Pebble Beach Authors & Ideas Festival 2026 - A celebration of thought, storytelling, and human curiosity
Monterey Peninsula • Literature • Culture • Big Ideas
Pebble Beach Authors & Ideas Festival
A celebrated gathering of writers, thinkers, and curious minds—set along California’s iconic coastline.
Each year, the Pebble Beach Authors & Ideas Festival brings together acclaimed writers, journalists, historians, scientists, and public thinkers for a weekend devoted to conversation and insight. The festival emphasizes depth over spectacle, creating space for meaningful dialogue between speakers and audiences.
With its intentionally intimate format and carefully curated program, the festival has become one of the Monterey Peninsula’s most respected cultural events.
A brief history
Since its founding in 2013, the Pebble Beach Authors & Ideas Festival has focused on bringing thoughtful voices to a setting that naturally encourages reflection. Rather than pursuing celebrity for its own sake, the festival selects speakers for the clarity of their ideas and the impact of their work.
Over time, it has developed a loyal audience drawn to its conversational tone, cross-disciplinary programming, and commitment to civil, curious exchange.
Ten notable writers from past festivals
Student programs
A core part of the festival’s mission is its commitment to students. Through dedicated student programs, young readers and learners are introduced to authors and ideas that inspire curiosity, creativity, and lifelong engagement with books and learning.
A festival that endures
In a world shaped by fast takes and constant noise, the Pebble Beach Authors & Ideas Festival remains a place for listening, learning, and reflection. Its continued success speaks to the enduring power of thoughtful conversation—and to the timeless appeal of a well-told story.