Why We Love Surf City, USA
Named after oil tycoon Henry Huntington, Huntington Beach was founded in 1909 and remained a sleepy seaside city until the 1920’s oil boom. (An oiler is still the city’s mascot to this day!)
However, as HB grew, its coastline became known for its surf swells and strong surf culture, ultimately earning the nickname “Surf City USA” in 1960, which became the official tagline of the town in 1991.
Today, HB is California’s 23rd largest city with a population of over 200,000, and is known all over the world for its surfing competitions like the Vans U.S. Open and the ISA World Surfing Games, as well as the annual Pacific Airshow, ocean-front restaurants, and 8.5 miles of iconic beaches, drawing over 11 million visitors each year.
With its buzzing downtown and quintessential California culture, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite ways to spend the day in Huntington Beach…
Photo courtesy of Pacific City.
Shop Til You Drop at
Pacific City
What’s better than shopping by the sea? With oceanfront views, outdoor dining, and trendy storefronts, Pacific City is hands down the best view you’ve ever had shopping. The open-air mall is located right across from Huntington Pier and even features an Equinox for those who want to get a quick workout in. Sip Philz Coffee while watching the surf, browse coastal boutiques, and grab a bite to eat at Lot 579, Pacific City’s modern food hall with eight speciality eateries. There’s even a kids club for your little ones with book readings and crafts!
Ride the Waves at
Huntington BEACH Pier
Known for its remarkable waves that surfers can shred all year round, Huntington’s surf scene is tough to beat. Bring your board and catch the morning waves — but be careful if you’re a newbie… this is local’s territory, so make sure not to drop in on any pro’s waves! Need some help? There’s multiple options for surf sessions for all ages and abilities — and watching from the perfectly warmed sand provides endless entertainment as well!
Photo courtesy of Huntington Beach Art Center.
Embrace Your Inner Artist at
Huntington Beach Art Center
The Orange County coast is known for its art culture and Huntington Beach is no different. Spend the afternoon wandering through local galleries at Huntington Beach Art Center which hosts six exhibitions every year. If you’re feeling inspired, sign up for one of their art classes and refine your skills in all things creative from watercolor to writing. Admission is free and open to the public.
Photo courtesy of Tanner’s Huntington Beach.
Dine & GRAB A COCKTAIL at
Tanner’s Treehouse
Rooftop Bar? Say less! Serving sustainable coastal cuisine, Tanner’s Huntington Beach is known for blending flavors of surf cultures across the globe. In the dining room, floor to ceiling windows showcase views of the bright blue Pacific. Put your name down before heading to the Treehouse for pre-dinner drinks! Treehouse by Tanner’s is a chic rooftop bar serving handcrafted cocktails with an unbeatable view. With happy hour and daily specials like Mule Mondays and Wine Wednesdays, there's always something to cheers to!
Cozy Up with A
Beach Bonfire
There’s something about a beach bonfire that brings people together in such a simple way. The setting sun, sound of rumbling waves, and warm glow of the fire create a perfect ending to the ultimate beach-day getaway. Huntington State Beach is one of the few beaches in Orange County with public fire pits to cozy up to. Pack firewood and all the S'more fixings for a nostalgic evening treat! While open on a first-come-first serve basis, Huntington is home to multiple fire pits — however, in the summer you’ll want to get their early because they WILL fill up fast!
Emily Miller is an Orange County based food and lifestyle writer. Read more of her work here.