Experience sun, surf, and Southern California charm at Huntington State Beach. It is located along Pacific Coast Highway in sunny Orange County, California. This beloved 2-mile stretch of protected coastline, just south of Huntington Beach Pier and north of the Santa Ana River, blends thrilling ocean recreation with family-friendly amenities and year-round beach culture.
What Makes Huntington State Beach Unique
Huntington State Beach, established in 1942, provides classic California beach vibes. It features wide sandy shores, consistent surf, and iconic lifeguard towers. These are framed by endangered bird nesting areas and nearby coastal wetlands. This dynamic landscape offers shifting sandbars and dramatic surf breaks. It also features annual grunion runs. These elements create rich opportunities for ecological exploration, surf culture, and shoreline adventure.
Top Activities & Amenities
? Beach Access & Surfing
The beach stretches from Beach Boulevard to the Santa Ana River mouth. It is ideal for surfing in designated areas. Shortboards are recommended. The Santa Ana River Jetties form steep, hollow beachbreaks—popular with experienced surfers. Shortboard devotees will find rhythm from spring through fall, though caution is advised during rip currents. Lifeguards patrol year-round, with full staffing Memorial Day through Labor Day. Swim only near towers and learn the “stingray shuffle” before entering the water.
? Volleyball Courts & Recreation
Public beach volleyball courts line the volleyball zone midway down the sand, always buzzing with pickup games. Walk or bike along the paved beach path, part of the 10-mile regional trail, perfect for running, skating, or people-watching.
? Fire Pits & Evening Picnicking
Large concrete fire rings are scattered along the surf—first-come, first-served—perfect for bonfires up to 9:30 pm. Picnic areas with BBQ grills and shaded tables provide daytime hangout spots throughout the beach.
? Restrooms & Showers
Flush restrooms and outdoor foot showers are located at beach entrances every few blocks. Drinking fountains and trash/recycling bins are available nearby to keep the beach clean and hydrated.
? Bike Rentals & Beach Path
Bike rentals—cruisers, tandems, boards—are easily found near park entrances. A paved path offers scenic rides to nearby neighborhoods and piers. Bring your wheels or rent locally for a breezy tour.
? Food Concessions & Lifeguards
Seasonal concessions sell snacks, beverages, and quick bites near high-traffic entrances. Lifeguard towers are staffed daily, with outreach programs from water safety to junior lifeguard training through the City and State Parks.
? Fishing & Wildlife Viewing
Surf anglers can catch perch, corbina, croaker, cabezon, guitarfish, and more—surf fishing is allowed if swimmers aren’t nearby. Birding enthusiasts will appreciate the Snowy Plover and California Least Tern nesting reserve at the south end, while Brown Pelicans patrol the shoreline.
⛺ RV Camping & Events
Huntington State Beach is day-use only. However, RV camping is available just south at Bolsa Chica State Beach. It offers hookups and showers. The beach hosts seasonal festivals, surf competitions, clean-up events, and occasional bonfire celebrations—check local calendars for happenings.
? Hiking & Interpretive Programs
The paved trail invites walking and running. Interpretive programs engage families and kids throughout summer. These programs range from junior lifeguard camps to guided beach cleanups. Environmental stewardship events are held regularly in partnership with local nonprofits.
Visitor Tips
- Day‑use Hours: Open sunrise to 10 pm; pier closes at midnight.
- Parking: $15/day standard vehicles, $30/oversized; no in/out privileges—secure tickets before entering.
- Fees: No park entrance fee beyond parking and camping at Bolsa Chica.
- Pets: Leashed dogs allowed on service road and at Dog Beach; prohibited on the main sand area.
- Beach Safety: Swim near towers; avoid blackball zones; shuffle feet for stingrays; don’t dig deep holes.
- Fire Rules: Wood pallets banned—fire out by 9:30 pm, beach clears by 10 pm.
- Surf Seasons: Best surf from spring to fall; winter swells bring high surf—obey warning flags.
- Wildlife Zones: Keep dogs away from plover nesting areas at the beach’s southern end.
- Events & Closures: Parking may be restricted during major events like U.S. Open of Surfing or Pacific Airshow—check city beach alerts.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Plan an early-summer evening bonfire for mild weather, gentle surf, and fewer crowds. Pair your sunset with sandcastle contests or beach volleyball pick-up games. Visit during grunion runs (spring–summer new moons) for a rare glimpse of tiny fish spawning—ask lifeguards for schedule updates. After a day at the beach, wander over to Huntington Beach Pier for fresh seafood at the Broad Street Oyster Company, then end the night with coastal stargazing—less haze makes the moonlit sand sparkle.