Downtown Huntington Beach
Naturally, we have to start with Downtown Huntington Beach. This is the lively heart of the city, spanning several blocks in all directions from the pier. Here you’ll find an eclectic mix of surf shops, boutiques, restaurants, beach bars, art galleries, and historic landmarks. Some of the top spots to check out downtown include the International Surfing Museum, the Huntington Beach Art Center, and the Huntington Beach Pier Plaza. The historic Ziggurat building is also a must-see – this unique pyramidal office complex was built in the 1960s and remains an iconic piece of the Huntington Beach skyline. You can easily spend hours wandering along Main Street, Walnut Avenue, and the cross streets as you uncover street art, hidden passageways, and creative local businesses. With so much to see and do steps from the shore, downtown Huntington Beach is a dynamic neighborhood that captures the quintessential Surf City spirit.
Old World Village
For a taste of European charm, head just a mile inland from the beach to Old World Village. This unique Huntington Beach neighborhood feels like you’ve been transported across the pond to a quaint German town. Winding cobblestone walkways are lined with Bavarian-style shops and eateries including an old-fashioned ice cream parlor and German restaurants serving up bratwurst, schnitzel, and imported beers. Many structures in Old World Village are designed with traditional German half-timbered architecture, further transporting you to the old country. In addition to its charming ambiance, Old World Village frequently hosts cultural events like Oktoberfest in the fall. With its family-friendly atmosphere and nod to Huntington Beach’s German heritage, Old World Village lets you enjoy a bit of European culture without leaving Surf City USA.
Sunset Beach
Just north of downtown along Pacific Coast Highway sits the small, sleepy neighborhood of Sunset Beach. Despite its prime beachfront location, this area feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of central Huntington Beach. In contrast to the city’s wide sandy beaches, Sunset Beach is characterized by a relatively narrow stretch of sand due to coastal erosion. However the peaceful, low-key vibe is a major draw for many locals. Retro beach cottages line the neighborhood streets, surfers flock to the waves, and friendly hole-in-the-wall bars and grills exude laidback charm. Heading north on PCH from the pier, keep driving until you cross the bridge over Huntington Harbour to discover this simple seaside paradise. Watch the surfers, beachcombers, and sunbathers embrace the easygoing rhythm of life in Sunset Beach.
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
For an outdoor escape surrounded by wildlife and scenic wetlands, head south down Pacific Coast Highway to the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. This unique protected area contains a coastal saltwater marsh, restored wetlands, and miles of trails open to the public. Bolsa Chica is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 300 species of birds spotted throughout the year. The interpretive center offers excellent exhibits where you can learn about the native wildlife and habitats. Walking the trails allows you to spot herons, egrets, terns, pelicans, and other coastal species up close in their natural environment. With fewer crowds than Huntington Beach State Park to the north, Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve lets you enjoySoCal’s scenic coastline and environment away from the masses.
Huntington Harbour
Hitting the waters of Huntington Harbour allows locals and visitors to experience the SoCal boating lifestyle. Spanning over 400 acres, this residential waterfront community lies just southwest of downtown Huntington Beach. The area contains channels, small islands, and ocean access perfect for sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Harbor cruises and boat rentals let you fully explore these protected waters. On land, people watch from waterfront parks and dine at restaurants overlooking the yachts and pleasure boats cruising the harbor. Stroll down any of the streets ending in “Island” to soak up the laidback, nautical ambiance of this unique Huntington Beach neighborhood.
Central Park
For inland open space and recreation in Huntington Beach, Central Park is the place to be. The extensive park complex contains the city’s largest sports park, a 9-hole disc golf course, dog park, fitness trail, community center, senior center, picnic shelters, and playgrounds. The 100 acres of lawns, trees, courts, and ballfields offer endless active entertainment for families and friend groups. Huntington Beach’s friendly locals embrace the park for youth sports leagues, cultural festivals, holiday events, and weekend fun. Whether you come for a leisurely stroll, BBQ picnic, playground visit, sports league game, or to enjoy citywide happenings, Central Park is the recreational and social heart of Surf City USA.
Pacific City
The modern beachfront development known as Pacific City captures Huntington Beach’s trendy evolving landscape. Just south of the pier along PCH sits this relatively new neighborhood that’s become a social and shopping hub. Pacific City contains luxury lofts, stylish boutiques, gourmet restaurants, casual cafes, and bars with sunset views over the ocean. The centerpiece is Lot 579, an open-air food hall and community gathering place that hosts events and concerts. A beach path connects Pacific City to the downtown and pier area. With its sleek architecture, upscale businesses, and proximity to the shore, Pacific City represents Huntington Beach’s continual growth in recent decades. It attracts hip crowds, families, and tourists who want to experience the new side of Surf City.
Sunset Ridge Park
For panoramic views stretching across Huntington Beach, climb to the top of Sunset Ridge Park in the northwest part of the city. Locals flock to this hilly neighborhood park to hike the trails, fly kites, picnic, and take in the scenery from one of the highest natural points in Orange County’s coastal plain. On clear days, you can see the entire length of Huntington Beach’s shoreline with Catalina Island visible offshore. Watch hang gliders launch from the ridges and model airplane enthusiasts zip remote-controlled craft in circles. With its secluded hilltop trails, absence of crowds, and sweeping coastal outlooks, Sunset Ridge Park offers a peaceful natural retreat high above the bustling city below.
Book a Bus With Us
The next time your group is looking to explore the diverse neighborhoods that make Huntington Beach so special, leave the driving to us. With Huntington Beach Party Bus Company, you can charter a private bus or party bus rental designed to comfortably transport your crew around the city we know and love. Our professional team are experts at navigating Surf City’s streets and neighborhoods. They’ll get your group exactly where you want to go in a fun, comfortable ride. You can relax and focus on soaking up the best of Huntington Beach while we handle the transportation. Give us a call at (323) 380-3988 to check rates and availability for a charter bus or party bus rental during your upcoming Huntington Beach outing or event. We look forward to showing you the best of Surf City USA!