Huntington Beach, California, Travel Guide

There’s no shortage of beach towns in Southern California, but not many have just the right balance of surf culture and local energy quite like Huntington Beach.

With more than eight miles of coastline and consistently strong breaks, it’s long been a magnet for surfers from around the world. However, the city’s appeal goes beyond the water—it also has a walkable downtown, a charming namesake pier, and plentiful waterfront bars and restaurants. Days here are best spent soaking up the sun, learning to catch waves, or exploring the waterways of the Huntington Harbour area by boat. Add in signature events like the U.S. Open of Surfing, and it’s clear why Huntington Beach stands out as a classic California vacation spot—one that, in my opinion, too often gets overlooked by the crowds flocking to Los Angeles or even nearby Newport Beach.

Here’s what you need to know before planning a trip to Huntington Beach, California.

Best Hotels & Resorts 

Paséa Hotel & Spa

This trendy hotel has some of the city’s best views from its Treehouse on PCH rooftop, where guests can sip craft cocktails in style. Even non-guests will find it worth a visit for the panoramic ocean views alone. Enjoy year-round fun in the sun by the sparkling pool, settle into a plush cabana, indulge at the Balinese-inspired spa, or take advantage of complimentary beach service. The coastal-chic rooms and suites—each with partial or full ocean views—offer the perfect retreat for unwinding after a day of soaking up the Southern California sunshine.

Kimpton Shorebreak Huntington Beach Resort

The Kimpton Shorebreak Huntington Beach Resort puts you within easy access of Surf City’s top shops and attractions, including the famous Huntington Beach Pier and Main Street, which is lined with some of the area’s best restaurants and bars. That said, you don’t need to leave the property to enjoy a proper meal; the on-site Pacific Hideaway Restaurant serves globally influenced dishes in a lively, social atmosphere. The resort’s breezy common areas include an open-air patio with fire pits, perfect for gathering with friends or relaxing after a day at the beach. Rooms and suites reflect a similar coastal-cool aesthetic, and amenities—such as a nightly wine-and-cheese social hour, weekly yoga classes, and bike rentals—abound. 

Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa

Located next door to Paséa Hotel & Spa, this expansive resort stands out for its Spanish-inspired architecture and prime oceanfront location. When they’re not out exploring, guests can often be found lounging in one of the property’s plush cabanas or unwinding at the 20,000-square-foot Pacific Waters Spa, which has tranquil treatment rooms, therapeutic soaking tubs, and a serene outdoor courtyard. The property also has multiple pools, lush courtyards, and a variety of upscale accommodations, many with private balconies or ocean views.

The Waterfront Beach Resort

With 437 rooms and suites spread across two massive towers, The Waterfront Beach Resort is a full-service oceanfront escape reminiscent of the grand resorts you might find in Mexico or the Caribbean. Guests can easily enjoy their stay without ever leaving the property, thanks to amenities like a tranquil spa, a handful of bars and restaurants, and two sparkling pools—one featuring waterslides for a family-friendly vibe.

Best Things to Do

Explore the Bolsa Chica Wetlands.

“For outdoor lovers, we also have the Bolsa Chica Wetlands, which offer beautiful walking trails and incredible bird-watching,” says Kellie Hallworth, a born-and-raised Huntington Beach local. “I love taking evening strolls here to unwind from busy days, and I’ve seen coyotes, bald eagles, owls, bunnies, turtles, and so much more.” The nearly 1,450-acre ecological reserve is a tranquil escape from the buzz of the beach and surrounding downtown, with well-marked trails winding past coastal dunes, tidal flats, and marshes.

Hit the beach.

This is the obvious answer, but beyond lounging on the sand, the real magic happens in the water—Huntington Beach is Surf City USA, after all. You’ll find plenty of surf schools, including HB Surf School and Banzai Surf School, which have lessons and rentals for every skill level. Pre- or post-dip, take a stroll along the Huntington Beach Pier, which, as Hallworth shares, “is probably the most iconic attraction associated with Huntington Beach.” Beyond the eight-mile-plus palm-fringed main stretch, be sure to check out the famous, leash-optional Dog Beach, a beloved spot where locals and visitors let their pups run free along the shore—a rarity in Southern California.

Learn about Huntington Beach’s surf history.

Denise MacAllister, a lifelong Huntington Beach local who works at the city’s renowned International Surfing Museum, recommends stopping by to check out exhibits like the world’s largest surfboard and learn about the history and culture of Surf City USA. The museum displays vintage boards, photos, and memorabilia honoring past and present surfing legends. Just outside, stroll along the Surfing Walk of Fame on Main Street, where plaques celebrate icons who’ve made their mark here.

Take a scenic boat ride.

Huntington Beach is best experienced on the water. While I’m not a surfer, I loved my outing with Prince Charters, which took us through Huntington Harbour, a scenic network of canals lined with luxury homes. Several other companies, like Huntington Harbour Yacht Club, have similar cruises, with options like sunset sails, wine tastings, and holiday lights tours in the winter.

Go shopping.

Both MacAllister and Hallworth recommend visiting Pacific City, a lively outdoor retail and dining complex conveniently located across the street from the beach. Here, you’ll find stylish shops, local brands, and restaurants, all with sweeping ocean views. Meanwhile, just a short walk away, Main Street is lined with independent boutiques, surf stores, and casual cafés that capture the city’s laid-back spirit.

For a totally different vibe, visit Old World Village, which Hallworth describes as “a hidden gem, with art, shops, coffee, and more, that gives you a bit of a change of scenery from the beaches.” The charming, German-inspired enclave looks like it’s been plucked straight from a storybook, complete with cobblestone walkways, half-timbered buildings, and cozy courtyards.

Nightlife 

Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge

Set atop the Twin Dolphin Tower at The Waterfront Beach Resort, Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge has panoramic ocean views, fire pits, and a compact menu of cocktails, wines, and shareable bites. Come here to catch the sunset and stay cozy once the evening chill sets in.

Sandbar Cocina y Tequila

For “fantastic margaritas and Mexican food,” Hallworth heads straight to Sandbar. It’s especially buzzy come happy hour, when folks flock here for the under-$8 appetizers and half-off shots and beers. The lively patio and upbeat crowd make it a great spot to kick back after a day at the beach.

Jolie 

Jolie is one of Hallworth’s favorite bars for its amazing sunset views and top-notch service, which she describes as “some of the best in all of Huntington Beach.” Its beachfront setting makes it the perfect spot to relax with a drink and watch the sun dip below the horizon.

Treehouse on PCH

The aforementioned Treehouse on PCH deserves its own spot on this list thanks to its fun treehouse theme and “super cool atmosphere,” says Hallworth. With $10 cocktails during happy hour, cabanas and plush lounge seating, and live DJ sets, it’s the perfect place to kick back and soak in the views—and go people-watching. 

Best Restaurants 

Duke’s Huntington Beach

Both Hallworth and MacAllister rave about Duke’s for its incredible ambience, delicious food, and central location just steps from the sand. Named after legendary Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku—and part of the same beloved restaurant group found throughout Hawaii—the oceanfront spot channels a laid-back island vibe with Hawaiian-inspired, seafood-focused fare (think poke tacos and crispy coconut shrimp), tropical cocktails (the mai tai is well worth the hype), and unbeatable pier views. Since it gets crowded, especially around sunset, arrive early to snag a prime spot.

Sugar Shack Café

A Huntington Beach institution since 1967, the family-owned Sugar Shack Café on Main Street is beloved for its classic diner-style menu, friendly service, and old-school Surf City charm. “Some of my fondest memories are eating breakfast at the Sugar Shack with my family,” says MacAllister. “We always ate early and enjoyed the great food, chatting with friends and locals, and catching up on the news.” The all-day breakfast—which features classics like omelets alongside California-inspired favorites such as breakfast burritos—lures locals and travelers alike.

Sushi on Fire

Sushi on Fire is MacAllister’s “go-to for great food,” mainly fresh sashimi and creative sushi rolls. Standouts include the aptly named Beach Boy roll (a seafood-packed extravaganza featuring shrimp tempura, snow crab, tuna, and more, with avocado and the restaurant’s signature sweet and spicy sauce) and the California Tempura roll (a deep-fried California roll topped with eel sauce).

Bear Flag Fish Co.

Part fish market, part restaurant, this seafood spot delivers some of the freshest catches in town. In addition to market-fresh fish like ahi poke by the pound, they also serve up dishes such as cioppino (a San Francisco–style seafood stew brimming with fish, clams, and shrimp) and fish tacos—a personal favorite.

Mama’s Comfort Food & Cocktails

This all-day spot has something for everyone, from waffles and endless variations of Eggs Benedict to seafood favorites like fish and chips and the poke tower. Among the restaurant’s signature dishes are prime rib, meatloaf, fried chicken, fettuccine Alfredo, and mac and cheese—the menu is as eclectic and comforting as its name suggests.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Huntington Beach is from May through September. Summer marks the return of the U.S. Open of Surfing, the 4th of July Parade and Fireworks Show, and the Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge Surf Dog competition, which typically takes place in June. Off the sand, Main Street and Pacific City pulse with the hum of live music and late-night crowds.

How to Get There

Getting to Huntington Beach is a breeze. The closest and most convenient gateway is to fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Santa Ana, California, which is about a 20-minute drive away, depending on traffic. Travelers coming from farther afield can also fly into Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), roughly 30 and 60 minutes away, respectively. Once you land, rent a car or hop in a ride-hailing service such as Uber to make your way down the coast; a large stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway runs right through Huntington Beach, making it a perfect stop on any Southern California road trip. 

How to Get Around

While a car is recommended for exploring neighboring beach towns, Huntington Beach itself is easy to navigate. The OC Bus system runs routes along Beach Boulevard and the Pacific Coast Highway, connecting you to nearby spots like Newport Beach and Costa Mesa for just a few dollars a ride. Uber and Lyft are widely available, but if you’re planning to explore beyond Huntington—say, a scenic drive down the PCH—renting a car is your best bet.