Weather & Best Time to Visit

Bolsa Chica State Beach is open every day of the year, and California State Parks says average summer temperatures range from the high 70s to the 80s while winter is a little cooler, in the mid-60s. On the Huntington Beach coast State Parks notes that morning fog is common. For today's forecast and surf, check a live weather service and the surf report linked on the State Parks page.

Temperatures Through the Year

California State Parks gives these averages for Bolsa Chica:

• Summer: high 70s to 80s.
• Winter: slightly cooler, mid-60s.

For Huntington State Beach, at the south end of the same beachside trail, State Parks gives similar averages and adds that morning fog is common. Plan for a gray start that can clear later.

This page does not carry a live forecast or tide table. Use a national weather service for the forecast, the Live Surf Report (a Huntington Beach report) shown on the State Parks Bolsa Chica page for waves, and the lifeguards for water conditions on the day.

Best Time to Visit

There is no closed season. Here is what each part of the year brings, from park sources.

Summer (Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend)

The warmest time of year. Lifeguard towers are staffed and the summer weekend and holiday parking rate of $20 applies. Campers have a 7-night limit in peak season. Arrive early on weekends.

Spring

The best time for night grunion runs: the California Department of Fish and Wildlife says grunion spawn from March through August, with the peak from late March to early June. State Parks says its Bolsa Chica Grunion Run programs return in March 2027. Earth Day at the Beach is an April volunteer day.

Fall

After Labor Day, regular $15 parking returns, and the camping limit rises to 14 nights. Coastal Clean-up Day is in September.

Winter

Cooler, in the mid-60s on average, but the beach, the fire rings and the bike path stay open every day. Lifeguards still patrol year-round even though the towers are not staffed.

Sunsets

State Parks lists watching the sunset among the reasons to come, and fire rings can be used until 10 p.m. Remember the gates close to cars at 9 p.m.

What to Pack

• Layers and a hat. For its own beach programs, park staff suggest layers, a hat, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle, and a hair tie because it can get windy.
• Sun shade that follows the rules: at least one side fully open, and E-Z Ups no larger than 10 by 10 feet.
• A card or phone for parking. The beach is cashless (hours and fees).