Pier Plaza
A lively coastal hub in Huntington Beach, Pier Plaza buzzes with artisan fairs, live music, and stunning ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Artisan fairs and lively events.
Pier Plaza
Best Time
Artisan fairs and lively events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lively coastal hub in Huntington Beach, Pier Plaza buzzes with artisan fairs, live music, and stunning ocean views.
"Discover local art, enjoy live music, and soak in breathtaking ocean views at Pier Plaza."
🛍️ Shop Local Finds
Explore artisan fairs for unique gifts and souvenirs.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Catch talented musicians performing throughout the day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisan Fairs
Pier Plaza
Discover local art, jewelry, and snacks at vibrant weekend markets.
Live Music & Performances
Pier Plaza
Enjoy buskers, concerts, and ukulele performances by the ocean.
Ocean Views & Beach Access
Adjacent to the beach and pier
Soak in breathtaking Pacific vistas and easy access to the sand.
Community Events
Pier Plaza
From tree lightings to VW bus shows, experience local celebrations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Event Schedules
Embrace the Beach Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Shop Local Finds
Explore artisan fairs for unique gifts and souvenirs.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Catch talented musicians performing throughout the day.
🌊 Take in Ocean Views
Perfect spot for photos and enjoying the coastal scenery.
📅 Check Event Calendar
Don't miss special events like concerts or fairs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Shop Local Finds
Explore artisan fairs for unique gifts and souvenirs.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Catch talented musicians performing throughout the day.
🌊 Take in Ocean Views
Perfect spot for photos and enjoying the coastal scenery.
📅 Check Event Calendar
Don't miss special events like concerts or fairs.
🚗 Parking Considerations
Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using ride-shares.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Pier Plaza for its vibrant atmosphere, especially during artisan fairs and live music events. The stunning ocean views and proximity to the beach and pier are major draws. Some find parking challenging, and crowds can be high during popular events.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pier Plaza is easily accessible in Huntington Beach, California. Many visitors arrive by car, though parking can be competitive, especially on event days. Public transportation options might be limited, so ride-sharing services or arriving early are recommended.
Yes, there are parking lots and street parking available near Pier Plaza. However, these can fill up quickly, particularly during weekends and special events. Consider the parking garages on Main Street for more options.
If you are staying in the downtown Huntington Beach area, Pier Plaza is within easy walking distance. It's a central hub connecting Main Street to the pier and beach.
To avoid traffic, aim to arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends. Weekday mornings or late afternoons can also be less congested.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's common for beachside areas like Pier Plaza to have bike racks available. Cycling is a popular way to get around Huntington Beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pier Plaza itself is a public space and generally free to access. However, specific events held within Pier Plaza, such as concerts or special fairs, might have associated ticket requirements or fees.
Pier Plaza is a public outdoor space and is typically accessible at all hours. However, individual vendor stalls or event areas within the plaza will have their own operating hours, often from 10 AM to 6 PM during artisan fairs.
There are no general entrance fees to walk around Pier Plaza. Access to the public areas is free.
For specific events like artisan fairs or concerts, it's best to check the event organizer's website or social media for any booking or reservation information.
As a public plaza, Pier Plaza is generally designed to be accessible. Paved pathways and ramps should allow for easy navigation for those with mobility challenges.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy live music, browse artisan fairs for unique crafts and food, relax with ocean views, and access the beach and pier. It's a hub for community events and casual strolls.
Yes, Pier Plaza is located in downtown Huntington Beach, which offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants with ocean views. You can also find snacks at the artisan fairs.
During artisan fairs, you'll find a variety of vendors selling handmade jewelry, art, clothing, and local snacks. The surrounding downtown area has many surf shops and boutiques.
Absolutely! Pier Plaza offers stunning coastal backdrops, vibrant event scenes, and the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, making it a fantastic spot for photography.
Typically, dogs are not allowed on the beach or pier in Huntington Beach, but they may be permitted in the outdoor public areas of Pier Plaza on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or city ordinances.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Capture shots of the Huntington Beach Pier, the ocean waves, and the bustling activity during artisan fairs. The plaza itself offers great vantage points for wide-angle coastal scenes.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour lighting for dramatic ocean and pier photos. Midday can be great for capturing the vibrant energy of events.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public beach areas and near piers due to safety and privacy regulations. It's advisable to check with the City of Huntington Beach for specific drone policies.
Coastal landscapes, surf photography, event coverage, and street photography are all popular genres at Pier Plaza, capturing the essence of Surf City USA.
Yes, you can generally take photos of performers, but be mindful of their space and avoid intrusive behavior. If you're planning professional shoots, it's wise to seek permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🛍️ Shoppers & Art Enthusiasts
🎶 Music Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Pier Plaza's Events
Beyond shopping and seasonal festivities, Pier Plaza also serves as a stage for musical talent. You might catch buskers playing the ukulele, harpists, or even full concerts as part of community events. The atmosphere is often energetic and festive, with attendees enjoying the performances against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Special events like the VW Buses on the Pier showcase unique community interests and draw large crowds, highlighting the plaza's versatility.
The Pismo Beach Pier Plaza has also been noted for its resilience during high tides and massive waves, demonstrating the power of the ocean while the plaza remains a stable point for enjoying the views. This highlights the plaza's role not just as an event space, but as a place to witness and appreciate the natural coastal environment.
Capturing the Coastal Charm
For the best photographic opportunities, consider visiting during the golden hours – sunrise and sunset. The soft, warm light casts a magical glow over the pier and ocean, creating dramatic silhouettes and vibrant colors. Midday can be excellent for capturing the lively atmosphere of events like the artisan fairs, with bright sunlight illuminating the colorful stalls and happy visitors. Remember to experiment with different angles, from wide shots of the coastline to close-ups of the unique details found at the local markets.
While drones can offer unique aerial perspectives, be aware of local regulations. Many beach cities have restrictions on drone usage in public areas and near piers for safety reasons. Always check with the local authorities before flying. Instead, focus on utilizing the plaza's ground-level vantage points, the pier itself, and the surrounding beach to create compelling and memorable images of this vibrant coastal destination.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit