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The price of success

Huntington Beach's tourism promotion helps fill Surf City with a slew of events and athletic contests. The U.S. Open of Surfing, one of the largest events of the year, drew at least 340,000 people to Huntington Beach in July and required an extra 50 to 55 police shifts over a week.

Huntington Beach’s tourism promotion helps fill Surf City with a slew of events and athletic contests. The U.S. Open of Surfing, one of the largest events of the year, drew at least 340,000 people to Huntington Beach in July and required an extra 50 to 55 police shifts over a week.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Huntington Beach - Makin Waves Salon

Susie Smith, owner of Makin Waves Salon, glances out her store window on Main Street in Huntington Beach. Some businesses benefit from the tourism, but dog groomers and hairdressers see the traffic drive away repeat customers. “Our locals don’t want to come down,” Smith says.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Huntington Beach - Makin Waves Salon

Hairdresser Susie Smith applies hair extensions to Erika Sandberg in Makin Waves Salon. Huntington Beach officials say tourism events’ traffic congestion and logistical work are minimal compared with the money and national exposure they bring.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Huntington Beach - Main Street

Bars and restaurants in downtown Huntington Beach are mobbed on big weekends, and outdoor gear shops such as Huntington Surf and Sport (background right) see business spike as much as 20% with the crowds.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

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