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You are in Surf City USA and are looking for things to do. There is so much to see and do in Huntington Beach. With a plethora of surf shops to browse and restaurants to try out, your trip is sure to be a memorable one.
Before You Go
Before you go to the pool and beach, make sure you come prepared! I stocked up on waterproof phone cases before my trip. Especially going paddle boarding for the first time, I was scared to get my phone wet. I wanted to take fun pictures but also not destroy my device. These cases are easy to use and have a secure clasp shut. I loved the lanyard to wrap around my neck so I would not lose my phone in the water.
Buy Your Waterproof Phone Case
CLICK HERE: Universal Waterproof Phone Case
1. Go Shopping At Pacific City
Pacific City is an indoor outdoor shopping center that overlooks Huntington beach. This shopping center has it all: wellness centers, nail shops, restaurants, and stores. With a two-story Urban Outfitters and several different restaurants to choose from, Pacific City can keep you busy for hours.
While stopping into each store, I wanted to spend money on almost everything. One of my favorite stores I stopped in was Francesca’s, where I splurged on a headband, purse, and phone case. I also enjoyed Urban Outfitters and Free People.
Pacific City also boasts some of the best restaurants in Huntington Beach. With The Bungalow, Bluegold, and Ola Mexican, to name a few, you have your choice in dining.
After you grab a bite to eat, there are several areas where you can kick up your feet and look out at the beach. This is a prime location for people watching, if that is your thing.
Click here to see a complete list of stores and restaurants in Pacific City.
For more information, check out 3 things to know about Pacific City in Huntington Beach.
2. Walk Main Street
Starting at Olive Avenue, Main Street is shut down with restaurants overflowing into the streets. You have your choice in restaurants and get to sit in the California sunshine. I did not have a chance to stop into any of these restaurants and I regret it. There is a variety in cuisines and the patios allow for outdoor dining in the Southern California weather.
There is no shortage of surf shops in Huntington Beach, from Roxy, Hurley, Van’s, and Rip Curl. As much as I loved shopping in these surf shops, I had more success in the souvenir stores.
Some of my favorite stores included Cali Clothing where, even though I did not purchase anything, I loved looking at the quirky clothing for sale. I could have easily bought everything in this store.
Another favorite store I found was Beach Island where I got my favorite new sweater: Stay Salty.
When you walk Main Street, you will see the storefronts. There are additional stores on 5th Avenue worth checking out.
3. Go On The Pier
Anytime I go to the beach, I think of walking the pier as a requirement. I love the breeze once you are above the ocean. Watching the surfers catch waves and fisherman get catches on the pier provides some free entertainment.
Visit the official website for parking information, hours, and more.
4. Sit At The Beach
Kick off your shoes and feel the sand between your toes. The beach is outfitted with volleyball courts and you can bring your own activities. I watched a couple playing Spikeball. Even though it is not my thing, they seemed to be having a blast.
Recommendation – Check with your hotel for any complimentary pool amenities. Most hotels can provide beach chairs, umbrellas, towels, and other essentials. Make sure you ask what is available to you before purchasing any.
5. Lay By A Pool
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa
Located on Pacific Coast Highway with a firsthand view of the beach, the Hyatt Regency offers pool packages. If you are interested in laying out by the pool, you can rent a cabana for the day. Starting at $300+ depending on the day, you and your friends can have a cabana all to yourselves.
Click here to rent a cabana at the Hyatt Regency.
An additional option includes renting poolside firepits. These packages starting at $125+ include views of the Pacific Ocean and even include s’mores. I am sold!
Click here to rent a poolside fire pit overlooking the ocean.
Pasea Hotel and Spa
Whether you are staying at the hotel or are just looking for a rooftop pool to hang out at, the Pasea Hotel and Spa is for you. With a DJ every Saturday and Sunday, this is sure to be your vibe.
If you are staying at the hotel, you have a choice in lounge chairs for free.
If you are not staying at this hotel, you will have to buy a daybed or cabana for the day. Daybeds range around $200+ depending on the day of the week. Cabanas are around $500 – $750+ depending on the day.
Click here to book your daybed or cabana At Pasea Hotel and Spa.
As if the pool needed any other perks, there is also the Ninth Island Pool Bar. The wait staff delivers your drinks so you can have maximum enjoyment at the pool. You can also go up to the bar directly and order food and cocktails.
Click here for the menu at Ninth Island Pool Bar.
Looking for a place to stay in Huntington Beach? Read 20 reasons why Pasea is the Best Hotel in Huntington Beach.
6. Rent A Board
You are in Surf city USA so it only makes sense that you go out on the water. Whatever your skill or interest level, there is sure to be something for you.
I opted for paddle boarding since it was on my bucket list. It seemed daunting paddle boarding in the ocean for my first time so I drove to Dana Point Harbor (about 40 minutes away). Additionally, you have options to drive to Newport Beach, Seal Beach, or Long Beach to get in the water.
Where To Rent in Huntington Beach:
- Ray’s Rentals – Rent anything from surfboards to bicycles and umbrellas. Click here to view their offerings.
- Zack’s – Located right next to the pier, you can rent surfboards and take lessons. Call today at 714-536-0215.
7. Have A Cocktail
There is so many fun restaurants in Huntington Beach. You have a range of oceanfront spots along with unique and memorable eateries. Some of my favorite memories from our trip involved drinking cocktails with friends.
Duke’s Huntington Beach is located at the entrance of the pier and sees a packed house of tourists and locals daily. You are guaranteed to have a great view with your meal as you drink a Mai Tai and pick a Polynesian dish of the menu.
Duke’s is a beach lover’s paradise. Read 9 reasons Duke’s Huntington Beach is the best restaurant.
One of our favorite spots in Huntington Beach was Tanner’s Treehouse. Located on a second story rooftop at the Pasea Hotel and Spa, Tanner’s Treehouse is a memorable wicker tree that illuminates at night. It was mesmerizing drinking on a rooftop with the Pacific Ocean in the background and this beautiful structure overhead.
Want to know more? Check out 10 reasons to visit Tanner’s Treehouse in Huntington Beach.
Looking for places to eat and drink? Here are 5 of the best restaurants in Huntington Beach.
Whether you are planning a trip to Huntington Beach or are just looking for inspiration for your next vacation, I hope you enjoyed reading about my favorite places. The only thing better than visiting these spots and enjoying them is getting to share them with friends and family.
I am always open to recommendations. If you have any favorite spots in Huntington Beach please share them below!
Cheers!
