Bolsa Chica State Beach

Bolsa Chica State Beach provides the perfect playground for veteran and first-time surfers, campers, fishermen/women, and families, many of which stay well into the evening for a classic beach bonfire at one of the 200+ available fire rings. Once called “Tin Can Beach,” this iconic location became a state beach in 1960. With excellent year-round weather, this beach averages in the 70s and 80s during summertime and only dips into the mid-60s in winter. Shallow waters and a wide open beach make this spot a surfer’s paradise as the pristine waves roll in and break creating the perfect surf. This beach is located at Warner Avenue and extends south all the way to Seapoint Avenue. North of this location is Sunset Beach, and south of this location is Huntington Dog Beach. If you cross the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll find the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve which offers birding, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

What Are The Amenities at Bolsa Chica State Beach, California?

Here you’ll find public restrooms, outdoor showers, wheelchair accessibility, Visitor Center, beach volleyball courts, basketball courts, year-round RV camping (reserve via Reserve America), paved beach path, picnic ramadas, barbecue grills, and 200 fire rings available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Pro Tip: Arrive early to claim a fire ring during peak season, or reserve a picnic area, which comes with its very own fire ring.

Beach Bonfires

The best evenings start with a beach bonfires. Bolsa Chica State Beach is the perfect spot for smores and sunsets. 

Beach Wheelchair Access & Wheelchair Rental

Bolsa Chica State Beach focuses on ensuring everyone can enjoy a fun day in the sun and surf. Wheelchair loans are available with ramps for sand access. 

Lifeguard Service

Bolsa Chica State Beach takes safety very seriously and offers lifeguard service provided by the California State Parks Lifeguard Service. With year-round patrol and operating lifeguard towers roughly from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, your time in the surf and sun is sure to be safe as well.

Activities at Bolsa Chica State Beach 

Bolsa Chica State Beach has 3 miles of uninterrupted coastline, endless summer weather, and various thing to enjoy and experience on the beach. From surfing, biking, bonfire pits, fishing, and volleyball, there is something for everyone to enjoy the outdoors at Bolsa Chica State Beach. 

Bolsa Chica State Beach Visitor Center

The Bolsa Chica State Beach Visitor Center is fun for the whole family and hosts year-round exhibits and displays that highlight the rich history of the area as well as the local animal and plant life. 

Paved Beachside Trail

Bolsa Chica State Beach features an 8.5-mile paved multi-use trail and beach bike path that is perfect for walking the dogs on a leash, biking, or going for a seaside stroll. 

Bolsa Chica State Beach Concessions

If noshing on fresh Californian cuisine and sipping cocktails by the sea sounds like your ideal beach day, Bolsa Chica State Beach is your happy place. At the most northern tip sits SeaLegs at the Beach, pours wine and beer and serves up a champagne brunch, signature flatbreads, and more. As they say, “it’s not your average burger shack.” Keep heading south and stop in at Beach City Provisions, a one-stop shop catering to RV campers and featuring comfort food, local craft beer, and a small general store. And finally, Pacific Kitchen at the southern most end offers sustainably sourced fish, acai bowls, coffee, and beer.

Bolsa Chica State Beach Rules & Regulations

Is alcohol permitted at Bolsa Chica State Beach? 

Alcohol is prohibited unless approved ahead of time with a Special Events Permit. Special events permits are available from the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

Are dogs allowed on Bolsa Chica State Beach? 

Dogs are not allowed on the sand and can only be on leashes on the multi-use trail. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly beach, check out Huntington Dog Beach!

Can you stay overnight at Bolsa Chica beach?

Enclosed tents are prohibited on the beach, only ez-ups and open-air tents are allowed. Overnight camping is only allowed at an RV campground.

Can you bring a grill to Bolsa Chica beach? 

No charcoal grilling - propane grills are allowed anywhere behind the line of lifeguard towers, as long as they are at least 18” off the ground. 

Are Balloons Allowed?

To ensure the safety of wildlife, no piñatas or balloons are allowed.

Can you swim at Bolsa Chica State Beach? 

The beach offers a wide, sandy shoreline and welcoming Southern California waves, making it suitable for swimmers.

Bolsa Chica State Beach Location and Parking

Bolsa Chica State Beach is from Seapoint Street north to Warner Avenue. The parking fee is $15 per day; $30 for RVs.

Bolsa Chica State Beach RV Camping

(714) 846-3460

17851 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92649

• Park hours: Monday - Sunday 6am - 10pm; Gates close at 9pm 
• Max. Trailer Lengths: 40 Feet 
• Max. Camper/Motorhome: 40 Feet
• 50 on-site electrical and water hookups 
• Prices range from $55.00 - $65.00 plus Reservation Fee Charge
• Pet-friendly RV Huntington Beach Camping 

Bolsa Chica State Beach RV Campground is a popular destination for camping enthusiasts and beachgoers alike. The campground offers a scenic and convenient location for RV camping, with spacious sites equipped with electric and water hookups. In addition to beach activities, visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities including fire pits, showers, and picnic tables. The campground is also conveniently located near restaurants, shops, and other local attractions, making it an ideal spot for a family vacation or a weekend getaway. Trailers can be up to 40 feet in length, and reservations are available up to six months in advance of your arrival date. Reservations for Bolsa Chica State Beach RV Camping can be conveniently made online up to six months in advance of your arrival date.