The Best of Huntington Beach

The endless summer lives on in Huntington Beach. Southern California’s beach culture thrives along this city’s curving shoreline, where you can bicycle down an oceanfront path, play volleyball, and, of course, surf.

You’ll find year round surfing here, and even if you never grab a board, you can view of some of the local dudes riding the waves alongside the Huntington Beach Pier. From the pier, it’s just a short walk to Main Street’s surf shops and restaurants, many with sidewalk tables or decks that let you bask in fresh ocean breezes and sun-soaked afternoons. For a list of all the great Southern California beaches go here. Continue to read and Visit Huntington Beach CA! You can also view all the best southern California beaches here.

Weather – Best Time to Visit Huntington Beach

The best tine to visit is during the late spring when temperatures are still warm but accommodations are much cheaper. During this period, the cost of a hotel room is $140/night on average. Save 40% per day compared to what you would have paid in June. Temperatures hover in the mid 60s, just a bit cooler than the average 70°F you would experience during high season.

Most visit during the summer, so expect higher hotel prices. The July 4th Holiday week (July 1st – 9th), the US Open of Surfing week (July 28th to August 6th) as well as the Labor Day week (September 1st – 5th) are particularly busy dates that you should avoid if you don’t like crowds.null

What Should You Pack?

When figuring out what to pack for the beach, there are two tips to keep in mind. First, forgetting an item isn’t the end of the world. Unless you’re heading for a remote, deserted island, chances are you can find a store where you can pick up the extras. Second, don’t stress out over making a packing list when there’s a stress-free beach travel essentials list for you below:

• Sunglasses and hats offer much-needed sunscreen and flip flops are perfect for navigating hot, sandy beaches. Go pack them now so you’re not kicking yourself later.
• What about those little items that make beach visits so much more enjoyable? For a little extra comfort on your trip, make sure you pack: Lip balm, sunscreen, bug spray.
• Beach toys and goggles are a must for kids. Building sandcastles and viewing the underwater wonders are perennial favorites.
• Take a first-aid kit with you. Hopefully you’ll only have to worry about a few minor scrapes from seashells, but having your own kit handy is a good precaution.
• Beach Bag – Your beach bag will likely contain a few of the items mentioned above. For a well-rounded bag, consider tossing in sunscreen, lip balm, bug spray, first-aid kit and water-proof baggies.
• Beach Gear – No matter who’s supplying the gear, look to have the following items on hand: beach bag, beach chairs, beach towels, beach umbrella or tent, beach cart and a cooler.
• Remember: Don’t wait until you’re parched to drink. When you’re out in the heat and sun, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking regularly. So take along a water bottle as well.

Best Huntington Beach Area Beaches

Huntington BeachThis 10-mile stretch of the Pacific coastline is renowned for world-class surfing conditions, and attracting water sports enthusiasts. Explore the iconic Huntington Beach Pier which is popular for fishing and observing surfers. Amenities include beachfront restrooms, outdoor showers, abundant picnic areas, and beach wheelchairs. 

Mother’s Beach

This family-friendly beach features gentle, wave-free waters, making it an ideal spot for children and novice swimmers. The expansive shore invites castle builders, while the calm bay is perfect for paddle boarding and kayaking. Amenities include picnic tables, barbecue grills, and a playground.

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Cabrillo Beach

This beach features one side that opens onto a serene harbor, perfect for families and beginner swimmers, and another that meets the Pacific’s surf-able waves, ideal for surfing, windsurfing, and beach volleyball. Amenities include a playground, picnic areas, and a bathhouse.

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Torrance County Beach

This 1.5-mile sandy shore has a well-rounded mix of calm scenery, recreational pursuits, and guest-friendly amenities. The beach’s consistent surf draws both leisurely beach goers and water sports enthusiasts, with activities ranging from sunbathing and swimming to surfing and body boarding. 

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Little Corona del Mar Beach

This beach, renowned for its beauty, tranquility, and abundant marine life, captivates nature enthusiasts and families alike. Its tide pools teem with starfish, anemones, and crabs, offering a vivid marine biodiversity. Swimmers, snorkelers, and divers find the calm waters inviting, while the striking ocean views and arching rock formations are a delight for photographers. 

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Best Restaurants in Huntington Beach

Duke’s $11 – 30

On the beach at the Huntington Beach Pier, Duke’s restaurant and Barefoot Bar invites you to enjoy a refreshing taste of the Pacific. Relax and take in the views while you enjoy the Hawaiian beach house ambiance and the freshest premium seafood and prime steaks, uniquely prepared and thoughtfully served. Duke’s offers lunch and dinner in the main dining area, along with cocktails and more casual fare in the Barefoot Bar. Telephone: 714-374-6446 Web: Duke’s

SeaSalt Wood Fire Grill $11 – 30

Their “farm-to-fire” grill menu combines the traditions of the Old West with a modern twist. Get ready to indulge in meat slow-grilled alongside seasonally fresh vegetables over an open redwood oak fire and topped with their own sea salt sensations blended in-house. Pair your meal with one of the “craft rim” libations, and you’ll be making California taste history. Telephone: 714-804-5545 Web: SeaSalt Wood Fire Grill

25 Degrees $11 – 30

25 Degrees adds an upscale twist to the traditional burger joint, offering unique burger toppings and a stellar wine list, as well as a full bar including signature handcrafted specialty cocktails and adult-inspired milkshakes, such as the famous Guinness Milkshake. Telephone: 714-960-2525 Web: 25 Degrees

Bear Flag Fish Co. $11 – 30

The best cut of the best fish. Fresh out of the ocean, expertly prepared. Getting that taste while eating healthy is what inspired Bear Flag in the first place. It used to happen on the back of a boat. Now Bear Flag Fish Co. brings it to you at Lot 579 in Pacific City. Telephone: 714-673-3474 Web: Bear Flag Fish Co.

Ways & Means Oyster House $11 – 30

Loading its menu with ocean-inspired bites, focuses on sustainably caught fish and fresh vegetarian plates. The oyster offerings will also expand including raw oysters and clams paired with mignonette, lemon, and tabasco; seafood towers; and creamy lobster bisque are just a few of the bites to look forward to. Located at Pacific City. Telephone: 714-960-4300 Web: Ways & Means Oyster House

Best Huntington Beach Nightlife

SeaLegs at the Beach

Visit SeaLegs at the Beach for your favorite wines and beers at Bolsa Chica State Beach. A full, upscale beach-friendly menu is also available to enjoy while watching the sunset or taking a break from surfing. Open Tuesday to Sunday, reservations are accepted for VIP cabanas, fire pits, lounge chairs, and Adirondack chairs. Telephone: 714-698-4188 Web: SeaLegs at the Beach

Hurricanes Bar & Grill

The 2,000-square-foot patio perched above Main Street offers ocean views and killer sunsets. Live local and regional sporting events are featured on the multitude of big-screen televisions inside and on the patio. Each night, you’ll find live entertainment and dancing featuring OC’s hottest bands and So Cal’s finest DJs. Telephone: 714-374-0500 Web: Hurricanes Bar & Grill

Black Bull Chop House

Twelve big screen TVs broadcast major sporting events and fun videos while guests try to hang on to “Bo”-dacious, a mechanical bull. Swing by Thursday through Saturday nights to experience Downtown’s largest dance floor in the back patio area. Telephone: 714-969-6700 Web: Black Bull Chop House

Baja Sharkeez

Baja Sharkeez combines the atmosphere and style of a south-of-the-border beach cantina with the latest in high-def and surround-sound technology. Head to Baja Sharkeez for lunch to enjoy specials from its mesquite-Mex broiler menu, including the popular Taco Tuesday special.  Or join the nightlife on Main Street and take in a game on one of the many high-definition TVs both inside and out on the patio. Telephone: 714-960-5282 Web: Baja Sharkeez

The Bungalow

This Santa Monica landmark of cool has opened a second location here in Pacific City, and with its combination of lounge spaces, outdoor patio, cozy, rustic-vintage design, specialty cocktails, DJs who know how to get the crowd going and – let’s not forget – ocean views, it’s already setting new standards for the OC. The food menu’s pretty great too. Telephone: 714-374-0399 Web: The Bungalow

Best Hotels in Huntington Beach