Why Go to Huntington Beach
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Few places feel more classically Californian than Huntington Beach. Nicknamed Surf City USA, this Orange County town between Newport Beach and Long Beach trades the glitz of Malibu and Laguna for a laid-back, sun-and-surf lifestyle.
Huntington Beach has about 10 miles of sandy beaches, perfect for surfing, beach volleyball, biking along the coastal path and even bringing your dog to the dedicated Dog Beach. Walk out on the long Huntington Beach Pier to watch the surfers, and visit the International Surfing Museum. Nature lovers can explore the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, a 1,400-acre wetland full of birds. Downtown along Main Street is packed with restaurants, bars, shops and hotels, and in the evening, gather around a beach bonfire pit as the sun sets over the Pacific.
Huntington Beach is close to Disneyland, making it a perfect beach add-on to a Disney trip. I'll find a beachfront hotel and plan your days in the sun.
BEST FOR
Surfers, beach lovers, families and outdoor travelers
BEST MONTHS
Summer draws the largest beach crowds, while late spring and fall can offer mild days with a more relaxed atmosphere. Ocean temperatures stay cooler than many visitors expect.
EXPLORE
Main Street and the pier anchor downtown; Pacific Coast Highway links oceanfront areas; Huntington Central Park and Bolsa Chica wetlands offer inland nature experiences.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Huntington Beach
North America › West Coast › USA › California
Surf culture and easygoing Southern California coastline
Coastal & Harbor
Surfing
Dogs
Vibe
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Pair Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve’s trails with a beach visit, then return downtown for sunset near the pier.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Sunset is popular; bring a layer for the sea breeze.
Huntington Beach Pier
Walk the city’s signature pier for ocean views and a front-row look at local surf culture.
Swim near lifeguard coverage and heed posted surf advisories.
Huntington City Beach
Relax on wide sandy stretches close to downtown shops, volleyball courts and the pier.
Bring binoculars and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
Explore coastal wetlands on trails popular for birdwatching and nature photography.
Check parking and beach rules before setting up for the day.
Bolsa Chica State Beach
Visit a long Pacific shoreline suited to beach walks, surfing and sunset outings.
This is easiest to explore on foot once parked.
Downtown Main Street
Browse surf shops, cafés and restaurants in the heart of Surf City.
Expansive Spanish-inspired beachfront resort with pools, dining, and a pedestrian connection toward the sand.
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa
Pacific Coast Highway, south of pier
Hotel Tags
Modern upscale ocean-view hotel close to Pacific City shops and restaurants, within easy reach of the pier.
Paséa Hotel & Spa
Pacific City, downtown waterfront
Hotel Tags
Full-service oceanfront resort with family-friendly amenities and beach access across the coastal road.
The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel
Pacific Coast Highway
Hotel Tags
Surf-inspired boutique hotel just off the pier, ideal for visitors prioritizing walkable dining, shops, and beach activities.
Kimpton Shorebreak Huntington Beach Resort
Downtown near Huntington Beach Pier
Hotel Tags
Suite-style hotel near the Bella Terra shopping area, a practical choice for guests who do not need an oceanfront address.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Huntington Beach Orange County
Bella Terra / inland Huntington Beach
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Huntington Beach
High 72°F · Low 52°F · Rain 1 in
Shorter days make museums and heritage visits practical; plan around weather. For a destination-specific November plan, consider Bolsa Chica wetlands.
Summer draws the largest beach crowds, while late spring and fall can offer mild days with a more relaxed atmosphere. Ocean temperatures stay cooler than many visitors expect.
Best Times to Visit Huntington Beach
WHEN TO GO
06
Walking
The pier, Main Street and nearby beachfront are easy to explore on foot.
05
Rideshare & Taxis
Rideshare is useful between downtown, hotels and the harbor.
04
Local Buses
OCTA service connects selected neighborhoods and nearby Orange County communities.
03
Biking
Coastal paths are popular for biking; follow posted pedestrian and cycle rules.
02
Driving & Parking
A car is helpful for separated coastal areas; beachfront lots can fill on busy days.
01
John Wayne Airport
SNA is a convenient regional arrival airport; compare transfer options.
Walk downtown and the pier area, then use a car or rideshare for the wetlands, harbor and more distant beaches. Paid beach parking can fill early.
Getting Around Huntington Beach
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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