Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is a city along the Pacific coast of Orange County, California, stretching across roughly 9 miles (14 kilometers) of sandy shoreline. Between the inland residential area and the open ocean, several parallel streets lead toward the wide waterfront promenade with shops, restaurants, and a long wooden pier.

The area was farmland in the early 20th century before the February 1909 incorporation triggered rapid growth along the coast. Over the following decades, proximity to Los Angeles and the rise of the surf scene brought many newcomers to the region.

The nickname 'Surf City USA' came from decades of connection to surf culture, which remains visible in street names and everyday local life. Along the waterfront near the pier, surfers of all ages often wait between waves for their next opportunity when conditions allow.

Public parking near the shore fills quickly on weekends and holidays, so arriving in the morning helps. The wide sandy beach suits walking and families, and a long wooden walkway extends over the water for views of the ocean.

The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve protects over 1,200 acres (about 500 hectares) of wetland close to downtown, where more than two hundred bird species appear throughout the year. Trails wind through salt marsh and offer views of herons, ducks, and wading birds gathering in the shallow lagoons.