Arriving in Huntington Beach on Southern California’s coast is everything you’d expect and more. The laid-back surf culture and charming small-town vibe, combined with 10 miles of unspoiled coastline bathed in sunshine sets the stage for anyone to feel like a local surfer.
Whether you’re catching waves, exploring the shoreline on foot or by bike, or soaking in the area’s natural beauty, there are endless ways to get to know this friendly beach town. Here are a few.
Day 1
Settle into beach life by crossing the iconic Pacific Coast Highway and make your way onto the historic Huntington Beach Pier—the area’s most photographed landmark—where the wild waves of timeless tradition await.
The 1,850-foot-long pier, originally constructed around 1904 (only shorter then), has been rebuilt several times due to weather events and natural disasters. The one standing today has been in place since 1992 and is one of the longest of its kind on the West Coast.
Looking out to sea, it’s hard not to daydream about the sport that has played such a pivotal role in putting this beach town on the map, with surfers gliding by and memorabilia from both the past and present at every turn.
Emily Molina
Sand and sea work up an appetite, but Primecut Taqueria located at the corner of 5th Street and the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) has the best mesquite-chargrilled tacos, filled with tender meat and fish. Plus, you never have to lose sight of the view with roll-up garage-style windows facing the ocean.
After lunch, it’s only fitting to dive a little deeper into the area’s history with a visit to the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum.
Although surfing has been a part of the culture here since as early as 1914, it was the legendary Hawaiian Olympic swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku who helped popularize the sport around the mid-1920s. View the museum’s fascinating exhibit dedicated to his contributions.
Thanks to the influence of Kahanamoku and others, Huntington Beach became a surfing hub, and why the US Open of Surfing has been held here annually since 1959. That legacy is also celebrated along a stretch of sidewalk next to Jack’s Surfboards where visitors can discover the names of surfing champions etched in history on the Surfing Walk of Fame, as well as the nearby Surfers Hall of Fame.
If surfing isn’t your thing, there’s still plenty to do. You can walk miles of smoothly paved trails along the shore, or rent a Surrey or e-bike for a leisurely ride. Waterfront Adventures has everything you need, including surfboards and wetsuits, in case you’d like to give it a try.
Finish up with dinner at Nardò Italian in the Pacific City outdoor retail hub, where handmade pasta and tiramisu reign supreme—the perfect way to end a memorable day.
Visit Huntington Beach
Day 2
There’s no shortage of cozy coffee shops in the heart of town to get the day started. With lattes in hand, head to the sand between the pier and lifeguard towers for a relaxing yoga session with Yoga on the Beach Huntington Beach.
Let the gentle sound of waves in the distance wash away stress, creating the perfect backdrop to unwind.
Keep the wellness vibe going with lunch at Jan’s Health Bar. A beloved California staple for over 45 years, it’s an ideal way to refuel. Fresh ingredients served amid vibrant shades of avocado make embracing a healthy lifestyle easy and delicious.
Visit Huntington Beach
From nourishing your body to nourishing your soul—spend a leisurely afternoon on Huntington Harbor. A wine cruise from the experts at Prince Charters is an unforgettable way to relax and truly soak in the beauty of the water.
One of the largest harbors in the state, it was developed in the 1960s and encompasses six islands (five of which are man-made), along with several public beaches, canals and perhaps your dream home, all before opening into the vast Pacific Ocean.
Meanwhile, dinner beckons at Pacific Hideaway, the on-site eatery at Kimpton Shorebreak Resort. As you step inside, the bold mural called “Frida” catches your eye. The colorful floral design sets the tone for this laid-back spot with refreshing cocktails and dishes.
Emily Molina
Day 3
Rise and shine to connect with nature at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. The sprawling 1,300-acre habitat encircles a thriving saltwater estuary, making it a haven for birders. The reserve is teeming with wildlife, and home to over 200 bird species, many of which migrate through or nest here year-round.
Take a stroll along the five miles of trails, crossing the bridge and boardwalk over the EGGW (East Garden Grove Wintersburg) Channel, taking in the surroundings at your own pace.
Afterward, enjoy brunch at Jolie Restaurant and Rooftop where you’ll be treated to the most unobstructed ocean views along this stretch of coastline, paired with thoughtfully crafted cocktails and hearty plates to complete your SoCal experience.
Emily Molina
Where to Stay:
Plan your escape at Kimpton Shorebreak Resort. The boutique hotel captures the essence of coastal cool by blending surf whimsy with relaxing outdoor spaces, just steps from the beach, Huntington Beach Pier, and downtown corridor for shopping, dining and nightlife. A unique daily social hour lets guests select from a collection of vinyl and spin their favorites while sipping on complimentary beer or wine. Swap out albums to play on your personal in-room record-player, borrow a bike or indulge in nightly S’mores on the outdoor patio deck. Book at shorebreakhotel.com.
When You Go:
Plan your Huntington Beach getaway at surfcityusa.com.