You’ve seen the postcards. Endless summer, surfers in boardshorts, and sun-drenched piers. But honestly, if you walked onto the sand right now, you’d realize that January in Surf City is a whole different vibe.
The current weather in Huntington Beach is surprisingly crisp. Right now, as of Sunday, January 18, 2026, we’re looking at a nighttime temperature of 60°F. It’s cloudy. The wind is barely a whisper, coming from the east at just 2 mph.
Kinda makes you want to grab a hoodie, doesn't it?
Most visitors assume Southern California is a furnace year-round. It's not. Local experts and long-time residents know that January is actually our "secret season"—it's cool, slightly damp, and way less crowded than the chaotic July peaks.
Breaking Down Today’s Huntington Beach Forecast
If you’re planning to head out today, Sunday, January 18, things are looking up from the midnight chill. We’re expecting a high of 69°F and a low of 55°F.
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Basically, it's "California Cold."
The day will be partly sunny, transitioning to clear skies by tonight. Humidity is sitting at a comfortable 49% for the daytime hours. If you're sensitive to the sun, the UV index is a low 2, so you won't be fried, but the morning marine layer—that thick, gray fog we call "June Gloom's" winter cousin—might linger for a bit before burning off.
Wind speeds will pick up slightly to 6 mph from the west during the day.
What about the water?
Don't let the "Surf City" moniker fool you into thinking the Pacific is a bathtub. According to recent data from NOAA and local buoy reports, water temperatures are hovering between 59°F and 62°F.
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Unless you’re a local pro or just very brave, you're going to want a 4/3mm wetsuit.
The surf itself at the HB Pier is seeing wave heights around 1.5ft. It's knee-high. Not exactly a legendary swell, but consistent enough for a longboard session.
Why January Weather Still Matters for Your Plans
People get the winter weather here wrong all the time. They think it's either raining or 80 degrees. The reality is a nuanced middle ground.
Historical data from sources like WeatherSpark shows that Huntington Beach maintains a fairly constant cloud cover of about 37% in January. You aren't getting that piercing desert heat; you're getting a marine-influenced temperate climate.
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The New Moon and Tide Shifts
Today is a New Moon. That means we’re seeing some significant tide swings that can catch you off guard if you're walking the dog near the bluffs.
- Low Tide: 2:08 AM (2.2ft)
- High Tide: 8:12 AM (5.9ft)
- Low Tide: 3:38 PM (-0.8ft)
- High Tide: 10:00 PM (3.7ft)
That afternoon low tide at -0.8ft is pretty dramatic. It’s the perfect time to explore the tide pools or take a long walk on the wet sand, as the ocean recedes further than usual.
Survival Tips for Huntington Beach Right Now
If you're visiting Pacific City or walking the 10-mile bike trail today, dress in layers. It’s the golden rule of SoCal living.
Start with a t-shirt, but keep a mid-weight sweater or a light windbreaker in the car. When that sun dips behind the horizon at 5:10 PM, the temperature will drop faster than you'd expect.
Honestly, the best part of the current weather in Huntington Beach isn't the heat—it's the clarity. Winter air here is often much cleaner and crisper than the hazy summer months. You can see all the way to Catalina Island on days like today.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Check the Tide: If you're planning a beach bonfire, wait until after the 3:38 PM low tide to ensure your pit isn't in the splash zone.
- Wetsuit Choice: If you’re hitting the water, a 4/3mm is non-negotiable for a two-hour session in 60°F water.
- Sunset Timing: Head to the pier by 4:45 PM to catch the best colors before the 5:10 PM sunset.