The Santa Cruz Wharf traded its usual weekend rhythm for rows of air-cooled Volkswagens as VDubLicious brought Wharf Invasion 2026 to the coast.

Beetles, Buses, Notchies, Square-backs, custom builds and well-worn survivors filled the waterfront, bringing together generations of Volkswagen culture against one of Northern California's most recognizable seaside backdrops.

I spent the day in the sunshine with all the good people, good music and good vibes! 

Patina, polished metal, period details and personal touches told as much of the story as the cars themselves.

There’s NO OTHER community quite like the VW community — they’re the definition of KOOL!

Back when I had my MK4 GTI, I met some of the nicest, funniest, and most creative people through the Volkswagen/VAG scene. I’ve got a lot of love for this community, and being around all these VWs again definitely brought back some great memories.

Maybe one day I’ll finally build that dream Type II. 🤙🏾✌🏾

Beyond the rows of Volkswagens, the Santa Cruz Wharf remained very much itself—fishing boats, sea lions, ocean air and the unmistakable backdrop of the California coast..

Wharf Invasion 2026

Santa Cruz, California
Presented by VDubLicious 

Photography & Story — Camera & Pen