The 5 Best Beaches in Long Beach You Can’t Miss
Long Beach, California, is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in Southern California. Whether you’re a local or someone moving to Long Beach, these beaches offer plenty of ways to enjoy the city’s iconic coastal charm. From bustling, family-friendly shores to quiet, serene spots perfect for relaxation, Long Beach has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll dive into the top five beaches in Long Beach, covering the amenities, activities, and unique characteristics of each beach. We’ll also share helpful tips on when to visit and where to stay, ensuring that your beach day is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
1. Long Beach City Beach
Best For: Families, beach walks, water sports, and bikingBeach Type: Long, sandy ocean beach
Long Beach City Beach, also known as the main beach of Long Beach, is the heart of the city’s coastline. This 4-mile stretch of beach is perfect for families, beachgoers, and those looking to indulge in water sports. The beach is protected by a breakwater, which helps keep the water calm, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The beach also features a long bike path, allowing visitors to enjoy a ride along the shore while taking in the views.
Amenities:
- Parking: Available in parking lots along Ocean Blvd ($2 per hour)
- Restrooms: Yes, located near the beach entrances
- Showers: Yes, for rinsing off saltwater and sand
- Lifeguards: Seasonal lifeguard coverage
- Rentals: Beach chairs, umbrellas, jet skis, bikes, kayaks
- Picnic Tables: Yes, perfect for a family meal by the beach
- Accessibility: ADA beach access mats available for easy wheelchair access
Activities:
- Swimming, boogie boarding, and sunbathing
- Kiteboarding, paddleboarding, and jet skiing
- Walking and biking along the paved beach path
- Beach volleyball at designated courts
Best Time to Visit:
- Early mornings or late afternoons during the summer months for pleasant weather and to avoid crowds.
- Spring and fall for a quieter experience, with ideal temperatures for beach activities.
Nearby Attractions:
- The Queen Mary, an iconic ocean liner turned hotel, restaurant, and museum
- The Aquarium of the Pacific, offering interactive exhibits and marine life displays
- Shoreline Village, a vibrant shopping and dining area by the waterfront
Address: 1 Junipero Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90803
2. Belmont Shore Beach
Best For: Water sports, shopping, and diningBeach Type: Sandy ocean beach with calm waters
Belmont Shore Beach is one of the most popular and vibrant beaches in Long Beach, known for its wide sandy shores and calm waters. The beach is ideal for visitors who want to combine their beach day with shopping, dining, and water activities. The area is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great place to grab a bite or shop for souvenirs after a day on the sand. Its calm waters, thanks to the breakwater, make it perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming.
Amenities:
- Parking: Available in various parking lots ($1–2 per hour)
- Restrooms: Yes, near the entrance to the beach
- Showers: Yes, to rinse off after the beach
- Lifeguards: Yes, during the summer months
- Rentals: Paddleboards, kayaks, umbrellas, bikes, coolers
- Picnic Tables: Yes, for enjoying a packed lunch by the beach
- Accessibility: Beach access mats and paved paths for easy access
Activities:
- Swimming, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and kayaking
- Shopping along 2nd Street, which features boutiques and eateries
- Beach volleyball at designated courts
- Biking along the shoreline
Best Time to Visit:
- The early morning and late afternoon offer the best weather and fewer crowds.
- Weekdays during the summer are less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed beach experience.
Nearby Attractions:
- 2nd Street, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars
- The Long Beach Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary art
- Naples Island, a picturesque neighborhood with canals for a relaxing walk or gondola ride
Address: 4000 E Olympic Plz, Long Beach, CA 90803
3. Alamitos Beach
Best For: A full-service beach day with easy access to restaurants and activitiesBeach Type: Expansive ocean beach
Alamitos Beach is one of the closest beaches to Downtown Long Beach, making it convenient for those staying in the city. It’s an expansive beach with plenty of room for sunbathing, volleyball, and water activities. Visitors can rent bikes, rollerblades, or fishing gear and enjoy the beach with a view of the city skyline. Alamitos Beach is also known for its proximity to a variety of restaurants and attractions, making it easy to combine a beach day with a bit of local culture.
Amenities:
- Parking: Available in parking lots nearby ($2 per hour)
- Restrooms: Yes, located along the beach
- Showers: Yes, for rinsing off
- Lifeguards: Yes (seasonal)
- Rentals: Bikes, rollerblades, fishing gear, beach chairs
- Picnic Tables: No
- Accessibility: Beach access mat and paved paths for easy access
Activities:
- Swimming, sunbathing, biking, and rollerblading
- Fishing and volleyball
- Visiting the nearby shops and restaurants in Downtown Long Beach
Best Time to Visit:
- Late spring and early summer offer warm temperatures with fewer crowds compared to peak summer months.
- Weekdays during the summer for a quieter experience.
Nearby Attractions:
- The Aquarium of the Pacific, with interactive exhibits
- The Long Beach Convention Center for events and concerts
- The Pike Outlets, a waterfront shopping district
Address: Alamitos Ave and Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803
4. Mother’s Beach
Best For: Families with young childrenBeach Type: Calm, shallow bay beach
Mother’s Beach is a small, family-friendly beach located at the southern end of Alamitos Bay. Known for its calm, shallow waters, this beach is perfect for families with young children who want a safe and relaxing beach day. The beach is also equipped with a large playground, grassy areas for picnics, and nearby concession stands. It’s a quiet beach that is ideal for those looking for a peaceful, kid-friendly spot.
Amenities:
- Parking: Lot available, street parking (prices vary)
- Restrooms: Yes
- Showers: Yes
- Lifeguards: Yes (seasonal)
- Rentals: Kayaks, paddleboards, beach chairs
- Picnic Tables: Yes, for family gatherings and meals
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible ramps and beach access mats
Activities:
- Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and picnicking
- Playing at the playground or enjoying the grassy areas
- Volleyball and sandcastle building
Best Time to Visit:
- Early mornings or late afternoons from May through September for the best weather.
- Weekdays during the summer for a more relaxed experience.
Nearby Attractions:
- The nearby Marine Stadium for water sports and events
- Alamitos Bay Marina for boat rentals and scenic views
- Bixby Park for walking paths and open spaces
Address: 5839 Appian Way, Long Beach, CA 90803
5. Alamitos Bay Beach
Best For: Calm water activities like kayaking and paddleboardingBeach Type: Calm, sheltered bay beach
Alamitos Bay Beach is a quieter, less crowded beach compared to the others, making it a great spot for those who enjoy calm waters and outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The beach is sheltered by the bay, ensuring smooth, peaceful waters that make it perfect for water sports enthusiasts. It’s a more relaxed spot where you can enjoy a quieter beach day.
Amenities:
- Parking: Free street parking, lot available ($2 per hour)
- Restrooms: Yes
- Showers: No
- Lifeguards: Yes (seasonal)
- Rentals: Kayaks, paddleboards, beach chairs
- Picnic Tables: No
- Accessibility: Beach wheelchairs available for use
Activities:
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming
- Watching boats and enjoying the scenic bay views
- Relaxing on the sand or exploring nearby parks
Best Time to Visit:
- Late summer or early fall for the best weather and fewer crowds.
- Early mornings or evenings to avoid the heat of midday.
Nearby Attractions:
- Bayshore Playground for families with kids
- The nearby Colorado Lagoon Park, a hidden gem with more peaceful vibes
- The Long Beach Island for a small, private beach getaway
Address: 5415 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803
Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal Beach in Long Beach
Long Beach boasts a variety of beaches that cater to different preferences, whether you’re looking for a fun family day, a water sports adventure, or a relaxing spot to escape the hustle and bustle. Each beach offers its own set of amenities, activities, and unique charm. From the lively Long Beach City Beach to the calm, serene waters of Alamitos Bay Beach, you’ll find the perfect spot to enjoy Southern California’s sunny shores.
Spending time at these stunning beaches is just one part of the lifestyle here. If you’re curious about what it’s like living in Long Beach, beyond the shoreline, check out our full guide covering neighborhoods, cost of living, jobs, schools, and everything you need to know before making the move.
So grab your sunscreen, pack your beach bag, and head to one of these beautiful beaches for an unforgettable experience!
Trading the inland heat for a view of the water? Our Long Beach movers know the neighborhoods, the parking, and the building managers.