Huntington Beach where every day is a beach day!

If you're anything like me, you live for that salty breeze, the sound of crashing waves, and the feel of warm sand beneath your feet! I’ve been lucky enough to visit hundreds of great beaches, but I have a new entry into my top 10 list! Huntington Beach in California exceeded all my expectations. On the Californian West Coast, along the Pacific Coast Highway this fabulous town has an alias – Surf City USA. And it has really earned that name – it is a surfer’s paradise. Sometimes just a stop on a drive of the PCH…but what a waste to just stop for a day, this place deserves a proper visit. With rolling waves, the sea is filled with seasoned pro surfers and complete beginners, all just catching a wave. It’s fascinating to watch…and very funny to try and join in! Home to various international competitions, this really is the home of Californian Surfing. The beach stretches on and on…almost 10 miles of golden sand that seems never-ending. I cycled the length of it along the promenade – and all the way there was something new to see. There are vibrant areas filled with surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and loads of relaxing and chilled spaces too. One thing I didn’t manage to spot were any dolphins playing in the waves…although I’m told they are there! Huntington Beach is not only about surfing. I did a beautiful calm yoga session on the beach one morning, followed by a boat trip around the Marina ogling at the luxury waterfront houses. And of course, no trip to Huntington would be complete without a stroll down the iconic pier. Away from the beach, Main Street houses some cool and quirky boutique shopping. And this is one US city with no ‘burger chains’ – instead, there are numerous bars and restaurants, seafood places and waterfront cocktail bars – and I did my best to try as many as I could! Some of the best tacos I have ever eaten were in HB. And talking of food….a real highlight was the beach bonfire in the evening. It was iconic – warm fire, sand between your toes, waves crashing…and s’mores. That gooey, chocolately…umm…mess…was divine! One thing that was a complete revelation to me was how easy it was to get from HB into the city of LA. The two places feel worlds apart – the chilled and relaxed beach vibe, and the frenetic high-energy city – but just a cab ride away from each other! It made me realise that Huntington is actually the perfect holiday destination. Everyone is different, but for me, being able to spend my holiday in such a beautiful beachfront spot, but to also be able to whizz easily into the city and enjoy all that has to offer is perfect. Disneyland California is just over 20 mins away (and some hotels run a free shuttle bus there daily). Beverley Hills is under 40 miles away. So if you're in need of a little sun, surf, and good vibes, but would also love to see a bit of LA or take the kids to Disneyland, then Huntington Beach, with it's year round warmth, is without a doubt the best place to be!