Bolsa Chica State Beach
A beautiful three-mile stretch of sand in Huntington Beach, known for surfing, birdwatching in its wetlands, and beach bonfires.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy tranquility.
Bolsa Chica State Beach
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy tranquility.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful three-mile stretch of sand in Huntington Beach, known for surfing, birdwatching in its wetlands, and beach bonfires.
"A must-visit for anyone who enjoys the beauty of the outdoors, offering unique experiences with stunning sunsets."
🚗 Beat the Parking Lines
Arrive early on weekends or opt for weekdays to avoid long entry queues and secure a spot.
🔥 Fire Pit Fun
Secure a fire pit for a classic beach bonfire experience. Check availability and rules.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bolsa Chica Wetlands
North end of the beach
A haven for birdwatching and peaceful nature walks with stunning light reflections and sunsets.
Beach Bonfires
Designated fire pits
Enjoy classic SoCal beach nights with bonfires, perfect for gatherings and s'mores.
Surfing and Water Sports
Along the shoreline
Catch waves or try other water activities at this popular surf spot.
RV Camping
Bolsa Chica Campgrounds
Enjoy beachfront camping with hookups, close to dog beaches and local attractions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Entry Hassles
Beach Conditions & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Parking Lines
Arrive early on weekends or opt for weekdays to avoid long entry queues and secure a spot.
🔥 Fire Pit Fun
Secure a fire pit for a classic beach bonfire experience. Check availability and rules. 
🐦 Nature Lover's Paradise
Explore the Bolsa Chica Wetlands for incredible birdwatching and serene nature walks.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Proximity
The dog beach is a short walk from the RV camping area.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Parking Lines
Arrive early on weekends or opt for weekdays to avoid long entry queues and secure a spot.
🔥 Fire Pit Fun
Secure a fire pit for a classic beach bonfire experience. Check availability and rules.
🐦 Nature Lover's Paradise
Explore the Bolsa Chica Wetlands for incredible birdwatching and serene nature walks.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Proximity
The dog beach is a short walk from the RV camping area.
💳 Payment Options
Parking fees can be paid with cards now, which is convenient.
🌅 Sunrise/Sunset Views
The beach is most beautiful at sunrise or sunset for stunning photo opportunities. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bolsa Chica State Beach is praised for its natural beauty, especially the wetlands for birdwatching and stunning sunsets. It's a family-friendly spot with good surfing conditions and the appeal of beach bonfires and RV camping. However, visitors frequently mention significant issues with long parking lines and fees, as well as occasional maintenance needs in the restrooms.
"I arrived at Bolsa Chica Beach at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, for the 420 reggae event hosted by Sea Legs at the Beach. The venue was set up directly off the beach, with a nice set for a out venue. Nice & Swell were playing, and their set brought a smooth, laid-back energy that fit the setting perfectly.
There was a VIP section with wooden beach chairs and low tables, but the rest of the crowd was standing, spread out across the sand. Food was available nearby, and the scent of weed filled the air.,fitting for 4/20. The crowd was mellow and friendly, and everyone seemed in the moment.
I brought my dog with me—it was his very first event. He was curious about everything: the music, the people, the beach itself. He wandered around happily, sniffing the air, wagging his tail, and making lots of new friends along the way. A few people bent down to give him pets or say hello, and he soaked it all up.
The weather was perfect, the vibes were relaxed, and it ended up being a memorable, easygoing afternoon."
erik thomstad
"lovely beach for sunset views however water was too cold here and this beach has more sticks than any other beach"
Stephanie Barajas
"Always a beautiful, clean beach! Many fond memories here and it was great to introduce my granddaughter to the waves and beachcombing."
Hillary Moldovan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bolsa Chica State Beach is located in Huntington Beach, California. You can access it via Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Be aware that the main parking entrance may not have a street name, so look for the Bolsa Chica sign.
There is a parking lot available, but it can get very crowded, especially on weekends. The parking fee is $20 for cars.
While the main parking lot has a fee, some visitors suggest looking for street parking or alternative lots nearby, though this can be challenging.
Yes, you can drive to the beach and park in the designated lots. However, be prepared for potential traffic and long lines to enter.
Information on public transport accessibility is limited, but it's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services due to its location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The beach is generally open year-round. Specific event hours may vary.
The parking fee is $20 for cars.
No, you do not need to buy tickets to enter the beach itself. Parking fees apply.
Yes, the beach hosts various events, including music festivals, beach BBQs, and community clean-ups.
There is no information available about reserving parking spots in advance. It's first-come, first-served.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Popular activities include surfing, surf fishing, beachcombing, birdwatching in the wetlands, bonfires, and enjoying the sunset. +1
Yes, there are designated fire pits available for use, making it a great spot for bonfires.
Yes, it's considered a great spot for families, offering a less touristy vibe than some other beaches, with soft sand and lifeguards.
While the main beach may have restrictions, there is a dog beach nearby, and RV camping is close to dog-friendly areas.
Restrooms are available but may require maintenance, with some reports of sticky locks and missing supplies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food is available nearby, and some visitors mention beachside tacos and local breweries like Riip Beer Co.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks, especially for events like beach BBQs.
There isn't a specific restaurant mentioned within the beach park itself, but dining options are available in the surrounding Huntington Beach area.
While not explicitly detailed, the presence of fire pits and the general beach environment suggest picnic opportunities.
Yes, with the availability of fire pits, grilling is possible for bonfires.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset and sunrise offer the most beautiful light reflections and stunning views, making them ideal for photography. +1
The Bolsa Chica Wetlands, the shoreline with its waves, and the beach bonfires at dusk are highly photogenic.
Drone photography is possible, offering unique aerial perspectives of the coastline and surf.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, be mindful of private events or sensitive wildlife areas within the wetlands.
Expect to capture beautiful coastal landscapes, vibrant sunsets, diverse birdlife in the wetlands, and lively beach activities. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏄 Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
+1 The beach offers consistent waves suitable for various skill levels, from beginners to more experienced surfers. Beyond surfing, it's a great place for other water sports and enjoying the ocean. Demo days for surfboards and wetsuits are sometimes held here, indicating a vibrant surf community. 🏕️ Campers and RV Travelers
This provides convenient access to the ocean, allowing for early morning sunrises and late evening sunsets. Campers are also close to dog beaches and local amenities like breweries, making it a comfortable and enjoyable base for exploring the Orange County coast. It's an excellent option for a longer beach getaway. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Bolsa Chica Wetlands
This area is not just for passive observation; it's also a site for community science initiatives. Programs like FLOW (Friends of the Bolsa Chica Wetlands) engage volunteers in collecting water samples and monitoring for harmful algal blooms, contributing to ocean health.
Beach Bonfires and Camping
+1 Visitors often bring their own food and drinks to enjoy around the fire, creating a festive atmosphere. It's a great way to end a day at the beach, with the sound of the waves and the warmth of the fire. For those looking to extend their stay, RV camping is available at the Bolsa Chica Campgrounds, located directly in front of the beach.
These sites often come with hookups, providing a comfortable base for exploring the area. Being close to the beach allows for easy access to sunrise and sunset views, as well as nearby dog beaches and local attractions like breweries. It's a fantastic option for a more immersive beach vacation. Navigating Parking and Entry
To mitigate these issues, it's highly recommended to arrive early in the morning, particularly on weekdays, to avoid the longest queues.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit