Huntington Beach in California offers an authentic surf lifestyle. Known as the nation’s surf city, it has 10 miles of nonstop coastline, but you don’t have to be a surfer to enjoy the area. Since the weather is almost perfect with abundant sunshine and comfortable temperatures year-round, it is a haven of outdoor activities. You can build bonfires, go paddle boarding in the harbor, hike through the wetlands, fish off the pier, bike along the coastline or simply stroll down Main Street.
Huntington Beach Pier
Huntington Beach Pier functions as one of the most recognizable attractions. It’s one of the West Coast’s longest piers and is located where Pacific Coast Highway intersects Main Street. The 1,850-foot long pier is also an important landmark because it is part of the local surfing lore. It was rebuilt twice after storms hit the area in the 1980s.
You can walk to Main Street’s restaurants and shops from the pier. Many of them take advantage of the climate by having decks and sidewalk tables. These allow you to enjoy the abundant sunshine and fresh ocean breezes.
Surfing
Duke Kahanamoku and George Freeth, the surfing forefathers of the early 20th century, tested the Pacific Ocean waves here. Huntington Beach has hosted the Vans U.S. Open of Surfing since the 1950s. It is also home to the International Surfing Museum where you can see the world’s longest surfboard. To continue the surfing theme, you can partake in the Surf City USA Marathon. It takes place every first Sunday in February. If you’re not up to a marathon, the event also includes a 5-K and a half marathon.
Nature
Huntington Beach is home to several natural spaces. These include Huntington Central Park and the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Huntington Central Park measures over 350 acres. Since it allows horses, it’s a favorite spot of local equestrians. The reserve consists of restored wetlands and functions as one of the most important coastal territories in southern California.
Housing
Huntington Beach has an eclectic housing mix. At one time, it contained many oil wells. Once they dried up, they were sold. Since these empty lots were developed at various times and by people of assorted means, you can find many different housing styles and types. These include everything from tiny bungalows to extravagant mansions with rooftop decks and elevators.
Pedestrian-Friendly
This city is one of the few communities left that still allows for pedestrians to get everything they need. Not only can you walk to the beach, but many of the downtown neighborhoods have little stores located all over. You can walk to parks, grocery stores, restaurants, bars and laundromats without any difficulties.
Costs
While property taxes have been kept in check, it’s not cheap to live here. Expect to spend at least $400,000 for a small condo by the beach. Single-family homes range from $700,000 to 3 million. However, Huntington Beach is a safe community where the police officials aren’t overworked.
