p.m. General admission tickets are $31, with entry at 7:30 p.m. Both ticket types include seating on the pier. No alcohol is permitted. Coolers and bags will be inspected at entry. Children younger than 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Chairs are provided for all ticket holders. Parking is not included in the ticket price and must be arranged separately.
CATALINA ISLAND (AVALON)
Annual Fourth of July Celebration, Parade & Fireworks — Catalina Island
Date: July 3 and 4
Location: Avalon, Catalina Island, CA
Celebrate Independence Day, island-style, with a full day of fun, festivities, and fireworks in Avalon. Catalina’s Fourth of July celebration blends small-town charm with coastal beauty, featuring parades, contests, and live performances. The night caps off with a dazzling fireworks show over Avalon Bay.
The 2025 parade theme is “Surfing in the USA — Celebrating the Island’s Beach Culture.” Decorate your golf cart or float for a chance to win prizes in categories like Best Art Deco and Most Patriotic. Viewing for the fireworks is available from the beaches, harbor, or your favorite downtown vantage point. Boaters are encouraged to join the Dinghy Parade or cruise out for a close-up view of the fireworks. No registration is required for spectators. For complete event details, visit lovecatalina.com.
Scheduling Details:
July 3:
- 3:00 to 4:00 m.: USC Marching Band Performance on Wrigley Stage. Enjoy a live performance by the USC Trojan Marching Band on Wrigley Stage.
July 4:
- 10:00 m. to 1:00 p.m.: Home & Business Decorating Contest (Judging starts at 10:00 a.m.; winners announced at 1:00 p.m.)
- 1:00 m.: Golf Cart Parade along Crescent Avenue (line-up begins at 12:00 p.m. on Casino Way)
- 3:30 p.m.: Dinghy Parade organized by the Catalina Island Yacht Club
- 4:00 to 8:30 p.m.: Live music throughout the afternoon and evening on Wrigley Stage
- 6:30 p.m.: Tentative USC Marching Band performance at the Catalina Casino
- 8:30 p.m.: Fireworks harbor cruise aboard the Cyclone powerboat (separate ticketed event)
- 9:00 m.: Fireworks show over Avalon Bay
- 9:30 p.m.: Final USC Marching Band performance on Wrigley Stage
CATALINA ISLAND (TWO HARBORS)
Independence Day Celebration at Two Harbors
Date: Saturday, July 5
Location: Two Harbors, Catalina Island, CA
A full day of patriotic fun is on tap at Two Harbors to celebrate the Fourth of July weekend. From family crafts to a decorated dinghy parade and a breathtaking fireworks display over Isthmus Cove, the festivities offer something for everyone. Arrive early and enjoy food and drinks at the Harbor Reef Restaurant before the fireworks begin. Guests staying in Avalon can catch the Cyclone power boat from the Green Pleasure Pier or ride an air-conditioned bus to join the Two Harbors festivities. All events are presented by the Catalina Island Company and Two Harbors Enterprises. For more details, visit lovecatalina.com/4th/.
Highlights:
- 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.: 39th Annual Children’s Festival at Buffalo Park with crafts and activities
- 2:00 p.m.: 21st Annual Dinghy Parade through the coves of the West End (prizes awarded for most creative entries)
- 9:00 p.m. (approx.): Fireworks Celebration over Isthmus Cove
LONG BEACH — THE QUEEN MARY
Fourth of July Aboard the Queen Mary
Date: July 4
Location: The Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA
Honor America this Independence Day aboard the historic Queen Mary with a family-friendly party spanning the ship’s decks. Guests can explore themed zones inspired by different decades — from a vintage fair to a ‘70s disco — each featuring live music, interactive entertainment, and festive activities for all ages. The night concludes with a breathtaking 15-minute fireworks show over the Long Beach skyline. General Admission only: $65 Adults; $45 Children. VIP Admission: $185 (includes BBQ buffet, dessert bar, champagne for 21+, exclusive VIP deck access, and premium fireworks viewing). Self-Parking: $35 per vehicle. All tickets are non-refundable. No re-entry allowed except for overnight guests with wristbands. Event is held rain or shine. For more information, visit queenmary.com/fourth-of-july.htm.
Highlights:
- Themed parties and live entertainment from 3:00 to 10:00 p.m.
- Grand finale fireworks show at 9:00 p.m.
- Activities and performances across multiple themed decks
MARINA DEL REY
Marina del Rey July Fourth Fireworks Show
Date: July 4
Location: Marina del Rey, CA (best viewing from Burton Chace Park or Fisherman’s Village)
Celebrate Independence Day with a dazzling 20-minute fireworks display over the water in Marina del Rey. The show begins at 9:00 p.m. and can be enjoyed from various waterfront locations around the marina. Holiday parking rates range from $11 to $20; cash payment speeds up entry. Parking is available at public lots throughout Marina del Rey, Venice, and Dockweiler. The Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail will be closed from the UCLA Marina Aquatics Center to the south side of the La Ballona Bridge between 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. Expect road closures and plan travel accordingly. For more information, please visit beaches.lacounty.gov/4thofjuly/.
Highlights:
- Fireworks display over the harbor from 9:00 to 9:20 p.m.
- Great viewing spots include Burton Chace Park and Fisherman’s Village
- Marina del Rey WaterBus available from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
- Free Beach Shuttle operating from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
PORT OF LOS ANGELES
75th Annual John Olguin July Fourth Weekend Fireworks Spectacular
Date: Saturday, July 5
Location: Cabrillo Beach, San Pedro, CA
Don’t miss a beloved San Pedro tradition by celebrating Independence Day weekend. Now in its 75th year, the John Olguin Fireworks Spectacular lights up the sky over Cabrillo Beach with a stunning fireworks show that draws locals and visitors alike. This free event is co-sponsored by the Cabrillo Beach Boosters and the Port of Los Angeles. Arrive early to find parking and a good viewing spot. Expect large crowds and limited nearby parking, so carpooling or using public transportation is encouraged. For more details, visit portoflosangeles.org/references/2025-news-releases/news_050725_summer25.
Highlights:
- Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m.
- Bring blankets, beach chairs, and friends for a festive evening
- Hosted at scenic Cabrillo Beach
VENTURA
Fourth of July Fireworks Show & Family Picnic
Date: July 4
Location: Ventura College Athletic Fields
Commemorate Independence Day with Ventura’s friendliest hometown picnic featuring live music, a Kids Fun Zone, food trucks, and a dazzling fireworks display hosted by the Ventura Rotary Club. Fireworks at 9:00 p.m.; Gates open at 5:00 p.m.; ticket sales end at 8:45 p.m. No glass, alcohol, pets, or smoking. For more information, visit venturafireworks.com/#Features.
SANTA BARBARA
Fourth of July Celebration
Date: July 4
Location: West Beach, Santa Barbara, CA
Join the Independence Day celebration with an evening of festivities hosted by the City’s Waterfront and Parks and Recreation Departments. A 20-minute fireworks show begins around 9:00 p.m., presented by Garden State Fireworks. Fireworks launch from West Beach; arrive early for the best viewing spots. The display will be simulcast on KjEE (92.9 FM) and livestreamed on KEYT.com. For more details, visit santabarbaraca.gov.
