First Timer’s Guide
We’re beyond excited that you’ve decided to come celebrate the kick-off of the cycling season with us. With over 9,000 athletes and 74,000 fans, The Sea Otter Classic has something for everyone, and is widely regarded as the world’s premier cycling festival.
To find your groove quickly and carve out your piece of the Festival, here are some helpful tips for first time attendees:
Before You Arrive
Choose from one of 14 rides or races….or choose more than one! Gravel, road, mountain bike, eBike.
Did you know that we offer four untimed, recreational rides?
- Family Off Road Tour
- Robles Mountain Bike Tour
- Gran Fondo Pacifico (50 miles)
- Gran Fondo Carmelo (85 miles)
All racers and riders receive a four-day Festival Pass with their entry.
Interested in joining the festivities to check-out the latest gear, meet your favorite athlete, or take a spin on a demo bike? Grab a Festival Pass for you and your crew.
Camping is a Sea Otter tradition! Watch as the sun sets over Laguna Seca and memories are made with a your fellow riders.
While camping spots go fast, check here to grab remaining spots.
Looking to explore Monterey and the Salinas Valley? Our partners at Hotelplanner have secured the best rates at lodging throughout the area. Explore your options here.
Our reserved parking pass is the easiest way to access the entire Festival. Spots are limited, so grab your pass now.
And then take a few moments to plan your travel here.
Pro tip: take advantage of our bike valet!
CREATE YOUR SEA OTTER EXPERIENCE
Scour the schedule for all the fun activities: giveaways, meet & greets, group rides, bike shows, and so much more.
Pro tip: our online schedule lets you customize your own “wish list” of what you’d like to see and do.
Plan out your time to take in all the bike and gear demos that are on your list.
Planning is perfect. And so is leaving time for those unexpected moments. We’ll share some of favorites:
- Find the food & drink. With four food zones, you’re sure to find something delicious.
- Catch a race start…or finish. Nothing beats the chaos of a raging start or the elation of worthy finish. The Dual Slalom is a fan-favorite for a reason!
- Take a demo bike (or two) for a spin on the iconic Laguna Seca track.
- Explore the Festival. With over 1,000 exhibitors, there’s a myriad of opportunities to connect.