EXPLORE NEARBY ADVENTURE

HOLLYWOOD LAGUNA BEACH

BY JOSIAH ROE

LEGOLAND

NEARBY ADVENTURE

One of the great things about Huntington Beach is its close proximity to many other classic Southern California locations. Whether it’s a drive inland to ride the Matterhorn at Disneyland® Resort or a trek north to L.A. to see the iconic Hollywood Sign, there’s nothing like a magical daytrip, especially one that’s capped with a relaxing night back in Surf City USA.

15 MILES OR LESS

SEAL BEACH

One of our favorite day trips is a simple drive over to Seal Beach, where an old-fashioned wooden pier awaits along with a charming Main Street featuring dozens of shops and eateries. You’ll also find the Red Car Museum (800-840 Electric Ave., Seal Beach), an old Pacific Electric tower car built in 1925 and the type of quaint train that once motored through Huntington Beach.

LONG BEACH

Another nearby waterfront playground is the city of Long Beach, located in the heart of Southern California. Lots to do here: a deepsea adventure at the Aquarium of the Pacific (100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach), whale watching on the water, shopping in one of the city’s many unique districts, a tour of coastal breweries, a vibrant foodie scene, and so much more. Long Beach is a great Surf City USA neighbor.

25 MILES OR LESS 40 MILES PLUS

LOS ANGELES

Widely considered the entertainment capital of the world, L.A. o ers endless attractions and activities depending on your mood. Explore thrilling theme park rides and a movie studio tour at Universal Studios Hollywood (100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City) and landmark museums like the Broad Museum (21 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles) and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures (6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles). There’s chic bars and clubs on the Sunset Strip, music concerts at the Hollywood Bowl (2301 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles), and numerous sporting events depending on the season. The list of things to do in the “big city” just goes on and on—just make sure you get back to your “small beach town” for the night.

LAGUNA BEACH

Laguna Beach is undoubtedly one of California’s cutest and most beautiful coastal towns, loaded with great places to eat, art galleries, amazing beaches, and many eclectic shops. The arts community defines this seaside gem, and by driving down the indescribably beautiful Pacific Coast Highway, you’re just a hop, skip, and a jump from Huntington Beach.

ANAHEIM

Since 1955, Disneyland® Resort (1313 Disneyland Dr., Anaheim) has been Southern California’s premier attraction, delighting bright-eyed kids and well-traveled adults from all over the world. Huntington Beach is the closest beach to the “The Happiest Place on Earth” and is an incredible experience for first timers and a sentimental place for repeat visitors. Anaheim is also a superb destination for craft beer connoisseurs, where you can find local favorites like Karl Strauss Brewing Company, Brewheim, Golden Road Brewery, and Brewery X.

100 MILES PLUS

SAN DIEGO

Whether you're into hiking along the sandstone cli s of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, walking through the gorgeous surf of Coronado Beach, or admiring the breathtaking scenery at La Jolla Cove, San Diego makes for an awesome day trip. Spend a day at 1200-acre Balboa Park among the many museums, theaters, and gardens; catch a Padres game at Petco Park (100 Park Blvd., San Diego); wander the lively downtown historic neighborhood called the Gaslamp Quarter and experience dozens of shops, restaurants, and bars. Better yet, treat your kids to LEGOLAND® California Resort (One Legoland Dr., Carlsbad).