Surf's Up: Huntington Beach on a Budget

Surf's up on a budget in Huntington Beach, USA.

21 June 2023

Huntington Beach offers budget-friendly options for accommodation, dining, and entertainment. Visitors can stay in affordable motels and hostels, enjoy cheap eats at local food trucks and fast food joints, and explore the city's beaches and parks for free. Additionally, the area has a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and surfing, that won't break the bank.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Ocean Adventures

  • Start the day with a walk along the Huntington Beach Pier, watching surfers catch waves and seagulls snatch breakfast from fishermen.
  • Rent a bike from Zack's Beach Concessions and cruise along the beachfront bike path, stopping to take a picture with the iconic surfboard-shaped lifeguard tower.
  • Go kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding in the calm waters of Huntington Harbor, keeping an eye out for sea lions and pelicans.
  • Hit up the local surf shops for some beachy souvenirs and unique finds.
  • Feast on a delicious fish taco and refreshing margarita at Sancho's Tacos, a local favorite for authentic Mexican cuisine.
  • Hotel recommendation: The Pacific View Inn, a cozy and budget-friendly option with ocean views and beachy decor.
Day 2

Cultural Exploration

  • Explore the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, a wetland sanctuary home to over 300 bird species and various marine life.
  • Visit The Huntington Beach Art Center and admire the rotating exhibits of contemporary and traditional art from local and national artists.
  • Take a stroll through the historic Downtown Huntington Beach, checking out the ArtWalk on the third Wednesday of the month and grabbing a coffee from the charming local shops.
  • Learn about surfing history at the International Surfing Museum and see memorabilia from legendary surfers.
  • End the day with a sunset bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and watching the sky turn pink and orange.
  • Where to eat: The Sugar Shack Cafe, a local institution known for delicious breakfast dishes like eggs benedict and banana nut pancakes.
  • Two days in Huntington Beach may not be enough to experience everything this vibrant coastal town offers, but it's a great start for an unforgettable beach vacation.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Huntington Beach by plane is to fly into John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana and then take a taxi or shuttle to your destination.

Car

Driving is a convenient way to get to Huntington Beach. The city is accessible via the I-405 freeway and the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1).

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Huntington Beach.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Huntington Beach by boat. The nearest ports are in Los Angeles and Long Beach, but you would need to arrange ground transportation from there.

Bus

The easiest way to get to Huntington Beach by bus is to take the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) to Huntington Beach Transit Center.

Destination

Huntington Beach

If you're a surfer, you probably know this place—where the waves are gnarly and the sun is always shining. If you're not a surfer, you probably still know this place—thanks to its endless miles of beaches and an impressive collection of blonde people.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

The Ultimate Romantic Day in Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach offers a perfect romantic getaway for couples with its sprawling beaches, scenic sunsets, and intimate dining options. Explore the beach trails on bicycles, spend a lazy afternoon lounging under the sun, or embark on a romantic sunset stroll. Relish exceptional culinary delicacies in beachside restaurants while experiencing the captivating views of the Pacific Ocean.

Surf, Sun, and Fun in Huntington Beach

A trip to Huntington Beach, United States would involve spending time at one of the country's most famous beaches, known for its ideal surfing conditions and stunning sunsets. Visitors can take walks along the iconic pier or explore the many shops and restaurants in the downtown area. There are also plenty of outdoor activities available, such as cycling, hiking or kayaking in the nearby nature reserves.

Surf, Art, and Fun: 4 Days in Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach in California offers a great destination for travelers on a budget. The city boasts miles of sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing or surfing. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, skateboard parks, and vintage shopping districts for affordable activities.

2-Day Surf & Sun Getaway in Huntington Beach

As a tourist in Huntington Beach, visitors can experience the quintessential beach town charm with a range of exciting activities such as surfing, shopping, and dining. The vibrant Main Street is dotted with local boutiques, eateries, and the famous Surfing Walk of Fame. Along the 8.5-mile stretch of pristine beach, tourists can enjoy water sports and soak up the sun, making for a memorable getaway.