A Local's Guide to the US Open of Surfing

For nine days at the end of July, roughly half a million people come to the south side of the Huntington Beach Pier. If you live here, you either lean in or leave town. I recommend leaning in — with a plan.

When to go

Weekday mornings. Heats start early, the surfing is better in the morning glass, and you can stand at the rail without a crowd. By Saturday afternoon it's a festival that happens to have surfing at it.

Where to watch

• The pier rail, south side. The best free seat in the event, if you claim it early.
• The sand north of the competition zone. Quieter, and you still see the sets come through.
• Bluff-top patios. Comfortable, shaded, and you'll pay for it.

Parking, honestly

Don't try to park downtown. Options that actually work:

1. Park at Bolsa Chica State Beach and bike the path down — twenty easy minutes.
2. Park inland near Goldenwest and take the shuttle or a rideshare.
3. Get dropped off north of the pier and walk in.

What locals skip

The vendor village on a Saturday, and any attempt to eat on Main Street between noon and 8pm without a reservation. Both are solvable by going on a Tuesday.

If you live nearby

Residential permit enforcement tightens during the event, trash pickup shifts, and PCH closes for the parade portions. Check the city's event page for the current year's street closures before the first weekend.

The US Open is the loudest week of the Huntington Beach year — and also the one that makes the city feel most like itself.

See what else is on the Surf City events calendar, or read about the neighborhood at the center of it all: Downtown Huntington Beach.