JK Show Report: Beach Dubbin 2025 A Roaring Success by the Sea

Beach Dubbin’ 2025 once again delivered its signature blend of Volkswagen magic and seaside charm. With a huge turnout and a stunning array of show vehicles, the event not only wowed enthusiasts but raised vital funds for local charities, all while adapting to a brand-new layout.

This year’s event saw a jaw-dropping variety of vehicles descend on the Common. From immaculately restored classic Beetles and T2 Split Screens, to ultra-clean water-cooled Transporters, Caddys, and modified Golfs, the field was a vibrant showcase of VW history and creativity.

Fans of all eras and styles found something to admire:

• Air-cooled classics and old timers on Air-cooled Avenue.
• Awesome club displays from across the South and further afield.
• Modern Camper and Motorhome builds showed off clever conversions and custom touches.
• Even non-VW guests like hot rods, scooters, and rare classics had their moment, reflecting the inclusive vibe of the show.
• The popular Show & Shine competition returned, offering a fierce but friendly contest across categories including Best Beetle, Best Splitty, Best Bay, Best Club Display, and the coveted Best in Show. 

Visitors browsed a bustling trade village offering:

• Classic VW parts and accessories
• Custom apparel, retro merchandise, and artwork
• Food and drink from local vendors, including vegan and family-friendly options
• A fun kids’ zone, helping make the event truly family-inclusive

VW parts specialists Just Kampers team, consisting of Jason, Rae and Lewis headed over in their Beetles and had a Staff Cars Display on Air-cooled Avenue. Jason has been going to Beach Dubbin for over 10 years and is a true local to the show, living only a 15-minute drive away. The team were on hand to lend their expert eye to two of the most hotly contested categories: Best Beetle and Best T2 Split Screen. They had a tough job of picking standouts from a sea of worthy entries, each proudly presented and lovingly maintained.

We'll share the Winners of Best Beetle and Best T2 Split soon. watch this space...

A Festival Atmosphere with a Purpose. Beach Dubbin proudly supports their main charity, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, as well as a number of smaller charities and local projects attending the show. While the cars stole the spotlight, Beach Dubbin’ is, at its heart, a charity event. All profits from the day go to local causes, and this year was no exception. Entry for show vehicles was £15 per car (including passengers), while pedestrian access remained free, encouraging thousands to come down, enjoy the day, and donate what they could.

Beach Dubbin’ is a not-for-profit charity show run by passionate volunteers, supporting charities and local projects, and has raised £109,751.12.

Two major names brought adrenaline and nostalgia to Southsea this year:

• Andrei Burton stunned the crowd with his Salt Rock MTB trick display, launching his mountain bike over ramps, rails, and obstacles with daring precision.
• BMX legend Bob Haro, yes, Bob Haro! made a surprise appearance, meeting fans, sharing stories, and inspiring the next generation of BMX riders.

These guest stars added serious flair and drew new faces to an already vibrant event.

One major curveball this year came from ongoing sea defence construction along the seafront. New traffic routes and limited access points created logistical headaches for organisers, but rather than shrink the show, the team used the challenge to their advantage.

By spreading out the layout across more of the Common, they gave the show a more open and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors enjoyed easier navigation, less crowding, and more space to soak it all in. In the end, what started as a potential obstacle became for me personally one of the 2025 show’s most praised improvements.

Beach Dubbin’ 2025 was a reminder that even in the face of change and challenges, passion and community always shine through. With top-tier vehicles, unforgettable guests, charitable impact, and a newly improved layout, it was easily one of the best editions yet!

We want to give a huge shout-out to the whole Beach Dubbin Team and support network of volunteers. We know they work countless hours on the organisation of the event alongside their day-to-day jobs, and this year threw up additional challenges and extra stress, but once again, they put on a great day for the VW community! - Thank you!  

We can’t wait to see what 2026 brings

Check out some of our photos below and on our Facebook and Instagram page.