Colorado Lagoon Long Beach - A body of water surrounded by palm trees
1 / 10

Colorado Lagoon Long Beach

4.6
·2k reviews·Long Beach, United States

A serene saltwater tidal lagoon in Long Beach offering calm waters, a playground, and scenic trails for relaxation and family fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful and less crowded

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Colorado Lagoon Long Beach - A body of water surrounded by palm trees

Colorado Lagoon Long Beach

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful and less crowded

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene saltwater tidal lagoon in Long Beach offering calm waters, a playground, and scenic trails for relaxation and family fun.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"This is a hidden GEM in Long Beach, and I believe the city is doing its best to preserve the wildlife here."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Metered Parking Hassles

Parking meters can be tricky; some give 10 mins/quarter, others 15. Bring plenty of coins! :coin:

☀️ Lifeguards on Duty

Lifeguards are present during peak summer season, ensuring a safe swimming experience for families. :guardsman:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Calm Lagoon Waters

Calm Lagoon Waters

Main lagoon area

Perfect for wading, paddleboarding, and kayaking with no waves. A safe haven for families and water sports enthusiasts.

Children's Playground

Children's Playground

Near the sandy beach

A fun-filled play area for kids to enjoy while parents relax nearby. Sand and grass areas offer plenty of space.

Scenic Walking Trails

Scenic Walking Trails

Around the lagoon

Enjoy a peaceful stroll or jog along the paths, offering beautiful views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife Spotting

Throughout the lagoon

Keep an eye out for moon jellies, stingrays, and various bird species in this thriving tidal habitat.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Enjoy the Calm

Visit on weekdays or during off-peak hours to experience the lagoon's tranquility. Weekends and summer afternoons can get busy, especially with families enjoying the playground and beach. Arrive early for the best parking spots.

Water Quality & Activities

While generally considered cleaner than other Long Beach beaches, water quality can fluctuate. Check local advisories before swimming. The lagoon is ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, and wading due to its calm, wave-free waters. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful and less crowded
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons (weekdays)
Why
Pleasant breeze, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer weekends (early)
Why
Lifeguards on duty, family fun
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

You are not going to recognize Colorado Lagoon after this 🌊 Long Beach’s iconic lagoon is getting a full makeover. The upgrades are going to make it one of the most beautiful spots in the city 🌴 Will you visit the Lagoon when it is all done? #ColoradoLagoon #LongBeachLife #BeachVibes #HiddenGems #FYP
@michael.fasnacht
348 likes • 5.9K views

🚗 Metered Parking Hassles

Parking meters can be tricky; some give 10 mins/quarter, others 15. Bring plenty of coins! :coin:

☀️ Lifeguards on Duty

Lifeguards are present during peak summer season, ensuring a safe swimming experience for families. :guardsman:

Colorado Lagoon in Long Beach, ca☀️⛱️🐠 #toddler #toddlersoftiktok #momlife #toddlertok #summer #water #lagoon #coloradolagoon #longbeach #waterplay #summeractivitiesforkids #california
@wetravelandplay
3.5K likes • 94.8K views
Summer wouldn’t be complete without a day to the beach! 🏖 Here are a few of our local sandy beaches to visit with the kiddos! 🙌🏾 Which one is your favorite? ☀️ Colorado Lagoon | Long Beach, Ca ☀️ Mother’s Beach | Long Beach, Ca ☀️ Bayshore Beach | Long Beach, Ca #shopsweetthreads #sweetthreads #whattodowithkidssocal #Summerbreakfun #kidsactivities #kidssummeractivities #thingstodolongbeach #soca...
theheartofshella
157 likes • 6.5K views

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails

Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. :dog:

🛶 Calm Waters for Water Sports

Ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking due to the absence of waves. Rent or bring your own! :kayak:

Colorado Lagoon in Long Beach is one of our favorite Summer spots! Kids always have such a great time and the grounds and lifeguards are always on point!
jazzy_your_homegirl
24 likes • 593 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Metered Parking Hassles

Parking meters can be tricky; some give 10 mins/quarter, others 15. Bring plenty of coins! :coin:

☀️ Lifeguards on Duty

Lifeguards are present during peak summer season, ensuring a safe swimming experience for families. :guardsman:

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails

Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. :dog:

🛶 Calm Waters for Water Sports

Ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking due to the absence of waves. Rent or bring your own! :kayak:

💧 Check Water Advisories

While generally clean, it's wise to check local advisories before swimming, especially after rain. :warning:

🥪 Picnic Perfect

Plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas make it a great spot for a family lunch or relaxing afternoon. :sandwich:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Colorado Lagoon for its peaceful atmosphere and family-friendly amenities, highlighting the calm waters and well-maintained playground. The presence of lifeguards during peak season and the scenic walking paths are also frequently mentioned positives. Some find the metered parking inconvenient, and water quality can be a concern for swimmers depending on recent conditions.

"It was so peaceful.😎 We went during the week in the late afternoon. We set up chairs 🪑 in the shade with a nice breeze🌬 and it was so relaxing💆‍♀️ My daughter's service dog 🐕‍🦺 loves the water. 🐶 ❤️💦 🏖"

Robin Wilson

"Visiting from Vegas and enjoying the amazing weather and quiet tranquility of the lagoon. Such a cute and peaceful area, my son loved the playground and playing in the sand. And my dogs had a blast running in the grass"

Gabriella Delgado

"Nice place, it has restrooms, life guards on duty,childrens play area, water is cold, but, parking spaces with meters.bring coins"

Moises Novela

What People Like

Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Calm waters for swimming/wading
Great playground for kids

What People Dislike

Inconsistent parking meters
Variable water quality concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Colorado Lagoon is located in East Long Beach. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options might require transfers, so driving or ride-sharing is often more convenient. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is parking available, but it is metered. Be aware that the meters can be inconsistent with time versus coin, so bring plenty of quarters. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Colorado Lagoon is a great destination for biking and walking. There are trails around the lagoon, and it's accessible from nearby areas like CSULB. TikTokInstagram

Yes, it's relatively close to other Long Beach spots like the Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Village, making it a good addition to a day of exploring the city. TikTok

From most parts of Long Beach, you'll likely use surface streets. Major freeways like the 405 can get you close, but surface streets offer more direct access to the lagoon area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Colorado Lagoon is free. You only need to pay for parking if you are driving. TikTok

Colorado Lagoon is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities like restrooms may have slightly different hours. Lifeguards are typically on duty during peak summer season. TikTok

The playground at Colorado Lagoon is free to use for all visitors. TikTok

While not a primary venue for large ticketed events, the lagoon is a popular spot for local gatherings and family outings. Check local Long Beach event listings for any community activities. TikTok

Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended if you plan to picnic. TikTok

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

Yes, people swim in Colorado Lagoon, especially during the summer. It's known for its calm, wave-free waters, making it suitable for wading and swimming. Lifeguards are on duty during the busy season. TikTok+2

You can swim, wade, paddleboard, kayak, fish, have a picnic, use the playground, and enjoy leisurely walks. RC boat activities are also popular. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! The calm waters, sandy beach, and playground make it a fantastic spot for families with young children. TikTok+2

Yes, restrooms are available at Colorado Lagoon. They are generally considered okay, but it's always wise to be cautious. Reddit

You might spot moon jellies, stingrays, and various bird species. The lagoon is a thriving tidal habitat. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no permanent restaurants or food vendors directly within Colorado Lagoon. It's best to bring your own food and drinks for picnics. TikTok

You can find a variety of dining options in the surrounding Long Beach area, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, a short drive away. TikTok

While there are picnic tables, dedicated BBQ grills are not explicitly mentioned. It's advisable to check local regulations or bring portable grilling equipment if permitted. TikTok

Information on alcohol policies can vary. It's best to check the official Long Beach Parks and Recreation guidelines or local ordinances before bringing alcohol. TikTok

Pack essentials like sandwiches, snacks, drinks, a blanket or chairs, and any utensils you might need. Don't forget sunscreen and hats! TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The wooden bridge, the calm water reflections, the playground area, and the natural landscape offer great photo opportunities. Sunrise and sunset can also be beautiful here. Instagram+1

Drone usage may be restricted in public parks and near wildlife areas. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone. TikTok

Early morning for soft light and fewer crowds, or late afternoon for golden hour. The reflections on the water are often stunning. Instagram

Yes, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals. TikTokInstagram

General park rules apply. Avoid disruptive photography, especially during busy times or when others are trying to relax. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Colorado Lagoon is a top-tier destination for families. The calm, wave-free waters are perfect for little ones to splash and play safely, and the dedicated children's playground ensures hours of fun. TikTok+2 Pack a picnic to enjoy at the many tables or on the grassy areas. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, adding an extra layer of security. TikTok

Consider bringing sand toys for the beach area and water shoes for the kids. The accessibility and variety of activities make it an easy and enjoyable outing for parents and children alike. TikTok

🐶 Dog Owners

Leashed dogs are welcome at Colorado Lagoon, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry companion. The Colorado Lagoon Trail is listed as one of the top dog-friendly parks in Long Beach. Instagram Enjoy the scenic paths and open grassy areas where your dog can stretch their legs. Remember to always clean up after your pet and keep them on a leash. Instagram

🧘‍♀️ Peace Seekers & Nature Lovers

If you're looking for a tranquil escape, Colorado Lagoon offers a peaceful respite from the city bustle. Visit on a weekday morning to experience its quiet charm. InstagramReddit The walking paths provide a beautiful setting for a relaxing stroll, and the lagoon's ecosystem is a delight for nature enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot various wildlife. TikTokInstagram+1

🛶 Water Sports Enthusiasts

The calm, protected waters of Colorado Lagoon are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Unlike the ocean, you won't contend with waves, making it perfect for beginners and those looking for a serene paddle. TikTok+1 You can rent equipment nearby or bring your own to explore the lagoon at your own pace. It's also a popular spot for RC boat enthusiasts. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Colorado Lagoon Open Channel Project

Colorado Lagoon is undergoing significant improvements, notably the Open Channel Project. This ambitious initiative aims to connect the lagoon directly to Marine Stadium and the broader Alamitos Bay network via a new open channel. Previously, the lagoon was largely cut off, relying on an underground tunnel, which impacted water circulation. TikTokInstagram+1

The project, funded in part by the Port of Long Beach, is designed to restore the lagoon's wetlands and sub-tidal habitat. By improving water flow, the project is expected to enhance water quality and support a more diverse and thriving ecosystem within the lagoon. This transformation is making Colorado Lagoon an even more exciting and ecologically valuable destination. Instagram+1

This revitalization is set to make Colorado Lagoon one of Long Beach's most beautiful and dynamic spots, perfect for families, locals, and nature enthusiasts alike. The ongoing upgrades promise a more vibrant and accessible experience for all visitors. TikTokInstagram

Water Quality and Safety

Colorado Lagoon is often cited as having cleaner water compared to some other Long Beach beaches, with some even suggesting it's among the cleanest in the area. TikTok This is partly due to its status as a tidal lagoon and ongoing efforts to improve water circulation. Lifeguards are on duty during the peak summer season, providing an added layer of safety for swimmers and families. TikTokReddit

However, as with any natural body of water, it's always prudent to be aware of potential fluctuations in water quality. Checking local advisories before swimming, especially after periods of heavy rain or unusual environmental events, is a good practice. The calm, wave-free environment makes it ideal for wading and water activities without the concern of strong ocean currents. TikTokReddit

Visitors should also be mindful of the natural wildlife present in the lagoon, such as stingrays and moon jellies. While generally not aggressive, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and avoid disturbing the marine life. TikTokInstagram

Family Fun and Activities

Colorado Lagoon is a beloved spot for families, offering a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained. The children's playground is a major draw, providing a safe and fun space for kids to play. TikTok+2 The sandy beach area is perfect for building sandcastles or simply relaxing, and the calm, shallow waters of the lagoon are ideal for toddlers and young children to splash and play without the worry of waves. TikTok+1

Beyond the playground, the lagoon's tranquil waters are perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking. Visitors can rent equipment or bring their own to explore the serene environment. The surrounding walking trails offer a pleasant way to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise, making it a well-rounded destination for a family outing. TikTokInstagram

With lifeguards on duty during the summer months and a generally safe and friendly atmosphere, Colorado Lagoon provides a worry-free environment for families to create lasting memories. TikTokReddit

You may also like

1 of 2