The Huntington Beach City Gym and Pool occupies a large historic building on the corner of Palm Avenue and 16th Street. Welcoming community members since 1931, it houses a gymnasium, an indoor swimming pool and rooms where countless classes, events and other programs are offered.
There are more than 17 categories of classes, with options for all ages, from infants to seniors. “Baby and Me” and “Tippi Toe Toddlers” are among the programs designed for early childhood development. Programs for youth and teens range from gymnastics, Tae Kwon Do to basketball and more. Adults in activities including volleyball, pickleball, and strength training.
Many activities take place in the spacious gym, which features its original wooden floor, large windows, and a distinctive arched truss ceiling which was a rare feature at the time it was built. Basketball and volleyball courts are marked and regularly used for clinics and games for all ages, including women’s volleyball groups at multiple skill levels.
The indoor pool, located in another area, is heated to a constant 88 degrees, making it the warmest pool in Huntington Beach. This popular destination is in near-constant use by residents from multiple cities.
Recreational swimming is a major attraction. Swimming lessons are available for ages 6 months and older. Water-based strength and conditioning classes are offered, and participants can earn lifeguard certification. Private lessons are also available for those seeking focused skill development.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building retains many of its original details, including trussed ceilings, woodwork and early light fixtures. Built in 1931 by the Huntington Beach Elementary School District, it was originally named the City Gymnasium and Plunge. The facility was part of a larger complex that included a school and cafeteria, reflecting the city’s investment in both education and physical well-being during a time of growth fueled by oil revenue.
Just two years after opening, the facility endured the 1933 earthquake that devastated much of Huntington Beach. While surrounding buildings were destroyed, the City Gym and Plunge remained largely intact and was repurposed as classroom space.
Arline Howard Huff, a student at the time, recalled boards placed across the pool to support desks. Students often lost lunch money and pencils through the gaps, which fell into the water below. When the school reopened and the boards were removed, retrieving those lost items became a memorable moment.
The Huntington Beach School Board donated the facility to the city in 1967.
For information on classes and activities held at the HB City Gym and Pool, please scan the QR code below.
Swim lessons circa 1950
Aqua aerobics today (Photos by City of Huntington Beach)
Women’s volleyball today