Welcome to Surf City, USA! Huntington Beach isn’t just a destination; it’s a state of mind. With its iconic pier, endless golden sand, and that perfect laid-back California vibe, choosing where to stay is the key to unlocking your perfect getaway.
This is where the Pacific Ocean meets paradise, and your home base should be nothing short of amazing.
Get ready to dive into the ultimate curated list of the best hotels in Huntington Beach. We have scoured the coast to find the top spots for every type of traveler and every budget.
Whether you’re here to catch the perfect wave, make lifelong family memories, or just kick back and soak up the sun, we’ve got you covered. Let’s find your dream stay in this iconic beach town.
1. The Waterfront Resort – Best Overall & For Luxury Seekers
Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves and stepping onto a balcony that looks out over the endless Pacific. That’s the daily reality at The Waterfront Resort, and frankly, it sets the gold standard for Huntington Beach luxury hotels.
This place isn’t just near the water; it feels like a part of it. The design is sleek and modern, with a neutral palette that lets the stunning ocean views be the star of the show.
You will find a stunning pool deck that seems to spill right into the ocean horizon. It is the perfect place to lounge with a book or enjoy a craft cocktail.
Their spa offers treatments that use local seaweed and salts, bringing the healing power of the ocean right to your massage table. The rooms are spacious sanctuaries with deep soaking tubs and premium linens.
Dining here is an event, with chefs creating masterpieces from hyper-local ingredients. For a stay that truly captures the essence of an upscale California beach vacation, this is the undisputed champion.
2. The Shoreline Inn & Suites – Best Budget-Friendly Option
Let’s be real, a beach vacation can get pricey. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or location. The Shoreline Inn & Suites is that fantastic find—a wonderfully affordable hotel in Huntington Beach that puts you just steps from the sand without draining your wallet.
This spot proves that budget-friendly doesn’t mean boring. You get a clean, comfortable, and surprisingly chic room with all the essentials covered.
Many of their suites even include full kitchens, which is a huge win for families or longer stays. Think about the savings from whipping up breakfast before heading out for the day! The hotel has a lovely courtyard pool and is within easy walking distance of the pier and Main Street.
The staff is famously friendly and always ready with a tip for a cheap eats spot. If you want to spend your money on experiences like surf lessons or bike rentals instead of your room, this is your absolute best bet.
3. The Dunes Family Resort – Best For Families & Kids
Traveling with the whole crew requires a special kind of hotel. You need space, you need fun, and you need to avoid hearing “I’m bored.” The Dunes Family Resort is hands-down the top family-friendly hotel in Huntington Beach.
This place was practically designed with kids in mind, starting with not one, but two massive pools, including a dedicated kiddie pool with a gentle water feature.
They offer spacious suites with separate living areas and kitchenettes, so you are not all on top of each other after bedtime. The resort organizes daily activities like sandcastle building contests, family movie nights, and scavenger hunts.
It is located a short, safe walk from the beach, meaning you can easily pop back to the room for snacks or naps. For parents, this means a real vacation where the kids are entertained and everyone leaves with a smile.
4. The Pasea Hotel & Spa – Best For Modern Amenities & Views
If your ideal vacation involves stunning design, top-tier amenities, and views that just won’t quit, you have found your spot. The Pasea Hotel & Spa is a modern masterpiece perched right across from the beach.
This hotel is all about that elevated California coastal lifestyle. The moment you walk into the open-air lobby and get a glimpse of the ocean, you know you are in for something special.
The rooms are bright, airy, and feature the most comfortable custom-designed beds. Book an ocean-view room for a real treat—watching the sunset from your private balcony is pure magic.
The crown jewel is their stunning rooftop deck with a sparkling pool and bar, offering 360-degree views of the coast. It is the place to see and be seen.
Down below, their world-class spa offers treatments that will melt your stress away. For a stylish and contemporary Huntington Beach hotel experience, Pasea is a total knockout.
5. The Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel – Best For Surf Culture & Vibes
You are in Surf City, so why not fully embrace the culture? The Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a love letter to the surfing lifestyle. Located right in the heart of downtown, this hotel pulses with energy and a cool, casual vibe.
The lobby feels like the world’s coolest beach house, complete with vintage surfboards adorning the walls and a friendly social hour each evening.
They cater to adventurers by offering complimentary beach cruisers and surfboard rentals. The staff can hook you up with the best local surf instructors to catch your first wave. The rooms are cozy and eclectic, filled with thoughtful touches.
Their restaurant is a local hotspot, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious, healthy-ish cuisine. If you want to feel like a local and live the authentic Huntington Beach surf life, the Shorebreak is your home away from home.
6. The Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach – Best For Resort-Style Getaways
Sometimes, you want to arrive at a destination and never leave until it’s time to go home. The Hyatt Regency is that destination. This massive, beautiful resort is a self-contained paradise, making it the ultimate resort hotel in Huntington Beach.
Set on over six lush acres, it feels like a secluded village with multiple pools, winding waterways, and several fire pits for evening s’mores.
With four distinct restaurants, a full-service spa, a kids’ club, and direct access to the beach, you could spend a week here and not do the same thing twice.
The grounds are stunning, designed with a Spanish Mission style that feels both grand and inviting. It is perfect for families seeking non-stop fun and couples looking for a romantic escape with plenty of dining options. This resort truly has something for everyone.
7. The Sunstone Villa – Best For Romantic Escapes
Looking for a quiet, intimate, and downright romantic hideaway? Skip the big resorts and discover The Sunstone Villa. Tucked away on a quiet street, this boutique hotel feels like a secret you will want to keep.
The architecture is stunning, with a Mediterranean feel, lush gardens, and a serene courtyard pool that encourages total relaxation.
The rooms are beautifully appointed with fireplaces, perfect for a cozy evening in. The atmosphere is peaceful and adults-focused, making it ideal for couples celebrating an anniversary or just a much-needed reconnect.
The attention to detail is impeccable, from the high-quality linens to the personalized service. It is a peaceful sanctuary just a short walk from the bustling pier, offering the best of both worlds. For a romantic hotel in Huntington Beach, The Sunstone Villa is a dream come true.
8. The Beachfront Inn – Best For Location & Beach Access
For some people, the number one priority is simple: being as close to the ocean as humanly possible. If that is you, then look no further than The Beachfront Inn. The name says it all.
This hotel is literally on the sand, offering some of the most incredible and direct beach access in all of Huntington. You can roll out of bed and be digging your toes into the sand in under a minute.
Many rooms feature full ocean-view balconies where you can enjoy your morning coffee with an unbeatable panorama. The sound of the waves will be your nightly lullaby.
The rooms are comfortable and clean, with a classic beach cottage feel. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of a giant resort, what it offers is priceless—unbeatable proximity to the main attraction. For a true beachfront hotel in Huntington Beach, this is the real deal.
9. The Bella Vista Suites – Best For Extended Stays & Groups
Planning a longer trip to Surf City or traveling with a big group? Standard hotel rooms just will not cut it. You need space to spread out, and that is exactly what you get at The Bella Vista Suites.
This all-suite property feels more like a stylish apartment than a hotel room. Each suite includes a separate living area, a full kitchen, and multiple bedrooms.
This setup is a game-changer. It allows you to maintain a normal routine, cook your own meals, and truly relax without feeling cramped. It is also incredibly cost-effective for groups, as you can split one large suite instead of booking multiple rooms.
The hotel offers a pool and is located just a short drive from the beach, offering a quieter alternative while keeping you close to the action. For a Huntington Beach extended stay, Bella Vista is a brilliant choice.
10. The Boardwalk Inn – Best For Classic California Charm
There is something to be said for timeless charm. The Boardwalk Inn captures the classic, nostalgic spirit of a Southern California beach vacation.
This quaint, beautifully maintained inn is bursting with character. Think white picket fences, blooming flower boxes, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that feels instantly familiar.
The rooms are decorated in a cheerful, beachy style that is both comfortable and charming. It is located just a block from the beach and the famous boardwalk, making it the perfect spot for people who love to walk, bike, and people-watch.
The service is personal and attentive, often from staff who have been there for years. Staying here feels like stepping into a simpler, sunnier time. If you are looking for a charming hotel in Huntington Beach with real heart, you will adore The Boardwalk Inn.
11. The Oceanaire Luxury Suites – Best For Spacious Luxury
Why choose between a spacious suite and a luxury hotel when you can have both? The Oceanaire Luxury Suites masterfully combines the comforts of a high-end residence with the impeccable service of a premium hotel.
This is the answer for the traveler who refuses to compromise. You will find yourself in a sprawling suite with a full gourmet kitchen, a separate living room, and a private balcony.
The finishes are top-notch, from marble countertops to premium entertainment systems. It provides the ultimate sense of privacy and space, perfect for business travelers needing to work or anyone who values their room as a true retreat.
Despite its residential feel, you still enjoy hotel perks like a beautiful pool, a fitness center, and daily housekeeping. For a luxury suite experience in Huntington Beach, the Oceanaire is in a class of its own.
12. The Bungalow Retreat – Best For a Unique & Quirky Stay
Tired of the same old hotel experience? The Bungalow Retreat offers something wonderfully different. This isn’t a single hotel building but a curated collection of private, standalone bungalows nestled in a peaceful garden setting.
Each bungalow is uniquely decorated, offering a funky, bohemian, and utterly charming vibe that you will not find anywhere else.
It feels incredibly private and romantic, like having your own secret cottage. You can enjoy your own outdoor space, often with a patio or a small deck. It is located a few blocks from the main beach action, providing a quiet and relaxing environment.
The Bungalow Retreat is perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking a unique, memorable, and Instagram-worthy stay. It is one of the most unique places to stay in Huntington Beach.
Conclusion
So there you have it—the absolute best hotels Huntington Beach has to offer, each with its own unique personality and perks.
From the luxurious splash of a beachfront resort to the cozy charm of a hidden bungalow, your perfect California basecamp is on this list. The hardest part now is choosing which one fits your dream vacation style.
The waves are calling, the sun is shining, and an unforgettable experience is waiting for you. Do not just dream about that perfect getaway. Start planning your Huntington Beach vacation today.
Book your favorite spot from this list, pack your sunscreen, and get ready to make some amazing memories in Surf City, USA