Huntington State Beach

Though riding the waves is a year-round Huntington Beach ritual, the influx of surfers in the summer can become overwhelming to non-surfers and families who just want a relaxing beach atmosphere.

So during the summer months, surfing is banned at Huntington State Beach, making it extremely popular for those who’d rather spend their days swimming, surf fishing, bodyboarding and just hanging out.

Staying on the sand has its perks too, with beach volleyball nets, fire rings and basketball courts scattered along the shoreline. The beach is long and wide — stretching to around 2 miles — so there is definitely room for everyone.

One unique feature of the beach is the Huntington Beach Wetlands that lie at its southernmost end. On this 114-acre refuge, visitors can stay on the lookout for the California Least Tern, a federally endangered species, as well as an abundance of additional wildlife.

Huntington State Beach is also the official training grounds for the California State Lifeguards.