25 Exciting Things to Do in Huntington Beach - California This Weekend (2024)

Hello there! It’s Nasiba.

Today I’m taking you all the way to Huntington Beach in California. There is a reason why this beautiful city is called Surf City. When you visit you’ll understand why. But just to give you a mental picture, you will see hundreds of surfers doing their thing at the Huntington Beac Pier.

If surfing is not your thing, you can enjoy the view of surfers from the pier and maybe catch the magnificent sunset.

However, if you have a daring and curious soul like mine, you will want to join the surfers and be the one being watched. Just make sure you don’t embarrass yourself like I did.

I got myself a wetsuit and rented a board ready to conquer the ocean like the pro (I think) I am. However, the ocean was also ready to give me a lesson I’ll always remember; it’s not always as easy as it seems. I assumed I’d just get on my board and the water would do its thing. Shock on me!

As soon as I managed to balance on my board, the mother of all waves hit me and I crashed into the water. It felt like minutes before I came up gasping for air. I drank so much water to last me a year. Another surfer had to carry me to the shore. Lesson learned.

Anyway, If you’re planning to visit Huntington Beach, here is a guide on things to do.

Huntington Beach is a city in Orange County, California.

It is a renowned world-class surfing destination for its beautiful and great water waves suitable for the sport.

Check the top-rated resorts in California.

A fact that has seen it crowned the title ‘Surf City’.

The city also boasts a beautiful coastline characteristic of enchanting sandy beaches.

But, the city has more to offer than just surfing.

We have compiled a list of awesome fun things to do in Huntington Beach to help you plan a vacation here.

Things to do in Huntington Beach

1. Huntington Beach Pier

Namolik Design and Photography | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: Huntington Beach Pier, California 92648

It is the most photographed attraction in the city
It is 1,850 ft. in length
Originally built in 1904

Why you should go: The Huntington Beach Pier is one of the area’s most famous attraction sites.

It stretches from Ruby’s Surf City Diner, across the Pacific Coast Highway, through the beach into the waters.

After being destroyed by an earthquake and storms in the past, the pier was reconstructed using epoxy-protected concrete steel, which can withstand anything.

Things to do: The Huntington Pier serves as a walkway where visitors can take a stroll and observe what’s happening in the waters below and around them.

It is a good fishing spot and one of the best places to watch surfers do their thing.

It is 21 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

2. Huntington Beach State Park

MarynaG | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★

Entry ticket: $8 for adults (16+), $4 for children (6-15), $5 for seniors

Address: 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

It sits along the Pacific Coast Highway
A family-friendly leisure park

Why you should go: Huntington Beach State Park is the go-to attraction site for anyone seeking to enjoy a relaxed picnic day.

It offers grounds suitable for adults and children to spend their day.

It is a popular site amongst hikers and joggers.

Things to do: Visit the park for a picnic and to soak in the city’s weather. The famous park is also a perfect spot to meet and socialize with locals and other tourists.

If you enjoy jogging, you can take up a challenge on the beautiful park’s 8.5 miles long trail.

It is also ideal for hikers. The trail connects Huntington Beach to Bolsa Chica Beach, another popular attraction site.

It is 15 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

As you are in California, parks lovers will always get lured by national parks in California!

3. Huntington Beach Symphony Orchestra

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Entry ticket: $25-$60 per show

Address: 15744 Goldenwest St, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

Renowned Maestro Grant Sevdayan directs the group
A hub that brings together local musical geniuses

Why you should go: If you appreciate classical music live performances, you should include watching the Huntington Beach Symphony Orchestra in your list of things to do in Huntington Beach.

The group is very skilled in all genres of orchestra music and will wow you with its performance.

Things to do: Visiting a new place is not just about touring its physical attraction sites but also entails learning its culture.

That’s why we highly recommend that you attend a performance by this orchestra in Huntington Beach.

We promise you will have a great time.

4. Huntington Harbor

Brent Reeves | Shutterstock

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: Huntington Harbour, 16252 Countess Drive, Huntington Beach

Established in the 1960s
There are five artificial islands on the harbor
Ideal spot for water activities

Why you should go: Huntington Harbor is a popular attraction that is perfect for outdoor water activities.

It borders Sunset Beach and Seal areas.

The five islands on the harbor are a wonder in themselves and attract a lot of locals and tourists.

Things to do: You can enjoy a wide range of water activities and sports like swimming.

The harbor also provides a beautiful setting for a picnic for those who would like to enjoy it by the waters.

The area is dotted with dining places where you can have some food and a drink. Sunset dinner cruises are also on offer.

It is 23 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

5. Huntington Central Park

Debbie Eckert | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry ticket: free entry

Address: 18000 Goldenwest St, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

It sits on 350 acres
It is split into Huntington Central Park East and Huntington Central Park West
Recreational park

Why you should go: Huntington Central Park is a perfect place for families with children to spend the day. But solo travelers can have their fun too.

The recreational park is owned and run by the city of Huntington.

It is the biggest of its type in Orange County.

Things to do: The leisure park boasts green grass lawns, trees, and flowers.

It is an ideal spot to chill and enjoy some fun activities.

There is a Disc Golf Course and a children’s Adventure Playground where your kids will have the time of their lives.

Concerts and a wide range of events are held here throughout the year.

It is 17 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

6. Old World Village

Source

Rating: 4.4★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 7561 Center Ave #50, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

A historical place to shop and interact with the locals
Established in 1978
It features European-style architecture

Why you should go: The Old World Village carries some beautiful history of Huntington Beach.

It is one of the oldest (still intact) establishments in the area.

It boasts beautiful and rich architectural buildings that make for a magnificent background for pictures.

Things to do: Take a walk along the lovely cobblestone streets of the village to admire its beauty and shop around.

You can also taste the delicious international cuisines offered in the eateries here.

Biergarten is a renowned eatery that offers German cuisine.

The village is a popular site for events like Oktoberfest, Weiner Dog Races, and Car Shows.

It is 15 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

7. Pacific City

Debbie Eckert | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.5★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

It is an entertainment, dining, and shopping area
It overlooks the breathtaking Huntington Beach
Ideal for meeting locals and other tourists

Why you should go: Pacific City is the place to visit when you want to enjoy some shopping, dining, and entertainment in the same place.

Its oceanfront location works in its favor since visitors can also enjoy views of the ocean.

Things to do: Include Pacific City on your list of amazing things to do in Huntington Beach to cater to your shopping needs.

Explore this attraction to get a look and feel of the shopping and business setup in the city.

There are eateries and cafés throughout for you to try out different cuisines.

It is 19 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

8. SeaLegs at the Beach

Source

Rating: 4.4★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 17851 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92649

A beach diner and bar lounge
Located 3 miles Northwest of Huntington Beach
A social place for both locals and tourists

Why you should go: SeaLegs at the Beach is one of the most popular joints located by the beach. It is especially famous for being one of the few places that sell adult drinks by the beach.

It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the evening as you eat, drink, and dance to live music.

Things to do: After a long day exploring attraction sites in Huntington Beach, retire here and order some local food and drinks.

Enjoy the cool breeze by the beach and the beautiful sounds of ocean waves.

It is 23 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

9. Corky Carroll’s Surf School

Source | Facebook

Rating: 5.0★

Entry ticket: $140 per person for a 2-hour lesson + surfing equipment

Address: Huntington Beach, CA 92648

A local surfing school
It is a family-owned business
Ideal for both adults and children

Why you should go: Huntington Beach is a famous surfing destination. Corky Carroll’s Surf School is one of the most popular surfing schools in the city.

It offers lessons to both adults and children.

The school has been in operation for over 20 years.

Things to do: When you visit this city and explore its beach area, you will encounter many surfers having fun in the water.

If you do not know how to surf, you will be missing out on a lovely experience.

That’s why you need to have the school on your list, so that you don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy one of the biggest things the city is famous for.

It is 26 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

10. Surf City Still Works

Surfcityusa approved – “Source“

Rating: 4.7★

Address: 16561 Gemini Ln, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

Established in 2017
An independent distillery
Teaches how to make cocktails

Why you should go: Surf City Still Works is renowned for being the first independent distillery in Huntington Beach.

Visitors and locals visit the facility to enjoy its wide variety of cocktails.

Things to do: You will take a tour of the facility to see where the magic happens.

Learn how they make their popular cocktails and what makes them stand out from the rest.

There are tasting rooms where guests take different drinks and test their cocktail knowledge. If you would like to learn how to make your own cocktails, the facility offers lessons.

It is 17 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

11. Dog Beach Huntington

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Rating: 4.8★

Entry ticket: free entry, $2 parking fee per hour

Address: Huntington Beach, 20211, Huntington Beach Bike Trail, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

A designated beach for dog and dog owners
It is nestled on the Pacific Coast Highway

Why you should go: If you are traveling with your dog, you must include Dog Beach on your things to do in Huntington Beach. The beach area is specially designated for dogs and their owners to enjoy fun beach activities.

Things to do: Since most attractions are not pet-friendly, you will definitely want to visit this area that allows your dog to roam freely, meet new dogs, and take a dip in the water.

An event for dogs is held at the beach every year.

Be on the lookout to see when it takes place so you can plan your vacation accordingly.

It is 23 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

12. Shipley Nature Center

KK Stock | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.6★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 17851 Goldenwest St, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

It sits on 18 acres of land
Established in 1974
A nature preserve dedicated to nature and environmental conservation

Why you should go: If you enjoy the serenity of nature, you will love exploring Shipley Nature Center.

The site has a lush green compound characteristic of beautiful gardens, trees, and hiking trails.

The garden has plants that are available for the public to purchase.

Things to do: Visit the site to enjoy some quiet time and connect with nature.

Hike the beautiful trails surrounded by vegetation comprising Sycamore-Alder Grove, Torrey Pines, Oaks, and more.

The Center has different sections that both adults and children can explore. There is a section where guests learn how to conserve water.

It is 17 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

13. Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum

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Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: $2 per person

Address: 411 Olive Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

A museum dedicated to conserving the history and practice of surfing
It opened in 1987

Why you should go: The Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum was started by two women, Natalie Kotsch and Ann Beasley.

Huntington Beach is a surfing destination and the museum was opened to preserve this sport that the city is popular for.

Things to do: Explore the museum and see surfing memorabilia and other materials that teach the history of this popular sport.

You will see surfboards used by some famous surfers like Duke Kahanamoku, who contributed to making surfing a big sport.

It is 20 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

14. Bolsa Chica State Beach

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Rating: 4.6★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 17851 Pacific coast highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92649

It is 3 miles long
A popular surfing and fishing site

Why you should go: Bolsa Chica State Beach is one of the attraction sites that should not miss on your list of things to do in Huntington Beach if you are a surfer.

It is a common spot with local and visiting surfers owing to its waves that are ideal for the sport.

Things to do: Apart from surfing here, you can also sunbathe, swim, and fish.

It is also a good chill spot to relax, watch other people and the beautiful water waves. The site offers beautiful sunset views.

It is 24 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

15. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

Debbie Eckert | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 18000 CA-1, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

It sits on 1,300 acres of land
It is a beautiful place for nature and outdoor lovers

Why you should go: The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is a nature park characteristic of seabirds nesting islands, coastal dunes, and salt.

It has freshwater wetlands that attract over 200 bird species. If you enjoy bird-watching, you should carry binoculars.

Things to do: If you would love to hike, the reserve has beautiful trails that add up to 4 miles.

See lovely bird species and other wildlife as you explore the area.

It is 24 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

16. Downtown HB

Michael Emmanuel Reighley | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.8★

Entry ticket: Free

Address: 92646 300, CA-1, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Huntington Beach’s downtown area
It gives a perfect picture of the city’s social and cultural scene

Why you should go: Downtown HB or Downtown Huntington Beach is a beautiful area to explore, dotted with shopping stores, restaurants, cafés, hotels, commercial buildings, office buildings, and more.

Things to do: Everything is vibrant in Downtown Huntington Beach.

Explore it to meet with locals, shop for gifts, personal items, or souvenirs, taste different cuisines, and marvel at the area’s architecture.

After a long day, hang out in one of the joints here and enjoy an evening of food, your favorite drinks, and live music.

It is 21 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

17. Newland House Museum

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Rating: 4.6★

Entry ticket: $2 for adults, $1 for children

Address: 19820 Beach Blvd, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

It sits on over 500 acres of land
Dates back to the 19th century
Originally owned and run by the Newland Family

Why you should go: Newland Museum is a historical house that features memorabilia and other material that tell the history of Huntington Beach.

It also gives visitors a sneak peek into the lives and history of the Newland Family which consisted of 12 members.

Things to do: If you love history, the museum will teach you a lot about the area’s history.

That’s why you should have it on your incredible things to do in Huntington Beach.

You can take a tour of the farm to see some of the produce grown in the area back in the days since the farm grew local produce then.

Wondering what else you could do around California? Check out things to do in San Jose, California!

It is 19 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

18. Surfing Walk of Fame/ Surfers’ Hall of Fame

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Rating: 5.0★

Address: 101 Main St, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

A monument and facility dedicated to surfing champions

Why you should go: Visit the Surfing Walk of Fame to see legends who have contributed to the surfing industry in Huntington Beach. The facility has names of surfing champions, as well as their handprints and footprints, branded on the floor.

There are statues too in their honor.

Things to do: If surfing is a sport that interests you, this is a place that you do not want to miss.

See a list of surfers you look up to and pay your respects to their great work and achievements.

It is 20 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

19. HB Surf School

Source

Rating: 4.9★

Entry ticket: $160 per person for a 90-minute lesson

Address: 285 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

It is operated by surfing pro, Bill Sharp
Teaches surfing to both adults and children

Why you should go: As we mentioned earlier, Huntington Beach is a surfing destination.

You should not leave without enjoying this water sport. If you have no skills, the HB Surf School team will equip you with the beginner skills needed to enjoy it.

Things to do: Learn and equip yourself with surfing knowledge and skills to help you explore the waters of the Pacific during your vacation.

It is 23 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

Lakes lovers also love to visit fun winter things to do in Lake Tahoe & best things to do in San Diego there are many activates to enjoy during the that time of the year, also don’t miss our cool list of things to do in Malibu.

20. Solita Tacos and Margaritas

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Rating: 4.3★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 7631 Edinger Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

A Mexican cuisine eatery

Why you should go: Whether you are staying in a hotel or an apartment during your vacation in this city, you need to know all the amazing joints where you can try out different cuisines.

Solita Tacos and Margaritas is one of the most popular eateries here.

It sells the most delicious Mexican cuisines prepared using locally sourced fresh farm produce.

Things to do: Try out the eatery’s famous tacos and margaritas or ask for the chef’s recommendation. The restaurant has a beautiful design and vibe about it which creates a lovely ambiance.

It is 15 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

21. Duke’s Huntington Beach

Taken by flickr.com

Rating: 4.5★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 317 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Serves traditional Hawaiian cuisines
Located at the edge of Huntington Beach

Why you should go: Duke’s Huntington Beach serves good Aloha vibes and delicious traditional Hawaiian cuisines. It is named after surfing Hawaiian legend Duke Kahanamoku. He is responsible for introducing the surfing sport in Huntington.

Things to do: If you are a foodie or generally love exploring new cultures, you should have Duke’s Huntington Beach on your list of things to do in Huntington.

The overall beach setup, food, and music will make you feel like you are in Hawaii.

It is 23 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

22. Bella Terra

A prominent mall tower sign for Bella Terra | Shutterstock

Rating: 4.4★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 7777 Edinger Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

A modern shopping complex

Why you should go: If you love modern attractions, Bella Terra is the place for you.

It is a shopping and commercial complex that is home to shopping stores, eateries, and entertainment places.

Things to do: Explore the mall to see what the shops have to offer.

You don’t have to shop. You can enjoy window shopping.

Try out some dishes in any of the restaurants here to have a Huntington Culinary experience.

The mall has a theater where you can catch a movie and other entertaining events.

It is 15 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

23. Sushi On Fire

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Rating: 4.6★

Address: 301 Main St #103, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

Serves Japanese Cuisine
Most popular sushi joint in the area

Why you should go: Sushi On Fire is a popular restaurant for a reason; its sushi is incomparable. The restaurant serves sushi and other delicious Japanese dishes made by their expert Japanese Chefs.

Things to do: Let this Japanese eatery satisfy your hunger for sushi.

You can also try out other dishes from their menu.

Note that, due to big crowds, guests have to wait for over thirty minutes, at times, to get their sushi serving.

It is 21 minutes away from John Wayne Airport.

24. Huntington Beach Art Center

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Rating: 4.8★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 538 Main St #98, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

It opened in 1995
Showcases artwork by local and national artists

Why you should go: The Huntington Beach Art Center serves as a facility to recognize artwork by artists from the city and other parts of the United States.

The art center showcases all forms of artwork including, paintings, photographs, videos, drawings, and other media.

Things to do: Explore the exhibitions showcased here to see beautiful works of art by talented artists. You can also watch performances and videos shown here.

The exhibitions are meant to create cultural and historical awareness.