Some days just altering your environment will help lift your spirits. In California, that’s an easy task with so many driveable memorable getaways. A new spot we didn’t think to venture to is Huntington Beach until we spent time at The Waterfront Beach Resort. Situated in view of one of the longest public piers on the west coast (1,850 feet) and a 10 mile stretch of pristine coastline with golden sand, staying here made us feel like we had been transported to a new glorious vacation destination so close to home.

A coastal retreat by Hilton, The Waterfront Beach Resort features a 285-room and suite Huntington Tower and 152 suite centric Twin Dolphin Tower and is an exquisite AAA Four Diamond property. Although it sounds like a big resort, it doesn’t feel like it, but perhaps that is due to visiting in winter.

Gleaming sunlight basked our top floor room while glistening ocean waves could be seen from bed. Besides loving the panoramic balcony that wrapped around our room and our late night jacuzzi with an ocean view, the hotel has undergone some spectacular renovations. While an ultrachic rooftop lounge with cozy firepit sitting enamored me, Henry’s Restaurant will be unveiled in May, a new oceanfront fine-dining venue offering a premier culinary adventure through locally-inspired farm to table creations by Chef de Cuisine Kenny Seliger.

In May, an adults-only luxury pool separate from the main family-friendly pool and water slide area will make this hotel even more desirable for couples. For those parents looking for a little rest and relaxation away from their kids, a full day at the Shortboard Kids Club with lunch is $100. Other hotel perks include private cabanas, a complimentary fitness center, and a variety of beach services and activities via Waterfront Adventures situated right on the sand just steps from the resort.

Top reasons to stay at The Waterfront Beach Resort:

Bedroom views with a wraparound balcony

Glowing natural sunny light surrounding you is always the best mood enhancer. From your private balcony, lounge in your robe and admire the sea.

Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge

Located on the 9th floor, your jaw may be on the floor as you arrive at this expansive outdoor deck serving handcrafted cocktails and coastal-inspired farm to table bites. Come before sunset and sit around a romantic firepit lounge in the sky or savor a glass of bubbly in the late afternoon with a charcuterie board. Enjoy the panoramic unobstructed views over a Devil Went Down to Mexico, a smoky Mezcal concoction infused with serrano and basil rimmed with tajin. Opening daily at 3 pm, the general public is also invited for intimate gatherings or private parties. Wine Wednesdays offer half-priced bottles of wine. Valet is comped for any Offshore 9 guests.

Breezy open spaces with California light streamed rooms and beach chic decor

Cheery fun beach decor exists at every turn with a colorful soothing ocean palette. The sweeping hallway is drenched in light and around every corner is another Instagrammable moment with green palm frond wallpaper, surfboard paintings in the elevator, and a folded almost 3D artwork that shows the sunset in one direction and the sunrise in the other, depending which way you walk.

Drift, the luxurious spa

Upon arrival, I am asked to pick a shell or give one away depending on my intention of getting rid of a worry or obtaining a wish or blessing. In the clean luxurious spa, I am enticed with a eucalyptus-infused steam room before a private hot tub soak. A Himalayan salt stone sauna is even possible, but I am whisked away to my luxurious ocean organic radiance sea facial, not before concocting a tea elixir from their vitality bar. The 8,000 square foot full-service coastal spa will leave calm your mind and help you leave renewed. Indulge in facial or body treatments, custom massages, nail services, and more.

Bonfire on the beach or poolside

Want to have S’more fun? Book a Beach Blast Wagon packed with all your bonfire needs beachside or at the poolside sand area. Under the stars, sip hot cocoa and fix your S’mores. Adirondack chairs, firewood, and a personal bonfire attendant will make your California dreams come true.

 

Easily walkable to everything

The location is unbeatable. Just a block away, you will find yourself surrounded by cool boutiques, restaurants, surf shops, and the pier. We happened to walk down the pier during a glorious kite festival.

 

Escape to The Waterfront Beach Resort in Surf City USA for a fun and authentic L.A. beach experience. Soak up some sun, chill by a beach bonfire, and enjoy all the activities that Huntington Beach has to offer.