Day 1: Settle In & Catch a Sunset
Getting to Huntington Beach is a breeze. The beachside paradise sits just between Los Angeles and San Diego, with three major airports within a 40-mile radius.
Upon arrival, check in to one of Huntington Beach’s oceanfront resorts: Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa, The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel, Paséa Hotel & Spa, or Kimpton Shorebreak Resort. Once you’ve dropped your bags, ease into vacation mode with a stroll through Pacific City or downtown Main Street, where surf shops, boutiques, and patio dining set the vibe.
As the day winds down, head straight to the Huntington Beach Pier for a picture-perfect sunset. Dinner can be casual at Sandy’s Beach Shack or more elevated at Jolie, both with sweeping views of the Pacific.
Day 2: A Taste of Surf City USA®
Fuel up at Sugar Shack Café, a local institution where surfers have been grabbing breakfast since the ’60s. From there, rent a beach cruiser and make your way down the 8.5-mile paved oceanfront path, or book a surf lesson to test out the waves yourself.
Later, slow things down with a stroll through the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, home to miles of coastal trails and wildlife. Then head back to your room to freshen up before kicking the evening off with rooftop cocktails at The Waterfront Beach Resort’s Offshore 9. Finally, cruise over to Main Street for dinner and live music.
Day 3: Airshow Spectacular
This is the day you’ve been waiting for: the Pacific Airshow. Grab your coffee early and make your way to the sands of Huntington City Beach well before 10 a.m. The sky comes alive with military jet teams, stunt pilots, and precision flying right above the ocean.
You're already in town for the big show, but if you want to take your viewing experience to the next level, tickets are available for purchase here. General Admission starts at just $26!
When the final plane soars off into the horizon, the fun continues. Stroll up to the pier and celebrate with dinner at Duke’s or join the lively scene at Fred’s Mexican Café for tacos and margaritas.
Practical Tips for Pacific Airshow Event Day
- Parking: Arrive early if you plan to park near the beach - lots fill quickly. Consider using rideshare services or biking in.
- Best Viewing Spots: The airshow is visible for miles, but the main action centers around the Huntington Beach Pier.
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, hats, water, and maybe a light jacket for when the ocean breeze kicks up. Beach chairs and blankets are great if you’re watching from the sand.
- Crowds: Expect heavy foot traffic along the beach and Main Street. Build in extra time if you have dinner reservations or are meeting friends.
Day 4: Coastal Adventures & Relaxation
Take it easy after a day of adrenaline. Enjoy a late brunch at Kimpton Shorebreak’s Pacific Hideaway, then head north to Huntington Harbour to rent a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or even a Duffy boat for a laid-back afternoon on the water.
Back at your hotel, unwind with a spa treatment or poolside cocktail before a seafood dinner at or Broad Street Oyster Company at the end of the pier or a more refined experience at Watertable.
Day 5: One Last Walk on the Sand
Before heading home, grab breakfast at Paséa’s Lōrea or stop by Harbor House Café, a retro diner that’s been serving comfort food since 1939.
Take one last walk along the beach or pier, pick up a few souvenirs from the local shops, and soak up the coastal views before you go. You’ll leave with sand in your suitcase, sun-kissed memories, and the thrill of the airshow still echoing overhead.
