MISSION
Returns With a Stacked Lineup
September 28th, 2025 by Joey Clark
Now in its fifth year, Mission Bayfest has quickly evolved from a local dream into one of Southern California’s most anticipated music festivals. Returning to Mariner’s Point Park next month, the 2025 iteration continues its tradition of merging waterfront culture with a top-tier lineup that consists of reggae, surf-rock, and alternative sounds.
What began as a passion project by San Diego locals Dominic Coleman, Joe Rinaldi, and DJ Mikey Beats, Mission Bayfest was conceived as a spiritual revival of the classic ‘90s beach concerts that once defined the San Diego music scene.
These weren’t polished arena tours—they were grassroots, soundtracked by crashing waves, and driven by the kind of DIY energy that brought reggae-punk hybrids into the mainstream.
Today, Bayfest is a pristine production, but it hasn’t lost its heart.
This year’s lineup is a love letter to that golden era, anchored by some of the most influential names in SoCal’s music history. Slightly Stoopid, who formed in Ocean Beach and remain one of San Diego’s most successful bands, are returning to the stage.
Joining them is 311, the Omaha-rooted band that has been seamlessly blending rock, reggae, and hip-hop for over three decades.
One of the most talked-about additions this year is Sublime, performing with Jakob Nowell—son of late frontman Bradley Nowell.
Nowell’s presence has sparked both curiosity and renewed interest in their live show.
With the number one song in the country on Billboard’s Alternative Charts, “Ensenada” has definitely put a stamp on the new lineup.
Mission Bayfest marks one of the first large-scale San Diego appearances of the new Sublime lineup, making it a notable moment for both longtime fans and a younger generation of listeners.
Rounding out the headliners is Rebelution, the Santa Barbara-born reggae band whose consistent chart presence and insightful lyrics have earned them a massive following.
UK reggae pioneers Steel Pulse also bring a global perspective to the lineup, offering depth and historical context to a festival otherwise dominated by American acts.
Pepper, Atmosphere, Tribal Seeds, and The Movement are just a few of the other artists reinforcing the festival’s commitment to musical diversity within its chosen palette.
Mission Bayfest 2025 runs October 17th–19th at Mariner’s Point Park, San Diego. The first three tiers of tickets are sold out so snatch them while you can!
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SID 250927 | TRACI TURNER | EDITOR
