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Huntington Beach
Better known as Surf City, it boasts the longest uninterrupted stretch of beach on the west coast. The city has a lot of attractions, parks, theaters, malls and restaurants – but let’s faces it: the main attraction will always be the beach.
There are several beaches to choose from, each one with its own personality. Some of them are managed by the city and others are part of the State Park system.
My favorite area is Main Street at the Pier. Park in one of the parking structure of off Main Street or park in one of the beach parking lots - then pick your adventure.
You can make it a fun day on the sand and in the surf. Rent your beach equipment from Dwight's or Zack's right next to the pier. I like to rent from Zack’s because they have a large selection and friendly service.
You can make it a good invigorating work out. Just rent a bike from Zack's or Dwight's and take a long trip due north or due south. Huntington Beach has one of the best beach bike trails. It is paved and safe, providing great views of the ocean. If you head north you will pass through HB Cliffs, Bolsa Chica State Beach and into Sunset beach. If you head south from the pier you will pass through the state beach, over the Santa Ana River and into the city of Newport Beach. You can continue your trek into Newport Beach – but that is another adventure for another article.
If you prefer, you can just stroll along the beach enjoying the sound of the breakers and the calls of the seagulls. You can also stroll up on the pier to get a bird’s eye view of the sun worshipers and the surfers. If you had enough of the sun and the surf, head into Main Street and enjoy the shops and restaurants.
The Main Street and Pier area is especially hopping during summer days and nights. Some of the events worth mentioning are:
- Art-A-Faire: Every Friday 10 am to 7 pm. Arts, crafts, and hand-made gifts. Sometime extended into the weekend.
- Surf City Nights: Every week on Tuesday 5 pm to 9 pm. farmer's market, bounce house, street performers (musical and non-musical acts), restaurant samplings, sidewalk sales and specials from local restaurants
- Surf City Blues, Brews & BBQ: at the microbrewery "Brew Bakers". Every 3rd Saturday.
- Bolsa Chica Wetlands and Mesa Tour: Every third Sunday of every month (10 a.m.)
- Calendar of events. http://www.surfcityusa.com/california-vacation-ideas/events.aspx
Surf city website www.surfcityusa.com
Official city website: www.ci.huntington-beach.ca.us
Note: Sunset pier photo by Daniel Miller
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