Overview
Huntington Beach, known as 'Surf City USA,' is famous for its long, beautiful beaches and excellent surfing conditions. It's a popular destination for surfers, beach lovers, and those seeking a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Huntington Beach is renowned for its surfing culture and hosts the U.S. Open of Surfing annually. It's a key location for surf enthusiasts and a popular tourist spot in Southern California.
Location
Address
Huntington Beach, California
Neighborhood: Downtown Huntington Beach
Coordinates
33.659300, -117.993100
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds, better waves for surfing
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Surf competitions
- • Beach cleanups
summer
Hot
- • Extended daylight
- • Beach concerts
autumn
Cool and pleasant
- • Fall surfing
- • Beach festivals
winter
Cool and wet
- • Winter surfing
- • Holiday events
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check surf conditions
- Bring sunscreen
- Respect local surfing etiquette
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (for surfing and beach activities)
- • Strong currents
- • Rip tides
Medical facilities: Lifeguards on duty
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual beachwear, Comfortable clothing, swimwear, Flip-flops, water shoes, No shoes on the sand (optional), No inappropriate attire
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks for surf lessons
- • Official website or local surf shops
- • 24 hours
- • Online booking for popular events
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Huntington Beach App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Surf reports, Event calendar, Dining guides
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Beachfront cafes, Public areas
Charging Stations: Beachfront kiosks
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: John Wayne Airport (SNA)
Distance: 15 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Strong surfing culture, beautiful beaches, relaxed atmosphere
Historical Significance: Home of the U.S. Open of Surfing and a historic surfing community
Insider Tips
- Best surf spots are known to locals, ask for advice
- Early morning surf sessions are less crowded
Local Recommendations
- • Try local surf shops for gear
- • Visit Duke's Huntington Beach for food and drinks
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Huntington Beach Pier
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide shots of the pier and waves
Result: Iconic beach views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Nature reserve
Pacific City
Distance: 3km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Shopping and dining
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early for the best surf"
- "Try local food at Duke's"
- "Respect the surfing community"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
27
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
Free