Interactive Learning at Huntington Beach’s Museums

Huntington Beach is full of unique museums with interactive features and family-friendly exhibitions. While summer is still in full swing, there is always a chance to embrace new learning opportunities.

Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, these Huntington Beach museums are a chance to expand your knowledge and find out more about our history. We’re sharing four museums in Huntington Beach to add to your summer itinerary.

Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum

If you’re a surfing enthusiast or love to watch surfers on the waves, this is the museum for you. It was found by Natalie Kotsch to capture Huntington Beach’s welcoming spirit and incredible beach vibe. Fun fact: Natalie had never been on a surfboard when she founded the museum.

This museum showcases the local history of Huntington Beach with a collection that rotates through the museum. Surfers from all over the world come to visit. The museum charges a small fee to enter, or you can support its work with an annual membership.

Looking for something fun to do at the weekends? Hit up the ‘Surfin’ Sundays’ run by the museum at Huntington Beach Pier Plaza with free music and activities for all ages.

Newland House Museum

Step back through time with this 1898 Queen Anne-style Victorian Farmhouse. It was restored from its abandoned condition in 1976 by the Huntington Beach Historical Society and offers museum tours on the first and third weekends of the month from 8am to noon. There’s a suggested donation of $2 for adults and $1 for children.

The house is maintained as part of a public-private partnership with the City of Huntington Beach with special tours scheduled upon request. Newland House Museum gives you a feel for what life was like in Huntington Beach over a century ago.

Anderson Art Gallery

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to see an artist at work? If you’re a creative spirit, you’ll want to visit Anderson Gallery. It’s owned by Bill Anderson, a Huntington Beach resident, famed artist, and art educator. Anderson has been at the forefront of Huntington Beach’s art scene, shaping Surf City into the next Laguna Beach.

His gallery offers a chance to see his works up close, along with work from other artists, watercolorists, and sculptors. The art gallery is in the same building as Captain Jack’s Seafood Restaurant and is opened Fridays and Saturdays from 1pm to 9pm and 1pm to 6pm on Sundays.

Huntington Beach Wetlands Conservancy

We all know the importance of protecting Huntington Beach’s coastal wetlands, including preserving the natural habitats of local wildlife. The Huntington Beach Wetlands Conservancy was founded in 1985 and offers tours of its Interpretive Center with displays that focus on the history of HBWC and the wildlife that occupy its marshes.

It’s open every Wednesday and the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of every month from 10am to 2pm. You can also book a tour by appointment. Learn about the organization’s work and engage with interactive displays on diagnosing and caring for sick and injured wildlife.

Learn a little more about Huntington Beach’s history – and help protect its future – by visiting these four educational spots this summer.