Sound by the Sea
Cocktail BarCocktail Bar
About the Space
**Private Event Venue in Oceanside, California | Sound by the Sea** Sound by the Sea is a small, independent listening bar and private event space in Oceanside, founded by Belgian musician and sound engineer Dominique Vanhecke. Rooted in a European midcentury aesthetic, the space feels personal, warm, and intentionally designed — more living room than venue. At its heart: a rare 1975 JBL 4350A vintage hi-fi system delivering rich, analog sound that transforms dinners and celebrations into immersive experiences. Vinyl-driven DJ sets and carefully curated music create atmosphere without overpowering conversation. We host intimate seated dinners and cocktail receptions in a space shaped by wood textures, warm lighting, and coastal California light — all guided by hands-on ownership and care. Our Mediterranean-leaning menus are seasonal, shareable, and crafted to bring people together. Independent. Design-forward. Sound-obsessed. For rehearsal dinners, creative gatherings, birthdays, and meaningful celebrations, Sound by the Sea offers something rare: a thoughtfully curated, European-inspired space where music, food, and connection matter. Book your private event at Sound by the Sea.
See moreUp to 125 guests
$50-$100/person
Type of Event Space
Athmosphere & Cuisine
Amenities & Features
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Perfect For
Food & Beverage Policy
Outside food & beverage welcome
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we bring our own DJ or live music?
Yes — but we’re also known for our vinyl-driven sound experience. You’re welcome to bring your own DJ, or we can curate music through our vintage analog system for a warm, immersive atmosphere.
What is the capacity of the venue?
We host up to 85 guests for inside dinners and up to 120 guests for cocktail-style receptions (inside and patio included) The layout can be adjusted depending on the tone and flow of your event.
What is included in a private event rental at Sound by the Sea?
A full buyout includes exclusive access to the indoor and patio spaces, professional staff, bar service, curated sound through our vintage 1975 JBL hi-fi system, and full event coordination support. Food & beverage minimums apply.
What type of food and beverage program do you offer?
Our menus are Mediterranean-inspired, seasonal, and designed for sharing. We offer customizable packages for rehearsal dinners, corporate events, and celebrations, along with a curated wine list and craft cocktail program.
What makes Sound by the Sea different from other venues in Oceanside?
We are a small, independent, European-inspired listening bar built around sound, design, and atmosphere. With midcentury warmth, vintage hi-fi, and hands-on ownership, your event feels intentional — not commercial.
Resources
Menu
Food & beverage options
Pricing
Detailed pricing is available on request
Send an inquiry and the venue will share pricing details for your event.
Reviews · 5.0 (4)
Leave a ReviewLove the vibe here! Had a great time playing a vinyl session for a fundraiser that was hosted at this venue. Very chill and great drinks! Thanks for having me, Dom and crew!
Absolutely phenomenal experience. Sound engineer is accurate. There is perfect level of music decibel and space between guests to have a nice conversation while not being disrupted by others.
Malia was great. I came with friends for my birthday after bowling and it was such a vibe! They let us play a drinking game on the couch and didn't even bat an eye when we were laughing and having fun. Will definitely be back!
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Sound by the Sea
Discover Sound by the Sea, an Oceanside listening bar and private event venue pairing high-fidelity sound with Mediterranean-inspired food, cocktails, and a laid-back atmosphere.
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Location
325 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054, USA
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