Things To Do
in Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is a classic Southern California coastal city renowned for its expansive sandy shoreline and iconic pier. The coastline offers year-round sun and mild ocean breezes, attracting families, surfers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Downtown Huntington Beach blends a lively Main Street with shops, eateries, and a vibrant beach culture, while the waterfront invites water sports and sunset strolls.
With its laid-back vibe and plentiful activities, Huntington Beach is a quintessential Pacific Coast getaway.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café in the heart of downtown Huntington Beach, savoring fresh avocado toast and artisanal coffee. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along Main Street, where you can admire the charming storefronts and vibrant street art. Make your way to the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, where the morning sun casts a beautiful glow over the ocean waves.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the beachside restaurants, indulging in fresh seafood while soaking in ocean views. Post-lunch, visit the International Surfing Museum to learn about the history of surfing and its impact on the local culture. Spend some time at the nearby Pacific City, a shopping and dining destination, where you can browse unique shops and enjoy the ocean breeze.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean, capturing the moment with photos. For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a beachfront restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh fish tacos and sip on a tropical cocktail. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, the sound of the waves providing a soothing soundtrack.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, enjoying a delicious omelet while taking in the ocean views. Once fueled up, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and hit the water for some fun, exploring the coastline and getting a workout at the same time. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including sea lions and dolphins, as you paddle through the gentle waves.
After your morning adventure, grab a quick lunch at a nearby food truck serving up tasty fish tacos or burritos. Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun on the sandy beach, playing beach volleyball or simply relaxing with a good book under an umbrella. If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a surfing lesson with a local instructor to ride the waves like a pro.
As the day winds down, take a sunset cruise or a guided tour on a catamaran to experience the beauty of the ocean as the sun dips below the horizon. After returning to shore, enjoy dinner at a lively beach bar, where you can mingle with locals while enjoying live music. Cap off your evening with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $120-260 |
| ☕Coffee to-go | $3-5 |
| 🍣Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚕One-way taxi or rideshare within town | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic pier and long sandy beaches
- Active surf culture and abundant outdoor activities
- Family-friendly with parks and bike paths
- Relaxed nightlife along the coast
- Crowded beaches and limited parking in peak season
- Higher dining and lodging costs during summer
- Traffic congestion on PCH and I-405 at rush hours
Places to Visit in Huntington Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic long wooden pier with expansive ocean views, perfect for sunrise and sunset photography and classic seaside silhouettes.
Wetland boardwalks and marshland that attract a variety of birds; ideal for wildlife and landscape photography at dawn or dusk.
Colorful lifeguard towers, boardwalk activity, and sunset hues over the Pacific from shore vantage points.
Lush greenery, ponds, and tranquil woodland paths offering nature photography within the city limits.
Food in Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy or grilled fish in corn tortillas with slaw, salsa, and lime; widely found along the pier and in Main Street eateries.
Must-Try!
A hearty burrito with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and pico de gallo; popular at casual taquerias and beachside spots.
Creamy seafood chowder served in a crusty sourdough bowl at several seaside cafes and a comfort-food favorite on cooler days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh local produce, prepared foods, and street snacks; great for sampling regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect lifeguard instructions, keep noise reasonable near residential areas, and clean up after yourself. Avoid leaving chairs or tents in walkways and be mindful of shared spaces.
Observe parking rules and meters; don’t block driveways or bike lanes; yield to pedestrians and cyclists on shared paths.
Safety
Tipping in Huntington Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, tip 15-20% at restaurants and bars; higher for exceptional service. Tip for counter-service if you’re satisfied with the experience, though it is less common at fast casual spots.
Most places accept major credit/debit cards and contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay); cash is widely accepted, especially at smaller venues and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sunny days with ocean breezes; beaches can be crowded and parking is limited. Mornings are cool and ideal for outdoor activities, while afternoons are great for beach days and water sports.
Pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds; sea breezes persist, and marine layer fog can roll in during mornings. Great for outdoor exploration and photography with softer light.
Milder than many inland areas with occasional rain showers; cooler evenings. Whale watching is possible from nearby coastlines, and beaches are quieter.
Warm but not overly hot; blooming coastal flora and comfortable conditions for biking and hiking along the coast.
Huntington Beach at Night
Hiking in Huntington Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal wetlands with birdwatching opportunities and marsh scenery; best for early morning hikes.
Coastal upland and wetlands trails with ocean overlooks; moderate hikes available.
Forested trails and ponds offering peaceful nature walks within Huntington Beach.
Airports
How to reach Huntington Beach by plane.
Approximately 15 miles north, easy access via I-405 or surface streets.
About 40 miles north, broad international and domestic flight options.
Approximately 25 miles west, smaller regional flights and shorter security lines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for beach days, parks, and kid-friendly attractions.
A core group influenced by the surf culture and beach-first lifestyle.
Nearby colleges and a thriving downtown area bring a youthful energy.
Sun-loving residents and visitors seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A core local activity with consistent waves and renowned surf culture throughout the year.
Public courts along the beach; popular for casual games and organized events.
Common around boards and local parks, with a relaxed street-skating vibe along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Huntington Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer veggie bowls, salads, and plant-based plates; ask for vegetarian substitutes and check for dairy-free options where needed.