Curator’s statement
Huntington Beach, fondly known as Surf City, is a perfect destination for water fun with the family. Before moving to the west coast, it was a favorite stop of ours for at least a few days on our California vacations. Now that we live in the golden state, we love to spend a weekend here every year as a nice staycation. Water fun is a sure hit with most families (including mine!) and yours will not be disappointed here at the beachfront resorts with great pool complexes, wide stretches of beach perfect for surfing, boogie boarding and beach games and a cute walkable town lined with shops and dining.
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Where to stay in Huntington Beach
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort And Spa
Polished beachfront property nearby Huntington Beach Pier with luxury rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
Kimpton Shorebreak Huntington Beach Resort
A chic hotel nearby Huntington Beach Pier with upscale, surfer-themed rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
- ★
$50 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.
The Waterfront Beach Resort, A Hilton Hotel
An oasis of luxury and relaxation nestled on pristine shores, The Waterfront Beach Resort offers stunning ocean views, world-class amenities, and unforgettable beachfront experiences.
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Things to do in Huntington Beach
Surf and Sand time at the beach - the beachfront goes on for miles and there's plenty of waves to catch for surfing, boogie boarding or some good old jumping.
Waterslides and pool time - it's not easy to find a good beachside town that delivers equally on a great pool complex in California, but both the Hyatt and Hilton here check both boxes with their fun family pools! Warning: your kids may never want to leave :)
Bike the beach - rent a bike from your hotel or on the beachfront trails and take in the ocean views.
Aquarium of the Pacific - if you're looking for a little water break, head to one of the best aquariums in the states in just a short drive to Long Beach, the next town over. There's great interactive exhibits, touch pools and tanks for the kids to explore.
Hit up the surf shops - not surprisingly, Surf City has some great surf shops! Hit up Jack's, Rip Curl and more to outfit yourself with some new suits, beach hats and gear.
Huntington Beach Pier - one of the longest piers on the west coast, at 1850 feet long, take a walk, look for some sea life to pop up and try your game at fishing off this well-known pier.
Surf City Nights - if you happen to be in town on a Tuesday night, this evening market includes local vendors, sidewalk sales from some of the shops, a farmer's market, games for the kids and live music and food.
Places to eat & drink in Huntington Beach
Sugar Shack Cafe - this breakfast institution in downtown Huntington Beach serves up all the breakfast classics sure to please everyone. Hint: get there early as the waitlist can get long!
Mama's on 39 - just a bit inland from the beach, this eatery inside a strip mall is always packed with brunch goers, especially those looking for bottomless mimosas! Tip: join the waitlist on Yelp before you head over.
602 Coffee House - stop by this oceanside coffee house on your morning walk to grab a cup of jo, acai bowl and some avocado toast.
The Brant - serving up great American food, cocktails and ocean views, this will be a winner for lunch or dinner!
Simmzy's - another oceanside eatery, you can't go wrong with the burgers and fries here or other sandwich classics. Although I would not leave without ordering the "15 Minute (but worth the wait) Wings"- they really are worth the wait!
Duke's - this famous Hawaiian restaurant has a few California locations and they always serve up classic food with an ocean view that leaves everyone feeling aloha vibes. Don't forget the Hula Pie for dessert!
Watertable - one of the restaurants inside the Hyatt Huntington Beach, their weekend brunch is phenomenal and their dinner menu is equally is good. With both a beautiful ambiance inside and out, this is a worthwhile visit on your visit.
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Travel Advisor
Katrina Frank
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California.