Downtown Huntington Beach is the perfect place for those who want to park their cars on the weekend and enjoy the beach life. Known as Surf City USA, it is the largest beach city in Orange County by population, and Huntington Beach residents know why it’s such a fantastic place to call home!
Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Downtown Huntington Beach is a haven for surfers. Every year, the U.S. Open of Surfing takes to the 8.5-mile stretch of sandy beach and features some of the most impressive surfers in the world. The waves here are helped by a natural effect caused by ocean swells from Catalina Island, which is often viewed on clear days. Along Main Street, there are a variety of surf shops and surf-inspired bars and restaurants that pay homage to the city’s most notable pastime. There has been talk of closing off Main Street and making it a pedestrian-only zone so that visitors and residents can enjoy the variety of retail stores and restaurants without having to dodge cars passing by.
With so much focus on surfing, some may wonder why the city’s first high school, Huntington Beach High School on Main Street, is the home to the Oilers. Built back in 1906, the high school chose to name their mascot after Huntington Beach’s first original natural resource, oil. Preservation is still important in the area, including prohibiting construction of any kind on the beach that would impede the natural beauty of the area or destroy the city’s ties to the ocean.
Downtown Huntington Beach is a haven for the arts, and includes the International Surf Museum. The Golden Bear, a restaurant and nightclub that has since been demolished, hosted famous musicians like BB King, Janis Joplin, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and more. Many people flock to the Huntington Beach Pier that stretches from Main Street into the Pacific Ocean, as it is one of the most photographed aspects of the city. At the end of the pier, Ruby’s Diner lures in the hungry with a 50’s seaside dining experience.
Residents of Downtown Huntington Beach love Surf City Nights held every Tuesday. The community event features a farmer’s market, entertainment, food, and carnival-type rides. The event takes place in the first three blocks of Main Street from Pacific Coast Highway to Orange Avenue.
There are so many reasons to consider becoming a Downtown Huntington Beach resident. The availability of things to do and the community-focused atmosphere make it the perfect place to call home!
