With a chill atmosphere and seemingly endless beaches, Huntington Beach delivers classic California vibes. Nicknamed Surf City USA for its epic waves, this sunshine-soaked hotspot draws wave riders, sunbathers, and fun seekers year-round.
Situated halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, Huntington Beach offers the perfect break from big-city visits or action-packed theme parks. In just one day, you can soak up the laid-back ambiance, marvel at local surf legends, buy super cute souvenirs, fuel up on fish tacos and craft beer, and snap selfies on the iconic pier at sunset…the possibilities seem endless!
Here’s an insider’s guide covering the 8 must-see attractions and activities for an epic Huntington Beach excursion that blends sun, sand, shopping, sights, and more tasty bites than you can handle. Cowabunga dude!
1. Fuel Up on Artisan Coffee
Any vacation day should start with a proper caffeine infusion. Huntington Beach overflows with trendy indie cafés slinging crafted coffee, tea, and breakfast bites.
For the ultimate experience, head straight to Philz Coffee and order their signature pour over brews. Popular picks like the smooth nutty Tesora blend and creamy sweet Philtered Soul make for a delightful eye-opener. Or try their refreshing iced mint mojados on warmer days.
If you prefer espresso drinks, 602 Coffee Shop crafts killer lattes, mochas, and more. Their extensive menu also features acai bowls, toasts, bagels, paninis, and other easy grab and go breakfast items.
2. Cruise Down Coastal Bike Paths
What better way to take in those glittering ocean views than on two wheels? Several companies like Wheel Fun Rentals and Ray’s Beach Rentals offer hourly and daily beach cruiser rentals along Pacific Coast Highway.
Pedal along the paved bike paths hugging the sand to fully appreciate Huntington Beach’s stunning 8.5-mile coastline. Make stops to splash in the shore break, photograph the historic pier, or grab snacks from seaside eateries.
Feeling ambitious? Continue further south along Newport and Laguna Beaches for incredible views of colorful lifeguard stations, towering bluffs, and luxurious beach homes. Just be sure to watch for traffic when crossing busy PCH entrance ramps.
3. Chow Down on All-American Brunch
After working up an appetite from beachfront cycling, it’s time to refuel! For the ultimate HB brunch experience, snag a patio table at The Sugar Shack Cafe on iconic Main Street. Their entire menu celebrates American breakfast classics like fluffy pancakes, loaded scrambles, and giant 23 oz. mimosas!
House favorites include the sweet Peggi’s French Toast made with raisin bread and their chorizo-stuffed breakfast burritos smothered in spicy queso. And their prices stay wallet-friendly even after adding sides of crispy bacon or fruity smoothies.
4. Wander Eclectic Downtown Boutiques
Main Street also offers prime access for wandering through Huntington Beach’s vibrant downtown district. Funky surf shops like Jack’s Surfboards and Huntington Surf & Sport sell everything from bikinis and board shorts to branded hoodies, trucker hats, and flip-flops.
For boho dresses, cropped tees, woven handbags, and bright accessories, dive into trendy stores like Tilly’s, Billabong, Roxy, and more. You’ll likely walk away with the perfect mementos capturing Huntington’s chill, artistic vibe.
And if you lack your surfboard, downtown also offers plenty of rental shops to secure boards, wetsuits, and lessons for hitting the waves later. Because you obviously can’t leave Surf City without catching some waves!
5. Ride Waves at Iconic Huntington Beach
It’s time…to hang ten like the locals! Stake out your spot right on Huntington City Beach, aka the heart and soul of this iconic surf destination. On any given day, you’ll witness an awe-inspiring spectacle of wave riders hanging loose and free against the backdrop of pier pilings and swaying palms.
The consistent waves and sandy bottom create ideal learning conditions for newbies. But you’ll also spot plenty of seasoned surf legends shredding some serious pipe when the swell cooperates. If inspiration strikes, grab a rental board and paddle out! Or stick to bodyboarding and avoid face-planting during your inaugural session.
Not riding waves? Then beach lounging and boogie boarding make for excellent alternatives. Just beware of getting splashed by playful dolphins who frequent these waters during their seasonal migration!
6. Wander, Dine, and Shop at Pacific City
As the golden hour glow illuminates downtown HB, make your way just south of the pier to the open-air plaza known as Pacific City. This vibrant complex serves up spectacular sunset views along with excellent boutique shopping, gourmet dining, and local brews.
Fashionistas love browsing chic shops like Free People, Brandy Melville, Francesca’s, and Urban Outfitters. Satisfy sweet cravings at Lemonade and Hans Homemade Ice Cream. Enjoy craft beers or cocktails on the deck at hip gastropubs like 4th Street Market, Bottle & Pint, or Saint Marc.
With this perfect combo of oceanfront retail therapy and upscale food and drink, it’s easy while away hours at Pacific City.
7. Chow Down on Fish Tacos and Margaritas
You can’t leave Huntington Beach without experiencing the vibrant food scene. And for a quintessential SoCal meal, nothing beats tacos and marks after a long day playing in the surf and sand.
Head straight to Fred’s Mexican Cafe in downtown HB and snag a table on their hopping rooftop patio. Then dig into messy, marvelous Baja fish tacos loaded with lightly fried snapper, tangy crema, shredded cabbage, and fresh pico de gallo.
Balance out the greasy goodness with their incredible tableside guacamole and margaritas the size of your head. It all feels festive, delicious, and the perfect capper for your Huntington Beach day trip!
8. Marvel at Dazzling Sunset Colors
Before heading home, make time to catch one last Instagram-worthy moment at the iconic Huntington Beach Pier. The 1,850 foot structure delivers unbeatable sunset viewing and epic photo backdrops.
Slowly meander out to the very end as the golden hour light illuminates swaying palms, rolling waves, and the distant Catalina Island coastline. Look back toward shore and appreciate the pier’s striking silhouette against vibrant pink and tangerine clouds.
As darkness nears, the bright lights of Pacific City sparkle just beyond the coast. And you realize that yes, Huntington Beach in all its chill, artistic glory shines the brightest of any California beach destination.
Where to Stay and Continue the HB Fun
If 24 hours hardly scratches the surface of all there is to see, do, eat, and explore in Surf City USA, extend the good times by booking a Huntington Beach hotel stay. Here are some top lodging options to keep you close to the action:
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach – Luxurious rooms and amenities across the street from the beach with surf lessons and equipment rentals
Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel – Trendy boutique property paired with beach bikes, nightly social hours, and surf concierge
Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort – Family-friendly suites with waterslides, multiple pools, restaurants and bars
With this Huntington Beach travel guide in hand, get ready to hang loose in iconic Surf City USA. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself booking a return stay before even leaving town. Because Huntington’s infectious chill atmosphere, scenic beauty, delicious food, and eclectic shops will leave you longing for more!