If you visit Huntington Beach today, you’ll never believe it was once a sleepy residential town. Huntington Beach has metamorphosed itself into an authentic beach destination, a hip place that captures the essence of California without having an attitude about it.
Summer is endless in Huntington Beach and the sun, sand, and surf seem to be running people’s lives. The beach vibes take over as soon as you step on the soft sand of infinite beaches and the adventure spirit will nudge you to take on the towering waves and overcome your fears and limits. Because in Huntington Beach, everybody surfs! It’s the law! So pack your bathing suit and flip-flops, rent a board, and go experience the Huntington Beach lifestyle.
Surf all day long
The surfing conditions are simply phenomenal. The waves are so generous, always fun and restless, that every year in July, crowds of surfers gather here to take part and witness the U.S. Open professional surf competition. The town even has a Surfing Walk of Fame and an International Surfing Museum that explains why Huntington Beach is also known as Surf City and displays a mammoth collection of surfboards.
Try stand up paddleboarding
If you prefer activities on calmer waters, you can always rent a board and discover the art of stand up paddleboarding. OEX Sunset Beach offers lessons and group tours and invites you to test your balance and strengthen your core on the waters of Huntington Harbor. You’ll not only get to exercise and learn something new, but you’ll also have the chance to admire summer views of lovely beach houses.
Enjoy a walk on the pier
A walk on the Huntington Beach Pier might sound touristy but don’t let its popularity keep you away. You will miss one of the iconic Huntington Beach moments. Stretching along 1,850 feet, the legendary pier is one of the longest on the West Coast, the city’s heart and a great Instagram backdrop. The pier dates back to 1904 and has become part of the city’s surfing core thanks to the mesmerizing surf performances of Hawaiian surfers George Freeth and Duke Kahanamoku.
Discover the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
If you decide to take a break from the beach, you can visit the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, home to beautiful wetlands habitats. The views are spectacular, dotted with coastal dunes, mudflats, and freshwater marshes that you’ll find hard to believe you’re still in Huntington Beach. You can opt for a visit to the reserve as an educational incursion or hike on one of the many trails of the reserve.
Shop Surf City style
The Main Street is a little corner of paradise for shoppers. Of course, no one is going to be happier with the merchandise available than surfers because they’ll have the opportunity to choose from an impressive variety of surf shops. Shop some more at the newest outdoor mall in town too. Pacific City has so much more to offer than the usual stuff. You’ll find stylish boutiques, artisanal dining venues, as well as live music, and fun things to do, all with an ocean view.
Recharge your batteries with great food
Food awaits at LOT 579, a waterfront food hall where everyone will find something delicious to eat and something new to try. Portola Coffee is the best place to grab a coffee, while The Dude’s Brewing Co, welcomes guests with ice cold beers and other similar treats. Burgers can be found at The American Dream, along with pizza, but also seafood and vegetarian options. Enjoy a cocktail at the Pacific Hideaway while admiring the sea view and, for dessert with a touch of bubbly, book a table at Petals & Pop.
Relax at the spa
Not many spa centers combine a Zen ambiance with cheesecake like the spas in Huntington Beach. The place you’re looking for is Pacific Waters Spa and the dessert you want to order is avocado-lime cheesecake. A magnificent combination ready to care for the wellbeing of your taste buds. Their offer also includes an abundance of massage options, cosmetic procedures, and more “spa cuisine” specialties. Enjoy a luxury spa experience at The Aarna Spa, one of the best hotels spas in the county and don’t hesitate to climb the staircase to the rooftop for amazing views in an over-the-ocean lounge.
Daydream while admiring the sunset
Huntington Beach has ten miles of uninterrupted coastline and numerous spots to admire the sunset in all its splendor. A classic viewing point, the Huntington Pier never disappoints photographs who want to combine the surreal sunset colors with the diaphanous silhouette of the pier and the waves crashing on the beach. The balcony of Fred’s Mexican Café is also a great viewing point offering not only the chance to capture a bird’s eye view of the sun, but also to enjoy a good meal and a glass of wine. For a real SoCal sunset moment drive down the Pacific Coast Highway and catch the sunset from your convertible while listening to your favorite music and sharing memorable moments with your friends.
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