01
Best overall pick
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach Pier District • Classic Socal Surf Beach • Best All-Around Choice
The go-to oceanfront for South Whittier locals who want a big, lively beach with plenty to do.
Centered around the pier, Huntington City Beach delivers the full Southern California postcard: wide sand, consistent waves, and a long, walkable shoreline. From South Whittier, it’s a straightforward drive down Beach Boulevard, with multiple lots clustered near the pier and along PCH. Come for a full day—surf lessons, people‑watching on the pier, and an easy walk to casual spots for tacos, burgers, or a sunset drink.
02
Best for a full day out
Newport Municipal Beach
Newport Peninsula • Lively Boardwalk Beach • Best For Variety And Atmosphere
A long, active stretch of sand where you can park once and mix beach time with pier, shops, and bay views.
Newport’s main beach along the peninsula gives you classic sand plus the energy of the boardwalk and pier area. It’s a bit farther from South Whittier than Huntington, but still an easy day trip, especially if you aim for earlier morning to snag parking near the pier or on the side streets. Between the bike path, volleyball courts, and plenty of casual food stands, it’s a strong pick if your group wants options beyond just lying out.
03
Best laid-back option
Seal Beach Municipal Pier & Beach
Old Town Seal Beach • Relaxed Small-Town Shoreline • Great For A Laid-Back Day
A smaller, friendlier-feeling beach backed by a walkable main street that’s easy to enjoy in half a day.
Seal Beach has a slower pace than Huntington or Newport, with a modest stretch of sand, a wooden pier, and a compact downtown right behind it. From South Whittier, it’s one of the quicker coastal runs, and parking is usually manageable if you circle the neighborhood streets a block or two inland. It’s ideal if you like to split your time between the sand and poking around local cafes, boutiques, and ice cream shops on Main Street.
04
Best for paths and city views
Long Beach – Junipero & Alamitos Beach
Belmont Shore And Downtown Fringe • Urban Waterfront Strand • Best For Biking And Walking
A broad, groomed shoreline with a long bike and walking path, plus skyline and harbor views instead of open surf.
The Long Beach shoreline near Junipero and Alamitos offers a different feel—more bay‑like than wild ocean, with gentler water and a wide, maintained sand strip. It’s one of the closest options from South Whittier, and you get a paved path that’s perfect for bikes, skates, or just a long walk. Pair beach time with a detour into Belmont Shore or downtown for coffee, breweries, or dinner before heading home.
05
Best for bonfires and sunsets
Bolsa Chica State Beach
North Of Huntington Beach Pier • Wide State Beach With Fire Pits • Best For Groups And Evening Hangs
A long, open stretch of sand popular for mellow surf, roomy parking, and classic evening fire rings.
Just up the coast from central Huntington, Bolsa Chica feels more low‑key, with fewer crowds and plenty of space to spread out. It’s a favorite for South Whittier groups who want to roll in with coolers, set up camp chairs, and stay through sunset around a fire pit. Arrive earlier on summer weekends if you’re aiming for a ring, and factor in the state beach day‑use fee when you’re planning your carpool.