The 2026 FIFA World Cup is bringing the world’s biggest soccer celebration to the United States, and California is ready to welcome fans with open arms. From the iconic streets of San Francisco, host of some thrilling matches, to the sunny beaches of Santa Monica and the scenic coastlines of San Diego, the Golden State is a playground for soccer lovers. And what better way to explore it all than on two wheels? With Unlimited Biking, you can ride, explore, and cheer your way through California like a true fan.
California is more than just a backdrop for the World Cup, it’s a destination that combines stunning scenery, vibrant fan energy, and world-class cycling opportunities. Whether you’re heading to a match in San Francisco, cheering at a local fan zone in Santa Monica, or cruising the Pacific Coast Highway near San Diego, biking gives you the freedom to move easily, see more, and experience the excitement from start to finish.
San Francisco: Where the Action Begins
San Francisco will be a major hub for the 2026 World Cup, hosting live matches and fan festivals. Start your California adventure here with a bike ride through the city’s most iconic landmarks. Cruise along the Embarcadero, snap photos at Fisherman’s Wharf, or ride across the Golden Gate Bridge for unforgettable views.
Unlimited Biking offers flexible rentals and guided tours in San Francisco, making it easy to combine sightseeing with match day excitement. Fan zones and outdoor screens are scattered throughout the city, so you can hop off your bike, catch a game, and then continue your ride without missing a beat. Whether you choose a classic hybrid bike or an e-bike for extra ease, exploring SF by bike is fast, fun, and hassle-free — perfect for the high-energy days of the World Cup.
Santa Monica: West-Coast Fan Energy
After enjoying the matches in San Francisco, head south to Santa Monica, where fans can gather to watch games, celebrate, and enjoy the California sun. Santa Monica’s beachfront bike paths are perfect for morning rides, giving you stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to fan zones and local bars.
With Unlimited Biking rentals available along the coast, you can explore the Santa Monica Pier, Ocean Drive, and Venice Beach on your own schedule. Stop for a coffee, join a public viewing event, or simply enjoy the beachside energy before hopping back on your bike. Santa Monica is ideal for fans who want to combine the excitement of the World Cup with a relaxed, scenic California vibe.
San Diego: Scenic Rides & Fan Fun
Continue your adventure in San Diego, where the combination of sunny weather, outdoor fan events, and coastal bike paths makes for a perfect day of cycling. Cruise along Mission Beach or Pacific Beach, stopping at local spots showing World Cup matches on big screens.
Unlimited Biking makes it easy to rent a bike for a few hours or the whole day, allowing you to explore the city freely between fan events. Take in views of the ocean, ride along the Sunset Cliffs, or check out Balboa Park before returning to a nearby fan zone to catch the next match. Cycling in San Diego keeps you active, gives you more flexibility than driving, and makes your World Cup experience truly unforgettable.
Tips for a California World Cup Cycling Adventure
- Reserve your bike in advance — peak game days fill up quickly.
- Use e-bikes for longer distances — perfect for traveling between cities or covering scenic routes effortlessly.
- Plan your stops — know where fan zones, bars, and landmarks are located along your route.
- Stay hydrated and bring layers — California weather can be sunny during the day and cool in the evening.
- Lock your bike securely when you step off to watch matches or explore.
Ride, Explore, and Cheer
California offers a unique World Cup experience: vibrant fan zones, breathtaking landscapes, and endless opportunities to explore on two wheels. With Unlimited Biking, you can move freely between San Francisco, Santa Monica, and San Diego, combining sightseeing with the thrill of match days.
No matter if you’re cheering for your favorite team, enjoying a beachside ride, or capturing iconic photos along the coast, California’s World Cup adventure is best experienced by bike. Ride through the cities, explore the sights, and cheer for every goal — all while enjoying the flexibility, freedom, and fun of Unlimited Biking.
