A paradise for boarders, Huntington Beach boasts great surfing for those with experience – but there’s also a surf academy for those wanting to learn. Homage is paid to this popular sport throughout the city, including the International Surfing Museum and the Surfers’ Hall of Fame.

Soft sands stretch along the coast with Huntington and Boca Chica beaches resting on either side of the historic pleasure pier. This is a lovely spot to watch the sunset, or you could head to Ruby’s Surf City Diner at the boardwalk’s end. Alternatively, enjoy a gondola ride in the harbour, or explore the city’s shops and museums.  

On a Huntington Beach holiday, you’ll notice that the sands don’t empty when the sun sets. Dozens of oceanside fire pits mean that, once long days of surfing and sunbathing come to an end, you can gather around in the warm light of a fire to share stories and toast s’mores on the flames.

Long, gentle walks at the ocean’s edge are easy, too, with beaches stretching for seven miles from Huntington to Bolsa Chica There’s even a dedicated dog beach for those who prefer to share the sand with furry friends.

Packed with boutiques, bars and restaurants, Downtown Huntington Beach is a sun-soaked playground. Browse the cobblestone streets of Old World Village, or make tracks for the modern stores and eateries at Bella Terra.

For creativity and culture, pop into the Huntington Beach Arts Center or take time to hear the city’s Symphony Orchestra. You can live like a local every Tuesday evening, when traffic makes way for Surf City Nights and artisan market stalls take over the streets. You can find fresh produce, kids’ games and live music at every turn, while restaurants become street vendors. Grab a bite to eat and stroll along the sidewalk, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.  

There’s no bad time to visit Huntington Beach, as temperatures are pleasant all year round. July and August are the busiest times, when temperatures regularly rise above 25°C. But, if you’d prefer to visit during a quieter time, September and October make a great alternative. The mercury hovers around 22°C, and there are lots of events at this time of year.

Whale-watching season runs from January to April, but the weather will be much cooler at this time of year. May sees the return of the sunshine, burning through any rain clouds which may have persisted from the winter months.