Costa del Croydon 2026: The Free Beach Event Returns This August

A car park transformed into a beach with sand, hammocks, and bright pink benches.

Costa del Croydon returns for 2026.

When you hear there's sand, splash zones, and salsa in a car park, you probably don't think of London. But in a bustling city full of innovation (and desperation), you can leave it to Londoners to create something out of nothing. Or in this case, to create a fabulous urban beach getaway out of a car park in Croydon. 

Costa del Croydon is back for another summer, transforming Centrale's rooftop into a full-blown oasis, and it's entirely free. So if you can't make it to the beaches near London, this is the next best thing. 

What Is Costa Del Croydon? 

Costa del Croydon is a free summer beach pop-up and event series on the rooftop of Centrale shopping centre in Croydon. Running every day throughout August, it's open to families, friends, and anyone in need of a seaside fix south of the Thames.

What's On At Costa Del Croydon? 

This is a fantastic and family-friendly event with plenty to experience. Last year, the site featured: 

  • DJs, bingo, karaoke, dancehall, and salsa sessions
  • Sip and paint workshops
  • Live music, arts, and games
  • Food stalls with child-friendly and veggie options
  • A chill zone with a shaded area to relax
  • Toddler paddling pool for under-5s
  • A huge events programme running through the month

What Are Costa Del Croydon's Open Dates? 

It runs from the 7th to 31st of August, every day:

  • Monday: 10am–6:30pm
  • Tuesday: 10am–6:30pm
  • Wednesday: 9am–5pm
  • Thursday: 10am–6:30pm
  • Friday: 10am–6:30pm
  • Saturday: 9am–7pm
  • Sunday: 11am–5pm

Entry is free but ticketed with a new batch of tickets being released every week. You're welcome to walk-up, but booking ahead is recommended. 

What Is Costa Del Croydon's Address?

  • Centrale Rooftop, Level 3 Car Park, Croydon, CR0 1TY

Looking for another beach without leaving the city? Pont Plage has opened for the season near London Bridge.