Beach Day at Downtown Huntington Beach: Food, Fun, and Sun

What’s it like in Surf City, U.S.A.?

Do you live for that salty breeze, the sound of crashing waves, and the feel of warm sand beneath your feet?

If you're in need of a little food, fun, and sun, then Huntington Beach, with its year-round warmth, is without a doubt the best place to be!

Start with the Surf

Outdoor fun in Huntington Beach means enjoying the salty air and laid-back vibes!
Surfing is one of the top things to do in Huntington Beach. 

Escape the crowded shore and enjoy an education-filled adventure out on the water with a team of First Aid and CPR-certified surfers and lifeguards to take a beginner surf lesson right on the beach.

But if you are one of those cool people who frequently visit the surf capital of California with your big, trendy surfboards, worry not!

City Beach provides ample parking in lots north and south of the Huntington Beach Pier for $2/hour with a $15 daily maximum. There are also plenty of metered spots along Pacific Coast Highway adjacent to the beach.

Boardwalk Adventures: Skates, Bikes, and Views for Miles

Once you've had your fill of sun-kissed bliss, hit the boardwalk! The boardwalk stretches along the coast and is the heartbeat of Huntington Beach attractions. Good for skating, biking, or a nice, easy stroll, this iconic strip offers views that go on forever and energy that'll have you humming along with the sea breeze.

Rent a bike or some roller skates from one of the local shops and cruise along the beach; maybe you'll catch even a glimpse or two of locals riding the waves. You're going to want to capture these views, so be sure to stop by the HB Lifeguard Tower or that pier and shoot away.

You’ll want to remember these views!

Epic Bites in Downtown Huntington Beach: From Casual Eats to Beachfront Feasts

After an active morning of sun and surf, you're sure to be hot and ready to refuel. Downtown Huntington Beach's food scene has something for everyone—from quick bites to full-on feasts by the waves. 

Think fish tacos as fresh as the ocean breeze, crispy and flavorful; or maybe you want a juicy burger with a side of beachside chill. 

Looking for something plant-based? In the eclectic eateries of HB, everything from vegan to seafood aficionados find something that suits their tastes and diets.

Some of the best Downtown Huntington Beach eats are laid-back, beach-themed cafes, taco stands, and seafood joints that dot the area. If you're looking for a truly beach-to-table experience, try one of the beach restaurants in Huntington, where cocktail-sipping diners ogle the ocean. 

This is the kind of dining that captures the spirit of Huntington Beach. If you are a food lover, ask natives about places in the know; they always know those places tourists miss.

Family Activities in Huntington Beach: Fun for All Ages

Bringing the family along? Don't worry, there won't be a shortage of family things to do in Huntington Beach. Start with a trip to the tide pools, where little ones can discover fascinating sea creatures up close.

Or join in with a game of beach volleyball, great for any age. If you're lucky, you might just catch a group that practices beach yoga. 

Do the kids have more energy? Head to one of the nearby playgrounds or establish a mini treasure hunt for shells and other beach treasures.

Bring several kites for a classic beach experience. Let the wind do its magic. There is just something about the sparkle in a kid's eye as they watch kites fly overhead across the sand. 

Activities for families can range anywhere from active to leisurely—most anything one can imagine—so something is sure to be found that each will enjoy. The simplicity of the beach can be found amazingly magical, especially when shared with family. 

Plus, there is plenty of room to spread out and enjoy a little beach picnic under the sun. 

Explore Huntington Beach Pier & Local Landmarks

If the question is what to see in Huntington Beach, the answer will be the pier. Stretching proudly into the Pacific, this is a great place to take in some panoramic views of the coastline. You can take a leisurely walk, watch fishermen, or even try your hand at fishing. 

Quite often, pelicans soar overhead, surfers catch waves beneath them—this is a perfect spot to be a part of the culture and laid-back lifestyle of Huntington.

There is also everything from a few landmarks to Downtown Huntington Beach, making it all that more flair: the Surfers' Hall of Fame and International Surfing Museum are places you can be submerged in the culture and history of surfing. 

And there is no better way to end a day on the beach than by finishing with a little sunset stroll on the pier, with the cool breeze and sound of the waves gently lapping against the shore.

Each of these spots tells a story of Huntington Beach's rich surf history and community pride, so you'll be feeling like a local by the end.

Cap of the Day with Sunset Cocktails and Coastal Bites at Sessions

It's now time to find a spot and chill, feeling those sunset vibes. 

If someone wanted a quirkier, laid-back atmosphere, they could visit Sessions. And with its location just steps from the sand, it's the perfect place to unwind after a day of sun and surf. 

Pair one of their signature cocktails with coastal bites that capture the beachy, laid-back vibe of Huntington Beach. Their casual yet refined menu lets you taste local flavors without having to dress up after a sandy day at the shore. 

Sessions is among those few beach restaurants in Huntington, and one can never go wrong with a restaurant that offers both sunset views and surf-inspired dishes. Just envision the classic drink in your glass as the sun starts dipping into the Pacific end. Whether it is their fresh ceviche, gourmet sandwiches, or just a drink, you will simply be ending your day perfectly. 

Sessions has, in some ways, captured the essence of Huntington Beach—relaxed, full of flavor, and cool in an unforced manner. 

Huntington Beach: A Full Day of Food, Fun, and Surfing Sunsets!

As the day winds down in Huntington Beach, you'll likely be dreaming of your next trip back. With so many Huntington Beach things to do, every day here feels like an adventure waiting to happen. 

From the surf and sand to the boardwalk and bites, Huntington Beach attractions offer something for everyone. Whether you are a solo beachcomber, a family seeking activities in Huntington Beach, or a foodie on a mission, Surf City USA has all of it. 

Next time you plan a day at Downtown Huntington Beach, remember this guide to make every moment count. 

And hey—don't forget the sunscreen! The only things you should take home are the memories.