Huntington Beach Pacific Air Show is back for 2023!
The Huntington Beach Pacific Air Show 2023 is a three-day event. It brings about three million people to Huntington Beach each year and will be held on September 29 through October 1st.
Flying takes place from approximately 10:30AM – 4:30PM daily.
If you’re in the area, the basics on where to see the show is anywhere from Huntington Pier to Beach Blvd.
Where to see the Huntington Beach Air Show
Planning out where to see the Huntington Beach Air Show is one of the best tips we have to share. The best viewing locations depends on where you’ll be to see the Huntington Beach Air Show.
Parking at Huntington Beach (beach lot) is $15 per day.
These are a few of our favorite viewing locations:
The beach – Watch the air show for FREE if you’ll be at the beach. We suggest you set up either to the left or right of the Drop Zone (and reserved area).
Pros: It’s free!
Cons: Parking will be difficult to come by – so get there early. The view isn’t the best – but it’s free and you’ll have the liberty to move around. No alcohol allowed.
The Drop Zone (aka General Admission) – This private area on the beach is right on the water’s edge at Pacific Airshow Show Center. This section does not include reserved seats or spots on the sand, and BYO chairs & umbrellas is strongly encouraged.
These tickets include:
- Standing Room Access (No Reserved Seats/Spots)
- Access to Nearby Food Trucks & Beverage Stands (Additional Costs Apply)
- Access to Nearby Restrooms
- BYO Chairs, Blankets, Tables and Umbrellas
- BYO Coolers (without Alcoholic Beverages)
- EZ-Ups & Canopies Prohibited
Pros: You’ll be in the middle of all the action – including being able to see the plans and paratroopers!
Cons: The sun will be right in front of you, and the planes will be backlit. Parking is difficult. Arrive early.
The Pier – Great view to see the planes and all the action over the beach.
Pros: With your Pier Seating ticket, you’ll receive an unreserved seat on the pier on a first-come, first-serve basis, along with access to the Airshow’s live announcer feed and access to nearby food trucks, beverage stands and restrooms.
These tickets include:
- Seat on the Pier (Unreserved – First-Come, First-Serve)
- Access to Nearby Food Trucks & Beverage Stands (Additional Costs Apply)
- Access to Nearby Restrooms
- Personal Coolers, Chairs, Umbrellas, EZ-Ups & Canopies Prohibited
Cons: It’s not center – but you can still see everything.
Reserved seating – Reserved section is located directly in front of their private chalets right at Airshow Show Center. Your ticket includes hosted food and beverage options, access to private restrooms, and an unforgettable view of exciting aerobatic performances – all in the comfort of a tented pavilion complete with tables, chairs and patio umbrellas.
On a boat – There are different companies that offer tours during the Huntington Beach Air Show, like whale watching boats. You can catch these from either Newport Beach and Dana Point.
Pros: Being out in the ocean will allow you to face the beach, which will make for better pictures because the sun will be behind you. You’ll be right under all the action.
Cons: You’ll have to make sure that everyone in your party is able to be on a boat and not get seasick.
A hotel – Hotels, like the Huntington Beach Waterfront, offers an amazing view from their rooftop lounge.
Pros: Choose a hotel that is right in front of the Dead Zone so you can see all the planes and jets. You’ll also have the flexibility of getting foods to enjoy, an accessible restroom and a relaxing atmosphere.
Cons: You’ll have to get to the hotel early to grab a table, and purchase foods and parking.
Wondering where the Pacific Airshow planes take off? Civilian pilots take off from the Lyon Air Museum.
Tickets for the Huntington Beach Air Show will go on sale beginning June 1st. You can purchase them here: https://www.pacificairshow.com.
The Huntington Beach air show is a thrilling event that showcases the incredible skill and precision of pilots from around the world. From stunning aerial displays to heart-stopping maneuvers, the air show never fails to impress spectators of all ages.
Additionally, the event provides an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the rich history of aviation while enjoying the beautiful Southern California weather. With its unique combination of entertainment and education, the Huntington Beach air show is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that should not be missed.
Originally published on May 13, 2023. Last Updated on June 4, 2023 by Pattie Cordova
