Adams - Huntington Beach, CA

The sleepy seaside town of Huntington Beach boomed in the 1920s when oil was found in the vicinity. Over the next several decades the city’s population skyrocketed, and housing tracts filled the previously agricultural land. Surfing became popular in the area starting in the 1950s, and the city prides itself in being one of the surf capitals of the world and has adopted the nickname “Surf City.” Learn the history of surfing and the city’s major role in the expansion of the sport worldwide at the decorative Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. Witness the U.S. Open for Surfing every summer held at the Huntington Beach Pier, and tour the streets lined with local vendors and artist booths during this exciting event.

The Adams neighborhood provides its residents with a large variety of restaurants, centered mostly around Adams Avenue. Take the family for an Italian feast at Mona Lisa Cucina, where locals obsess over the decadent lobster ravioli and soul-warming bowls of the classic spaghetti bolognese. Be prepared for a wait as space is limited, but if you sit at the bar you can witness the kitchen’s talent first hand as the chefs work together in a dance-like synchronization to cook your meal. El Porton Colombiano Restaurant prides itself in serving the most authentic Colombian cuisine in the area. Dine on empanadas and the popular bandeja país platter, consisting of rice, beans, fried egg, crispy pork rinds, carne asada and plantains. For nightlife in the area, locals commonly spend all evening at one venue, having dinner and drinks together. If you’re going to happy hour with friends, grab some cocktails and appetizers at The Corner. Known for putting elegant twists on classic favorites such as the “not so old” fashioned, the tangerine gimlet or the moonshine mojito, this bar makes it easy for guests to be adventurous and order something more eclectic than usual. O’Connell’s Sports Pub & Grille provides patrons with a giant selection of cheap libations and hearty pub fare. Knock back a pint or two as you watch your favorite team on one of their 26 HD TVs. Catch a concert at the Constellation Room or the Observatory OC, both popular live music venues located just a few miles east of the Adams neighborhood.

Most residents of the Adams neighborhood rely on cars or public transportation to travel around town. The efficient OCTA bus system services the main thoroughfares of the neighborhood, with major lines along Brookhurst Street and Adams Avenue. Call a taxi company to schedule a ride or utilize Uber for a more personal travel experience, as you’ll have difficulty hailing a cab in the area. You’ll find free public parking widely available on the streets, and the establishments and shopping centers have large parking lots as well. With many shopping centers and restaurants located on Adams Avenue and Brookhurst Street, running errands by foot would actually be quite convenient. This neighborhood gives easy access to I-405 and I-5, major north-south freeways that will connect you to Los Angeles and other parts of Orange County. Not many bike lanes exist within the neighborhood, and with heavy traffic at certain times, riding a bicycle would not be the safest form of transportation unless you're just riding along the quieter streets.

Inhabitants of the Adams area can choose from many nearby parks and outdoor activities. Bushard Park serves as the neighborhood’s free and convenient locale to bring your dog and let the kids frolic on the playground. Marvel at the aquatic birds at Huntington Beach Central Park, a massive park with nature trails, views of the ocean, exercise courts and ponds filled with ducks. Locals frequent this park during the summer for free outdoor movies and concerts. Win a stuffed animal, ride the ferris wheel and share a funnel cake at the Orange County Fair, held at the OC Fair & Events Center in nearby Costa Mesa every summer.

The cost of living in the Adams area hovers at about 17 percent above the cost of living in Los Angeles, with the average price of a one-bedroom residence costing about $1,300 a month. A day pass to travel via bus costs $5, and a five-ride pass costs $9. Be prepared to pay around $4 for a beer at a neighborhood bar. You’ll find that gas prices sit at about 19 percent above the national average.

Shopping centers abound in this neighborhood, located mainly on Brookhurst Street, Adams Avenue and Magnolia Street. Within the vicinity you’ll enjoy the full spectrum of average-cost chain retailers along with a number of unique shops with local flair. Browse the endless treasure trove of goods at Consignment Attic’s warehouse filled with resale clothing, accessories and home decor. If you’re looking to get rid of old possessions, bring them in and you’ll be able to earn money for the items they accept. Test drive a stylish beach cruiser bike at Surf City Beach Cruisers, where you’ll find hundreds of varieties and colors from which to choose. The laid-back, informative staff will happily guide you towards the best-fitting bike for your needs. Finish your weekly shopping for food at any of the plentiful grocery stores in the neighborhood, including Albertson's. If you’re looking for healthier options, Sprouts and Mother’s Market & Kitchen can be found nearby as well. Grab your locally-grown fruits and veggies at the Surf City Nights farmers' market and street fair on Main Street every Tuesday from 5 to 9 p.m.