- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Huntington Beach
Originally Pacific City, the city was shaped by Henry Huntington and the 1920s oil boom, whose derricks once stood on the beach. Its iconic 1,850-foot Pier serves as the central landmark, defining the coastline alongside classic California bungalows.
Visiting Huntington Beach offers more than its 10-mile coast. Explore the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, a 1,300-acre marsh vital to the Pacific Flyway. It hosts over 200 bird species, including the rare Ridgway's rail. Beach bonfires are a local ritual.
The culture is defined by its legally held title, Surf City USA, a lifestyle first popularized here by Duke Kahanamoku. This identity thrives during the annual US Open of Surfing and lives on in local shaping bays where artisans craft custom boards.
- Huntington BeachUnited States
- Huntington BeachUnited States
- Huntington BeachUnited States
- Huntington BeachUnited States
Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild, fewer crowds
- Jul-Aughot & busy
- Wintercool & occasional rain
- #BeachTowel
- #Sunscreen
- #Swimwear
- #LightJacket
- #ComfortableShoes
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 with beaches & day trips
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #HuntingtonBeachPier
- #PacificCity
- #HuntingtonStateBeach
- #MainStreet
- #BolsaChicaEcologicalReserve
- #InternationalSurfingMuseum
- Sunset at Huntington Beach Pier
- Surfing lessons
- Beach bonfire
- Biking along the boardwalk
- Dining at Pacific City
- Exploring Bolsa Chica wetlands
Things to do in Huntington Beach
Discover
Discover top Huntington Beach attractions, from the iconic Pier and Shipley Nature Center to the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve's wetlands. The International Surfing Museum offers a glimpse into surf culture, a key part of the city's identity.
Experience
Surf the famous waves, play volleyball on the sand, or cycle the Ocean Strand. Visit the weekly Surf City Nights street fair for live music and local vendors, or catch major events like the U.S. Open of Surfing in the summer.
Huntington Beach Pier
Iconic 1,850-foot pier with ocean views and fishing spots.
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
Coastal wetland reserve ideal for bird watching and hiking.
International Surfing Museum
Museum celebrating local and international surfing history.
Huntington Central Park
Sprawling urban park with lakes, gardens, and trails.
Surfing Lessons by the Pier
Take a lesson at the iconic "Surf City USA" coastline.
Surf City Nights Street Fair
Weekly street fair with vendors, food, and live music.
Huntington Dog Beach
Famous off-leash beach for dogs and their owners.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
The easiest way for how to get to Huntington Beach is to fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA), about 20 minutes away. From the Huntington Beach airport to city center, expect to pay $30-40 for a taxi. LAX is another option. There is no direct train to Huntington Beach.
Getting Around
OCTA offers public transport in Huntington Beach via bus routes; day passes simplify travel. In summer, the free downtown Huntington Beach shuttle bus is useful. Consider a car rental in Huntington Beach for flexibility. Biking the oceanfront path is a must.
Local Essentials
When driving in Huntington Beach, be aware Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) traffic is heavy on weekends. Parking near the pier is scarce and metered; use the Main St. parking structure. These are essential Huntington Beach travel tips for first-timers.
Where to Stay in Huntington Beach
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Huntington Beach by tasting fresh fish tacos and Ahi poke bowls. The local culture embraces a relaxed, post-surf dining vibe, with sunset happy hours being a cherished ritual for locals and visitors alike.
Enjoy
Eat at Duke's Huntington Beach for waterfront seafood in a lively setting, reserve ahead. Sip at Tanner's chic rooftop bar, catch sunset. Grab breakfast at Sugar Shack Cafe's bustling patio, expect waits. This is where to eat in Huntington Beach.
Duke's Huntington Beach
Hawaiian-inspired seafood with ocean views. Lively vibe.
Captain Jack's Restaurant
Upscale surf and turf spot. Known for its prime rib.
Sushi On Fire
Popular spot for creative sushi rolls. Often a wait.
Cucina Alessa
Authentic Northern Italian pastas. Cozy downtown setting.
Ola Mexican Kitchen
Modern Mexican food with panoramic ocean views. Book ahead.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Huntington Beach cultural activities, from the 4th of July parade, the largest west of the Mississippi, to the historic Concours d'Elegance car show. These must-see events embody the city's patriotic and classic surf culture.
Enjoy
Discover contemporary things to do in Surf City USA. Enjoy world-class surfing competitions like the US Open of Surfing, and experience unique community gatherings such as the quirky Corgi Beach Day on the sand.
US Open of Surfing
World's largest surf competition and festival in July/August.
HB 4th of July Celebration
Massive parade, pier festival, and fireworks show in July.
Oktoberfest at Old World Village
Authentic German food, beer, and music from Sept to Nov.
Corgi Beach Day
A semi-annual gathering of thousands of corgis in spring/fall.
Cherry Blossom Festival
A celebration of Japanese culture in Central Park each spring.
HB Concours d'Elegance
Classic car and motorcycle show held in Central Park in June.
Classic SoCal Beach Town
Huntington Beach is exactly what you picture for a California beach trip. The pier is iconic and the sandy shore goes on forever. It's an easy-going place to walk around and soak up the sun. The whole city feels clean and very safe.
Awesome for a Family Trip
The beaches are so wide and clean, perfect for kids. We found great casual places to eat near the pier. Everything is walkable, and the area has a relaxed, family-friendly feel. We loved the beautiful sunsets over the ocean.
All About the Surf
The surf culture is the real deal. It was great just watching the surfers from the pier. All the shops on Main Street are cool to browse. Perfect spot for anyone into that beach lifestyle.
Great Sunsets and Food
Huntington Beach has some of the best sunsets. We walked the pier every evening. The food is solid, with tons of casual spots for fish tacos that are fresh and not too expensive.
Peaceful Nature Escape
Besides the main beach, the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is a must-see. It's a beautiful, quiet spot for a walk to see the birds and get away from the crowds. A really nice natural escape right next to the city.
Fun Shopping by the Beach
The downtown area is fun to explore. Lots of surf shops and little stores, plus places for coffee. It was nice being able to shop and then just walk right onto the sand. Pacific City is great for more options.