Huntington Beach
Iconic 'Surf City USA' with a 3.5-mile beach, famous pier, and vibrant surf culture. Offers shopping, dining, and stunning sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Huntington Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 'Surf City USA' with a 3.5-mile beach, famous pier, and vibrant surf culture. Offers shopping, dining, and stunning sunsets.
"A classic and simple beach with great sunsets, beautiful surf, and tons of solid shops and restaurants nearby."
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be prepared for paid parking lots, especially near the pier. Consider evening visits for better availability. :parking_meter:
🥶 Cold Water Alert
The Pacific water is famously chilly! Surfers and kite surfers are common; swimmers may find it bracing. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Huntington Beach Pier
Center of the beach
Iconic pier offering stunning ocean views, souvenir shops, and a seafood restaurant at its end. Perfect for sunset strolls.
Surf City USA Vibe
Throughout the beach
Experience the heart of surf culture with surfers catching waves and vibrant beach activities.
Pacific City
North of the pier
A modern hub with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, offering a lively atmosphere with ocean views.
Dog-Friendly Beach Zone
North of the pier
A dedicated section for furry friends to enjoy the sand and surf, making it a great spot for dog owners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Ocean Water Temps
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be prepared for paid parking lots, especially near the pier. Consider evening visits for better availability. :parking_meter:
🥶 Cold Water Alert
The Pacific water is famously chilly! Surfers and kite surfers are common; swimmers may find it bracing. :ocean:
🐶 Dog Beach Access
A large section north of the pier is dog-friendly. Perfect for your four-legged companions! :dog:
🌅 Sunset Views
The sunsets here are spectacular. Aim for late afternoon for the best light and a more relaxed atmosphere. :city_sunset:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be prepared for paid parking lots, especially near the pier. Consider evening visits for better availability. :parking_meter:
🥶 Cold Water Alert
The Pacific water is famously chilly! Surfers and kite surfers are common; swimmers may find it bracing. :ocean:
🐶 Dog Beach Access
A large section north of the pier is dog-friendly. Perfect for your four-legged companions! :dog:
🌅 Sunset Views
The sunsets here are spectacular. Aim for late afternoon for the best light and a more relaxed atmosphere. :city_sunset:
🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Explore Pacific City for modern shops and eateries, or find local specialties near the pier. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Huntington Beach is celebrated for its classic beach town vibe, beautiful sunsets, and vibrant surf culture. Visitors appreciate the ample space, clean sand, and nearby shopping and dining options. However, parking can be a significant challenge and expense, and the ocean water is notably cold.
"Huntington Beach is One of the best beaches in Pacific Ocean. Weather is perfect and cool. The sand is magic so clean and beautiful view. A lot of amazing activities you can do like surfing, running, tanning, biking and swimming in the ocean. Also great place to walk & see the sunset.
There are many good restaurants and gift shops you can visit and buy. Shopping mall is also nearby."
Ahmed Hani
"Favorite beach in SoCal.
The only thing is that hard the find parking, the general 🚗 lot next to the pier is $3.00 per hour.
Not that crowded, there are live music shows, street fair and booths selling local specialties.
The volleyball 🏐 courts were packed cause of beautiful weather today. Many surfers out three hitting the waves, as Huntington beach is Surf city USA. There are a few souvenir shops in the middle of the pier plus a seafood restaurant at the end of the pier."
Drew Wang
"Such a classic and simple beach. Love this one. Great sunsets, lots of beach space, beautiful surf, and tons of solid shops and restaurants nearby. If you visit, plan for a parking fee, and you may need to hunt for a spot. Better availability in the evening if you just want to go watch the sunset."
Jason Mezey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Huntington Beach is accessible by car via the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). If flying in, the closest major airports are John Wayne Airport (SNA) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Public transportation options are limited, so driving or ride-sharing services are often the most convenient.
Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends and during events. Paid parking lots are available near the pier and along the beach. Arriving earlier in the day or later in the evening can improve your chances of finding a spot.
Yes, Huntington Beach, California is easily accessible by car, particularly via the scenic Pacific Coast Highway. Its location in Orange County makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
While direct public transport to the beach itself can be limited, you can reach the general Huntington Beach area via bus routes. For a more direct and convenient journey, driving or using ride-sharing services is recommended.
Parking lots are available but are typically paid, with hourly rates. Some visitors suggest that evening hours might offer better availability.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Huntington Beach itself does not typically have an entrance fee for general access. However, parking lots along the beach and pier are paid.
The beach is generally open from sunrise to sunset. Specific facilities like parking lots or lifeguard services may have their own hours of operation.
General beach access is free. However, for specific events like professional surfing competitions or concerts, separate tickets may be required. Check local event listings for details.
Standard beach items like towels, chairs, and umbrellas are usually permitted. Alcohol and glass containers are often prohibited. Always check local ordinances for the most current regulations.
Yes, the Huntington Beach Pier is generally accessible to the public without a ticket for walking and enjoying the views.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Huntington Beach offers a wide range of activities including surfing, swimming (though the water is cold), sunbathing, beach volleyball, biking along the paved paths, and enjoying the sunset.
While it's a popular destination, Huntington Beach can feel less crowded than other SoCal beaches, especially on weekdays or in the evenings. However, it can get busy during peak seasons and events.
Huntington Beach is known as 'Surf City USA' for a reason! The area around the pier is popular, but breaks can be found along the entire 3.5-mile stretch. Lessons and rentals are widely available.
Yes, restrooms are available at the parking areas, and there are paved paths along the cliffs suitable for walking or biking. Shower facilities may also be available.
While the beach is generally safe during the day, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. Stick to well-lit areas and be mindful of local advice regarding safety.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront cafes to upscale restaurants. Pacific City offers a modern selection, while the pier has a seafood restaurant.
Yes, there is a seafood restaurant located at the end of the Huntington Beach Pier, offering dining with ocean views.
Many restaurants in Huntington Beach, especially in areas like Pacific City, offer diverse menus that include vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask staff.
Pacific City Huntington Beach features a range of culinary experiences, from casual eateries to more refined dining, often with ocean views.
Yes, various bars and restaurants, particularly around Pacific City and along the main drag, offer drinks. Some spots like Baja Sharkeez are known for their nightlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The Huntington Beach Pier at sunset is a classic. The coastline offers beautiful vistas, and Pacific City provides a modern backdrop. Don't forget the vibrant surf culture for dynamic shots.
Generally, yes. However, always be aware of your surroundings, especially when focusing on your camera. Avoid taking photos in restricted areas or of private property without permission.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers the most beautiful light for photography. Early mornings can also be great for softer light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage is often restricted in public areas, especially near beaches and populated zones, due to safety and privacy concerns. It's crucial to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Capture the iconic 'Surf City USA' signage, the bustling pier, and the diverse beach activities. The architecture of Pacific City also offers modern photographic elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the dog-friendly section if you have a furry family member. Pacific City offers family-friendly dining options and a lively atmosphere. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water, and be prepared for paid parking.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Even if you're not participating, the energy of the surf scene is captivating. Watching the pros and amateurs ride the waves is a highlight. Be prepared for the cold water, which is a characteristic of the Southern California coast.
🛍️ Shoppers and Foodies
From casual cafes to more upscale dining, there are options to satisfy various tastes. Exploring the local eateries and unique shops is a great way to spend time when you're not on the sand.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Huntington Beach Pier Experience
Many visitors find the pier to be a quintessential part of the Huntington Beach experience. It provides a unique perspective of the beach and the ocean, making it a popular spot for both casual walks and photography. The atmosphere can range from lively during the day with anglers and sightseers to serene in the early morning or late evening.
While the pier itself is free to access, remember that parking in the vicinity is typically paid. The pier is also a great starting point to explore the surrounding beach area, including the shops and restaurants nearby.
Surfing Culture in 'Surf City USA'
For those new to surfing, numerous surf schools and rental shops are available along the beach, offering lessons and equipment. Even if you don't plan to surf, watching the surfers ride the waves is an activity in itself and a core part of the Huntington Beach experience. The energy of the surf community is infectious.
Beyond the pier, the entire beach is a canvas for surf activity. Kite surfing and paddleboarding are also popular here, adding to the dynamic water sports scene. The consistent swell makes it a year-round destination for wave enthusiasts.
Navigating Huntington Beach: Parking and Accessibility
To mitigate parking issues, consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings or evenings. If you're staying at one of the nearby hotels like the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa or Pasea Hotel Huntington Beach, you may have convenient parking options available.
Accessibility on the beach itself is generally good, with paved paths running along the coastline suitable for walking and biking. The beach is wide and sandy, offering plenty of space. However, the ocean water is known to be quite cold, which might deter some from swimming but is ideal for surfers.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit