Ride the Waves: A Beach Day Trip to Huntington

Surf's up on a budget-friendly adventure in Huntington Beach.

21 June 2023

Huntington Beach, affectionately known as Surf City USA, offers budget-friendly activities including free access to its world-famous beaches, surfing lessons at reasonable rates, and picturesque hiking trails at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. For affordable eats, try the local-favorite tacos and burritos from Sancho's Tacos or enjoy a burger and craft beer combo at The American Dream. Accommodation-wise, opt for a budget motel or hostel, such as the Pacific View Inn or the Surf City Hostel, both located just steps away from the beach.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Surf, Sun & Soak in Huntington Beach

  • Grab breakfast at Jan's Health Bar for fresh-made smoothies and acai bowls
  • Head to the beach and rent surfboards from Aloha Beach Rentals to catch some waves
  • Take a stroll on the Huntington Beach Pier to enjoy the ocean views
  • Work up an appetite and grab some lunch at Sancho's Tacos for delicious Mexican food
  • Relax on the beach and soak up the California sun
  • Finish the day with dinner at Ruby's Diner on the pier, an iconic 50's diner with a view. Try their classic burgers and milkshakes!

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.

More travel plans

Huntington Beach Bliss: A 5-Day Family Adventure

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.

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.

Huntington Beach: 5 Days of Beachy Adventure!

Huntington Beach is a great budget-friendly destination in the United States. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and plenty of outdoor activities without breaking the bank. There are also affordable accommodation options such as hostels or camping sites.

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.