Huntington Beach, CA sits in northern Orange County and is a prime spot for surfers and lovers of great overall weather.
There are so many fun things to do here, you will likely never go bored. Here are 8 of the most exciting activities you can find in the area.
1. DOWNTOWN HUNTINGTON BEACH
The quaint downtown area of Huntington Beach is lined with palm trees, small local shops, and unique restaurants. It’s a relaxing vibe for visitors and residents alike. You can explore a plethora of surf shops, grab something tasty from a food truck, or listen to live music from a local musical act. This area is home to the International Surfing Museum, Huntington Beach Pier, and more.
2. PACIFIC CITY
Right next to scenic Pacific Coast Highway is Pacific City. It’s a fun, bustling area of retail and dining establishments all within short walking distance. There are many comfortable lounge and sitting areas for visitors to stop, relax, and smell the ocean breeze.
3. THE HARBOR
The Huntington Beach Harbor features a collection of islands that are typically fully stocked with boats and other watercraft. Visitors can check out Peter’s Landing Marina for a bevy of boat rentals and they can quickly escape the harbor confines into the ocean. There are also chartered fishing expeditions to be had from here.
4. SURF CITY NIGHTS
Looking for a live music experience on every street corner? Come by downtown Huntington Beach on Tuesday nights for an exciting time. They have live music at every main intersection and row after row of locally made produce and artwork.
Of course you can also grab a tasty burrito or burger from one of many food trucks that frequents the area. It’s always a good time in Huntington Beach.
5. HUNTINGTON BEACH PIER
Perhaps the most famous spot in this area is the Huntington Beach Pier. It starts at the edge of downtown and extends outwards about 1,800 feet! In the early morning, you’ll usually see it lined with fishing poles as local fisherman try to make an early catch. As the day goes on, crowds will start to arrive and explore.
There are several businesses located on the pier, including local surf shops, gift stores, and a fish equipment rental shop. People walking around the pier will notice surfers catching waves and even riding beneath the pier in some cases.
6. US OPEN OF SURFING
Every surfing fan knows about the U.S. Open of Surfing event that takes place each summer, usually from the final week in July through the first week in August. This competition is the largest action sports event in North America, and attracts thousands of fans from around the world.
It was unfortunately forced to cancel in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s scheduled to return in 2021.
7. BOLSA CHICA ECOLOGICAL RESERVE
Bird watchers and photographers have a blast exploring the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, home to a 13,000-acre coastal estuary and four mile network of trails. With a beautiful landscape that houses coastal dunes, wetlands, and salt marshes, you’ll be free to explore the vast natural ecosystem around Huntington Beach, CA. There are also many guided tours available, especially during the weekends.
8. HUNTINGTON BEACH CENTRAL PARK
Feel like relaxing in the local park? Huntington Beach Central Park is more than 350 acres in size and provides tons of exciting opportunities for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the beautiful outdoor elements. You can play disc golf or just a casual game of frisbee, or go for a hike through the extensive system of trails in the park.
An Outdoorsman’s Paradise
If you love the outdoors, you will absolutely love Huntington Beach. It’s truly perfection, where the ocean meets your imagination.