Long Beach Airport Terminal LGB
Long Beach Airport (LGB) offers a unique, stress-free travel experience with its charming outdoor ambiance, historic terminal, and efficient operation...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Long Beach Airport Terminal LGB
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Long Beach Airport (LGB) offers a unique, stress-free travel experience with its charming outdoor ambiance, historic terminal, and efficient operations.
"Forget the stress of bigger airports — LGB is the perfect start to any vacation."
✈️ Skip LAX for LGB!
Travelers overwhelmingly recommend LGB over LAX for a less stressful, quicker airport experience.
🚶♀️ Embrace the Outdoors
Enjoy the unique outdoor feel; boarding often involves stairs and ramps, so dress accordingly!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Terminal & Art Mosaics
Main Terminal
Explore the beautifully restored Streamline Moderne terminal and discover hidden tile mosaics by artist Grace Clements.
Outdoor Airport Experience
Throughout the airport
Enjoy a unique outdoor ambiance with sand and palm trees, where you often board planes via stairs and ramps.
Quick Security & Easy Navigation
Security Checkpoint
Experience remarkably fast security lines and a simple, single-terminal layout for a stress-free journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Skip LAX, Embrace LGB!
Historic Charm Meets Modern Convenience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✈️ Skip LAX for LGB!
Travelers overwhelmingly recommend LGB over LAX for a less stressful, quicker airport experience.
🚶♀️ Embrace the Outdoors
Enjoy the unique outdoor feel; boarding often involves stairs and ramps, so dress accordingly! +1
⏱️ Fast Security is Real
Expect security lines to be significantly shorter and faster than at larger airports. +1
🎨 Discover Hidden Art
Go on a scavenger hunt to find the beautiful, restored tile mosaics in the historic terminal.
Tips
from all over the internet
✈️ Skip LAX for LGB!
Travelers overwhelmingly recommend LGB over LAX for a less stressful, quicker airport experience.
🚶♀️ Embrace the Outdoors
Enjoy the unique outdoor feel; boarding often involves stairs and ramps, so dress accordingly! +1
⏱️ Fast Security is Real
Expect security lines to be significantly shorter and faster than at larger airports. +1
🎨 Discover Hidden Art
Go on a scavenger hunt to find the beautiful, restored tile mosaics in the historic terminal.
🚗 Easy Drop-off/Pick-up
The airport is designed for quick and hassle-free passenger pick-up and drop-off.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers overwhelmingly praise Long Beach Airport (LGB) for its stress-free, efficient, and charming experience, often calling it a breath of fresh air compared to larger airports like LAX. Its unique outdoor ambiance, quick security, and historic terminal are frequently highlighted as major positives, making it a preferred choice for many visiting Southern California.
"Seriously, if you're flying into Southern California for a trip to Disneyland or just to explore the area, you HAVE to fly into Long Beach Airport. This isn't just an airport; it's a breath of fresh air. The moment you land, you'll notice how easy and relaxed everything feels.
There's no chaotic rush, the terminals are a breeze to navigate, and getting your bags is the fastest I've ever experienced. It's so efficient it feels like magic. The design is beautiful, and there's a unique, friendly vibe you won't find anywhere else. Forget the stress of bigger airports — LGB is the perfect start to any vacation.
I'm officially a huge fan and will choose to fly here every time."
Fredericksburg Gutter and Lawn
"Long Beach Airport is one of the easiest airports to travel through. It’s simple to get to, parking is a breeze, and pickup/drop-off is quick and hassle-free. The terminal is clean and well-organized, making both arrivals and departures smooth and efficient. A great alternative to larger airports in the area"
William Kim
"If you’re flying in or out of LA, Long Beach Airport is a hidden gem. It’s small, super easy to get through (security in five minutes or less!), and has a relaxed, open-air layout that feels way more like a resort than an airport. There’s cool art and murals all around, and for its size, it has a solid lineup of food options too. It’s also incredibly easy to get to if you’re staying in Long Beach or nearby. Honestly, once you fly through Long Beach, you won’t want to deal with LAX again!"
Sam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
LGB is easily accessible by car via major freeways. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. Public transportation options include Long Beach Transit buses. Parking is available on-site.
Yes, Long Beach Airport (LGB) is generally considered closer to Disneyland than LAX, offering a shorter drive and potentially saving you time.
Ride-sharing services are popular and convenient. Taxis are also available. For a more personalized experience, consider pre-booking a private car service.
Yes, parking at LGB is generally straightforward and less chaotic than at larger airports. Several parking options are available.
Yes, Long Beach Transit buses serve the airport, providing an affordable public transportation option. Check their routes and schedules for specific connections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Long Beach Airport (LGB) primarily serves Southwest Airlines, with occasional flights from other carriers.
Security at LGB is famously quick, often taking five minutes or less, significantly reducing wait times compared to other airports.
Baggage fees depend on the airline. Southwest Airlines, a primary carrier at LGB, has offered free checked bags under certain promotions. Always check with your specific airline.
Information on TSA PreCheck or Global Entry availability at LGB can vary. It's best to check the official TSA website or the airport's website for the most current details.
Long Beach Airport operates 24/7, but airline ticket counters and security checkpoints have specific operating hours. It's advisable to check with your airline for flight-specific times.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
Long Beach Airport features a single, compact terminal, making it incredibly easy to navigate. Many areas offer an outdoor ambiance. +1
While smaller, LGB offers a decent selection of local vendors and food options within its single terminal, catering to various tastes.
Yes, Long Beach Airport provides Wi-Fi access for travelers. Future renovations plan to include enhanced charging hubs.
LGB offers handicap entrances to the terminal and gates, as well as accessible seating in the gate areas.
Yes, the outdoor nature of LGB and its proximity to the tarmac make it a great spot for plane spotting, especially for aviation enthusiasts.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic terminal with its Streamline Moderne architecture and the outdoor boarding areas offer unique photographic opportunities. The palm trees and open spaces add to the aesthetic. +1
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but always be mindful of security personnel and avoid photographing sensitive areas or individuals without permission.
Yes, the open layout of LGB makes it conducive to capturing aircraft movements. The Festival of Flight events have also provided great opportunities.
The blend of mid-century architecture, outdoor elements like sand and palm trees, and the historic mosaics provide a distinctive backdrop for photos.
The restored tile mosaics by Grace Clements in the historic terminal are a major artistic highlight and a must-photograph feature.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing light or utilizing the airline's baggage policies to make the transition even smoother. The unique boarding process might also be an exciting experience for children. Plus, its proximity to popular family attractions like Disneyland makes it a strategic choice for a stress-free start to your vacation.
💰 Budget Travelers
While LGB is smaller, it still offers essential amenities. Keep an eye out for deals on flights into LGB, and compare them with those into LAX. The time and stress saved by using LGB can be invaluable, making it a smart choice for those looking to maximize their travel budget and minimize hassle.
🚗 Day-Trippers & Short Stays
Arriving and departing from LGB minimizes airport-related delays, allowing you to get to your destination faster and enjoy your limited time. The hassle-free experience ensures your short trip starts and ends on a positive note, without the stress often associated with larger airports.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of LGB: An Outdoor Oasis
This distinctive design isn't just for aesthetics; it contributes to the airport's efficiency. The compact, single-terminal layout means less walking and quicker transitions from check-in to the gate. The relaxed vibe is frequently mentioned in reviews, with travelers expressing relief at avoiding the typical airport chaos. It's this blend of unique design and operational ease that has earned LGB a reputation as a traveler's favorite alternative to larger, more overwhelming airports.
A Century of History and Modern Upgrades
+2Beyond its historical charm, LGB is continuously evolving. Recent and ongoing renovations are enhancing the passenger experience with a new ticketing lobby, upgraded baggage claim, and a modern Meet-and-Greet plaza. Future plans include further modernization to prepare for major events. These upgrades aim to blend the airport's historic character with contemporary amenities, ensuring it remains a comfortable and efficient gateway for years to come.
Navigating LGB: Efficiency and Ease
The ease of arrival and departure is also a major plus. Pick-up and drop-off zones are designed for quick access, and parking is generally less stressful. For those connecting to other destinations or heading to nearby attractions like Disneyland, the airport's convenient location and straightforward layout significantly reduce travel friction. This focus on passenger convenience is a key reason why many travelers vow never to return to larger, more congested airports.
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