HOME Travel Guide Common Sense Travel
decorative font style
    Travel >> Holiday Travel >  >> Travel Notes

California Family Road Trip: Huntington Beach Surf Vibes and Family Fun (Part 2)

...And our California road trip continues! After a night in San Diego, we head north to Huntington Beach, one of Southern California's top beach destinations...

Next Stop: Huntington Beach (2 Nights)

Northbound travel through Southern California often faces heavy traffic on Interstate 405 and Interstate 5 due to backups, minor accidents, and construction. Always check real-time traffic apps to choose the best route. We waited out the morning rush, stopped for playground fun at Balboa Park, and enjoyed lunch in La Jolla.
California Family Road Trip: Huntington Beach Surf Vibes and Family Fun (Part 2)
Playground antics at San Diego's Balboa Park
  • Tip: Dedicate a full day to Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre urban oasis near downtown featuring 17 museums, gardens, restaurants, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
A 90-minute drive took us to Huntington Beach, a coastal gem that's evolved into a vibrant, classic California beach town with an infectious ocean energy. The centerpiece is the 1,850-foot Huntington Beach Pier at the end of Main Street, offering stunning ocean views—though dogs like our Milo aren't allowed. Nearby residential streets provided perfect spots for walks.
California Family Road Trip: Huntington Beach Surf Vibes and Family Fun (Part 2)
The Huntington Beach Pier offers sweeping coastal views

During our visit, the renowned Vans U.S. Open of Surfing was underway, amplifying the surf culture with pro surfers, skateboarders, BMX riders, and enthusiasts filling the town. Many stayed at our hotel, Kimpton Shorebreak, steps from the pier, turning it into a lively hub.

  • Tip: Book around major events, as they drive up hotel rates significantly.
The Shorebreak Hotel captures California cool with its relaxed vibe and stylish decor. The open-air lobby buzzes as a social spot, featuring ping-pong, giant chess, cornhole, complimentary morning coffee, and a 5 p.m. wine hour. Don't miss the gym's rock wall or request a s'mores kit for evening fire pits—perfect for flexible family bedtimes on vacation.
California Family Road Trip: Huntington Beach Surf Vibes and Family Fun (Part 2)
The Shorebreak's fire pits inspire s'mores and great conversations at night

The hotel's Pacific Hideaway restaurant is a premium beach shack blending comfort and elegance, with a beach-view patio. Our seafood dinner featured exceptional raw amberjack crudo and fish tacos with cotija cheese and chipotle aioli. Breakfast highlights included a farm-fresh egg-white frittata and house-made sausages, plus creative cocktails.

California Family Road Trip: Huntington Beach Surf Vibes and Family Fun (Part 2)
Lush decor at the Shorebreak's Pacific Hideaway
  • Tip: For Disneyland trips, base in Orange County beaches to mix theme parks with beach time—just 20-30 minutes away.
Tuesdays bring Surf City Nights on Main Street (5-9 p.m.), a lively mix of farmers' market, fair, live music, and vendors—ideal for people-watching. We ended up at Cucina Alessa for excellent Italian cuisine in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with outstanding service.

...Coming up: Part 3, exploring California's stunning Central Coast!

See more from our trip via #saglieadventures. Follow for travel tips on Instagram and Twitter. Join Travelzoo for road trip deals!

Travel Notes
  • Ultimate Family-Friendly Itinerary for Greater Palm Springs

    Discover a perfect family getaway in Greater Palm Springs that supports local businesses, featuring iconic date shakes. Save the graphic below to kick off the fun! Prioritize safety with responsible travel—stock up on family face masks at these local shops. MORNING Begin your day with delightful homemade Pop-Tarts at Wilma & Frieda’s, renowned for comfort foods with creative twists. Spoil the kids with extra sprinkles and treat yourself to a premium latte or hot chocolate. Next, immerse

  • Top 10 Family Adventure Destinations for Unforgettable Experiences

    Ready to elevate your next family vacation? Step beyond the ordinary with these expert-curated adventure destinations designed to bond your family through thrilling shared experiences. 1. Iceland Iceland offers a perfect blend of family-friendly adventures: dog-sledding, whale watching, glacier hiking, Northern Lights viewing, and relaxing in geothermal hot springs. For the bold, explore inside an active volcano for an unparalleled thrill. 2. New Zealand Renowned for its stunning landscapes

  • ASU Family Weekend 2021: Complete Guide to Events, Activities & Family Fun in Tempe

    Family Weekend at Arizona State University is a cherished fall tradition in Tempe, drawing parents and loved ones to share campus life with their Sun Devil students. Discover the full lineup of events and experiences during ASU Family Weekend, November 5-7, 2021. Celebrate ASU spirit, pride, and traditions alongside your student and family. Enjoy a variety of engaging activities across all four campuses, with Tempe highlights including fitness classes, college-specific events, a family block pa