Huntington Beach

When it comes to the sun, sand, and surf, Huntington Beach, CA has all of these—and more. Affectionately known as “Surf City USA,” this Southern California beach town has ten miles of pristine coastline, a vibrant surf culture, and all the amenities of modern living.

Huntington Beach is located in Orange County, bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the west. The city is approximately 35 miles south of Los Angeles and about 90 miles north of San Diego. With a population of nearly 200,000 residents, it is the county’s fourth-largest city, attracting a diverse community drawn to its relaxed beach lifestyle.

Long before modern development, Huntington Beach was home to the Tongva people, who inhabited the area for thousands of years. In 1784, Spanish soldier Manuel Nieto received a land grant that included the region, which was developed into Shell Beach by the late 1800s. Later, railroad magnate Henry Huntington’s real estate company acquired the land and renamed it. The city’s transformation into a surfing destination began in 1925 when Duke Kahanamoku introduced the sport, establishing the foundation for its iconic surf culture.

The real estate properties in Huntington Beach, CA capture the essence of Southern California living, with its stunning coastal views and modern amenities. As one of Orange County’s largest beach cities, it’s no surprise that Huntington Beach has a wide selection of neighborhoods and residential options.

Huntington Beach features an equal mix of single-family homes and condos. Properties closer to the coast tend to be more desirable—and pricier—while inland neighborhoods offer more affordable options without sacrificing the coastal vibe. Those looking to sell their house in Huntington Beach, CA also benefit from strong demand, as the city’s prime location and desirable lifestyle attract a wide range of buyers.

The architectural styles in Huntington Beach reflect its coastal roots and mid-century growth. Common architectural styles include Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish, Contemporary, and Cape Cod styles.

Home features and amenities

Huntington Beach, CA real estate offers perks that set it apart from other coastal communities. Waterfront homes in Huntington Harbour are perfect for boating enthusiasts, with private docks and serene water views. The gated communities in Huntington Beach provide added privacy and access to clubhouses, walking trails, and oceanfront amenities.

Inside many of the homes in Huntington Beach are upgraded interiors, from gourmet kitchens with high-end appliances to spacious master suites with luxurious bathrooms. The outdoor living spaces here also stand out, with features like built-in barbecues, fire pits, and pergolas that make entertaining a breeze.

Getting around

Huntington Beach is a city designed with convenience in mind, offering ample parking options, especially near the beach. For those who prefer to bike, the city offers an 8.5-mile oceanfront path perfect for cycling and walking.

As for the weather, the climate in Huntington Beach is famously mild, with temperatures averaging between 65°F and 80°F all year round. The city also enjoys an average of 283 sunny days per year.

Attractions and recreational activities

From beach bonfires to kayaking in Huntington Harbour, the list of things to do in Huntington Beach is endless. Living here means being just minutes from the beach, where activities like surfing, biking, and beach volleyball are part of everyday life.

At the heart of it all is Huntington City Beach, an iconic area that draws locals and tourists alike. The beach is a paradise for surfers, with consistent waves rolling year-round, especially during spring and fall. It’s also a great spot for sunbathing, fishing off the 1,850-foot-long Huntington Beach Pier, or just strolling along the shore. Volleyball courts, paved beach paths, and fire rings for cozy bonfires are a part of Huntington City Beach as well.

History buffs and surf enthusiasts will love exploring the nearby Surfer’s Hall of Fame and the International Surfing Museum, both of which celebrate Huntington Beach’s deep connection to surfing culture. The U.S. Open of Surfing, the largest surfing competition in the country, is held at Huntington City Beach.

Huntington Dog Beach is a must-visit for dog lovers. Located along the Pacific Coast Highway between Seapoint Avenue and 21st Street, this dog-friendly beach lets your furry friends roam free while you relax and enjoy the sun.

Huntington Beach’s location along the Southern California coast also puts residents close to some of the region’s most iconic attractions. Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park is 26 minutes away while Disneyland Park in Anaheim is a 28-minute drive.

Schools

The majority of Huntington Beach’s public schools are served by the Huntington Beach Union High School District (HBUHSD) for grades 9-12 and the Huntington Beach City School District (HBCSD) for grades K-8. Some areas of the city also fall within the Ocean View School District and the Westminster School District.

Huntington Beach High School, established in 1906, is the city’s oldest high school and is known for its extensive Academy for the Performing Arts (APA) program. Edison High School is another institution that stands out due to its athletic excellence and competitive academic programs. Both schools consistently rank highly in California for their student performance and extracurricular offerings.

Shopping and dining

Huntington Beach offers a vibrant shopping and dining scene centered around several key areas. Pacific City is an oceanfront shopping destination that has upscale retailers, boutiques, and restaurants with ocean views. Popular stores include Urban Outfitters, H&M, and numerous local surf shops. Bella Terra is another go-to shopping destination in Huntington Beach. This Tuscan-inspired, open-air shopping center features major retailers like Barnes & Noble and REI, as well as specialty shops, restaurants, and a movie theater.

When it comes to dining, Huntington Beach is a food lover’s paradise. From casual taco joints serving Baja-style fish tacos to upscale seafood restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The city’s culinary scene is diverse, offering an array of tantalizing options, from Mexican and Italian to Asian fusion and classic American cuisine.

Annual events

Huntington Beach hosts a variety of events throughout the year that celebrate its beach culture and community spirit. The U.S. Open of Surfing, which is typically held in late July or early August, is the city’s largest event. Apart from drawing hundreds of thousands of spectators to watch world-class surfers compete, this week-long festival also includes skateboarding competitions, live music, and vendor exhibitions.

The Huntington Beach Fourth of July Celebration is one of the largest Independence Day events on the West Coast. It features a morning 5K run, a parade down Main Street, and a spectacular fireworks show over the pier.

Held every February, the Surf City Marathon attracts runners from around the world who compete along a scenic coastal route.

Other notable events include the Chili at the Beach competition in June, the Huntington Beach Cherry Blossom Festival in spring, and the weekly Surf City Nights street fair and farmers market every Tuesday evening.

Huntington Beach isn’t just a beautiful coastal city—it’s a lively community that combines the best of Southern California living with modern conveniences and plenty of ways to relax and have fun. Whether you’re looking for a place to raise a family, enjoy your retirement, or live near the ocean, this city has it all.

When you’re ready to make Huntington Beach your home, I’d love to guide you through the journey. As one of the best Realtors in Huntington Beach, CA I’m passionate about helping clients achieve their real estate dreams, and my goal is to provide the best representation and make sure that every step of the process is a seamless one.

Let’s start looking for your dream home for sale in Huntington Beach, CA! Contact me at 310-892-4996 or send me an email today.