Huntington Beach Bliss: A 5-Day Family Adventure
Huntington Beach: Sun, Surf, and Smiles for the Whole Family!
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Huntington Beach is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip to enjoy sun, surf, and sand. Known as Surf City USA, the beach offers excellent waves for surfing enthusiasts of all skill levels, while kids can enjoy building sandcastles and flying kites. Families can also explore the nearby Pacific City, which boasts a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a fun-filled trip for all ages.
Travel plan
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- Check into the Shorebreak Hotel, a funky beachfront paradise with artsy vibes and Instagram-worthy decor.
- Kickstart your trip by spending a sunny day at Huntington State Beach, where golden sand stretches for miles and waves beckon surfers.
- Dive into surf lessons from the local pros at Toes on the Nose Surf School it's time to ride those waves like a boss!
- After a fun-filled day in the water, head to Duke's Huntington Beach for a mouthwatering dinner, savoring their famous Hula Pie dessert by the beach.
- Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at Sugar Shack Cafe, a cozy spot serving fluffy pancakes and omelets bursting with flavor.
- Immerse yourself in nature's beauty at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, home to migrating birds and stunning wetland trails.
- Embark on a scenic gondola ride through Huntington Harbour, serenaded by a professional gondolier while basking in the romantic ambiance.
- Satisfy your seafood cravings at SeaLegs at the Beach, indulging in seared ahi tuna and lobster mac and cheese.
- Catch a performance at Pacific City's outdoor amphitheater while relishing the ocean breeze and stunning sunset backdrop.
- Drive down the coast to nearby Newport Beach and hop on a ferry to Balboa Island, a charming enclave filled with quaint cottages.
- Explore Marine Avenue's boutique shops, scavenging for unique souvenirs and succulent treats like Balboa Bars or frozen bananas.
- Rent a bike or surrey and pedal along the picturesque waterfront before enjoying a delightful picnic on the island's sandy shores.
- Discover fantasy at the Fun Zone, an old-school amusement park hosting a Ferris wheel, arcade games, and even a historic carousel.
- Feast on Balboa Peninsula's famous Newport Beach tacos at Great Mex, savoring the flavors of authentic Baja cuisine.
- Start the day with a visit to the Huntington Beach Art Center, where mind-bending exhibitions and interactive displays await.
- Stroll along Main Street, known as Surf City USA's heart, brimming with vibrant surf shops, quirky boutiques, and lively restaurants.
- Enjoy a leisurely bike ride on the Huntington Beach Bike Trail, capturing picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean along the way.
- Satisfy your appetite at the Sugar 'n Spice, a local favorite for their mouthwatering cinnamon rolls that will leave you craving more.
- Test your skills at the Family Classic Games, a vintage arcade filled with nostalgic pinball machines and old-school video games.
- Embrace your adventurous side at Adventure City, a small amusement park perfect for family fun with rides, shows, and a petting zoo.
- Unleash your inner artist at the Surf City Still Works Distillery, where you can embark on a guided tour and sample their handcrafted spirits.
- Indulge in a delectable meal at Watertable, an elegant farm-to-table restaurant with innovative cuisine and charming atmosphere.
- Tickle your taste buds at Bruxie with their creative take on sandwiches, combining crispy waffles and delicious fillings for a heavenly treat.
- Bid farewell to Huntington Beach with an evening bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the starry sky.
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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.