Sea Star Festival 2026 (8th Edition) Umag, Croatia
Overview
Sea Star Festival 2026 marks the 8th edition of the “Summer’s Awakening,” bringing the world-renowned energy of the EXIT team to the stunning Adriatic coast. Held at the Stella Maris Lagoon in Umag, the festival serves as the official kick-off to the European summer season. Since its debut in 2017, it has become a staple of the Balkan music scene, attracting over 40,000 visitors with its high-octane blend of electronic, hip-hop, and trap music against a backdrop of crystal-clear waters and Mediterranean pine forests.
The 2026 edition features a 4-day program: Thursday and Sunday are dedicated to the Welcome Day and After-Party, while the core festival intensity peaks on Friday and Saturday nights. The venue is unique for its lagoon-side stages and the Nautilus Arena, a converted ATP tennis stadium that provides some of the best festival acoustics and visuals in Europe. With its focus on both global superstars and regional “trap-rapsody” talent, Sea Star 2026 is where the Mediterranean spirit meets modern club culture.
Event Highlights
- High-Tech Minimal Headliner: Techno pioneer Boris Brejcha is confirmed as the main headliner, bringing his masked persona and signature sound to the lagoon.
- Global Hip-Hop Icon: American rap legend Xzibit joins the 2026 lineup, marking a significant crossover between urban and electronic genres.
- Multimedia Spectacle: The debut of Emergency EXIT, a groundbreaking environmental-arts project featuring a theatrical performance by the world-famous La Fura dels Baus.
- Regional Trap Takeover: The festival continues its tradition of showcasing the hottest Balkan trap and hip-hop acts, including Lanna, Layla Benitez, and many others across seven stages.
Why Attend
Sea Star is the perfect “boutique” alternative to massive stadium festivals. It offers the professional production value of a major event while maintaining the relaxed, intimate vibe of a seaside holiday. It is an ideal destination for travelers who want to combine a high-energy music weekend with the natural beauty and gastronomy of Istria—the region famous for its truffles, world-class olive oils, and award-winning wines.
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The event should be attended by electronic music lovers, rap fans, and groups of friends looking for an affordable European summer getaway. Because the venue is integrated into the Stella Maris Resort, the convenience is unparalleled—you can literally walk from your apartment or campsite to the main stage in minutes. If you want to be the first to start the summer by dancing on the edge of the Adriatic Sea, Sea Star 2026 is the place to be.
Date & Duration
- Festival Dates: May 28 to May 31, 2026.
- Total Duration: 4 Days (Full program including Welcome and After-parties).
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Umag, Croatia.
- Venue: Stella Maris Lagoon (Stella Maris Resort).
- Google Maps Address: Ul. Stella Maris, 52470, Umag, Croatia.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are available via the Official Sea Star Website and the Entrio ticketing system.
- Admission Type: Regular Festival Passes, VIP GOLD Passes, and Single-Day tickets.
- Ticket Pricing: Early-bird tickets start at approximately $52.00 USD (€49); VIP GOLD passes are roughly $158.00 USD (€150).
- Free Admission: Children under 7 may enter for free if accompanied by an adult, but the festival is primarily an 18+ event.
- Special Seating or VIP Options: VIP GOLD tickets include access to a specialized platform with a lounge, private bar, and the best view of the main stage.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@seastarfestival.com
- Website: www.seastarfestival.com
- Social Media:
- https://www.facebook.com/seastarfestival
- https://www.youtube.com/c/SeaStarFestival
- https://www.instagram.com/seastarfestival/
- https://twitter.com/seastarfestival
- https://vb.me/7b456a
- https://open.spotify.com/user/31vwyu47l2og76llsbzaolo6mqle
- https://www.deezer.com/en/profile/4802980822
- https://www.flickr.com/photos/seastarfestival/
- https://www.tiktok.com/@seastarfestival
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: Pula Airport (PUY), 80 km; Trieste Airport (TRS) in Italy, 90 km; Ljubljana (LJU) in Slovenia, 150 km.
- Public Transport: Frequent Shuttle Buses run from Pula Airport and Trieste to Umag during the festival days.
- Taxi/Rideshare: A taxi from Pula to the venue costs approximately $100.00 to $130.00 USD; local Umag taxis are roughly $15.00 USD for short trips.
- Parking: Plenty of parking is available at the Stella Maris Resort and nearby public lots for approx. $10.00 USD/day.
- Other Access: Many visitors arrive via Ferries from Venice (Italy) to nearby ports in Istria, then take a short bus ride to Umag.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: Hotel & Residence Garden Istra Plava Laguna (4-star, 0.5 km, located within the resort with a massive water park, $160.00-280.00 USD/night); Istrian Villas Plava Laguna (4-star, 0.3 km, private luxury villas, $250.00-450.00 USD/night).
- Mid-Range Options: Apartments Stella Plava Laguna (3-star, 0.1 km, literally on the festival doorstep, $95.00-160.00 USD/night); Apartments Amfora Plava Laguna (4-star, 0.2 km, modern apartments near the lagoon, $110.00-180.00 USD/night).
- Budget Stays: Sea Star Camp (On-site, 0.2 km, bring your own tent or rent one, $42.00-75.00 USD/total); Apartments Kanegra Plava Laguna (Budget, 8 km, affordable for groups with shuttle access, $65.00-110.00 USD/night).
Reviews
- The lagoon stage is like something out of a dream—you can practically dance with your feet in the sea.
- The Nautilus Arena stadium is the best part; the bass sounds incredible in there, and the lights are world-class.
- Umag is so charming. We spent our days eating incredible pasta and truffles and our nights at the festival. Perfect vacation.
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Contact
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FAQ's
How does the payment system work inside the festival?
Sea Star is a 100% Cashless festival using the "Sea Star Card." You can purchase and top up your card at various "Top Up" stations across the grounds using cash or credit cards. Any leftover funds can be refunded at the festival before you leave or online shortly after the event concludes.
What is the "First to Sea" concept?
"First to Sea" is the festival's slogan, highlighting that it is the first major beach festival of the European summer. It emphasizes the joy of the first dip in the sea of the year and the first big party under the open sky. Fans who register for "First to Sea" on the website get early access to the lowest ticket prices.
Is there an age limit for the festival?
The festival is generally restricted to those 18 years and older. Minors may attend if accompanied by a legal guardian, but must leave the site by midnight in accordance with local Croatian laws. Photo ID is required for everyone entering the site to verify age.
What should I bring for the weather in late May?
Daytime temperatures in Umag are usually around 22°C (72°F), perfect for the beach. However, nights can be fresh on the coast, so bringing a light jacket or hoodie is highly recommended for the 4:00 AM sets. Comfortable shoes are a must as you will be walking between the lagoon, the stadium, and the forest stages.
Are there lockers available for my valuables?
Yes, a limited number of lockers are available for rent near the main entrance. Many people stay in the Stella Maris apartments specifically to have a "home base" where they can leave their things safely nearby. If you are camping, it is highly suggested to use a locker for passports and electronics.
