Surf City USA is full of beautiful, instagrammable spots that reference the surf culture and those California vibes that we all love. Curiously, I only got to know about most of these places after I moved down here.
So, for the travelers planning to visit Huntington Beach and for the locals alike, I've put together a list with some of my favorite spots in town for amazing pics, 'gram approved.
Oh and the best thing, they are FREE.
The Pier & Pier Plaza
It's the most photographed attraction in the city. You haven't been to HB if you haven't visited the pier. Simple as that.
Tip: Besides the usual pics on the pier, try some shots around the pier plaza or under the pier for different perspectives!
HB Cliffs & Beach Boardwalk
They might not be as impressive as San Diego's or Big Sur, but we do have cliffs in HB and they are one of my top places to go photograph. You can get amazing shots from up there, as well as a different perspective from the beach.
Also, the beach boardwalk is about 10 miles long, from Sunset Beach all the way to Newport. There are several breathtaking, ocean side photo-ops along the way.
Tip: The Cliffs are by Huntington Dog Beach, and as with everywhere dogs are around, there's happiness involved.
Beach Boardwalk - Mosaic Art Installations
One of my favorite things to photograph is stairs (not sure why, I just like it!). These mosaic stairs on the beach are my favorite ever! They are part of the art created by Donna Billick that has certainly made this city even more delightful to the eyes.
Tip: You can bike, walk or skate here from the Pier, it's super close.
Address: City of Huntington Beach Lifeguard Headquarters - 103 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Beach Boardwalk - Surfboard Flags on Wall
When you think about HB, you think about surfing. And surfers from all over the world dream of surfing these waves. These 14 cast surfboards representing different countries are such a great spot to take a photo!
Tip: Located on the wall at North Restroom adjacent to Lifeguard Headquarters on the beach. Oh and this article's cover picture was taken in this area as well.
Address: 103 CA-1, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Downtown - Main St
Lots of people everyday here, specially on summer. It's where everything happens in town, so definitely worth walking around for people watching, photographing and shopping/dining.
Tip: As with most busy places, early mornings are less crowded and the best time to shoot. Also, Surf City Nights (Farmer's Market) happens here every Tuesdays 5-9 pm.
Address: 200 Main St, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 (water fountain)
Downtown - 5th & PCH
One of the many art pieces dedicated to the surf culture that the city is world renowned for, the Steel Light Wave Art, is located on 5th and PCH in Downtown. This street has super cute string lights that make for a perfect sunset shot, as well as shops and dining options.
Tip: Capturing this art can be tricky due to its size, so play with your camera/phone and you might just find yourself on IG's explore page :P
Pacific City
Pacific City has a lot of #photoop locations. But, in addition to all the amazing pictures you can snag here, it's one of the best places to dine and shop in town.
Tip: My favorite spots to shoot here are the ocean deck and also the views from the 2nd floor. As far as art walls: the main entrance wall, the red food wall by Symzies & "stay cool" art under the stairs next to Ways & Means are totally #instaworthy.
Bella Terra
This mall has gone through some major renovations and it's looking soooo good! They have a beer garden and kids play area that were meant to be photographed.
Tip: This is not a food post but I gotta mention that everything at Euro Caffe here at Bella Terra is just as beautiful as it is delicious!
Wings
I've found 2 different wings wall art in town so far. One is cute and traditional for those angels to be, and the other is just as fun as it gets.
Tip: Better than the wings are the two places they're located. Snag a pic and go in for a meal :)
Pizza Wings: Cruisers Pizza Bar & Grill
Black & White Wings: HB Corner Market
Be inspired! Hope you liked the tips and that you get to visit some of these places next time you're in town! Huntington Beach and all of its incredible sightseeing places deserve to be captured and shared with the world.
I'm always exploring around and looking for new spots to show you, so make sure to follow me on social to stay up to date with my latest findings!
With Love,
Bella.