· US

Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, California, United States

Catch a Wave in Huntington Beach: Surf City USA Sun-drenched shores, world-class waves, and a laid-back vibe – welcome to Huntington Beach, California, affectionately known as "Surf City USA." Whether you're a seasoned s…

#Beach#Surfing#California#Sunset#Outdoor activities

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Huntington Beach.

Top Hotels in Huntington Beach

Top Flights to Huntington Beach

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Huntington Beach.

Tours

Huntington Beach Art Walk

Discover local art and culture through Huntington Beach's vibrant art walk, featuring local artists and galleries.

Historic Downtown Walking Tour

Take a guided tour through the historic downtown area, learning about Huntington Beach's fascinating history and culture.

Visit to Huntington Library

Explore a world of knowledge and gardens at the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens.

Shopping

Shopping at Pacific City

Enjoy a day of shopping and dining at Pacific City, a modern shopping center overlooking the beach, featuring a variety of shops from fashion to home décor.

Main Street Shopping

Stroll down Main Street and explore local boutiques, surf shops, and cafes, capturing the essence of Huntington Beach's surf culture.

Outdoor

Beachfront Biking Adventure

Explore Huntington Beach's stunning coast on a rented bike. Enjoy the beautiful ocean views and refreshing sea breeze as you ride along the paved boardwalk.

Sunset Beach Picnic

Pack a picnic and relax on the sandy shores of Huntington Beach. The mesmerizing sunset views make for a perfect end to the day.

Surfing Lessons at the Pier

Catch some waves with a surfing lesson in the heart of Surf City, USA. Perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike.

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve Hiking

Experience the natural beauty of Bolsa Chica with a hike through this ecological reserve, home to numerous bird species and coastal wildlife.

Yoga on the Beach

Start your morning with a rejuvenating yoga session right on the sand, guided by professional instructors.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Huntington Beach.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

200 thousand

Languages

English, Spanish

Average weather

Huntington Beach

Jan

19°8°

Feb

19°9°

Mar

20°10°

Apr

21°12°

May

22°14°

Jun

24°16°

Jul

26°18°

Aug

27°19°

Sep

27°18°

Oct

25°15°

Nov

22°11°

Dec

19°8°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Huntington Beach.

What people love

There are several pros of traveling to Huntington Beach in California. Here are some detailed reasons why you should consider visiting Huntington Beach:

Beautiful Beaches: Huntington Beach is known for its stunning sandy beaches and beautiful coastline stretching over 10 miles. It offers a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and other water activities.
Surfing Capital: Huntington Beach is widely regarded as the surfing capital of the United States. The city is home to the world-famous Huntington Beach Pier, which attracts surfers from all over the world. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, you can enjoy riding the waves here.
Outdoor Activities: Apart from surfing, Huntington Beach offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, volleyball, and beach bonfires. You can also explore the nearby parks and trails for more recreational options.
Shopping and Dining: The city boasts a vibrant downtown area with numerous shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. You can indulge in some retail therapy, savor delicious cuisine, or enjoy a drink with ocean views.
Events and Festivals: Huntington Beach hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including the US Open of Surfing, the Great Pacific Airshow, and the International Surfing Museum. These events offer a unique cultural experience and showcase the city's vibrant community.
Family-Friendly: Whether you are traveling with family or friends, Huntington Beach offers something for everyone. From family-friendly beaches to amusement parks like Disneyland located nearby, there are plenty of attractions to keep everyone entertained.

Overall, traveling to Huntington Beach can provide a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and entertainment against the backdrop of the stunning Pacific Ocean.

What to know

There are a few potential cons to traveling to Huntington Beach, California:

Crowds: Huntington Beach is a popular destination, especially during the summer months and weekends. This can lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions, which may not appeal to travelers looking for a more secluded or quiet experience.
Traffic: Like many areas in Southern California, Huntington Beach can experience heavy traffic congestion, particularly during peak travel times. This can make getting around the city and to nearby attractions time-consuming and frustrating.
Cost: California, in general, can be an expensive place to visit, and Huntington Beach is no exception. Accommodations, dining, and activities in the area can be pricey, which may not be ideal for travelers on a budget.
Weather: While Huntington Beach is known for its pleasant climate, it can also experience marine layer fog, particularly in the mornings and evenings. This may not be ideal for travelers looking for consistently sunny and warm weather.
Environmental concerns: Like many coastal areas, Huntington Beach is susceptible to issues such as pollution, beach erosion, and water quality problems. While efforts are made to address these issues, they can still impact the overall travel experience.

Overall, while Huntington Beach offers beautiful beaches, a vibrant surf culture, and plenty of activities, these potential cons are important to consider when planning a trip to the area.

Huntington Beach, California, often referred to as "Surf City," has a rich history marked by its development from a small settlement to a bustling beach city known for its surf culture and vibrant community.

Early History

Indigenous Peoples: Before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Huntington Beach was inhabited by the Tongva people, a Native American tribe that lived in the Los Angeles Basin and the Southern Channel Islands.
Spanish and Mexican Era: The area became part of the Spanish land grant system in the 18th century. After Mexico gained independence from Spain, the land was divided into ranchos, with the area that includes present-day Huntington Beach being part of Rancho Las Bolsas.

19th Century

American Settlement: By the late 19th century, American settlers began to arrive. The area was initially agricultural, with crops such as barley and sugar beets being cultivated.
Founding: Huntington Beach was part of a land development scheme by the Huntington Beach Company, which was associated with Henry E. Huntington, a prominent industrialist and railway magnate.

Early 20th Century

Incorporation: Huntington Beach was incorporated on February 17, 1909.
Oil Boom: The discovery of oil in the 1920s significantly transformed the local economy, leading to rapid growth and development. The oil industry played a crucial role in shaping the city during this period.

Mid-20th Century

Surfing Culture: In the 1950s and 1960s, Huntington Beach became a hub for surfing culture in Southern California. The establishment of the first surf shop, Gordie Surfboards, in the late 1950s marked the beginning of its identity as "Surf City."
Surf Competitions: The city began hosting surfing competitions, including the U.S. Open of Surfing, which remains one of the largest annual surfing competitions in the world.

Late 20th Century to Present

Development and Growth: The latter half of the 20th century saw continued growth and suburban development. The city's population expanded, and it became known for its beaches, parks, and vibrant downtown area.
Environmental Awareness: In more recent years, Huntington Beach has been involved in various environmental initiatives aimed at preserving its coastal and marine environments.

Landmarks and Cultural Sites

Huntington Beach Pier: Originally built in 1904, the pier is a central landmark and a popular spot for fishing, walking, and enjoying ocean views.
International Surfing Museum: Celebrating the city's surf culture, the museum features exhibits on surfing history and heritage.
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve: This coastal wetland is home to a diverse range of wildlife and is an important site for birdwatching and conservation efforts.

Significant Figures

Henry E. Huntington: Although not a resident, his investments and developments were pivotal in the early growth of the city.
Gordon "Gordie" Duane: Founder of one of the first surf shops, he was instrumental in establishing Huntington Beach's surf culture.

Huntington Beach continues to be a vibrant community known for its beaches, cultural events, and as a symbol of Southern California's coastal lifestyle.