Orange County and Catalina Island

We’ve compiled the best of the best in Orange County and Catalina Island - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

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  • 1. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

    Wildlife lovers and bird-watchers flock to Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, which has more than 1,300 acres of salty marshland home to 200 different bird species—including great blue herons, snowy and great egrets, and brown pelicans. Throughout the reserve are easy-to-walk trails for bird-watching along a 1½-mile loop. There are two entrances off the Pacific Coast Highway: one close to the Interpretive Center and a second 1 mile south on Warner Avenue, opposite Bolsa Chica State Beach. Each parking lot connects to 4 miles of walking and hiking trails with scenic overlooks.

    3842 Warner Ave., California, 92649, USA
    714-846–1114

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Free
  • 2. Bolsa Chica State Beach

    In the northern section of the city, Bolsa Chica State Beach is usually less crowded than its southern neighbors. The sand is somewhat gritty and not the cleanest, but swells make it a hot surfing spot. The Huntington Beach bike trail runs along the edge of the sand for 7 miles north to the south of Huntington Beach. Picnic sites can be reserved in advance. Firepits attract beachgoers most nights. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking; showers; toilets. Best for: sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.

    Pacific Coast Hwy., California, 92648, USA
    714-377-5691

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: $15 parking
  • 3. Huntington Beach Pier

    This municipal pier stretches 1,856 feet out to sea, past the powerful waves that gave Huntington Beach the title of "Surf City U.S.A." Well above the waves, it's a prime vantage point to watch the dozens of surfers in the water below. On the pier you'll find a snack shop and a shop where you can buy fishing rod rentals, tackle, and bait to fish off the pier.

    Pacific Coast Hwy., California, 92648, USA
  • 4. Huntington City Beach

    Stretching for 3½ miles from Bolsa Chica State Beach to Huntington State Beach, Huntington City Beach is most crowded around the pier where amateur and professional surfers brave the waves daily. There are 100 fire rings, numerous concession stands, bike paths, and well-raked white sand. Surfboard rental shops make this a popular beach year-round. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking; showers; toilets. Best for: sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.

    Pacific Coast Hwy., California, 92648, USA
    714-536–5281

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Parking from $15
  • 5. Huntington State Beach

    This peaceful state beach offers 121 sandy acres and 200 firepits, so it's popular during the day and evening. There are changing rooms, and two new concession stands---the Huntington Beach House and Sahara Sandbar. There are year-round surf lessons, lifeguards, Wi-Fi access, and ample parking. An 8½-mile bike path connects Huntington to Bolsa Chica State Beach. Picnic areas can be reserved in advance for a fee depending on location; otherwise it's first come, first served. On hot days, expect crowds at this broad, soft-sand beach. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking; showers; toilets. Best for: sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.

    21601 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., California, 92646, USA
    714-536–1454

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: $15 parking
  • Recommended Fodor’s Video

  • 6. International Surfing Museum

    Just up Main Street from Huntington Pier, in an iconic art-deco building, the International Surfing Museum pays tribute to the sport's greats with an impressive collection of surfboards and related memorabilia. Exhibits are designed to encourage families to learn about the history of surfing. Highlights include Duke Kahanamoku's surfboard and the "World's Largest Surfboard" measuring 42 feet long, 11 feet wide, 16 inches thick, and weighing 1,300 pounds.

    411 Olive Ave., California, 92648, USA
    714-960--3483

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: $3, Closed Mon.

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