With long stretches of sandy coastline and mild weather, life revolves around the shore in Huntington Beach. Families, dog lovers, and outdoor sports enthusiasts come to surf, play volleyball, kayak, swim, and bike year-round. Much of the action revolves around the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, one of the longest piers on the West Coast. The nearby downtown is lively and walkable, with restaurants, bars, and hotels.
Unlike in the surrounding cities, three of five beaches in Huntington Beach contain fire pits for evening bonfires. Dog lovers come to the city thanks to the Huntington Dog Beach, a rare spot to bring your dogs on the sand. Finally, bird watchers and nature lovers will enjoy the 1,400-acre Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, a wetland area just off the shore.