by Wallace Wyss –
When you think of a concours d’elegance by the ocean, if you’re American, you think “Pebble Beach” but there is another one that takes place in Southern California, the La Jolla Concours d’Elegance which returns April 24–26, 2026 with 170+ iconic cars, food, music and oceanfront events.
La Jolla Concours d’Elegance
Their press release reads: “It’s about craftsmanship, storytelling, community, and creating unforgettable moments in one of the most beautiful settings in the world. The 2026 edition honors “Icons of Speed”, bringing together more than 170 exquisitely detailed automobiles from around the world—spanning pre-war classics, racing legends, and rare one-of-a-kind vehicles that represent the pinnacle of design, engineering, and history”.
Besides the wonderful setting, right by a cove where walruses and seals joust about, in their 20 years as an annual event they have strived to make it what they call “a fully immersive lifestyle event where automotive passion meets fine dining, art, music, and philanthropy.” That’s because in addition to the concours Sunday, they have some other events, one described as a “chef-driven tastings including food from 15+ restaurants.”
Among the special events preceding Concours Sunday is,
VIP Opening Soirée
Friday, April 24, 2026 | 6:00–10:00 PM | 21+
Some of the concours entrants will have their cars as this cocktail party, which also includes a live auction featuring unique collectibles. Another event is a Porsche only event, including race cars, rare production cars, all parked on the village street. It’s called,
Porsches & Power on Prospect
Saturday, April 25, 2026 | 5:00–9:00 PM
Did I mention that part of the show is free?
If you like to be coddled whilst enjoying the view of the cars, there is an extra cost feature called:
Exclusive VIP & Collector Experiences
described as “Ocean Suite tickets providing premium lounge seating, bottle service, all with unparalleled views of the concours field and Pacific Ocean. I think these are important because if you invite a guest, they may not (egad!) be car aficionados but will appreciate the opportunity to dine by the sea and join in the excitement.
Importantly, 100% of net proceeds from the event benefit the La Jolla Historical Society, which seeks to preserve the community’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
For details on Tickets & Information visit their website here.
THE AUTHOR: Wallace Wyss is a long time auto historian and fine arts portraitist of classic automobiles.
Let us know in the Comments if you attend.
La Jolla Concours d’Elegance
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