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Shoreline Amphitheatre
Categories: Event Planning & Services Venues & Event Spaces Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Venues & Event Spaces, Music Venues [Edit]
1 Amphitheatre PkwyMountain View, CA 94043
(650) 967-3000
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Sun, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Yes
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Very Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
460 reviews for Shoreline Amphitheatre
460 reviews in English
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Review from Rik E.
Pasadena, CA
5/4/2012
Came here in 96 to catch the NIN/David Bowie/Prick Show. Had good comfy seats surrounded by Bowie loving pot smoking hippies. The seating is spacious, comfortable and with a good view.
Never tried the grass seating as it seems a little far back.
Great acoustics, quality sound even for 1996. -
Review from Katrina G.
San Francisco, CA
4/9/2012 6 photos
I personally love Shoreline. I saw my first concert ever at this venue, and it was amazing. I had a great time, and I've never once heard anyone say anything bad about the venue. At least until I saw all these reviews on Yelp, which to me it seems like no one has anything to say until they're angry. Which I think is the least helpful way to review a place.
I'd like to address some of the these things.
"The drive home sucks" or something similar.
Ok. I'm not quite sure how that's the venue's responsibility and not your own, to plan ahead of time for traffic. Since this is one of the dumbest complaints, that's all I have to say.
"The crowd was ghetto/bad/rude/stupid/etc"
I think people are forgetting you have to take into account the fan demographic of the show you're going to see. Obviously not everyone that likes a certain band or group is in some way a negative reflection of the music, but you have to admit.. certain personality types like certain music. That's just a given. Add alcohol to the mix, and you have instant jerkwad in a lot of situations. Again, I really don't see how this is the venue's fault. They can't run up and tell someone "Uh, excuse me, but you're offending people here with your clothes/what you're saying/etc", A) because it's not their place to do so just like it's not their place to tell someone who's offended to stop being a baby and shut up about it; and B) it's America, people are free to behave how they like as long as they aren't causing someone serious harm. Also... why are you paying that much attention to the people around you if they're not directly interacting with you? Aren't you there for a show, and not to people watch?
"Small seats"
I saw one person say something about the seats are only big enough for people under 110lbs or something like that. I'm 165lbs, when I first saw a concert there I was 185lbs. I fit in those seats just fine. My mother is 200lbs+, SHE fits in those seats just fine. I think someone was exaggerating.
"Parking sucks/walk is too far from parking/etc"
Think about that for a second. The venue only has so much money coming in, but they have LOTS of expenses, like any venue. The place was built in 1986, they got the lot they purchased back then, and they only have so much space to work with, but LOTS of guests. What do you want them to do? Refuse to pay their staff so they can provide you with a shuttle? The walk isn't that long, I walked it just fine, so did everyone else every time I was there.
"Prices of beer/tickets/etc are too expensive"
This venue supports 100s of people as staff, and literally 10s of Thousands of guests at one time. It currently takes $40 to put gas in your car to get you to work for a week. How much money do you think it would take you to throw a huge house party for 500 guests? That's food, electricity expense, water expense, and hiring staff to help host the party. Multiply that several-fold. I love how people more often than not only consider their own financial situation and how times are hard for THEM. Times are hard for EVERYONE. If Best Buy has to close 50 stores, times are hard period.
"Towers in the way"
No they're not. There's hundreds of thousands of feet around those towers you can move to, in order to see the show better. I've been on the lawn, as well as in the seats. It's like standing in front of a wall to watch TV and then complaining to the owner of the house that their wall is in the way. (As for the "big ass tv screen" comment someone made... you're not paying to watch a "big ass tv screen", the band is still LIVE in front of you. They're literally within the same geographic area as you. They're RIGHT THERE in the flesh. You can hear them au natural, without auto-tune or other ridiculous audio tweaks found on recorded music. THAT is what you're paying for. Clearly you don't really get the concept of seeing a band in concert.)
Finally, negatives about the staff.
No company is 100% fail-proof in who they hire. Witnessing one incident is hardly a reason to condemn an entire company. All my interactions with the staff have been purely positive and helpful.
If you hire someone to do a specific job, they do that specific job. Not a bunch of other little ones too. Just like you, you get paid to do a certain job, not everything anyone asks of you. In fact, didn't we have a whole issue here in California over businesses hiring people to do multiple things of different pay grades, then subsequently only pay them one crap wage? There IS a sanitation staff at Shoreline. There are only so many people you can hire to clean up, but there's hundreds of people making messes all over the entire place. I think it's a bit unfair to expect these people to be superhuman and keep the thousands of square feet the Shoreline occupies, spotlessly clean at all time.
That's all I have to say. -
Review from Dave B.
San Jose, CA
4/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
Positives include a great acoustic environment and good line of sight from all points, seated and up in the lawn. Great acts show there. It's outdoor, but I've never been cold there, with a simple windbreaker.
Less pleasant - Parking is a bit of a hassle. Long walk in, few ways out, leading to massive lines at the end of the show. Food and booze are expensive, but then again, you're at a concert. When isn't it? -
Review from Grant L.
Santa Clara, CA
5/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
Love and hate relationship here. Parking is horrible and getting out is just as bad. Venue isn't bad it's all outdoors so great of sunny days. I would recommend getting seated seats because sometimes you get VIP parking as part of the price of the ticket so why not get out an hour earlier after the concert.
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Review from Jessica R.
San Jose, CA
5/22/2012
I love shoreline! Nice chill environment and lawn still is the best, closer to the beer ;-)
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Review from Kevin J.
3/27/2012
Now talk about a stage. This Amphitheater is one of the best I've seen. From the lack of windows to the lack of walls this outdoor arena of sorts is acoustically brilliant. The stage is easily viewable from any seat in the house, although it starts to get a bit tiny from the outskirts on the grassy knoll. With that being said the option to go veg out and get some rays up in the nosebleed section is pretty unique. Think Woodstock meets SF's Outsidelands.
This place rocks! -
Review from Rene B.
Milpitas, CA
5/1/2012
I have seen many concerts at Shoreline from when it was still new, and it used to be a great experience when Bill Graham was still alive and managing the place. The staff managed order in the lawn seating section. They acted on people's complaints and had the lawn organized. People were not allowed to stand close to the barrier separating the reserved section so they don't block the people sitting behind. It used to be good.
But the decline of order was noticeable when Bill was no longer there. There were no more designated aisles where people cannot seat so they can be used for moving around. Nowadays, people rush there and stand there and the people behind cannot see anymore, and the staff won't do anything. They won't even do anything to stop people from smoking even if you complain to them.
Sitting on the lawn used to be a fun event, but seeing the chaos and uncaring staff, my wife and I decided never to go back there and find a more expensive seat in the reserve section. Sometimes, we just hope that a concert act would also go to HP Pavilion or somewhere else. -
Review from Cyn M.
Newman, CA
2/13/2012
Re: Santana/George Lopez
First time attending shoreline and purchasing actual seats rather than grass seats and it was insanely disappointing!!
First of all, be prepared for a mile long walk if not longer in dirt and gravel from parking.
The seats are beyond cramped and practically child size, its just ridiculous if you happen to be any larger than 110lbs. Ridiculous!
Anyone who attends concerts or similar events knows its always on the pricey side but Shoreline takes it to the next level. Sky high prices on food and beer and parking really takes away from the whole experience when your already paying 80+ per ticket!
The place is overrated, bottom line. -
Review from Elaine N.
3/10/2012
Many great artists have walked these stages.
I've attended for Ozzfest, Projekt Revolution (for a few running years), and Mayhem Festival, and have been severely sunburned EVERY SINGLE TIME! Flabbergasting stuffs for someone who used to be brown as stool.. My tip to you? Bring sunscreen, and lots of it! And probably a hat. And an umbrella. And a very tall man to block the sun. And a cooler filled with ice! Just keeding, they don't really allow you to bring anything inside anymore. Any water you arrive with will have the caps disposed of once you walk through security, and food goes straight into the garbage. Their message to you is, "We only charge $6 for a bottle of Dasani, $4 for a soft pretzel, and $5 for some measly garlic fries so you're going to buy it and like it! By the way, all our food is salty so you're gonna have to get a few dozen $12 beers.. Oh no, don't cry! We'll make it up to you with a tshirt." For $25+, they seem to be the only reasonable thing here.
The music is great, the food (albeit requires you to pay out the ass) is yummy, the crowd is great if you don't have a lawn seat, and if you're a fan of mosh pits, you'll get the cheapest seats in the house (lawn) and watch the stage from the projector screens. In my opinion, you're better off with lawn seats unless you plan on sitting close up. Bring closed-toed shoes if you do end up on the grass because your toes will get trampled over and you'll be left sadface.
My friends created a habit of fleeing to the tshirt booth and bathrooms after the Chester Bennington and Mike Shinoda pizzazz, leaving me all by my sunburned, lonesome self, waiting in the distance. During the summer of pre-sixteen candles, a group of four very drunk middle-aged men found me. I suppose they had confused me for a designated driver and so would ask me questions, such as, "Where are you headed?" After another beer, they'd commence the flattery and started telling me things such as, "You know, I dated an Asian girl once," along with a bunch of other clichés I've heard at least a dozen times during my tender years. Luckily, my friends always saved me before anything inappropriate occurred. Just picture, little me embracing my scarlet A with four men behind the facade of Cary Grants.
..And my genius friends wonder why I refuse to accompany them...
On a side note, there are WAY to many kids at the hosted events here. I know times are these rough, but please just hire a babysitter! No child should ever be in the presence of bad skunk, eardrum-popping music, booze, or Marilyn Manson (especially if they're all harvested in the same field!). Keep your crying babies at home before I turn them into footballs!Listed in: Makeout Spots!
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Review from colette r.
Los Angeles, CA
4/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
I came for a Comedy Jam and it was so far ... make sure if your going, get a room out there and do not drive back to San Francisco - Crowd was GETTO
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Review from Collin R.
San Jose, CA
3/27/2012
Was so excited that 311 was touring and coming to the bay area. But now I'm pissed that they are playing at the freakin' Shorline Amphitheater. I hate that place! It has to be the WORST place in the Bay Area to watch a concert. Can't see crap from the lawn and the tickets are expensive. I mean, who wants to pay through the nose and then watch a big-ass TV screen? I will not pay $300+ for a seat just to see the concert. Plus, there are huge ass towers locking your view of what you can see. unless you can get to the very front of the lawn, skip this place. Instead, buy the band's tour on Blu-Ray, buy booze, and enjoy at home!.
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Review from Alex K.
10/27/2011
I LOVE SHORELINE!
It's a great place to come to a show and have a BUNCH of freedom. No security breathing down your neck about various.... activities going on in the lawn seats.
Also... if you're going for the best sound in the venue, mid top of the grass is choice. Front lawn gets pretty crazy.
And I'm actually impressed with the beer service here. It's much faster than say.... HP Pavilion? Check it out if you can! It's worth it! -
Review from Stephanie S.
Stockton, CA
Oh... Shoreline Amphitheatre.. I've been here a few times with giant gaps between visits.
First time was probably 2002 or so For the Sprite Liquid mix tour with Jay-Z, N.E.R.D, Hoobastank, 311, Nappy Roots, Blackalicious, and Tablib Kweli. For $11 by far one of the cheapest and dopest concerts I've been to and so young.
Then I recently came here for the Norcal Rock the Bells show. With a grand line up of hip hop artists. My first Rock the Bells for Norcal I've gone to them in socal. Line up is the dame but I think the Shoreline works well for concert series.
Alright for starters probably the best thing about this place and maybe this is only with the shows I've gone to PARKING WAS F*&KING FREE!!! Majority of the shows I've gone to and also production companies I've worked for had paid parking so Shoreline this is a major + if this is what they always do. Especially since we got hooked up on tickets. Also don't expect like this crazy paved nice parking lot it's like a field basically where you park and remember where you parked! Made me feel like I was back in Coachella in search for the car. But hey if you have a car alarm hit the panic and you're set to find your car! lol It's real far so be sure to know what is NOT allowed in or else you're taking a hike back to your car.
Entrance security check is quick and it's not as crazy as other shows I've been to where you have to pull your pockets inside out and they REALLY use their metal detector and go through your bags. Here it's quick and not as wild.
Another really good ++ of this giant festival style venus are the bathrooms... for a festival you can either assume porter potties and/or disgusting and non working bathrooms/toilets. I have to say these are the cleanest restrooms of a festival type venue hahaha! like no joke! (well this goes for the womens restrooms.
Depending on what show you go to here at the Shoreline the venus will look slightly different with set up but of course the main stage will be their giant stage + lawn. If the show you're purchasing for has seating tickets,VIP, or general admission, you could be either be buying for seats (VIP or tickets with seat #) if it's general admission you can fight for your seats if you get seats these are located closer to the stage while the lawn is behind seats and towards the top of the stage area. Might I note I hate the LAWN!!! especially for Rock the Bells because it gets stupid packed like this http://www.yelp.com/bi...
They have their vendor booths if it's a festival but there are permanent spots to get food and drinks at. All of course are at Disneyland prices like $25 for a pizza... don't take that literal btw hahaha but I would say festival price average for a beer is like $10-12 which kind of sucks unelss you got VIP and they have VIP area where drinks are free + all the free shit you score + awesome area you can lounge at.
Lastly another dope thing about this spot is the weather yes it can get hot if you're directly in the sun this the heat here is nothing compared to festival or outdoor shows I've been in the LA area, Coachella (in the dessert), or San Bernardino. There are a decent amount of shaded areas and a few trees here too.
Overall cool venue bring a blanket and pillow if you plan on staying in the lawn area but be prepared for millions of people out there too. If you're going to RTB haha you already know what goes on at the lawn lots and lots of people smokin.... & that's all I got to say about that...(Forrest Gump Voice)...
Here are pics & videos from RTB 2011 http://savagesteff.blo...Listed in: Show Going, Events, Southbay 408
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Review from Sylvester N.
Oakland, CA
2/23/2012
Went here to see the Killers with my girlfriend. We had an amazing time. Our seat was 3 rows back from the stage and a little to the side. Great seats of course. I don't remember parking being a problem at all, and it was very easy to get in and out of the place. Fun venue and I would definitely see more shows here.
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Review from Nathan M.
Berkeley, CA
3/1/2012
Perhaps the largest outdoor venue in the Bay Area (22500). The decor is very dated and the scale and degree of corporatization (*cough Live Nation/Ticketmaster) of this venue is disgusting. Food is extremely expensive and so are the concerts usually. The parking is very impacted and walks/exit lines are long. The lawn seats are frequently affordable, but the bands are quite small from up there. The humidity from the Bay also gets heavy up there. If you're seeing a band you love, consider getting a ticket for an actual seat. The sound quality is usually fine though. Overall, Shoreline is a very un-intimate venue and that makes it the least enjoyable in the area if you're there for music (rather than atmosphere or visuals).
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Review from Stacy S.
Fremont, CA
9/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
This place sucks.
I went here to see George Lopez and Santana this past weekend.
I didn't see the stage once.
Not to mention, beers were $12 each. That's more expensive than AT&T park. It was also warm. GROSS!
The parking situation is atrocious. We walked at least 1 mile to and from the amphitheater. In order to avoid a nightmare after whatever event you attend at Shoreline, you need to have VIP parking, or leave the show at least 30 minutes before it actually ends. Otherwise, you can expect being stuck in the parking lot for over an hour after the show.
Also, the parking lot is gravel. This might not be a big deal to many of you who own clunkers, but if you're thinking of driving you car with a nice paint job to this venue, I'd think twice. The people in front of us that were driving a BMW were driving 2 miles an hour.
I was really disappointed in this place. If you're going to go to a show here, I'd recommend shelling out the extra money for an actual seat, and not grass seating. Maybe my experience would have been different if I actually spent decent $$ on the tickets. :/ -
Review from Chavin M.
San Francisco, CA
9/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
The Shoreline could be a great venue. Unfortunately, a lot of the staff that work there, and the way they operate the venue, treat their attendees as cattle and opportunities to get as much money as possible.
About the staff. While some of the staff members are helpful and nice, a lot of them have no place working with people, period. I saw one security guard get up into some poor guys face that did not understand how they had their flow of people traffic set up. Hint: yelling in someone's face when they are desperately trying to understand how to get where they need to go is not helpful. Trash cleanup is non-existent. With the many staff members walking around, not one of them is designated to pick up trash. It's dangerous, unsanitary, and unnecessary to have have every single piece of plastic and cardboard lying on the ground, just waiting for someone to slip and hurt themselves.
About the prices. There is not a single venue in the world that I've been to with such exorbitant prices. You will pay $4 more for food than ball parks and arenas and beers are $12-14. On top of that, there was a guy at the door as people walked out saying that T-Shirt prices have been dropped because they know you don't have very much money left, so why don't you give the rest of it to them - that was insulting.
Final thoughts. Not nice people, poorly hired staff, dirty, and a pain in the neck to get around inside. Everything was set up to make as much money as possible and no one there cares about making it a pleasurable experience. Go here if it's your only option, but expect it to be trashy, staff to be negative, a lot of money to be wasted, and to leave feeling as if you were taken advantage of. -
Review from Cornelius T.
Campbell, CA
9/8/2011
Do you like drunk people stomping through your spot throwing grass at each other and dancing like idiots? I don't. The sound at this venue is horrible. Its so awekwardly situated that even really good bands seem to sound bad. The security guards don't do much and most of the ushers would much rather listen to Mrs. Spears than anything that is going on. I somehow trick myself into seeing a band here every year, but am always dissapointed by how it turns out.
I usually make it up to myself and go see the same band at their next show at an actual venue. This is really just the side of a hill filled with idiots, seats without intelligent placement, and overpriced bars that only sell bud light and budwieser. -
Review from Frank L.
San Leandro, CA
8/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
After hearing about all the great events that is held here at this venue I had to schedule a trip to experience it myself. Therefore, I purchased tickets for Rock The Bells 2011, which had an incredible line-up of legendary hip hop artists like Nas, Common, Blackstar, Ghostface, Raekwon and Mobb Deep. There were other upcoming artists and rap group like Slaughterhouse, Mac Miller, Fashawn and Big K.R.I.T. There is just so many that I couldn't list all the names at the moment.
Luckily parking was free this year and it's not a hassle if you don't mind walking a longer distance. It probably took us 5 minutes to walk from our car to the entrance. Just like any other events the security forces you to empty your water bottle and a minor pat down was enforced. Fortunately, there was a stand that was providing us with free bottle refills.
I didn't even bother stopping by the food stands. From friends' advices the food is pricey and is mediocre. Beer is $12 a cup. That is ridiculous but that's the way they make money. My advice is to eat before or after the event.
It was great that the venue could set up 3-4 live stages around the area because if you purchased lawn seats you could still stand closer to other performing acts on the smaller stages. Although I enjoy the various stages I dislike it at the same time. It was difficult debating with show to attend when the line-ups are overlapping each other.
I truly loved the atmosphere and the vibe of every stage was incredible. Slaughterhouse rocked the crowd. Raekwon and Ghostface were incredible. Mobb Deep was incredible. Nas was phenomenal but I was only able to see his head for 5 seconds from the lawn seats. I didn't bother waiting for Lauryn Hill because everybody said she was a disaster last year. I look forward to Rock The Bells next year. However, I do not look forward to the amount of time spent standing. Luckily, there is a sufficient amount of medicinal marijuana supply to reduce the pain of my knees and joints. You can't bring water in here but you are welcome to bring your pain relievers. -
Review from Meesha R.
8/29/2011
I sat on the lawn. I suggest you do too. Stand up and you have a 98% chance you'll slip or fall into one of the many holes in the grass. Or even worse, some drunk ugly cowboy will turn stupid when the lights go down & drop his beer in your purse.
Don't get me started on parking. There's a reason why it's free. -
Review from Jaime D.
8/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
i have only been here for rock the bells
Pro:
-lots of room
-friendly staff
-never had issues with tickets
Cons:
-they don't let you bring any food or drinks in AND rape you with prices inside.
-you can't see ANYTHING in the grass area i never understood that...
Tip!
bring EMPTY containers and fill it up at the water fountain or first aid locations!! thank me later!
you can also bring in backpacks for your blankets and jackets or for the free stuff you always get! -
Review from Kari H.
Cupertino, CA
9/13/2011
Oh Shoreline. How I love to hate you sometimes....
Went to see Def Leppard and Heart on Friday. Decided to pay for VIP parking because I did not want to deal with hiking in. I had forgotten that you can pay $20 day of and park right next to VIP parking($40). Silly me.
It's super easy to get in. They checked my jacket and my purse, and I was in. Found the nearest bar and grabbed a drink. Then headed for my seat.
The seats are small and the people in front of us were big and had their coats/arms in our drinks. :(
The bass was turned up WAY too loud. They ALWAYS do that. I don't know why. Couldn't hear people sing. Lame.
People have no manners. They scream in your ears, and wack you in the face while they're having a coniption over the band. Oh and they take huge hits off their joints and blow it in your face.
Yes, I know, it's a concert, so I understand, but still. I paid a decent amount of money and it's just not worth it anymore. Shoreline is NOT the best place to see a concert. Every year I seem to forget this and I keep coming back. And so is the story...I love to hate you Shoreline. -
Review from Erika G.
Updated - 10/27/2011
Based on my expierence during The Bridge School concert.
If you have lawn tickets check the web site for what you can and cannot bring in. It changes based on concert/event. You can bring food, and water but it has to be factory sealed still. You can bring lawn chair as long as they are only 6 inches off the ground, and you can bring pillows/blankets. Don't forget sunscreen there is no shade on the lawn. Stake your claim quickly because during a sold out event it sucks big time trying to find a place you can squeeze into without pissing off the people who have gotten there early.
Once your on the lawn the best time to actually leave to go to the bathroom is during a set - when everyone is standing. This way you they do not see you walking on their blankets and having to zig zag all the way thru. The lawn really sucks when its sold out! People weren't finding any space when the concert started.
Unless you really need a drink its not worth buy alcohol here - its $10 and higher for 24 oz can.
Easy parking and easy exit - Pay the $20 and follow the VIP parking. We were out in no time! Made it home an hour before my friend who parking in General parking!
Assigned seats is the way to go!!2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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5/30/2010
#1 - Pay the $20 for VIP Parking! You can pay when you get there. You are closest to the exit and… Read more »
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Review from Rebecca H.
Atwater, CA
10/10/2011
Saw Incubus last night. Awesome show. I love the shoreline! The staff is great, our daughter couldn't see so they moved us to a front row! Most people complaining here pay for lawn tickets, not the way to go. Women's bathroom is huge, no waiting.
Tips:
Pay $20 bucks for VIP parking, out of lot in 2 minutes after show.
Buy seats, they are so comfortable and even have handy cup holders!
$12 beers are worth it, they have IPA on tap and the cups are huge.
Don't go if you don't have money to spend. -
Review from Vanessa G.
Gilroy, CA
8/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
Can you have a bad experience at a show? I think not.
The parking is cool, never has issues & everyone's in such a good mood to be there & ready for a good time as is. Getting in is cake & the venue is killer.
I'm not a fanatic on getting as close as as you possibly can, so lawn is chill & is where all the fun takes place. We met a cool couple & shared blankets and beers & what not.
Your going to be as happy as you what here, so BE FRIENDLY!! And your time her will rock!Listed in: NorCal w/ LOVE, BOMB Diggity, Standing in line to see the…
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Review from Carl I.
8/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've been to this venue smack dab in the middle of a scattering of Google buildings in Mountain View, CA many times over the years.
Adequate urinals, not enough sinks.
Not enough drinks and food without having to walk up from the first 10 rows all the way up a shit ton of stairs. I like exercise, but damn.
The food is ridiculously expensive, but not out of character for bay area in general. $4 for M&Ms? Seriously?
A beer is 9-13 dollars. Whaaaaaaaaaat? It seems every year it's a little more expensive. That's because it is.
They sell the generic fried foods and burgers, with a few other offerings like garlic fries and sausage sandwiches. How exotic! (yawn)
The seats near the front are okay but not comfortable for the marathon concerts they have these days.
More VIP service options and a few bargains and I'd be soooo thrilled with Shoreline. As it is, it's a decent place to see a show. -
Review from Alexander E.
San Pablo, CA
8/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
I'm not even sure what to say. Wild 94.9 was hosting their annual comedy jam and the lineup was as big as it gets. The lineup included: Katt Wiliams, Dave Chappelle, Gabriel Iglesias, and tons more. Tickets sold out hours after being released to the public and Shoreline should of taken precautions for the massive crowds expected.
Parking was a breeze and free for those with disabled placards. There was a short line already and we were all let in within a few minutes at 5:30-6pm. Security was fast and had plenty of lines going, which made it go by even faster. Shoreline lets you bring in all kinds off stuff, such as lawn chairs, blankets, food, drinks, etc. Everyone made their way to the lawn area, which was still closed for whatever reason. However, once staff opened the area, hoards and crowds were gunning for the lawn. Everyone claimed their lawn with their blankets, chairs, and whatever else. If you weren't there early, you were not going to have a good spot at the sold out show.
Staff kept checking to make sure people were utilizing all the space they claimed. If they only saw one person on a big blanket, they would tell you you cannot take up so much space. Staff was strict and were getting pushy as the show progressed. The lawn area began to fill and fill and at one point you could not see the grass anymore. Once the show began and people were attempting to get by, people would get aggressive and angry if you walked on their blanket or in front of them. This got worse and worse as the night went on. The first two comedians went on and the lawn area was loud and it was difficult to hear them over the speakers. I personally was getting pissed that I couldn't hear the entertainment.
Crowd favorite Gabriel Iglesias came on and killed it with his fluffy humor and got a standing ovation for his ten years doing the show and was awarded with a plaque from Wild 94.9. An intermission allowed thousands of people to go get some food, a drink, or go to the bathroom. I went and got a drink and on my way back the next comedian was already on. It was so packed that I could not get back to my area. It was PACKED beyond belief and with no designated walkways in the grass, you could not walk anywhere unless you stepped on someone or their shit. I was incredibly frustrated that I could not get back to my area and was forced to miss Chris Tucker, Dave Chappelle, and Katt Williams.
I went to the bar and watched it on their HDTVs with a sound delay that ultimately killed the jokes. It just became a horrible experience and everyone in the grass area was becoming agitated. However, I was fortunate to get a picture with Gabriel Iglesias and a handshake at his merchandise stand, since everyone was still watching the show. If it wasn't for this, I would of hated this year's Comedy Jam. Shoreline could of done so much more to accommodate ticket holders of the lawn area instead of forgetting them altogether. -
Review from Diarmuid R.
San Francisco, CA
10/26/2011
Went to Bridge School Benefit and was pleasantly surprised, especially after researching here. As a concert venue it's probably only 3 stars, but as a "large venue" I'd give it four as it's definitely better than average...
The really good...
1. Quality wine in plastic guitar carafe's - how awesome is that? Granted they are $40 but the winery price on the pinot we had was $32 so that's pretty reasonable;
2. Real toilets...
3. Nice area near the entrance with bars and decent beer.
4. Exit - from leaving the venue to being in the Mission was 1 hour. It was quite organised though we were in pole position by the exit...
The so-so...
5. Finding space on the lawn for our party of 5 was a mission. People sprawled everywhere on rugs. Someone who worked there pushed a space open for us by moving people which was good but kind of awkward...
6. Getting in (both car and security) - wasn't great, didn't suck. Big back ups on the freeway but we took a back route which helped a lot.
7. Lawn is a long way from the stage - but sound was good and big screens.
All in all once we were settled we had a very pleasant day. Would I rush to go again? Not for the venue, but for the right band it wouldn't be a negative and that's as much as you can hope for a place this size... -
Review from Abby S.
7/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Maybe I'm easy to please but I very much enjoyed my first time at Shoreline...
Yelp received VIP tickets to Eddie Izzard last Saturday, so not only was I pumped to see one of my fave comedians, but the though of an outdoor "VIP" experience was even more exciting. Yeah, I still get giggly when I get VIP anything :)
Here's what's cool about being VIP at Shoreline:
1) Parking is super close. My friend's car was safe and sound.
2) There's a separate entrance for VIP's right near the parking. No waiting in line to have your ticket taken.
3) The VIP garden has ample seating and pretty great booze options.
4) The seats themselves were pretty comfy. And we had a nice view of the stage.
As for Shoreline as a whole, I liked sitting outside. It does get a bit chilly at night, so definitely dress for colder weather. But on a clear night, it's pretty beautiful to watch a show under the stars. I would agree that food options are pricey and not-so-great, but I've yet to have an awesome foodie experience at a music venue. Plus, I'm usually happy with a hot dog and popcorn, so maybe I'm not the best judge of what's classy...
Regardless, it was a fun night with Yelpers and Eddie Izzard. I would most definitely go back and see another show here - their summer schedule is pretty awesome. Also, I'm looking forward to seeing a few shows at the Mountain Winery as well. Both seem like cool venues in Mountain View! -
Review from Johnny C.
10/24/2011
In terms of the venue itself i think it was a great place. Lots of places to buy alcohol including a full on bar at the entrance where you can get cocktails of your choice.
Beers for $10, shots of Jack for $10, mixed drinks at the bar $10.
Tips:
Don't wait for the port-o-potty at the top of the lawn if there's a line, just walk down the stairs and use the real restrooms, because it'll take less time.
Sucks:
I don't think the location is setup to handle lots of cars heading to the arena. The freeways were jammed as the streets leading into the parking lots were jammed. If you get there late the VIP will be full and you'll be redirected to the field to park where upon exiting you'll be stuck in lines of cars just trying to make their way out.
I also think they oversold the concert we went to (Journey) so that when we got to the law in the middle of the second opener there was no way to find a spot and we ended up just way in the back where that was crowded as well. -
Review from Juliet H.
Pinole, CA
8/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
I am not the hugest fan of Shoreline, and I forgot why until I went there for the first time in years to attend Mayhemfest.
First, we were not allowed to bring in bottled water unless it was unopened. Then, security opened it & THREW AWAY THE CAPS so we didn't have the convenience of drinking our 32oz-bottled waters at some sort of leisure. By 4 hours into the festival, we'd already spent a bajillion on water & such, and even more because next to nowhere took credit or debit cards, so we had to get cash from the ATM (for which we were charged a fee, of course). Shoreline seemed to want to milk money out of us even more than the average venue.
Second, we were not allowed to bring blankets in for the show so we could sit on the lawn without getting damp grass butt. And this leads me into my Third Complaint....
I had purchased lawn tickets as I have CFS & thought I could lie down on a blanket & rest when I got exhausted & sickly during the SEVEN HOUR FESTIVAL. Well, Shoreline decided to not open the lawn at all until 5pm, or so we were told when we filed in. The bulk of Mayhemfest was held on two adjacent stages down on blacktop, and there were very few places to sit or recline elsewhere, and none where you could still view the bands, or even hear them very well. To make matters worse, it was at least 6pm when we were finally allowed onto the lawn.
I also forgot how far away I feel from the performers on the lawn. Dave Mustaine was a surly, red-haired ant. Sully Erna was a happy, even smaller ant. I should've coughed up the extra money for actual seats... Another problem with the lawn was that I could barely see around anyone as I'm only 5'3".
I am sure I'll have to go back here sometime to see some band I like, but I'm not looking forward to it. -
Review from Cindy K.
7/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
We watched the fireworks here and it was awesome! Just park your car a few blocks down in the business area and walk over or if you live close by just walk all the way here - you won't regret it.
We sat on a small hill behind the amphitheater which was really close and we could still hear the music. The fireworks were so close to us that we could smell the smoke. Best fireworks show I've seen.
Just remember to bring a blanket or something to sit on and dress warmly.Listed in: The Tourist
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Review from Thomas N.
10/18/2011
Shoreline is hard to love but hard to hate. I really don't know how to feel about it sometimes. The concerts are awesome (BFD, Coldplay, Identity Festival) but the parking and exiting after any event drive me batshit crazy.
I wish I could give this place a better rating but it is hard. What really has made me appreciate Shoreline more lately was the Identity Festival in September 2011. The venue was set up with three stages, MANY bars (thank you) that were a tad overpriced (but I came in buzzed already so I didn't have to spend too much) and was spaced out so it wasn't too packed.
The event itself was awesome! Kaskade and Pretty Lights ROCKED the main stage and got the whole crowd moving. The place was buzzing and the energy was awesome. A plus - I had easy access to an exit so I got out pretty quick.
I hope that Identity Festival comes back to Shoreline in 2012! -
Review from Lynda C.
Redding, CA
Updated - 10/26/2011 2 photos
Returning once again for the Bridge School Benefit..........
Nora Jones was hot..........Dave Mathews rocked..........Beck was great for this all accoustic show........... along with Mufford and Sons!
Great weather this year! Started out hot and only got chilly the last hour.
The food still remains HORRIBLE......bring your own!
Exiting the parking is still improved............
Thanks Neil and Peggy!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/25/2010
Be prepared if going in Oct. If rain is in the forcast you will thank me with the following… Read more »
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Review from Steph V.
8/30/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I know there are other venues in California that may be better, but I give Shoreline props for keeping the music and fun alive in the Bay!
They always have a vast selection of artists that roll through. Here's a few that I've attended:
- Rock the Bells
- Rockstar Mayhem Tour
- Country
- Lynyrd Skynryd
- Aerosmith & Motley Crue
- Vans Warp Tour
- and many more
The parking is very organized and usually they offer free parking if the concert fee is hefty. If you're a first timer, I suggest getting lawn tickets. You may not be so close to the band but sometimes there are 2nd stages where you can push your way to the front. Plus, when you're sitting on the grass you can hang with a lot of the other fans and really get a good feel of the crowd. There's also big screens so you can see the artists up close.
TIP: Bring cash! If you're in a crowded area and start to get hungry or dehydrated, there are guys walking around with lemonade, candy and h2o. But they only take cash. There is an ATM, if you don't mind getting ripped off by the fees.
TRY THE KALBI BBQ TRUCK! Soooooo good. If you're gonna spend $9 on a burrito, or just concert food in general, get it here. You won't be disappointed. -
Review from Diana K.
Cupertino, CA
7/6/2011
This is a great venue for a fireworks show with a caveat - you can see it for FREE if you sit behind the amphitheater on the Shoreline golf course. If you actually want to hear the SF Symphony then you would have to pay to go inside.
I have gone to see the fireworks on the golf course two times in a row and i thought it was awesome. There is plenty of parking on Rengstorff in the Costco center (highly recommended) with a half mile walk to the golf course. You can bring food, drinks, towels, and chairs. The best part about it is that it is low stress. Easy in and easy out - especially compared to going to SF.
There is plenty of space on the golf course to spread out and enjoy yourself. Fireworks start around 10 pm and last about 20 min. Good show! -
Review from Melanie B.
Santa Clara, CA
10/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
I like the fact that they don't charge to park here! Major winner!
I saw Green Day and Journey here. It's easy to find and navigate to the concert. I do have to say the lawn area can be a hit or miss. We came when the concert started, so we had a pretty crappy spot. On top of that, we kept on having people step on our blankets and my foot.
Nevertheless, we we listened to some great music! Next time, we'll go earlier to get better seats! -
Review from Carolyn N.
Sacramento, CA
8/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
I came here for comedy jam last weekend. SO EXCITED about the line up; Chris Tucker, Dave Chappelle, Gabriel Iglesias, Jo Koy, Katt Williams, and Rick Gutierrez. The venue is outside and the place was packed! It gets kind of chilly at night, so bring a sweater. Anyways, just another heads up, because everything is outside, everyone smokes weed and cigarettes at their seats, so do not come here if you are sensitive to smoke.
Maybe beause it's a sold out venue, but everything moved so slow! The people directing traffic didn't know what they were doing. We exited the freeway and didn't get to park until an 1 hour later and had to walk a mile to destination. Not like there wasn't enough parking spaces, just that they were directing everyone extremely slow! The food line was even worse.
I guess it really depends what venue you are coming here for so your experience may vary but overall, the show was great, the seats are cool, and the crowd was fun.
Just p[lan to come early in case of delays. -
Review from Diana D.
Hayward, CA
9/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Disappointed to say the least. This place SUCKS!
Was here for the George Lopez & Carlos Santana concert.
Parking is free, but its free for a reason. Its about a mile walk from the gravel parking lot (Funny to watch the chicks in heels trek through the parking lot!). Also takes forever just to get in there. ugh.
Beers were $12 EACH!!!!!!!!! WTF??? that's insane, beer is cheaper at Disneyland! SMH.
I would only come here again if I splurged for some seats and "VIP" parking. -
Review from Dana P.
6/6/2011 20 photos
BFD.
Yup, that's what I was there for.
The parking was easy to find, on top of that (I'm not sure if the people who arrived earlier had to ..) it was FREE, there were variety of food and drinks. Cameras ARE allowed, maybe not professional DSLR's and etc.?
We had the Lawn, it was really disorganized, kind of messy. People everywhere, trash everywhere, and smell of weed everywhere.
I kind of wished the sound system was a little better. It just sounded so flat .. Also, the screen available for the viewers sitting in the back was not all that helpful during the day time. The sun was so bright that the screen was just pitch white.
Overall, it was a great experience.
