Bolsa Chica State Beach: A Coastal Haven
Discover the quintessential Southern California beach experience at Bolsa Chica State Beach: surf, sun, bonfires, and nature converge on this iconic Huntington Beach coastline.
Bolsa Chica State Beach, a three-mile stretch of sandy paradise in Huntington Beach, California, beckons visitors with its classic Southern California charm. Known as 'Tin Can Beach' in its earlier days, this state beach is now a haven for surfers, sunbathers, and families alike. With consistent waves, fire rings for evening bonfires, and a paved multi-use trail, Bolsa Chica offers a diverse range of activities. The adjacent Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve provides a unique opportunity for bird watching and nature exploration, making it a destination that blends recreation with natural beauty. Whether you're seeking thrilling water sports or a tranquil escape, Bolsa Chica State Beach promises an unforgettable coastal experience, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually to its sun-kissed shores.
A brief summary to Bolsa Chica State Beach
- 17851 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, California, 92649, US
- +1714-377-5691
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a parking spot and a fire ring for an evening bonfire.
- Visit the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve across the Pacific Coast Highway for bird watching and a peaceful escape from the beach crowds.
- Take advantage of the paved multi-use trail for a scenic bike ride or walk along the coast, connecting to Huntington State Beach.
- Check the tide charts before you go to plan for surfing, swimming, or exploring tide pools.
- Bring layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly, especially in the evening.
Getting There
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Driving
If arriving by car from the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), look for the main entrance to Bolsa Chica State Beach between Warner Avenue and Seapoint Avenue. The entrance is well-marked, but can get busy during peak season. Parking within the state beach lots costs $15 per day. Be aware that parking can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended. There may be increased fees on holidays and for special events.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
For those using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, a convenient drop-off location is the Warner Avenue bus loop near the Jack in the Box. From there, it's a short, approximately 200-yard walk south along the Multi-Use Trail to access the beach. Keep in mind that if the ride-share vehicle enters the park, it will be subject to the $15 parking fee. Surge pricing may be in effect during peak hours or after major events.
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Public Transport
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) buses serve the area. Several bus lines, including routes 1, 70, and 72, stop at Pacific Coast Highway and Seapoint. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the beach. A single ride on OCTA bus costs $2. Exact change is typically required, or you can use the OC Bus app for mobile ticketing.
Discover more about Bolsa Chica State Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scenic Overlook
0.5 km
Discover the Scenic Overlook in Huntington Beach for stunning coastal views, perfect for relaxation and photography amidst California's beautiful landscapes.
Bolsa Chica Basin State Marine Conservation Area
0.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Bolsa Chica Basin State Marine Conservation Area in Huntington Beach, a nature lover's paradise filled with wildlife and scenic beauty.
Bolsa Chica State Beach - Lot 20
0.8 km
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Downtown Huntington Beach Real Estate
3.0 km
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The Huntington Beach Herald
3.3 km
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The Lost Landmarks
3.3 km
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Humboldt Island
3.4 km
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Huntington Beach Central Park West Playground
3.5 km
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PCH Electric Boats
4.3 km
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Water Tower House
4.4 km
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Hutington Beach.United States of America. Fountain Valley
4.4 km
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HB Photo Studio
4.5 km
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Huntington Beach Historic Theater
4.6 km
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Northam Ranch House site
4.8 km
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Main Street Branch Library
5.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
0.1 km
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Bolsa Chica State Beach Visitor Center
0.2 km
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Bolsa Chica Wetlands West Trailhead
1.9 km
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Bolsa Chica Conservancy
2.3 km
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Booster Park
2.7 km
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Wieder Park
2.8 km
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Humboldt Park
3.5 km
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Huntington Beach Central Park West
3.5 km
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French Park
3.7 km
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Huntington Beach Disc Golf Course
3.7 km
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Shipley Nature Center
3.8 km
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Secret Garden in Central Park
4.0 km
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Huntington Beach Central Park East
4.0 km
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Huntington Beach Central Park
4.1 km
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Seabridge Park
4.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Sea Salt at the Beach
0.7 km
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Pacific Kitchen
1.2 km
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SeaLegs at the Beach
2.1 km
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Buon Gusto
2.4 km
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Golden Olive
2.4 km
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Jack in the Box
2.4 km
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Super Mex
2.5 km
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Red Table Restaurant
2.6 km
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Sebastiani's Italian Bistro
3.2 km
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The Hangout Restaurant & Beach Bar
3.2 km
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Olive Pit Grill - Huntington Beach
3.3 km
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Kathy May's Lakeview Cafe
3.4 km
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Park Bench Cafe
4.0 km
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The Black Trumpet Bistro Tapas & Wine Bar
4.2 km
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Pelican Isle Restaurant and Bar
4.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Beach City Provisions
0.3 km
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Huntington Surf & Sport
2.4 km
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You Be Free
2.5 km
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Huntington Harbour Mall
2.5 km
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Absolutely Fabulous Unique Gifts & Decor
3.1 km
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Kawaiite Vintage
3.3 km
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The Friends Gift Shop
4.0 km
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Seacliff Village Shopping Center
4.3 km
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Inretrospect
4.3 km
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Dainty Hooligan Boutique
4.4 km
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The Mercantile at Springdale
4.6 km
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American Cancer Society Discovery Shop - Huntington Beach
5.1 km
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HB Gifts shop
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5 Points Plaza
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OC Goodwill Boutique Huntington Beach
5.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Harbour Rackhouse
2.4 km
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HyRoy's Bar
3.1 km
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Marlin Bar & Grill
4.2 km
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400 Club
4.3 km
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Turcs Cocktails
4.3 km
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The Cliffs Bar
4.6 km
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The Bee Hive
4.9 km
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Driftwood.
5.3 km
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Shooters
5.5 km
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The Mamba Sports Bar & Grill
5.7 km
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Kit's Place
5.7 km
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The Irishman
5.8 km
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Cruisers Pizza Bar Grill
5.8 km
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The Pen
5.9 km
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Surf City Ale House Kitchen + Bar
5.9 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Surf City Hookah Lounge
5.5 km
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3AM
5.5 km
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SULTANA Ultra HOOKAH LOUNGE
5.6 km
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Distractions Lounge
6.2 km
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The Circle OC
7.2 km
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Focus
7.3 km
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Club Bubbles
8.7 km
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OC Night Club
8.7 km
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PCH Club
10.0 km
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Club Bounce
10.1 km
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Thirty Six Thirty Six Club
12.2 km
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STRUT Bar & Club
12.4 km
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La Barca Night Club
12.7 km
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The Silver Fox
13.0 km
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Sevilla Nightclub of Costa Mesa
13.2 km
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