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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Huntington Beach

Relaxing beach spots

The sound of the tide is the only thing that matters when the goal is to completely disconnect.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Huntington Beach Pier image 1
Huntington Beach Pier image 2
Huntington Beach Pier image 3
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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.

Soft, relaxing sands create a calm beach atmosphere. The pier offers sunset views and a chill vibe for strolling or just soaking in the scene.

People are saying

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

"I loved watching the sunset over the beach."

"It's a perfect spot for a stroll and enjoying the ocean breeze."

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.

02
Huntington State Beach image 1

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.

Spacious areas and a calming sea air create a relaxed vibe. The spot offers options to unwind, play, and enjoy food and drinks by the pier.

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."

"It's a spacious and beautiful place to relax."

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.

03
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, uncrowded beaches offer a relaxing atmosphere with plenty of space to enjoy the sea and sun. Central coves feature breathtaking cliffs and tide pools, perfect for a calm day by the water.

People are saying

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

"The sunset here is amazingly beautiful and unforgettable."

"It's a beautiful, wide, and clean beach, perfect for relaxing."

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.

04
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.

Water offers a calming retreat for about 30 minutes. Views provide a relaxing and amazing backdrop for walking, swimming, or playing sports.

People are saying

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

"You need to arrive early for ample parking."

"It's a perfect spot for walking, swimming, or just relaxing."

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.

05
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.

Quiet surroundings and a peaceful vibe make it easy to relax. Activities like surfing and walking through the wetlands add to the calm atmosphere.

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 a beautiful, clean, and quiet place to relax."

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.

06
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.

Wide open spaces and gentle ocean sounds create a calm atmosphere. The environment invites you to kick back and enjoy a peaceful vibe.

People are saying

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

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

"It's an awesome place to kick back and relax."

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.

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.

Sunny afternoons offer a calm setting to relax and listen to music. Visiting early mornings or on weekdays provides a more peaceful atmosphere before entertainment starts.

People are saying

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

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

"I had a great time relaxing at this spot."

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
Sandy's Beach Shack image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating offers beach and ocean views with a laid-back beach vibe and live steel drum music. The bar area is loud and busy, while outdoor heaters keep the patio warm. Dogs are welcome with a dog-friendly menu and amenities.

The beach offers a laid back beach style vibe with great views of the pier and ocean. The spot sits right on the sand, making it easy to enjoy the water and the atmosphere.

A relaxed vibe sets the tone with a beach eats atmosphere that invites you to unwind. The spot offers a calm dining experience perfect for a laid-back lunch or meal.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was awesome and delicious."

"The food at this beach spot was amazing and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and comforting."

Good to know

1

Outdoor music happens on Sundays from 3 to 6 PM.

2

Happy hour offers sunset views at Sandy's Beach Shack.

3

Pets are welcome, with a special menu for dogs.

09
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve image 1

Nature preserve with expansive views and diverse bird species creates a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. Paths lined with benches invite quiet observation and relaxation. The area stays calm and uncrowded, emphasizing wildlife protection and serenity.

Clean and quiet beach with well maintained trails. RV spaces sit right on the beach, but parking is unavailable and bathrooms require crossing to the other side.

Expansive views and fresh air create a calm atmosphere with plenty of walking and running trails. Birds and fish add to the peaceful outdoor setting, making it easy to relax and meditate.

People are saying

"The scenery here is beautiful, especially for bird watching."

"Parking for the beach fills up quickly on weekends."

"It's a beautiful, relaxing spot for walking and enjoying nature."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available, but arrive early as it's limited.

2

There is no entry fee to access the reserve.

3

Public events like animal feeding require registration on their website.

10
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.

Sunlight, ocean breeze, and a view create a perfect spot to unwind. Walkable to Main Street and the pier, it offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle where you can watch the sunset and hang out with friends.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a perfect hideaway with ocean breezes and laid-back energy."

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.

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.

Ideal for beach lovers who want to lay low and relax. Small touches like complimentary sโ€™mores kits, social hour, and a relaxed atmosphere create a personal feel.

People are saying

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

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

"Waking up to ocean views and surfers was pure therapy."

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
Pasรฉa Hotel & Spa image 1

Hotel offers gorgeous ocean views and a beachy vibe with beautiful outdoor seating and fire pits. Atmosphere varies from quiet and serene in rooms to lively with music until 2am on weekends at the rooftop bar. Amenities include a large pool with cabanas, spa facilities, and bikes for beach rides.

Steps from the hotel, the beachfront location offers very easy access. Staff provide towels and umbrellas for use on the beach, making it convenient to enjoy the sand and surf.

Opulent surroundings create a relaxed and friendly vibe. Comfortable, dimly lit rooms and a peaceful outside area offer a clean, smart space to unwind.

People are saying

"The hotel staff are so helpful and friendly."

"It's so easy to walk right across the road to the Beach."

"The service here is so warm, personal, and genuinely attentive."

Good to know

1

A daily resort fee of $40 is charged at the end of your stay.

2

Expect excessive noise from events and parties, especially on weekends.

3

Self-parking can be difficult to find at the hotel.

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.

Spacious balconies offer a quiet retreat for relaxing. The dining area features a large ballroom with ample space between tables, creating a calm and comfortable atmosphere.

People are saying

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

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

"This relaxing spot is steps from the beach with gorgeous ocean views."

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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