Tourist places in Huntington Beach, Huntington Beach Travel Info
Huntington Beach, known globally as "Surf City USA," is a classic Southern California beach town. It offers a laid-back vibe, endless sandy beaches, and a culture deeply rooted in surfing and outdoor living.
Huntington Beach is located in Orange County, California, along the Pacific Coast. It sits between Seal Beach to the north and Newport Beach to the south, about 35 miles southeast of Los Angeles.
It is famous for its consistent surf breaks, the annual US Open of Surfing (the world's largest surf competition), and its iconic 1,850-foot-long pier.
Year-round, but summer (June to August) is peak season for beach weather and events. Fall (September to October) offers warm water and fewer crowds.
Huntington Beach Pier: One of the longest piers on the West Coast, perfect for fishing, watching surfers, and catching stunning sunsets.
Main Street: The heartbeat of the city, lined with surf shops, boutiques, bars, and restaurants leading right to the ocean.
Huntington State Beach: A wide stretch of sandy beach with fire pits, volleyball courts, and a paved multi-use path for biking and skating.
International Surfing Museum: A cool museum dedicated to the history and culture of surfing, featuring vintage boards and memorabilia.
Pacific City: A modern, open-air retail and dining hub located right on the oceanfront with amazing views and trendy spots.
Take a surf lesson, rent a beach cruiser bike to ride the oceanfront path, have a bonfire on the beach at sunset, and explore the wetlands at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve.
Enjoy fresh fish tacos, açai bowls, and breakfast burritos. The city also has a great selection of beachfront dining and tiki bars.
Main Street for surf gear and souvenirs, Pacific City for upscale boutiques, and Bella Terra for major department stores and entertainment.
Oceanfront Resorts: High-end resorts along Pacific Coast Highway offer luxury and direct beach access.
Downtown: Smaller hotels and inns within walking distance of Main Street and the pier.
Bella Terra Area: More affordable chain hotels located inland near the freeway.
John Wayne Airport (SNA) is the closest, about 20 minutes away. LAX is about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. The city is accessible via the 405 Freeway.
The beach areas are very walkable and bike-friendly. A car is useful for day trips. The "Circuit" shuttle offers eco-friendly rides in the downtown area.
Disneyland is only about 30 minutes away. Newport Beach and Laguna Beach are short drives south for different coastal vibes.
Huntington Central Park is a massive green space with a library, sports complex, and a secret garden. The Old World Village offers a taste of Europe with German shops and Oktoberfest.
Fire pits on the beach are first-come, first-served and go fast in summer. Parking downtown can be pricey; look for meters or parking structures. Bring a wetsuit if surfing in winter/spring.
Huntington Beach is the quintessential California beach experience. With its endless summer vibe, welcoming spirit, and world-class waves, it’s a must-visit for ocean lovers.