Long Beach City Beach - A view of a city from the top of a building
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Long Beach City Beach

4.4
·671 reviews·Long Beach, United States

A long, south-facing beach along Ocean Boulevard, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the California coast. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Long Beach City Beach - A view of a city from the top of a building

Long Beach City Beach

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A long, south-facing beach along Ocean Boulevard, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the California coast. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and scenic views.

4.4
(671 reviews)

"Clean, not too crowded. All the pets I saw were leashed, no overly loud or obnoxious behavior from anyone. It was a great time!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike the Path

Enjoy the separated walking and biking paths for a safe and scenic experience. :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Pack for Sun Protection

The California sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable day. :sunwithface:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ocean Boulevard Stroll

Ocean Boulevard Stroll

Along Ocean Boulevard

A long, south-facing stretch perfect for walking, biking, or simply soaking in the coastal views. Enjoy the sea breeze and vibrant atmosphere.

Belmont Pier

Belmont Pier

Eastern end of the beach

A classic pier offering fishing, amusement rides, and stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean.

Junipero Beach Parking Area

Junipero Beach Parking Area

Center of the beach

The main access point, often referred to by locals, with convenient parking and proximity to Bluff Park's grassy areas.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially during off-peak hours. Weekends and holidays can get busy, so plan accordingly if you prefer a more serene beach experience. Consider the tide times for optimal beachcombing or water activities.

Parking & Access

Parking can be a challenge, especially on sunny days. Look for designated lots along Ocean Boulevard or consider ride-sharing. Some areas have metered parking, so have change or a payment app ready. Public restrooms are available, but signs might direct you to private ones first.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively vibe, more activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Beach day☀️ #beachvibes #longbeach #foryoupage #socal #california #losangeles #fypシ #creatorsearchinsights
@danielaagg_1
6.9K likes • 132.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike the Path

Enjoy the separated walking and biking paths for a safe and scenic experience. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

☀️ Pack for Sun Protection

The California sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable day. :sunwithface:

Exploring Long Beach City Beach 🔥🔥🔥 #longbeach #california #beach
@cuzzimen
5 likes • 213 views
Here are some easy and beautiful trails around the city of Long Beach. 🚢 The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden: a gorgeous small garden on the campus of Cal State Long Beach that’s open to the public. Easy for anyone! 🚢 Colorado Lagoon Loop Trail: an easy, flat 1 mile trail around a lagoon. 🚢 Shoreline Aquatic Park Loop Trail: paved and flat easy trail, about 2.3 miles. 4 miles if you take t...
cal.euphoria
17.5K likes • 807.3K views

⚠️ Watch for Stingrays

Stingrays are present; shuffle your feet when entering the water to avoid stepping on them. :warning: Reddit

🗑️ Be Mindful of Trash

While beautiful, some visitors note trash can be an issue. Help keep it clean by disposing of waste properly. :recycle:

😍 Long beach! Captured by @naaymtz #socal
socals
33.7K likes • 649.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike the Path

Enjoy the separated walking and biking paths for a safe and scenic experience. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

☀️ Pack for Sun Protection

The California sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable day. :sunwithface:

⚠️ Watch for Stingrays

Stingrays are present; shuffle your feet when entering the water to avoid stepping on them. :warning: Reddit

🗑️ Be Mindful of Trash

While beautiful, some visitors note trash can be an issue. Help keep it clean by disposing of waste properly. :recycle:

🚗 Parking Tips

Metered parking is common. Have change or a payment app ready. Look for signs to public restrooms. :parking: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(671 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Long Beach City Beach offers a clean and beautiful coastal experience with ample space for relaxation and recreation. Visitors appreciate the free access, scenic views, and well-separated walking/biking paths. However, some reviews mention an issue with trash and the presence of stingrays, which can detract from the overall experience for some.

"Kinda disappointed with this beach. But there wasn't a big crowd. But now I know why."

Joel Lucas

"The beach was clean and beautiful. Great spots on grassy areas to sit and eat lunch etc."

Monica Jauriqui

"I stumbled upon this place with my significant other. It instantly drew me in.

We walked down the stairs to enter. It was free.

The views were beautiful. I was able to go in the North Pacific Ocean, so that was worth the stop for me.

Overall, it was a great stop, especially since it was free. I would go again if I’m in the area.

Date of visit: Feb 21, 2025"

chaddy andrew

What People Like

Clean and beautiful beach
Free access
Separated bike/walk paths

What People Dislike

Trash on the beach
Stingray encounters

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Long Beach City Beach is easily accessible via Ocean Boulevard. If driving, there are several parking lots along the beach, though they can fill up quickly on busy days. Public transportation options, like Long Beach Transit buses, also serve the area. For those coming from further afield, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the closest major airport, with shuttle or ride-share services available to Long Beach.TikTok

Yes, there are multiple parking lots and street parking options along Ocean Boulevard. Some are metered, so be prepared with change or a payment app. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, to secure a spot.Reddit

Absolutely! Long Beach has a great network of bike paths, including one that runs alongside the beach. It's a fantastic way to explore the coastline and enjoy the fresh air.Instagram

For exploring the beach area, walking or biking are excellent options. Long Beach also has a public transit system, and ride-sharing services are readily available for getting to other parts of the city, like the Aquarium of the Pacific or downtown.TikTok

Yes, Long Beach City Beach is conveniently located near downtown Long Beach, California. You can easily access it from the downtown area via a short drive, bike ride, or even a pleasant walk along the waterfront.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Long Beach City Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand, surf, and promenade for free.Reddit

The beach is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific facilities like restrooms or concessions may have their own operating hours. It's always a good idea to check local listings for any specific event schedules or closures.

No advance booking is necessary for general access to Long Beach City Beach. It's a public space, so you can visit anytime during its open hours.

Standard beach rules apply, such as leash laws for pets and regulations regarding fires or alcohol. It's always wise to check the official Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine website for the most current rules and regulations.

While dogs are generally not allowed on the sandy areas of Long Beach City Beach, they are permitted on leash in designated areas and along the paved paths. Always check signage for specific restrictions.

🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, walking, jogging, and biking along the scenic paths. The Belmont Pier offers fishing and amusement opportunities. It's a great spot for a relaxing day by the ocean.TikTok

Public restrooms are available, though some signs might initially point to private facilities for boat owners. Life guards can direct you to the public ones. Showers are typically available for rinsing off sand.

Yes, the water is generally suitable for swimming, and it's often warmer due to its bay-like setting. However, always be aware of ocean conditions and any posted advisories.Reddit

The entire stretch of Ocean Boulevard offers beautiful coastal views. The Belmont Pier provides a classic seaside backdrop, and the grassy areas of Bluff Park offer elevated perspectives. The vibrant street art in the surrounding city also makes for great photo opportunities.TikTok

Crowds can vary significantly. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends and holidays. If you prefer a quieter experience, aim for weekday mornings.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are numerous dining options along Ocean Boulevard and in the nearby downtown Long Beach area, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You can also find food vendors and snack bars closer to the beach itself.

Absolutely! The grassy areas along Ocean Boulevard, particularly near Bluff Park, are perfect for picnics. Many visitors enjoy bringing their own food and enjoying a meal with a view.Reddit

Long Beach offers a diverse culinary scene, with options for various tastes and dietary needs. From seafood and international cuisine to casual American fare, you'll find plenty to choose from. Some travelers with digestive sensitivities have found success with simpler, blander options available in the area.Reddit

You'll find some vendors and small shops selling snacks and drinks, especially near the Belmont Pier and along the main promenade. However, it's always a good idea to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend a full day.

Many restaurants along Ocean Boulevard and in the Shoreline Village area cater to families, offering kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere. Casual eateries and pizza places are also popular choices.

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful, warm light for photography. Early mornings are also great for capturing serene beach scenes with fewer people. Midday can be harsh, but the wide-open spaces still offer good opportunities.TikTok

The Belmont Pier, with its classic pier architecture and ocean views, is a prime spot. The coastline along Ocean Boulevard, especially with the palm trees, is iconic. Don't forget the grassy Bluff Park for elevated shots and the vibrant street art in the surrounding city.TikTok

Drone usage is typically regulated in public areas. It's essential to check the local ordinances and FAA guidelines for Long Beach before flying a drone to ensure compliance and avoid any penalties.

Beyond the beach itself, consider the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the colorful Naples canals for diverse photographic subjects. The city's blend of urban and coastal elements provides many unique shots.TikTok

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both wide beach vistas and details on the pier. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can be useful for wildlife or distant subjects. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing ocean blues and reducing glare.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Long Beach City Beach is a great destination for families. The calm waters in the bay area are often suitable for younger swimmers, and the wide, flat paths are perfect for strollers or kids learning to ride bikes.TikTok Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as the grassy areas along Ocean Boulevard are ideal for picnics. Keep an eye out for stingrays and ensure children shuffle their feet when entering the water.Reddit The nearby Aquarium of the Pacific is also a fantastic family-friendly attraction.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers

For solo travelers, Long Beach City Beach offers a safe and scenic environment. The well-maintained walking paths along Ocean Boulevard are perfect for a peaceful stroll or a brisk walk, allowing you to take in the ocean views at your own pace.TikTok The beach is generally not overly crowded on weekdays, providing a relaxed atmosphere for reflection or people-watching. Consider bringing a book or simply enjoying the coastal breeze.

🚴 Cyclists and Active Visitors

Cyclists will find Long Beach City Beach to be a paradise. The dedicated bike lanes along Ocean Boulevard are smooth and offer miles of scenic riding. You can rent bikes locally or bring your own to explore the coastline, connecting to other bike paths in the area.Instagram The beach is also a popular spot for runners and joggers looking for a picturesque route.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Long Beach's Coastal Charm

Long Beach City Beach, stretching along Ocean Boulevard, is the heart of the city's coastal appeal. This expansive, south-facing beach is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a vibrant atmosphere and beautiful ocean views.TikTok It's divided into sections, with the main stretch often referred to as 'Junipero Beach' due to the prominent Junipero Avenue access point.TikTok The beach is known for its clean sand and the pleasant separation of walking and biking paths, making it ideal for a variety of recreational activities.Reddit

Activities and Recreation

Beyond simply relaxing on the sand, Long Beach City Beach offers a range of activities. Swimming in the North Pacific Ocean is a popular pastime, and the waters are generally suitable for a refreshing dip.Reddit The adjacent paved paths are perfect for cycling, jogging, or a leisurely stroll, with dedicated lanes ensuring safety for all users.Instagram For those seeking more active pursuits, beach volleyball courts are often available, and the Belmont Pier provides opportunities for fishing and enjoying amusement rides.

Navigating Amenities and Local Insights

While the beach is free to access, visitors should be aware of certain amenities. Public restrooms are available, though sometimes signs can be a bit confusing, directing you to private facilities first; lifeguards can help guide you to the public ones.Reddit Parking is a key consideration, with numerous lots along Ocean Boulevard, but they can fill up quickly. Travelers have noted that while the beach is beautiful, occasional trash can be an issue, underscoring the importance of responsible waste disposal.Reddit A unique aspect of the local experience is the presence of stingrays, prompting advice to shuffle feet when entering the water to avoid encounters.Reddit

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