Huntington Beach Pier - a lifeguard tower on the beach with the ocean in the background
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Huntington Beach Pier

4.6
·491k reviews·, United States

Iconic 1,850-foot pier in Surf City USA, offering panoramic ocean views, surf watching, shops, and dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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Huntington Beach Pier - a lifeguard tower on the beach with the ocean in the background

Huntington Beach Pier

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic 1,850-foot pier in Surf City USA, offering panoramic ocean views, surf watching, shops, and dining.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A true local gem that never gets old, offering endless ocean vibes and surf action. TikTok"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early for pier parking or consider ride-sharing to avoid hassle.

🏄 Weekend Surfer Alert

Weekends mean more surfers and crowds near the pier. Plan accordingly!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Pier Walk

Iconic Pier Walk

Huntington Beach Pier

Stroll the 1,850-foot pier for panoramic ocean views, watch surfers, and soak in the classic California beach vibe.

TikTok
Surfer Spectacle

Surfer Spectacle

Around the pier

Witness skilled surfers catching waves, especially during competitions or prime swell times.

TikTok+1
Sunset Serenity

Sunset Serenity

Huntington Beach Pier

Experience breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific, painting the sky with vibrant colors.

Instagram+1
Local Shops & Bites

Local Shops & Bites

Along the pier

Browse unique shops and grab a bite at the diner, complete with a tiki bar for a fun, casual meal.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Huntington Beach Pier is a popular spot, especially on weekends and during events like the US Open of Surfing. For a more relaxed experience, aim for weekdays or early mornings to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy the best light for photos. TikTok

Pier Perks & Parking

Parking near the pier can be challenging and costly. Consider arriving early or using ride-sharing services. While the pier itself is free to access, be aware of potential costs for parking and any shops or dining you plan to enjoy. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset hours
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
During events
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Packed pier tonight in Huntington Beach to honor Charlie Kirk ♥️🇺🇸 #charliekirk #wearecharliekirk #huntingtonbeach #jamesklug #turningpointusa
@iamfauxreallll
17.8K likes • 167.1K views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early for pier parking or consider ride-sharing to avoid hassle. TikTok

🏄 Weekend Surfer Alert

Weekends mean more surfers and crowds near the pier. Plan accordingly! TikTok

Cinematic vibes out in OC 💙 #huntingtonbeach #orangecounty #surfcityusa #hbpier
@jesse.shoots
25.8K likes • 186.9K views
The director of the white supremacist group (“Nationalist Network”) announced that they plan to return to the Huntington Beach pier on Saturday.
so.informed
78.4K likes • 6.8M views

📸 Golden Hour Views

Catch the magical light for photos during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

🛍️ Pier Shopping

Explore the unique shops for souvenirs and beachwear. TikTok

📍Huntington Beach Pier | Details👇 __________ Huntington Beach Pier 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (2363) Huntington Beach, CA Fun Facts about the pier: 👉Historical landmark built in 1904 👉Hosts the annual US Open Surfing 👉Extends 1850 feet into the pacific ocean Comment or DM 👉 “VIP” for VIP pricing on Luxury Hotels in California and Worldwide 👑 Feature TT🎥: @see_quence Follow 🔥(@placestovisitincalifornia)...
placestovisitincalifornia
6.9K likes • 444.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early for pier parking or consider ride-sharing to avoid hassle. TikTok

🏄 Weekend Surfer Alert

Weekends mean more surfers and crowds near the pier. Plan accordingly! TikTok

📸 Golden Hour Views

Catch the magical light for photos during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

🛍️ Pier Shopping

Explore the unique shops for souvenirs and beachwear. TikTok

🎆 Holiday Sparkle

Check for special events like the 4th of July fireworks! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Huntington Beach Pier for its iconic status, stunning ocean views, and vibrant surf culture. It's a beloved spot for leisurely strolls, watching surfers, and enjoying beautiful sunsets. Some find parking challenging and crowds can be significant on weekends and during events.

What People Like

Iconic pier views
Surfing action
Beautiful sunsets

What People Dislike

Crowded weekends
Parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Huntington Beach Pier is easily accessible by car, with several parking lots nearby. Public transportation options are also available, though may require transfers. Ride-sharing services are a convenient alternative. TikTok

Parking directly at the pier can be competitive. Arrive early, especially on weekends, or explore nearby public parking structures and street parking. Some visitors recommend ride-sharing to bypass parking challenges. TikTok

Yes, several bus routes serve the Huntington Beach area, with stops within walking distance of the pier. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Absolutely! Huntington Beach has a scenic coastal bike path that leads directly to the pier, offering a pleasant ride with ocean views. Instagram

From major freeways like the I-405, take exits towards Huntington Beach. Follow signs for the pier and beach access. GPS coordinates for the pier are approximately 33.6595° N, 118.0000° W. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to the Huntington Beach Pier itself is free for all visitors. You can walk, enjoy the views, and experience the atmosphere without any admission cost. TikTok

The pier is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing for early morning strolls and late-night visits. However, individual shops and restaurants on the pier will have their own operating hours. TikTok

While the pier is free to enter, special events like the US Open of Surfing or concerts may require tickets. Check event schedules and official websites for ticketing information. Instagram

Generally, there are no major restrictions for walking on the pier. However, be mindful of posted rules regarding skateboarding, alcohol, and pets, which may vary. TikTok

Keep an eye on local event listings, the official Huntington Beach tourism website, and social media for announcements about concerts, festivals, and competitions held at or near the pier. TikTok+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can walk the length of the pier, watch surfers, fish, enjoy the ocean breeze, visit the shops and restaurants, and take in stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram

Yes, fishing is a popular activity on the pier. You can rent or purchase fishing gear from local shops. Remember to check local regulations for any licensing requirements. TikTok

Yes, public restrooms are typically available near the pier entrance and along the beach, providing convenience for visitors. TikTok

You'll find a variety of shops, including surf shops, souvenir stores, and places to grab snacks and ice cream. TikTok

The pier is generally accessible, with a relatively flat surface suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. However, some areas might have slight inclines. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The pier features a diner with a classic tiki bar, offering casual meals and drinks with ocean views. There are also various eateries and cafes located just off the pier. TikTok

Yes, Huntington Beach offers numerous seafood restaurants in the vicinity, ranging from casual fish taco spots to more upscale dining experiences. TikTok

You can often find ice cream and sweet treats at the shops and cafes located on or near the pier, perfect for a beach day indulgence. TikTok

The dining experience on the pier is typically laid-back and casual, fitting the beach town atmosphere. Expect ocean views and a relaxed ambiance. TikTok

While the pier's diner might have limited options, the wider Huntington Beach area offers a diverse culinary scene with many restaurants providing vegan and vegetarian choices. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Instagram+1

The end of the pier offers expansive ocean vistas, while the pier structure itself provides interesting lines and perspectives. Watching surfers can also lead to dynamic action shots. TikTok+1

Drone usage is often restricted in public areas and near beaches. It's crucial to check current FAA regulations and local ordinances before flying a drone near the pier. TikTok

Expect to capture stunning ocean landscapes, surfers in action, vibrant sunsets, beachgoers, and the iconic pier structure itself. TikTokInstagram+1

While specific pier photography tours might be rare, local photography workshops or guided tours of the Orange County coast could include the pier as a key location. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Huntington Beach Pier is a fantastic destination for families. The pier itself is safe and easy to navigate with strollers, offering plenty of space to explore. Kids will love watching the surfers and the playful sea lions that sometimes frequent the area. TikTok+1

There are casual dining options on the pier, including a diner with a tiki bar, perfect for satisfying hungry little ones. Nearby, you can find playgrounds and the famous Dog Beach, where children can enjoy interacting with friendly dogs. Instagram Consider visiting during a weekday morning to avoid the peak crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. TikTok

🏄 Surfers and Beach Lovers

For surfers, Huntington Beach Pier is legendary. It's a consistent surf spot with waves suitable for various skill levels, though it can get crowded, especially on weekends. TikTokInstagram Experienced surfers can find challenging breaks, while beginners might prefer slightly calmer areas away from the immediate pier vicinity. TikTok

Beach lovers will appreciate the wide sandy shores, the vibrant atmosphere, and the endless ocean views. The pier offers a perfect place to relax, people-watch, and soak in the quintessential Southern California beach culture. Don't miss the chance to witness a sunset from the pier – it's truly magical. Instagram+1

📸 Photographers and Content Creators

Photographers will find endless inspiration at the Huntington Beach Pier. The iconic structure, the dynamic surf action, and the stunning coastal scenery provide a wealth of shooting opportunities. TikTokInstagram+1 Aim for the golden hours around sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Instagram+1

Content creators can capture engaging videos of the pier's lively atmosphere, the surfers, and the beautiful ocean vistas. Consider incorporating drone footage (where permitted) for unique aerial perspectives. TikTok The pier's shops and eateries also offer opportunities for lifestyle and food photography. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Surfing Culture at HB Pier

Huntington Beach, famously known as 'Surf City USA,' has a deep-rooted surfing culture, and its pier is a central hub for this activity. The waves around the pier are known for being consistent, attracting surfers of all levels. It's a prime spot to watch experienced surfers carve up the waves, especially during competitions like the annual Vans US Open of Surfing. TikTokInstagram+1

For those looking to join the action, surf schools and rental shops are readily available near the pier. However, be aware that on busy weekends, the lineup can get crowded, and surfers are advised to be mindful of each other's space and priority. TikTok The pier itself offers a unique vantage point to observe surf contests, with some dramatic wipeouts captured on video when waves get particularly challenging. TikTok

Beyond the competitive scene, the pier is a beloved local spot for casual surfing and enjoying the ocean. The atmosphere is always buzzing with surf enthusiasts, making it a great place to soak in the authentic surf lifestyle. TikTok

Events and Community at the Pier

The Huntington Beach Pier is more than just a scenic landmark; it's a vibrant community gathering place that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. From holiday celebrations like the 4th of July fireworks TikTok to religious gatherings and worship services,TikTok the pier serves as a focal point for local life. It has also been a site for protests and demonstrations, reflecting diverse community voices. Instagram+1

During the holiday season, the pier often features special decorations, such as the '80 snowflakes' initiative that benefits local youth shelters, showcasing the community's charitable spirit. TikTok These events draw both locals and tourists, adding a dynamic layer to the pier's appeal and offering unique experiences beyond a typical beach visit. TikTok

Attending an event at the pier provides a deeper connection to the Huntington Beach community and its traditions. It's a chance to witness local culture firsthand, whether it's a surf competition, a festive holiday display, or a community rally. TikTok

Photography Opportunities

The Huntington Beach Pier is a photographer's dream, offering a multitude of picturesque scenes. The iconic pier structure itself, stretching 1,850 feet into the Pacific, provides a strong leading line for landscape shots. TikTok Capturing the surfers in action against the backdrop of the ocean is a classic shot, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light is soft and warm. Instagram+1

Beyond the natural beauty, the pier is a hub of activity. You can photograph the bustling shops, the casual diners, and the diverse array of people enjoying the beach. The pier's vantage point also allows for unique perspectives of the coastline and the city. TikTokInstagram+1

For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the week to avoid large crowds, allowing for more creative freedom. Experiment with different angles, from ground level looking up at the pier to elevated shots from the pier itself, capturing the essence of Surf City USA. TikTok

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