Live coverage of Day 1 of the Beachlife Festival in 2026.

The much-anticipated Beachlife Festival in Redondo Beach made a glorious return this year with an impressive lineup that promised good vibes under the sun.

Kicking off my Friday at the Speakeasy stage, Taft Buckley delivered a spirited set to a massive crowd. Despite being new to his music, his blend of 70’s-style songwriting and reggae-infused rock was a hit with the audience.

Next up was Børns, and while their platinum hit “Electric Love” was familiar, tracks like “Faded Heart” and “American Money” showcased their versatility in genres. Aside from their music, the band engaged the crowd with card tricks and balloon animals, making for an interactive set that even the older audience members enjoyed.

Fitz and the Tantrums took the stage, captivating the crowd with a mix of new songs like “OK OK OK” and “Oh Maria” from their latest album, alongside older hits like “123456” and “Moneygrabber.” While their newer tracks leaned towards commercial appeal, classics like “Out of My League” and “Handclap” kept the audience grooving to their infectious melodies.

Grouplove injected rock energy into the High Tide stage, opening with the punk-rock anthem “Deleter.” The dynamic performance, especially from front woman Hannah Hooper and co-frontman Christian Zucconi, kept the audience engaged throughout the set, featuring hits like “Shark Attack” and an unreleased song “She Said.”

The highlight of the day was the legendary Duran Duran’s performance. Despite being in their 60’s, the band exuded nostalgia and charisma, delivering classic hits like “Velvet Newton” and “Hungry Like the Wolf” with renewed vigor. Incorporating newer tracks like “Free to Love” and “Invisible,” the band proved their enduring appeal and ability to evolve with their music.

As the set progressed, the band’s moody mystique shone through hits like “James Bond Theme” and “Ordinary World,” captivating the audience with their iconic sound. The performance culminated in an epic finale with “Planet Earth,” complete with a quirky sci-fi video backdrop that added an extra layer of entertainment.

Despite a brief interlude featuring The Chainsmokers, the festival retained its focus on live bands and songwriters, much to the delight of the audience. The wait for Duran Duran was well worth it, showcasing the festival’s commitment to delivering quality performances that appeal to a diverse audience.

With an eventful first day setting the tone for the festival, attendees were left eagerly anticipating what the subsequent days would bring. Beachlife Festival 2026 promised an exciting weekend filled with music, memories, and good vibes by the beach, affirming its status as a must-attend event for music lovers of all ages.