Celebrate National Bucket List Day With a Huntington Beach Bucket List

The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Huntington Beach? Whether you're a local, regular visitor, or a first-timer, t's almost certainly the iconic Huntington Beach Pier. Originally constructed in 1904 and part of the National Register of Historic Places, the pier captures the true spirit of Surf City USA®. It stretches 1,850 feet into the Pacific Ocean, making it one of the longest piers on the West Coast. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll during golden hour or power walking first thing in the morning, the pier is the prime spot to kick-off your Huntington Beach bucket list journey. 

If you think your Huntington Beach bucket list begins and ends at the beach, think again! The Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center (HCPEC) is situated on 25 acres of beautiful, sea-breezed land in Huntington Central Park, just two miles from the beach. This premier equestrian facility is home to more than 150 acres of public use trails. Reserve 30-minute or 1-hour trail rides through Horse Play Rentals and enjoy a serene ride through the largest city-owned park in Orange County.

Next up, explore quaint and peaceful Huntington Harbour by way of kayak or stand-up paddle board. Get waterfront access to one of Southern California's most picturesque neighborhoods, where stunning homes and boats of all sizes line the canals. No kayak or board? No problem. Grab a rental from Huntington Harbour Boat Rentals, OEX Sunset Beach, or OC Paddlesports, all conveniently located near the harbor. 

Did you know Huntington Beach broke two Guinness World Records™ in 2015? Surf City USA® made history by setting global records for both "World's Largest Surfboard" and "Most People Riding a Surfboard at Once" with over 60 professional surfers, former US Open of Surfing winners, Surfing Walk and Surfers' Hall of Fame inductees, youth surf champions, and local heroes piled onto a custom, 42-foot-long surfboard on the south side of the Huntington Beach Pier. 

You can go see the Big Board for yourself on the corner of 5th and Olive in Downtown Huntington Beach! While you're there, head inside the International Surfing Museum to check out the collections of surfing memorabilia and culture, including some of surfing history's most significant artifacts. The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Located at the base of the Huntington Beach Pier, Duke's has been a Huntington Beach staple for over two decades. Named after the father of international surfing, Duke Kahanamoku, the restaurant honors his reputation for warm hospitality and the true spirit of Aloha while serving up the freshest premium seafood and prime steaks. Take in the views and enjoy the Hawaiian beach house ambiance for lunch or dinner in the main dining area or at The Barefoot Bar. We'd be remiss if we didn't recommend two visitor (and local) favorites - the Kimo's Original Hula Pie and a Kalapaki Mai Tai. 

Stop in at one of the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort's weekly yoga classes, happening on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Be sure to bring your own mat, towel, and water, and dress comfortably. Classes are open to the public, but if you're not staying at the resort, RSVP with Jacque via email. As an added bonus, all attendees will receive a coupon for 15% off brunch at Pacific Hideaway!

Hop in the Twin Dolphin Tower elevator at The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel, get off on the 9th floor, and arrive at the highest coastal rooftop experience in Orange County. Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge's panoramic views, unique menu of shared plates, hand-crafted specialty cocktails, and wide selection of fine wines and champagne make it a can't-miss spot on your Surf City USA® bucket list journey. Attire is resort casual and hours fluctuate based on the season, so follow Offshore 9 on Instagram to keep up with the latest details. 

Bonfires on the sand are an absolute must when visiting Huntington Beach. Experience the epitome of cozy watching a signature HB sunset next to your oceanfront fire pit. Packages through the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa include beach chairs, blankets, hot chocolate, and, of course, s'mores. See more information about bonfire packages for hotel guests here. If you're not a Hyatt guest, click here to book.  

Pooches and people alike are welcome to enjoy this 1,100 square foot outdoor play area, complete with lifeguard station dog house and a wall mural commissioned by a local artist. Paw-séa is only open to dogs and guests of Paséa Hotel & Spa, but stop by and watch the pups at play if you're in the area and need a little serotonin boost!

SeaLegs at the Beach is part beachfront concert venue, part beach concessionaire, part kid-friendly adult playground at the northernmost edge of Bolsa Chica State Beach. Hang out in the lounge chairs with your favorite beer or wine while watching the amazing sunsets along the coastline. Come for the views and stay for the epic hang time with their full food and drink menu, picnic tables, plus regular live music and events.

Head about six miles south to Huntington State Beach to find The Huntington Beach House. The embodiment of the vibe of a Southern California beach house, the menu features locally-sourced seafood, brunch items, and rotating fresh California eats such as lox, avocado toasts, and poke. The Huntington Beach House is open year-round and stays open until 10 p.m. on weekends!