Huntington State Beaches Orange County

The most visited beach among Orange County beaches is actually a combination of two powerhouse state beaches in Huntington Beach. Bolsa Chica State Beach and Huntington State Beach combined rank among the top visited state parks and beaches, getting millions of visitors each season. The two beaches are separated by the city operated Huntington City Beach where you will find the Huntington Beach Pier.

Among their attractions are the coveted bonfire rings, ample parking (except on the busiest days) and RV camping at Bolsa Chica SB.

Next to Bolsa Chica SB is a wetlands and a dog park. It is slightly further from downtown and Huntington Beach Pier, the hub of activities and excitement with over 100 restaurants and shops.

Bolsa Chica State Beach is close to the action and enjoys a vantage point overlooking the Huntington Beach Pier, plus, it also sits on the border of Newport Beach, another popular beach destination with resort accommodations and many beaches.

Bolsa Chica State Beach and Huntington State Beach are not the only state beaches in Orange County. They are the northernmost on the 40 some miles of OC coast but if you head south you'll find treasures in Newport Beach's Corona del Mar and Newport Coast areas with Crystal Cove State Beach among the gems. Also there's Salt Creek State Beach bordering Dana Point, Doheny State Beach in Dana Point and San Clemente State Beach.

If you have a state beaches and parks pass you'll need to make sure that it s good for admission to these beaches as the pass includes some restrictions. Otherwise although beaches are free to see, parking is charged at a fee which varies. Some have gate admittance with guards charging anywhere from $10 on up. To avoid the parking fees some actually park in neighborhoods nearby several beaches or get dropped off via OCTA buses which charge a fee to ride. It's hard to save money so you can also consider riding a bicycle to the beach. There are parking stations for bikes, though you must bring your own bicycle lock.