25 Free Things to Do in Huntington Beach, CA
Having fun in Huntington Beach doesn't require a lot of money. There are many things to see and do in Surf City USA for free. With 10 miles of wide-open beaches, year-round warm weather, and a variety of beautiful parks. There are numerous things to do in Huntington Beach that are fun and inexpensive for any time of year.
Hit the Beach
1. Beach access is free. Spend your day on the sand, soaking up the sun and splashing in the waves.
2. An evening around a beach bonfire is the perfect end to your perfect day in Surf City USA. Over 500 bonfire rings are available to the public free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis along the Huntington Beach coastline.
3. Take a walk along the 10-mile paved beach path. Or bring your own wheels and challenge yourself to cover the entire scenic trail.
4. Take a stroll along our iconic Huntington Beach Pier.
5. Take your dog to Huntington Dog Beach for a pawesome time. Help take care of Dog Beach so it can continue to take care of you and your furry friends! Dog Beach Cleanups are scheduled two to three times per month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
6. Stand on the sidelines and spectate at one of Huntington Beach's many events throughout the year.
7. Watch the boats go by in the Huntington Harbour at Peter's Landing.
Soak in the Pacific Coastline or Catch a Nibble on the Pier
8. Take in the view of the beach, surfers, and sunset from the Huntington Beach Pier. At 1,850 feet long, the Huntington Beach Pier offers the perfect vantage point for people- and surfer-watching.
9. Go fishing off the Huntington Beach Pier. No fishing license required.
Explore Nature and the Coastal Wildlife
10. See how many of the nearly 300 species of birds you can find at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Five miles of public trails allow you to explore to your heart's content. Free tours are also available on select weekends.
11. Visit Shipley Nature Center in Huntington Central Park and learn about California native plants. The center holds regular educational seminars and kid-friendly events that are almost always free to the public.
12. Learn about the ecology of the Huntington Beach Wetlands at the new Wetlands and Wildlife Care and Education Center.
Can’t Miss Lively Downtown and Pacific City Events
13. Sample local fresh fruit and peruse local wares at Surf City Artisan Fair every Friday and select weekends next to the Huntington Beach Pier.
14. Walk around Downtown Huntington Beach's Farmers' Market every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. during the Summer and from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. during the Winter.
15. Window shop the many unique and locals-run boutiques dotting Main Street, The Strand, and Pacific City.
16. Groove to live music at Pacific City on most Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
17. Admire hot rods and dunk your donuts in your coffee at the "Donut Derelicts" Saturday sunrise car cruisers show, a weekly tradition held outside Adams Avenue Donuts since 1985.
18. Every third Tuesday of each month, PC Grommets Kids Club supplies an hour of fun for the kiddos at Pacific City.
Discover Surf City’s Rich Art Scene and Surf History
19. See which of your favorite surfers have the same hand and shoe (or flip-flop) size as you at the Surfers' Hall of Fame in front of Huntington Surf and Sport at Main Street and Pacific Coast Highway.
20. Check out the latest exhibit at the Huntington Beach Art Center on Main Street. Donations welcome.
21. Stroll the Surfing Walk of Fame along the north side of Main Street, beginning in front of Jack's Surfboards.
22. Take the free digital historic walking tour to learn about Downtown Huntington Beach's history.
23. Learn about Sunset Beach's history for free with the Sunset Beach Walking Tour.
Break a Sweat, Not the Bank
24. Test out your grinding skills at the Vans Off The Wall Skatepark. Admission is free, the park is open daily, and gear rentals are available.
25. Try your hand at "the fastest growing sport you've never heard of." There are four permanent outdoor pickleball courts at Worthy Park that are free to the public and open daily.
Free Things to do Near Huntington Beach, CA
Orange County is filled with free experiences that make for easy day trips. Visitors can enjoy miles of coastal trails, explore scenic parks and open spaces, or take in public art and cultural landmarks throughout the region. From beachside strolls to family-friendly green spaces, there are endless opportunities to enjoy Southern California’s sunshine without opening your wallet. You can plan a budget-friendly vacation, stay at a Huntington Beach hotel and fill your trip with these activities.
