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Top picks in Huntington Beach

Beach fun

You want to be at the beach and have something active to do while you are there. You shouldn't have to choose between the water and keeping yourself occupied.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Huntington State Beach image 1
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Large sandy beach offers spacious and calm atmosphere with fire pits and volleyball nets for activities. Ocean views provide stunning sunsets and a relaxing vibe. Facilities include paved paths and food stands, attracting families and beachgoers seeking a peaceful setting.

Huge, great waves attract surfers while the beach offers a perfect family setting. Access right off Pacific Coast Highway makes it easy to relax, play, and spend the day.

Cold water offers a refreshing challenge for swimming. Bicycling and wave riding provide active fun in a clean, less crowded setting ideal for families.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful and has large sandy areas."

"It's a fun beach day with lots of activities for the kids."

"The waves here have very good breaks."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 for the day pass at Huntington State Beach.

2

Expect limited parking availability during peak summer months.

3

Dogs are not allowed on the beach.

02
Huntington Beach image 1

Wide sandy stretches meet a lively boardwalk and buzzing pier, creating a classic Surf City USA vibe. The atmosphere shifts from peaceful and quiet during weekdays to lively and energetic with surfers and live music events. Amenities include fire pits, volleyball nets, and beachside restaurants, enhancing the active outdoor experience.

Clean, safe beach with super nice waves offers great spots for walking and watching sunsets. Plenty of parking and beachfront hotels make access easy for a day by the sea or outdoor activities.

Wide sandy stretches and a fun boardwalk with a pier offer plenty of activities. Watching fishermen reel in fish and surfers ride strong waves adds to the entertainment.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and clean."

"The sunset here is amazingly beautiful and unforgettable."

"You'll have so much fun doing water sports and exercising."

Good to know

1

The beach closes at 10 PM, so arriving early is necessary to enjoy bonfires.

2

The Pacific Air Show is held annually at Huntington Beach.

3

The general parking lot next to the pier costs $3.00 per hour.

03
Huntington Beach Coal Fire Pits image 1

Picnic ground with coal fire pits near a wide sandy shoreline offers a lively yet peaceful atmosphere. Strong waves attract surfers while sunset views create a relaxing vibe. The area fills up early, especially on weekends, with plenty of amenities nearby.

Wide, sandy shoreline offers a popular surfing spot with warm water and a clean, beautiful beach. Fire pits provide a safe place for evening gatherings, making it great for families, friends, or solo visits.

Clean beach offers plenty of fun in the sun with coal fire pits adding a unique touch. Kids find it enjoyable, making it a solid spot for family fun.

People are saying

"You can have a great fire and roast marshmallows on the beach."

"You need to arrive early for ample parking."

"I had a fun and easy time with the kids."

Good to know

1

You can reserve a spot when you arrive or pay to reserve a spot at the entrance.

2

You have to get there early to secure your own fire pit.

3

The large parking areas require arriving early to get a good spot.

04
Bolsa Chica State Beach image 1

Public beach offers spaciousness and peaceful, mellow atmosphere with rare crowds. Amenities include fire pits, live music, and a wide boardwalk for walking and boarding. Views at the pier stand out as fantastic and beautiful.

Expansive sand space and clean beaches make this spot great for beach days and bonfires. The area stays pretty calm and uncrowded, with plenty of parking and decent restrooms.

Clear water invites swimming fun while soft sand adds to the good times. Families enjoy a full day of beach activities together.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful, clean, and perfect for a sunset picnic."

"The ocean views here are stunning, stretching as far as the eye can see."

"It's super fun splashing in the clean water and sand."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 for the day, and credit or debit cards are required.

2

Arrive before 10 am on summer weekends to avoid long lines.

3

The beach closes at 10 PM, and lifeguards enforce this strictly.

05
Huntington Beach, California image 1

Expansive coastline with clean white sand and clear blue water offers a laid-back atmosphere filled with lively music and performances. Lifeguards patrol the beach, which hosts activities like volleyball, yoga, and surfing. Walking and biking trails run along the rim, attracting couples, families, and dog walkers throughout the day.

Wide, clean beaches with white sand and clear ocean water offer great spots for beach sports and relaxing walks. Lifeguards are present, and the area supports easy parking and accessibility for disabled individuals.

Main stage events like Fetch Fanatic and costume contests offer engaging entertainment. The beach provides a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of fun activities.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be clean and pristine."

"It's always lively here, full of people."

"The beach sand is fine and clean."

Good to know

1

Parking fees at Huntington Beach are $15-20 per day, and spots can be hard to find.

2

The beach is very crowded during summer and weekends, so plan accordingly.

3

Waves can be strong and dangerous for inexperienced swimmers, so caution is advised.

06
Huntington Beach Pier image 1

Fishing pier offers spectacular ocean views with sunsets and surfers visible from its length. The atmosphere stays relaxed and lively, featuring live music and local activities that draw people for fishing and socializing. Wide, open beach surrounds the pier, adding to the boho vibe and scenic experience.

White sand and ocean views create a relaxed atmosphere perfect for long walks and surfing. The pier offers a clean, iconic boardwalk with shops, bars, and great spots to watch sunsets and surfers.

Surfing offers a lively and satisfying challenge that can last for hours. The pier provides a fun spot to swim, people watch, and enjoy casual dining.

People are saying

"I loved watching the sunset turn the sky into firelight."

"I watched surfers carving into the Pacific like dancers."

"I loved watching the sunset over the beach."

Good to know

1

Activities happen every weekend at the Huntington Beach Pier.

2

There are concerts, competitions, and festivals at the pier throughout the year.

3

Parking can be limited during major events at the pier.

07
SeaLegs at the Beach image 1
Live music bar

Outdoor bar set directly on sand with Adirondack chairs and beachfront seating creates a relaxed, sunny vibe. Live music, including reggae on Sundays and cover bands, energizes weekends with free performances. Space is ample, inviting groups to enjoy music and beach culture together.

Live music and comedy shows take place right on the beautiful beachfront with plenty of space to enjoy from the sand. Food, drinks, and a fun beachside cafe vibe add to the experience during events like motorcycle classics and reggae performances.

Live music sets a fun beachside atmosphere where people enjoy dancing and singing along. The spot offers a great vibe for drinking and watching the sunset.

People are saying

"I loved the live music and the cool beach vibe."

"I always had fun times here."

"I loved chilling to live music with an ocean breeze at the beach."

Good to know

1

Parking is paid at Bolsa Chica State Beach on Pacific Coast Highway.

2

SeaLegs at the Beach is cashless, so bring a credit card.

3

You need to reserve a cabana and bonfire in advance.

08
Board Members Surf & Electric Bike Shop image 1

Electric bikes dominate the setup, all clean and new with great prices for rental or purchase. The shop maintains a cool vibe with quality gear and a family-run feel. It sits conveniently close to the coast, attracting those looking for fun and unique rides.

Riding along the beach offers a memorable e-bike experience with smooth paths and scenic views. Friends often enjoy cruising around town and the beach area together.

Electric bikes offer a fun and exciting way to explore. Surf lessons add a unique and enjoyable activity with kind and helpful staff.

People are saying

"Renting electric bikes was a lot of fun for cruising around."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful with everything."

"Keith was a hospitable and encouraging Cali legend."

Good to know

1

The shop offers great deals on used electric bikes for rent.

2

All bikes available for rent are electric and fun to ride.

3

The bikes are well-maintained and in like-new condition.

09
The Bungalow Huntington Beach image 1

Bar offers beach views and an outdoor deck with firepits and comfy seating arranged in cozy lounge areas. Music plays from a live DJ, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Patrons gather to watch sunsets, hang out, and enjoy the ocean breeze in a spacious setting.

Fantastic Pacific Ocean views and a clear sightline to the pier create a stunning beach backdrop. Walkable access to Main Street and the pier adds to the relaxed coastal vibe.

Fun times happen often here with friends or parties. Staff like Bella and Lauren add to the enjoyable atmosphere.

People are saying

"This bar has a beautiful outdoor deck with ocean views."

"Lauren's cocktails were outstanding and made the whole experience worthwhile."

"Lauren's charming personality and friendly energy made the drinks so enjoyable."

Good to know

1

The venue can get really crowded, especially on weekends.

2

They validate parking for you if you need it.

3

Happy hour offers a great ocean view and special drink prices.

10
Sea Salt at the Beach image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Beachfront barbecue spot offers live music and open-air dancing with ocean views and fire pits for bonfires. The atmosphere is lively and fun, drawing a beach crowd that enjoys sunsets and energetic vibes. A small dance floor and separate bar area support the social, festive setting.

Live music plays right on the sand with bands like Pulp Vixen performing at a beach bar. The beach offers bonfire pits and a lively atmosphere for dancing and enjoying the water view.

Sunday Funday brings a lively crowd and live music that keeps the energy high. The beach atmosphere adds to the overall fun vibe.

People are saying

"The live music here is super enjoyable with a fun beach crowd."

"I loved the live music and fun atmosphere by the beach."

"The live music and beach crowd made the fun activities worth it."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices for food and drinks, with beers costing around $10.

2

Seating is limited, and shade is hard to find.

3

Parking is only available in the State parking lot, which can fill up quickly.

11
Kimpton Shorebreak Huntington Beach Resort image 1

Oceanfront hotel offers spectacular views and a laid-back beachy vibe with family-friendly atmosphere. Amenities include free bike rentals, fire pits, and a record player with vinyl selection. Lobby buzzes with energy, and live music keeps the atmosphere lively late into the night.

Steps from the beach with the pier just across the road, this spot offers a modern beach vibe and easy access to the shoreline. Comfortable beds and a location packed with amenities make it a solid choice for a beach stay.

People are saying

"This hotel's vibe is a stylish, beach-side pad with ocean views."

"This place is dog friendly and even has a special menu for your dog."

"It's a short walk to the beach and the pier."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-6 PM with free beer and wine.

2

The hotel does not have a pool available for guests.

3

The resort is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their pets.

12
Zack's image 1
Surf shop

Surf shop combines laidback atmosphere with spacious outdoor seating near the beach. It offers top-notch bike and boogie board rentals alongside casual food options. Community vibe welcomes dogs and encourages relaxed enjoyment of ocean views.

Right on the beach with clean outdoor seating and a wide rental selection including bikes and boogie boards. Staff provide friendly, helpful service and advice for enjoying the beach.

Electric bikes offer a fun ride along the beach path. Staff at Zack's engage well and create a kid-friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"The staff here takes care of you like family at the beach."

"The food here is amazing and affordable."

"I rented electric bikes for fun on the beach path."

Good to know

1

Zack's is pet-friendly, allowing diners to enjoy meals with their dogs.

2

Renting equipment at Zack's is easy and convenient for beachgoers.

3

Zack's offers affordable food options, with meals for three people costing around $64.

13
The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel image 1

Oceanfront resort offers spectacular views and beach access with two swimming pools and jacuzzis. The atmosphere is lively with loud music and busy entrances on weekends. Family-friendly vibe includes complimentary beach gear and valet service.

A short walk leads to a cleaned-up beach that sits just across the road from the resort. The beach offers easy access and features a bonfire package for celebrations.

Heated pools and hot tubs let you swim comfortably year-round. Water slides add extra fun, especially for kids.

People are saying

"The hotel staff's genuine care made my stay feel amazing."

"It's steps from the beach with gorgeous ocean views."

"The pools and water slides are so much fun for the kids."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is mandatory and costs $55 per night.

2

The beach is a short walk away and easy to access.

3

The check-in process starts at 4 PM.

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Huntington Beach, California

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