Huntington Pier is the surf city epicenter, offering punchy beachbreak peaks amplified by the pier pilings. Contests, night sessions, and photogenic sunsets are part of the daily routine.
Home of the US Open of Surfing, Huntington Pier has launched countless pro careers. The lights allow night surfing during events, keeping the lineup buzzing after dark.
Expect peaky wedges with fast lefts on the north side and longer rights on the south side. The pier magnifies swell, making waist-high days rippable.
Tide insight: Mid tide dropping keeps the wave steep without closing out. Low tide offers barrels but increases the risk of hitting the bottom.
Swell outlook: Combo swells from the west and south are ideal. Windswell keeps it active even on smaller days.
Wind game plan: Morning offshores or Santa Ana conditions are golden. Afternoon winds can be strong, but evening glass-offs happen frequently.
Water temperature watch: Winter lows around 57°F, summer highs near 70°F. Upwelling during strong south swells can chill the water overnight.
Crowd and safety notes: Expect a heavy pack and keep an eye on Crowded lineups with competitive surfers, Pier pilings during bigger sets, Strong rip currents sweeping alongside the pier. Rotate respectfully, call your waves, and plan an exit route before paddling out.
Parking and amenities: Large pay lots at the pier plus street parking along PCH. Arrive early during contest weeks.. Nearby support includes Restrooms, showers, and restaurants at the pier base, Surf shops lining Main Street. Lock in a backup parking option so you can pivot fast when the lot reaches capacity.
Session prep snapshot
Save this checklist before you paddle out—update times refresh hourly so you always see the latest intel.
- Best tide window
- Mid tide dropping keeps the wave steep without closing out. Low tide offers barrels but increases the risk of hitting the bottom.
- Swell sweet spot
- Combo swells from the west and south are ideal. Windswell keeps it active even on smaller days.
- Wind strategy
- Morning offshores or Santa Ana conditions are golden. Afternoon winds can be strong, but evening glass-offs happen frequently.
- Water temperature
- Winter lows around 57°F, summer highs near 70°F. Upwelling during strong south swells can chill the water overnight.
Hazards to watch: Crowded lineups with competitive surfers, Pier pilings during bigger sets, Strong rip currents sweeping alongside the pier. Log the session in your Quiver journal to track how these variables impacted your surf.
Huntington Beach Pier FAQs
Which side of Huntington Pier is better?
North side feeds into faster lefts, while the south side offers longer rights. Check both before paddling out.
Can beginners surf Huntington Pier?
The inside reforms can be manageable, but the main peaks are punchy. Beginners might prefer Bolsa Chica or Doheny.
How do I avoid crowds?
Surf dawn patrol or late evening, and walk a block or two north or south from the pier to find less packed peaks.