March 21, 2023

This submit might comprise affiliate hyperlinks. We might obtain a small fee, for gratis to you, for those who make a purchase order. Learn Disclosure.

Once you consider Huntington Seashore in California, your thoughts immediately conjures up photos of surfer dudes driving epic waves it doesn’t matter what the climate or time of 12 months.

Actually, Huntington Seashore is nicknamed Surf Metropolis, due to the browsing tradition that has made town so well-known.

looking at Huntington beach from the water with people on the sand and colorful buildings

However there are extra issues to do in Huntington Seashore CA in addition to browsing. With its beachy group and laid-back California vibe, you’ll discover there are many sights in Huntington Seashore that provide a quiet escape to nature or mean you can merely take within the sophistication and tradition of the realm.

Huntington Seashore is our favourite seaside in California and certainly one of our favorites within the USA. We regularly advocate guests skip Santa Monica and Venice and go right here as a substitute.

HB has the proper seaside way of life vibe for us Aussies – not too pretentious, or busy. It’s laid again with a contact of sophistication and has the surf and the seaside as the main target of life!

It’s additionally one of many cleanest in California among the finest Southern California seashores for browsing.

For those who’re pondering of including Huntington Seashore to your Southern California journey however you’re unsure what to do, then think about including the next sights to your itinerary.

Issues to Do in Huntington Seashore, CA

1. Hit the Surf at Huntington Seashore

aerial view of Huntington Beach Pier.

Huntington Seashore is most well-known for its good waves, year-round sunshine and heat climate, making it a high vacation spot for surfers trying to journey a number of the finest surf within the nation. It’s additionally the place the place the annual ISA World Browsing Video games happen every August.

Whereas Huntington Seashore attracts hardcore surfer lovers, the waves range in depth and dimension, so that you’ll discover there are spots appropriate for any ability degree. 

Novices ought to keep on with the shore break, whereas extra skilled surfers are inclined to benefit from the larger waves close to South Facet or North Facet Huntington Seashore Pier.

Even for those who don’t wish to surf, you’ll discover loads of eating places and cafes alongside the lengthy stretches of sand the place you may sit and watch a number of the most expert professionals do their factor. 

2. Wander the Huntington Seashore Pier

girl posing on camera on Huntington Beach Pier

Maybe probably the most iconic landmark in Huntington Seashore is the Huntington Seashore Pier. 

The pier stretches 1,850 ft out into the Pacific Ocean, making it the longest public pier on the West Coast. 

On the very finish of the pier, you may absorb breathtaking views of the ocean and on the proper season, even see some migrating whales or seabirds off the shore. 

Not solely is there gorgeous surroundings to soak up, however you may solid a line off the aspect and take a look at your hand at fishing, or head over to the Bud & Genes cafe for some scrumptious fish and chips!

  • Hours: 24 hours
  • Tackle: Huntington Seashore, CA 92648

3. Discover Huntington Harbor

boats in Huntington Harbor with snow capped mt baldy in the distance
My Baldy overlooks Huntington Habor

For those who’re searching for issues to do in Huntington Seashore on the water, you then’ll discover loads of water-based actions to get pleasure from at Huntington Harbor. 

Nestled in a quiet space away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Huntington Seashore, Huntington Harbour is a scenic and picturesque harbor the place you may merely get pleasure from being on the water.

The harbor is stuffed with luxurious yachts and large crusing boats, however it’s additionally a spot the place you may hire a constitution boat, an electrical boat, or perhaps a stand-up paddle board or kayak for those who don’t really feel like venturing too removed from land.

For those who really feel adventurous, see for those who can paddle out to one of many 5 man-made islands which have greater than 500 beachfront properties owned by the wealthy and well-known.

For those who’re searching for an awesome escape from metropolis life then Huntington Harbor must be your go-to place.

4. Test Out The Worldwide Browsing Museum & Surfers Stroll of Fame

girl looking at surfboards at the Surfing museum in Huntington Beach

In fact, with all of the browsing tradition within the space, it might be a disgrace to not study all about it on the International Surfing Museum.

Situated in downtown Huntington Seashore, the Worldwide Browsing Museum is a world-class museum devoted to every little thing browsing.

The museum was based by Natalie Kotsch, who has by no means surfed in her life. Natalie acknowledged the significance browsing has to the native residents and so she began curating a group of surfboards and surf memorabilia, to create the museum you see immediately.

Make sure to take a look at the Surfer’s Stroll of Fame only a quick stroll down the street from the museum close to Huntington Seashore Pier, which incorporates a memorial to a number of the world’s finest surfers within the sidewalk.

  • Hours: 11.00am – 5.00pm Thursday – Sunday
  • Tackle: 411 Olive Ave, Huntington Seashore, CA 92648

5. Go on a Whale Watching Cruise

humpback whale

Huntington Seashore, and close by Newport Seashore, are blessed to have whale guests of their heat waters all 12 months spherical.

From the large blue whale visiting in the summertime and fall, to finback whales and gray whales within the winter and spring, it doesn’t matter what time of 12 months you go to, you’re prone to spot a few of these magnificent sea giants.

Minke whales, humpback whales, seals and plenty of species of dolphin, additionally wish to play within the heat Cali waters all year long.

Head over to close by Newport Seashore Harbor to search out boat cruises setting sail day by day to a few of these mammals favourite haunts.

6. Store and Eat at Pacific Metropolis

Pacific City, Huntington Beach, California
Pacific Metropolis Buying

Pacific City is a contemporary retail, leisure and eating area overlooking Huntington seaside.

And Pacific Metropolis was the unique title of the early oceanfront village that we now know as Huntington Seashore.

It was named in honor of that village to as soon as once more convey to life a vibrantly wealthy place that celebrated the distinctive and pure magnificence surrounding it.

It’s an exquisite area and positively has a vibrant and celebratory model whereas conserving in tune with the pure great thing about Huntington.

You get outside lounges, hearth pits and Huntington Seashore views from each plaza, patio and deck.

Pacific City, Huntington Beach, California
Buying with views

It’s an actual gathering place of tourists and locals and I can see why.

Pacific City, Huntington Beach, California

Lot 579 is a contemporary meals corridor that includes burgers, and beer, espresso and our favourite the Pie Not, An Aussie bakery stuffed with meat pies, sausage rolls and lamingtons.

7. Finish the Day with Sundown and Seashore Bonfires

sunset over Huntington beach pier

Are you able to end a Southern California day in every other higher method than watching the solar set from the seaside? In Huntington, seaside sunsets are simply as spectacular as anyplace else on the California shoreline.

However among the finest issues to do in Huntington Seashore that makes them distinctive is their conventional seaside bonfires.

Greater than 500 free Huntington seaside hearth pits can be found at three Surf Metropolis USA seashores: Huntington Metropolis Seashore, Huntington State Seashore, and Bolsa Chica State Park.

It’s first come-first served. Make sure to seize firewood and s’extra substances in your method there!

8. Cruise alongside the Huntington Seashore Path

People walking along the Ocean Strand Huntington Beach

Select your mode of transportation: bike, ft, or skateboard/ curler blade wheels, and burn off a few of these trip energy with the recent salty breeze on the Huntington Seashore Bike Path, also referred to as the Ocean Strand.

It runs for 10 miles alongside the Huntington Seashore shoreline in between Bolsa Chica State Seashore within the north, and previous Huntington State Seashore within the south.

Go so far as you want. We used to to maneuver between completely different areas alongside the strand. Stunning views your entire method!

The trail has seaside concessionaires lined up the trail providing bike and seaside rental, there’s an all-inclusive playground, and meals and cafes are all the time shut by throughout the Pacific Freeway!

This ADA-accessible paved seaside path was voted one of many high 10 coastal trails in the US by Coastal Residing Journal.

I imply have you ever actually been to California when you have not cruised by on a seaside path!

9. Make your personal Pair of Havianas

making havianas inside store

Here’s a distinctive factor to do in Huntington Seashore – make your personal pair of Havianas. This much-loved costume requirement of surfers and seaside lovers might have began in Brazil, however its first US retailer stared in downtown Huntington.

Not solely is it a vibrant and enjoyable retailer with flip flop impressed stools, chandelier additionally constituted of mini sandals, and Havianas in each shade of shade and magnificence adorning the partitions, however you may make your customized pair.

Step as much as the everlasting customization station, select a strap and contrasting foot mattress, and adorn it with a Swarovski crystal attraction earlier than clamping it in to put with the machine!

Now you could have a memento that serves a goal and tells a singular story!

10. Take The Youngsters to Bolsa Chica State Seashore

Great blue heron (Ardea herodias) in flight with its wings spread, is a large wading bird in the heron family. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
Nice blue heron in flight with within the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve,

Spending the day on Bolsa Chica State Seashore is without doubt one of the high issues to do in Huntington Seashore with youngsters because it gives miles of gorgeous shoreline with extensive seashores and loads of open area to loosen up in.

The seaside step by step slopes into clear and clear water, making it excellent for younger youngsters to go swimming. There are additionally hearth pits the place you may gentle a bonfire within the night, and well-maintained bathrooms and showers.

If you wish to do one thing extra energetic, you may hire bikes and cycle alongside the boardwalk or head to the opposite aspect of the freeway to Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve and meander by the wetlands the place chances are you’ll discover some chook watching alternatives.

On a relaxed day, chances are you’ll even spot some dolphins from the shore!

11. Soak up The Websites of Huntington Central Park

Huntington Central Park is a tremendous place to get out and luxuriate in nature. Situated within the coronary heart of town, the park has loads of sights and issues to do to maintain you busy all day.

You’ll be able to head out on the lake with paddle boats, take the children to a number of playgrounds with jungle gyms, and sports activities grounds with tennis courts, basketball courts, and locations to throw a frisbee.

For those who’re searching for free issues to do in Huntington Seashore, then put in your finest strolling sneakers and stroll alongside the strolling trails that wind by the park’s lush inexperienced lawns, forests and flowering vegetation. 

Head over to The Huntington Central Library which has an exquisite botanical backyard outdoors or stroll across the 18-acres of the Shipley Nature Heart which options native vegetation and animals – all fully free.

With one thing for everybody to get pleasure from, Huntington Central Park is the best spot to spend high quality time with mates or household, or simply loosen up and take within the lovely SoCal climate. 

  • Hours: 5.00am – 10.00pm day by day
  • Tackle: 18381 Goldenwest St, Huntington Seashore, CA 92648

12. Store Til You Drop at Bella Terra

For procuring lovers, you’ll discover some nice locations to buy in Huntington Seashore. The most effective locations to buy (that isn’t going to interrupt the financial institution) is Bella Terra.

The Bella Terra shopping center not solely has a number of shops from named Excessive Avenue manufacturers, promoting every little thing from clothes to books to homewares, however it’s additionally a spot to search out wonderful leisure on the weekends.

Head over on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday night to catch some reside music on the garden, or take the children through the daytime for the Maker Market. It’s positively value testing the ‘what’s on calendar’ to see what’s occurring on the Bella Terra throughout your go to.

  • Hours: 10.00am – 9.00pm Monday – Saturday, 11.00am – 6.00pm Sunday
  • Tackle: 7777 Edinger Ave, Huntington Seashore, CA 92647

13. Step Again In Time at Newland Home Museum

For historical past buffs searching for extra instructional issues to do in Huntington Seashore, a visit to the Newland Home Museum is a should.

Newland Home Museum is a historic farmhouse that was in-built 1898, making it one of many oldest buildings within the metropolis. 

It as soon as belonged to local people leaders William and Mary Newland and their 10 youngsters and has been lovingly preserved to appear to be the house because it was as soon as lived in by the Newlands.

It’s distinctive architectural model resembles a midwestern tackle a  a Queen Anne architectural model, with probably the most attention-grabbing architectural part being the octagonal turret which was Mr. Newland’s workplace.

Inside, guests are taken on a journey by historical past with shows, artworks and vintage furnishings that convey the previous to life. 

The museum has a recommended donation of $2 to go to, which makes it among the finest low cost issues to do in Huntington Seashore.

  • Hours: 12.00pm – 4.00pm on the first and third Saturday and Sunday of the month
  • Tackle: 19820 Seashore Blvd, Huntington Seashore, CA 92648

14. Get pleasure from Oktoberfest at Previous World Village

For those who occur to be visiting Huntington Seashore in fall, then you have to ensure that to take a look at the Oktoberfest celebrations at Previous World Village.

Previous World Village is a Bavarian village was a restaurant that gives German and European delicacies. There may be some type of reside music or leisure each weekend, so even for those who do miss the Oktoberfest dates, you’ll wish to head right here on the weekends.

Old World Village is the official house of Oktoberfest celebrations in Orange County and so that you could be positive the expertise might be nothing in need of distinctive. 

  • Hours: 9.00am – 6.00pm Monday and Tuesday, 9.00am – 8.00pm Wednesday – Sunday
  • Tackle: 7561 Heart Ave #50, Huntington Seashore, CA 92647

15. Study About Native Whiskeys at Bonetree Distillery

For those who’re searching for extra distinctive issues to do in Huntington Seashore, then a visit to the Bonetree Distillery to pattern some regionally made whiskeys is without doubt one of the most particular actions you are able to do.

Bonetree Distillery was based in 2017 and moved to Huntington Seashore in 2019, and is devoted to producing a few of Cali’s top-class whiskies. 

When visiting Bonetree, you may study all concerning the strategy of the artistry, from how whiskey is made to the completely different flavors and kinds.

You don’t must ebook for tasting experiences however because it’s a well-liked exercise, it’s a good suggestion to make a reservation to keep away from disappointment. 

  • Hours: 1.00pm – 8.00pm Saturday, 1.00pm – 6.00pm Sunday
  • Tackle: 15557 Graham St, Huntington Seashore, CA 92649

16. Admire Native Artwork at Huntington Seashore Artwork Heart

Artwork lovers will get pleasure from spending time on the Huntington Seashore Artwork Heart which has been open as a group artwork heart for the reason that mid-90s, and represents native artists creating masterpieces in all varieties.

It has exhibitions of work, images and video screenings, and sometimes has lectures and academic packages.

HBAC is the place native artists can share their expertise with the world. Who is aware of, chances are you’ll even discover a new favourite artist!

  • Hours: 12.00 – 6.00pm Tuesday and Wednesday, 12.00 – 8.00pm Thursday, 12.00 – 5.00pm Friday and Saturday, Closed Sunday and Monday.
  • Tackle: 538 Major St #98, Huntington Seashore, CA 92648

17. Study About Unique Reptiles at The Reptile Zoo

people holding a baby crocodile
This was truly in Australia, however nonetheless a reptile dealing with!

For those who’re visiting Huntington Seashore with youngsters, then they might get pleasure from a visit to the Reptile Zoo. 

The zoo offers an academic area for households to study reptiles, arachnids and amphibians from all over the world.

For those who’re courageous sufficient, the zoo’s handlers might even allow you to maintain certainly one of their animals, educating you the correct dealing with strategies, in addition to attention-grabbing details about every animal.

  • Hours: 10.00am – 7.00pm day by day
  • Tackle: 18818 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley, CA 92708

STAY: Kimpton Shorebreak Resort

View of Huntington Beach from the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort, Huntington Beach
Take a look at that view!

The Kimpton is without doubt one of the finest seaside inns in Southern California. You’ll need a little bit of time to get pleasure from this resort if you test in. A room with an ocean view is a magic strategy to begin the day.

The resort is simply steps away from the Pacific Ocean and gives energetic leisure and nightlife choices for these wanting to remain close to Huntington Seashore.

family sitting at table eating
What a reasonably breakfast setting

Pacific Hideaway is its improbable onsite restaurant that serves Latin American and Asian delicacies and delciious wholesome breakfasts. Locals typically come right here to eat as effectively.

the Kimpton additionally has a health heart, climbing wall for the children, and yoga studio, and is pet pleasant!

people sitting on chairs in kimpton courtyard

Exterior, you may loosen up round one of many hearth pits and sip cocktails from the on-site bar. They even organize bike leases so you may discover the realm. What extra may you need from a spot to remain?

Click to Book your Stay at the Kimpton

Excursions of Huntington Seashore

Want inspiration for excursions to take? Listed here are a number of the finest excursions of Huntington Seashore.

Remaining Ideas on Issues to Do in Huntington Seashore CA

life station on huntington beach

Huntington Seashore is a tremendous place to go to with miles of pristine seashores and a energetic downtown space with eating places and outlets, in addition to loads of outside actions to get pleasure from.

Whether or not you get pleasure from browsing, swimming, or just strolling in nature, there’s one thing for everybody in Huntington Seashore. 

We hope this information helped you to plan your go to to Huntington Seashore and supplied some recommendations for what to do. 

It doesn’t matter what you propose to do, we’re positive you’ll have an unforgettable time right here!

Extra Concepts for Orange County + SoCol

silhouette of girl at sunset on Huntington beach near volleyball courts

Huntington Seashore’s location makes it a super place to remain when exploring Orange County and even most of Southern California.

It’s 35 minutes to Anaheim, an hour to Hollywood and 90 minutes to San Diego.