Events at County Pier, San Diego

About County Pier

County Pier is a waterfront performance venue on San Diego Bay that combines live entertainment with sweeping water views. Situated at the harbor’s edge on a refurbished county pier, this open-air amphitheater seats roughly 3,000 guests and can accommodate several hundred more on an expansive lawn area. Its design uses exposed wood and steel beams that echo classic marina architecture, blending modern stage technology with a laid-back seaside vibe. Signature features include a waterside stage with the Pacific horizon as a backdrop, a canopy of string lights for evening shows, and panoramic views of the Coronado Bridge and downtown skyline.

This venue matters to the local scene as one of the few large outdoor concert locations run by the county. It helped revitalize a formerly industrial dock into a community gathering spot. County Pier shares some spirit with San Diego’s classic outdoor stages, but its unique setting on the water and family-friendly programming give it a distinct character. Even though it’s a newer addition to the city’s entertainment offerings, the pier has quickly gained historic cachet: it hosted its ribbon-cutting concert in 2020 with local favorites, and has since become a summer staple. Locals and visitors alike love that County Pier fuses seaside leisure with big-city sound, making every event feel a little like a beach party.

Events and Programming

At County Pier you can catch a wide variety of performances and gatherings throughout the year. In the spring and summer, the venue typically hosts live music concerts ranging from rock, pop and country to jazz, blues, folk and EDM. The concert roster usually features a mix of nationally touring acts and well-known regional artists – for example, recent seasons have brought in classic rock tribute bands, Grammy-award winning jazz ensembles, and rising country stars. Community-oriented events are common too: the pier stage is used for outdoor movie screenings on weekend nights, family-friendly holiday events like Fourth of July fireworks and Christmas boat parades, and local arts festivals. Even comedy shows, dance parties and cultural celebrations (such as Cinco de Mayo concerts) happen regularly in the summer schedule.

One popular recurring series is the “Bayfront Summer Concert Series,” which runs weekly shows from late spring through early fall. These events often sell out well in advance. Ticket prices for big headliners typically range from about $30 for general admission to $100 or more for reserved seats or premium packages. On average, a standard show might cost $40–$60, while larger festivals or special gala performances can be $75 or up to $150. Families can also find daytime or matinee events with lower prices. County Pier often offers VIP seating areas and backstage passes for photo opportunities, and season passes or multi-show discounts are sometimes available for local concertgoers. Over the years, notable performers on the pier stage have included tribute acts for The Beatles and Fleetwood Mac, country stars (like local favorite Dwight Yoakam), Latin musicians such as Los Lobos, Indigenous dance troupes during cultural festivals, and even performances by the San Diego Symphony when weather permits.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for County Pier events can be purchased through the venue’s box office or online through authorized ticket outlets. Most shows go on sale a few months in advance, with on-sale dates announced on the venue’s official website and social media channels. Box office hours are typically weekday afternoons, and it’s often possible to buy tickets in person up until showtime (cash and card accepted). For popular concerts, fans are advised to buy as early as possible. Many shows also have fan-club or credit-card presales, so joining the mailing list or social media can give you early access codes. If a show is sold out online, a limited number of tickets may still be available at the door, but arriving early is a must.

• Online and Box Office: The official County Pier website sells tickets directly. You can also go in person to the Box Office located at the main entrance plaza; hours and days open vary by season.
• Ticket Types: Seating is typically tiered: General Admission lawn or standing (cheapest), reserved fixed seats (standard), and VIP tables or lounge areas (most expensive). Prices are usually listed alongside convenience fees.
• Presales and Discounts: Sign up for the venue’s newsletter for announcements about presale codes or group ticket deals. Some seasonal events offer discounted season passes or family four-packs.
• Door Sales: When available, a small “door sales” line may open just before showtime with limited tickets, but these can run out quickly.

Overall, ticket prices balance affordability with the premium experience of a waterfront show. On a typical summer night, general admission may be around $35–$50, with reserved seats about $60–$90. VIP packages (including amenities like cushioned seats or meet-and-greets) can go from $100 up to a few hundred dollars. Local nonprofit events or matinees often keep prices lower. It pays to check the event listing for any extra fees (parking is usually separate) and to confirm whether any special promotions (like kid or military discounts) apply. Many fans have found that buying tickets in late afternoon on a weekday, when fewer users are online, can sometimes avoid hefty fees or ticket merging issues.

Seating and Layout

The layout at County Pier is designed to give nearly every guest a great view of the action and the bay. The stage sits at the far end of the pier, rising slightly above water level with a sturdy tented roof for lighting and audio gear. Facing the stage are about 1,800 fixed seats in gently tiered rows, similar to an amphitheater. These seats are covered durable benches in the front sections and chair-back seats further uphill. Behind the fixed seating is a grassy lawn slope, where roughly 1,200 more ticket holders can spread out blankets or bring folding chairs (lawn tickets are general admission). At peak capacity events, the standing-room area right in front of the stage – usually roped off for GA pass holders – can fit a few hundred fans who want to be up close. Tall sound towers flank the stage, and high-definition video screens give a clear view even to lawn-seated guests.

• General Admission Areas: The floor/standing zone immediately in front of the stage is for GA tickets. It has room for dancing or moshing during energetic acts. The expansive lawn on higher ground behind the seats is also GA; bring a blanket or low lawn chair. These open areas offer a relaxed vibe but can be crowded on sold-out nights.
• Reserved Seating: The lower seating sections (closer to stage) are all reserved seats with good sightlines. The best seats are generally in the center-middle rows, where you get stage proximity without being too low to see the whole performance. Side seats angle towards the stage; they’re fine for visuals but sometimes you may have a partial angle view.
• VIP/Lounge: An elevated VIP section at the rear provides a table-seated experience (often with food service). These seats sit slightly above the lawn and give a full panorama without neck strain. Because they’re higher up, sound is very clear and the view of lighting effects and the skyline is impressive. VIP ticketholders also access private restrooms and a shaded bar.
• Accessible Seating: Wheelchair-accessible spots are located at walkway-level along the sides of the main seating areas. These have companion seats alongside and ramps leading directly to them. Assistive listening devices and captioning services are available upon request for most shows.

Acoustically, County Pier is known for surprisingly balanced sound for an outdoor venue. The stage’s canopy and speaker towers are arranged to project lanes of audio across the audience. The waterfront surface often adds a subtle echo, but the design minimizes dead spots. Still, like most open-air concert sites, the very front rows (near the speakers) can be extremely loud, so many attendees wear earplugs or book seats farther back. Similarly, the far lawn edges are slightly distant – those rows are best if you don’t mind bringing binoculars or watching the big screens. Avoid seats that are directly behind any tall obstructions (like the sound mixing booth) to maintain an clear sightline. Otherwise, the tiered layout ensures that from nearly every angle the stage and the sparkling bay behind it form a memorable backdrop to the show.

Getting There and Parking

County Pier is located on San Diego Bay, roughly one mile south of the Gaslamp Quarter. The exact address is often listed as 1500 Bayshore Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, at the end of Harbor Drive near the base of the Coronado Bridge. From downtown it’s a short drive south along Harbor Drive (Highway 75) or Kettner Boulevard to where it meets the water. The venue has a dedicated sign near the entrance along Bayshore Boulevard.

Driving/Parking: There’s a large adjoining parking lot with about 800 total spaces, including some prime spots right off the pier entrance. During events, parking is metered at a flat rate – generally around $15-$20 per car. Pay stations accept card or an app payment. If that lot fills up, there’s an overflow lot one block away (about $10) and ample street parking a few blocks out (meters run ~$3/hour, but many spots are free after 6pm).
Taxi or rideshare drop-off is located at the main plaza turn-around, so drivers do not clog the lot entrance. Cruise ship parking is not connected, but several public garage options are in walking distance (for example at the nearby Seaport Village or Gaslamp garages, usually $5–$10 per evening).

Public Transit: The MTS bus system has several stops within a few blocks of the pier. Bus routes such as the #8 and #28 run along Harbor Drive and stop on nearby side streets. For example, the northbound Bus 8 from Downtown to Coronado stops at 2nd Ave & Island, a 5-minute walk from the venue. (Check current MTS schedules—timing varies by route.) Also, the free downtown trolley (Silver Line) drops off at Fifth & Broadway; from there it’s about a 10-15 minute walk west along a lit waterfront promenade. San Diego’s Bay Ferry service doesn’t dock right at County Pier, but you can take the Coronado Ferry or Harbor Island commuter boat to Broadway Pier terminal, and then either walk (about 0.5 miles east) or catch a quick rideshare to the venue.

Drop-off and Walk-up: Ride-share passengers can be dropped off directly at the pier’s front circle drive (follow signs for “Event Drop Off”). Downtown hotels often offer shuttle service to major venues, and some hotel shuttles will drop off/pick up at County Pier for big events. If you arrive early, the area is also pleasant for a short walk from downtown along the bay: a scenic 20-min stroll from the Convention Center area gains you sea breezes and waterfront views.

Inside the Venue

Once inside County Pier, visitors find a relaxed but energetic atmosphere. The entrance plaza has ticket scanners and a crew of friendly staff to guide first-timers. Security checks are standard: expect a quick bag/metal check (no large backpacks or outside alcohol allowed). After entry, you’ll see the concession stands and merchandise booths near the concourse. The grounds are open, grassy and lightly landscaped, with seating and small picnic tables between the concessions. One neat feature is the 360-degree bay overlook deck at the rear (above the lawn area), where you can pause to watch the sunset or see ships pass by between songs.

• Food & Drink: County Pier offers a range of concessions focusing on local flavors. Popular options include a taco and burrito stand run by a San Diego taqueria, a burger and fry kiosk, a few beer taps pouring regional craft brews, and a wine & margarita bar near VIP. All stands accept credit cards, and prices are comparable to stadium fare (approx $8–$12 per sandwich/entree, $6–$10 per cocktail or craft beer). It’s also common to see food trucks parked just outside the exit after shows. Note that you cannot bring outside food or drinks in, except for one small factory-sealed water bottle per person.
• Restrooms: Clean restroom facilities line the sides of the venue. There are several sets of restrooms spread evenly: one by the main food court at the bottom of the lawn, and another block by the VIP lounge. Family restrooms are marked, and all have ADA-accessible stalls. During a major event, lines can form, so plan breaks during set changes if possible.
• Coat Check and Storage: In case of cool weather or rain, a staffed coat-check service is available near the entrance (usually $3–$5 per item). Lockers are not provided, so large items should be left at home or in your car. If you must carry a bag, bring only what fits in the official approved stadium-sized pouch.
• Merchandise and VIP Perks: Official merchandise carts (selling artist and venue T-shirts, hats, etc.) stand near the lawn and at the main exit. VIP ticketholders get access to a private lounge with extra seating and a dedicated bar – some packages even include a commemorative tour laminate or backstage photo. Depending on the show, there might be priority merchandise check-out or meet-and-greet photo ops for VIPs.
• Connectivity and Services: Cell reception (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) is generally strong throughout the venue. County Pier also provides free Wi-Fi near the main stage (look for "CountyPier-WiFi" on your device). There are no ATMs on site, so bring cash/card for emergencies. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps between levels and elevators in the VIP areas.

The overall vibe inside is festive and mixed-age. You’ll see families early in the evening or for daytime events, and an energetic crowd later on when the lights go down. Many patrons come early to explore the harborwalk or grab a drink before the show, so breezes off the bay help keep things comfortable. The lighting rig and big screens make nighttime performances especially dramatic, and the open-air setting means you can almost hear the water lapping against the pilings during quiet songs. Pay attention to posted signage: if smoking is allowed only in designated outdoor zones (look for signs near the entrance), and the staff is strict about abiding by California event regulations (no illegal substances, etc.). Otherwise, enjoy the casual, friendly environment – security and ushers are known to be courteous professionals more than heavy-handed "venue police."

Nearby Amenities

County Pier sits in a lively part of town with plenty of things to do before or after your visit. Just steps from the venue you’ll find a strip of scenic waterfront parks – perfect for a pre-show picnic or taking photos. Walk five minutes north and you reach Seaport Village, a touristy shopping/restaurant complex with canal-side eateries and souvenir shops. A bit beyond that (10–15 min walk) is the historic Gaslamp Quarter, where dozens of dining and nightlife options await. Here you’ll find everything from casual pizza joints and taquerias to high-end steakhouses. For example, the popular waterfront seafood spot “Harborview Grill” and rooftop bars like “Bayside Cantina” (known for taco specials) are favorites for concertgoers.

Other nearby food highlights include a handful of breweries and brewpubs (San Diego being famous for its beer), so expect lines at places like Stone Brewing or Eppig Brewing on game nights. If you prefer quick eats, several snack kiosks and food trucks often park along the promenade by County Pier. Likewise, accommodations are plentiful. The Gaslamp Quarter has several downtown hotels (Marriott, Hilton, Pendry, etc.) within a mile’s walk. For waterfront views, the Hilton San Diego Bayfront and Marriott Marquis are 0.5–1 mile north (both offer shuttle service and easy access via pedestrian routes). Closer to the pier, boutique lodging like a Harbor Inn or a family-run bed-and-breakfast provides a quiet retreat after the show. For early arrivals, these hotels are convenient places to store gear, eat dinner, or take a pre-concert nap.

When to Arrive: It’s smart to show up at least 30–45 minutes before the posted start time. This gives you time to find parking or a ride-share, pass through security without rushing, and grab a drink or snack before the crowd builds. Evening pilots especially should give extra time for traffic – San Diego’s main highways (I-5 and I-8) can be busy during rush hour if a concert starts at dusk. Late-Night Options: After the finale, nearby bars in Little Italy and East Village often stay open later; ride-share services can be requested right at the pier’s exit, where several designated pick-up lanes exist. Also note that San Diego’s late-night trolley (Blue and Orange lines) runs until midnight on weekends, and downtown cab stands are a short walk away. It’s wise to plan your final transit in advance because large crowds can create slight delays exiting the area.

What Makes This Venue Special

Several things set County Pier apart. Architecturally, it was built with a nod to San Diego’s nautical heritage – timber-clad beams, weathered-steel accents and marine-grade hardwood floors all evoke an old-school pier, but the technology (laser lights, digital soundboard, retractable stage roof) is all 21st century. Those design choices have earned the venue an award for "Best New Music Venue" by a regional magazine. Culturally, the pier has quickly become a gathering place for the community. The annual Pier Day festival (held on the pier’s anniversary each spring) mixes free concerts, food trucks, and artisan booths in a way that shows the county’s commitment to making arts accessible. Many long-time San Diegans appreciate that a formerly abandoned dock is now alive with music and art, bridging the downtown core with the wide-open bay.

Concertgoers often praise the park-like atmosphere: it feels more like a beachy public festival than a corporate arena. On a clear evening you might see families with kids playing frisbee on the lawn during a lull, while a couple near the stage toast each other at candlelit tables. Visiting artists have remarked that performing with waves in earshot and moonlight on the water adds a special energy to the show – it’s not often you get ocean scenery with live performance. Locals also point out small touches that make it unique, like a built-in "fish sculpture" stage giveaway (at intermission, winners toss lures into oversized tanks), or how the staff encourages people to take pictures at the historic anchor monument next to the main entrance. These little traditions and scenic quirks have quickly made County Pier feel like a place that’s truly of San Diego, rather than just another stop on a tour.

Visitor Tips and Information

County Pier is friendly to most ages and abilities. The venue is fully ADA-compliant: there are ramps and accessible seating at multiple locations, and assistive-listening devices or captioned displays can be requested at the entry gate. Family restrooms are available too. If you have mobility concerns, consider arriving early to park in the closest spaces and using the dedicated elevator / ramp path.

• What to Bring: Small bags or backpacks and factory-sealed water bottles (up to 16 oz) are okay; leave bulky luggage and coolers at home. Dress in layers – evenings by the water can get breezy even after a hot day. Sunscreen and hats are smart for daytime shows, whereas evenings might warrant a light jacket. Also pack ear protection (especially for kids) since the sound can be intense near the front.
• What Not to Bring: Remember that no outside alcohol, weapons (including pocket knives), fireworks, illegal drugs, professional cameras or audio recorders are permitted. Large umbrellas (for shade) are discouraged because they can block views; a lightweight poncho is better if rain is in the forecast. Check any event-specific rules (some festivals allow small blankets; others don’t).
• Age Restrictions: Unless noted otherwise, most shows at County Pier are all-ages. Children under 2 may be admitted free if they sit on a parent’s lap. If alcohol is sold at the event, security will check IDs, so minors should have a guardian. For family shows (holiday shows, kids’ concerts), expect more families in the crowd and maybe earlier start times.
• Common Pitfalls: Try not to wear noisy clothing (like large buckles) that can bother the person in front of you. Also, avoid switching between seats after the show starts – late seating is discouraged for both UPS and your fellow attendees. If you plan to mingle at the snack bars, don’t leave valuables unattended in your seat.
• Other Tips: If attending an outdoor concert, bring a blanket or cushion to sit on (especially on the lawn). If you need to step out, keep your ticket stub with you. Consider carpooling or ridesharing if possible to avoid the parking scramble. Finally, check the weather; sudden coastal fog or wind has happened, so bringing a warm-up hoodie and waterproof layer insulates you against surprise chills. Above all, arrive with an open mind – the venue’s laid-back charm means it’s a place less about formality and more about enjoying the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions