Huntington Beach, California

This may be Surf City USA (by official trademark), but the locals like to bike as well. South of Los Angeles in Orange County, an 8.5-mile paved path runs the whole length of the city’s beaches, providing continuous views of the Pacific Ocean. Checking out the surfers, joggers, pets, sunbathers, roller skaters, and fellow bikers can be fun, too. Outside the city limits, the path extends a mile north to Sunset Beach and nearly three miles south onto the Newport Peninsula for those who want a longer workout. Even city buses promote bicycling—most sport bike racks on the front; 800/729-6232 or surfcityusa.com.