SPECIFIC TOURIST AND RECREATION OFFERS OF AN AMERICAN COASTAL CITY – ON THE EXAMPLE OF HUNTINGTON BEACH (USA, SOUTH CALIFORNIA)

Abstract

Purpose. Recognition of specifics regarding the tourist offer at a renowned seaside resort in Southern California and indication as to which of these specific features of the offer could be used in developing tourist offers in Poland. Method. The basic method used is case study, that is the tourist aspect of the city of Huntington Beach. The research material for the creation of this study was mainly collected using the method of direct observation, including participation during an internship in 2018 and annual visits from 2011 to 2016, as well as the study of printed and Internet materials. Findings. The main identified characteristics of the analysed offer are: sustainable use of natural and infrastructural conditions for tourism, suitably varied level of conditions for stay - adaptation to tourist segments, active leisure opportunities based on perfect use of local conditions, care for a clear tourist image of the city and specific local colour, mega-events, the impact of numerous tourist attractions in nearby towns. Research and conclusions limitations. Research was based on direct observations covering a specific case of one city. It is used to look for patterns for other tourist centres. Practical implications. It was indicated how the specific properties of the Huntington Beach tourist offer could be used to improve tourist offers in Polish coastal cities. Originality. The originality of the article consists in presenting and evaluating the tourist offer of Huntington Beach, a popular and renowned recreation centre in California. The source of originality concerns expert observations collected and systematised as a result of repeated stays in this city. Type of paper. The article can be considered as a case study.