Long Beach - Image 1
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Long Beach California

4.3
·187 reviews·, Dominican Republic

Vibrant coastal city with beautiful beaches, iconic landmarks like the Queen Mary, and a diverse culinary scene.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Long Beach - Image 1

Long Beach California

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vibrant coastal city with beautiful beaches, iconic landmarks like the Queen Mary, and a diverse culinary scene.

4.3
(187 reviews)

"Nice beach and ocean view. A lot of small restaurants along the way."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring your own trash bags

Some areas can be littered; carrying bags helps keep the beach clean. :recycle:

Rent a bike to explore

Perfect for cruising along the shoreline and parks. :bike:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shoreline Aquatic Park

Shoreline Aquatic Park

Near the waterfront

A paved, flat loop trail perfect for easy strolls or bike rides with stunning ocean views.

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden

Cal State Long Beach campus

A serene and beautiful small garden offering a peaceful escape within the city.

Long Beach Pier

Long Beach Pier

Various locations

Enjoy breathtaking views and a relaxing walk on one of Long Beach's favorite piers.

Catalina Island Ferry

Catalina Island Ferry

Departure from Long Beach

A scenic ferry ride to Avalon, often described as the most beautiful beach in California.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Beach Vibe

Long Beach offers a vibrant coastal experience with its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. While many enjoy the ocean views and nearby eateries, be prepared for potential cleanliness issues, especially on the left side of the beach. Bringing your own trash bags can help manage this.

Navigating Long Beach

Getting around Long Beach is generally straightforward, with options for walking, biking, and public transport. Consider renting a bike to explore the shoreline and parks. For a unique experience, take a ferry from Long Beach to Catalina Island.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Spectacular ocean views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Tee I did a day pass at Santa Fe in Sosúa! Also, make sure you have cash! #sosua #DR #vacay #travel #puertoplata
@realjaymie
51.9K likes • 543.5K views

Bring your own trash bags

Some areas can be littered; carrying bags helps keep the beach clean. :recycle:

Rent a bike to explore

Perfect for cruising along the shoreline and parks. :bike:

Puerto Plata > Punta Cana…Still so much more in 🇩🇴 that I need to see! #thingstodointhedominicanrepublic #visitdr #traveldominicanrepublic #visitpuertoplata #travelbyram #🇩🇴🇩🇴🇩🇴🇩🇴🇩🇴🇩🇴🇩🇴
@travelbyram
29.7K likes • 697.3K views
Long beach California ✨🇺🇸 #usa #california #losangeles #instagram #beverlyhills #explore #travel #sanfrancisco #longbeach
royalkhan__official
5.6K likes • 86.7K views

Cash for beach clubs

If visiting beach clubs, ensure you have cash for day passes and tips. :moneybag:

Enjoy waterfront dining

Numerous restaurants offer great food with ocean views. :forkandknife:

The most beautiful beach in California?! Is in Avalon, CA! Take a ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro or NewPort Beach via Catalina express! PS- this is not AI!!! People keep saying it is but it’s not! If you have been following me for years now you know I always post Catalina and showcase the beauty of it! Sometimes water is murky but sometimes it’s stunning! 📍- 120 Pebbly Beach Rd, Avalon, CA 90...
elisolanooo
133.8K likes • 5.1M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring your own trash bags

Some areas can be littered; carrying bags helps keep the beach clean. :recycle:

Rent a bike to explore

Perfect for cruising along the shoreline and parks. :bike:

Cash for beach clubs

If visiting beach clubs, ensure you have cash for day passes and tips. :moneybag:

Enjoy waterfront dining

Numerous restaurants offer great food with ocean views. :forkandknife:

Catch a stunning sunset

Long Beach offers incredible sunset views, especially from the piers. :city_sunset:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(187 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Long Beach offers a pleasant coastal experience with beautiful ocean views and numerous dining options. Visitors appreciate the scenic walking and biking trails, as well as the convenience of nearby restaurants. However, some reviewers note significant cleanliness issues on certain parts of the beach, with litter being a recurring concern.

"Very dirty towards the left side. Did not swim there. Wouldn't go there again."

alicia mirbach

"Nice beach and ocean view. A lot of small restaurants along the way. I gave four stars because it is a lot of trash, specially plastics and bottles (no trash cans by the beach just where the restaurants are).
We need to save our planet."

Michelle Rodriguez

"Lovely place to go take a walk or swim. Different places near by to grab a bite or even a coffee."

Enmy R

What People Like

Nice beach and ocean view
Lovely place for a walk
Different places to grab a bite

What People Dislike

Very dirty towards the left
A lot of trash, especially plastics

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Long Beach is accessible by car via major freeways like the I-405 and I-710. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Long Beach Airport (LGB) are the closest major airports. Public transportation options include the Long Beach Transit bus system and the Metro Rail Green Line, which connects to nearby areas. Instagram

Yes, Long Beach is quite walkable in many areas, and the city has a decent public bus system. Renting a bike is also a popular and enjoyable way to explore the coastline and parks. Ride-sharing services are readily available. Instagram

Absolutely! Catalina Express offers ferry services from Long Beach (and other nearby ports) to Catalina Island, a popular day trip destination. Instagram

The Shoreline Aquatic Park Loop Trail is ideal for walking or biking. Many visitors also enjoy strolling along the piers for scenic views. Instagram+1

Driving along Ocean Boulevard offers beautiful ocean views. For a unique experience, consider exploring the areas around the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to Long Beach's public beaches is generally free. However, some beach clubs or specific areas might have day pass fees. TikTok

Attraction hours vary. The Aquarium of the Pacific typically opens around 10 AM. It's always best to check the official websites for the most up-to-date information on hours and any potential closures. Instagram

Long Beach hosts various events throughout the year, including music festivals, cultural celebrations, and community gatherings. Keep an eye on local event listings for 'Cruisin' Long Beach' or other community events. Instagram

Yes, beach chair and umbrella rentals are often available at Long Beach, providing comfort for a day by the ocean. Reddit

The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is open to the public and generally free to enter, though it's always a good idea to confirm their current access policies. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the beautiful beaches, the Aquarium of the Pacific, the historic Queen Mary, Shoreline Aquatic Park, and the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden. The city also boasts a vibrant dining and entertainment scene. Instagram+1

While some visitors find the beaches lovely for walks and swimming, others note that certain areas can be quite dirty, with litter like plastics and bottles. It's advisable to be mindful of this and perhaps bring your own trash bags. Reddit+1

Yes, the Shoreline Aquatic Park Loop Trail and the Colorado Lagoon Loop Trail are popular, easy, and flat options for walking and jogging. Instagram

Families can enjoy the beaches, visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, explore the Japanese Garden, or take a ferry to Catalina Island. Many restaurants are also family-friendly. Instagram

Long Beach offers many picturesque spots, from its beaches and piers to the Japanese Garden and the city skyline. Sunsets are particularly stunning. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Long Beach offers a diverse culinary scene, from casual beachfront eateries to upscale restaurants. You can find everything from seafood and international cuisine to ramen and breweries. Instagram+1

Yes, there are many small restaurants and cafes located along the beach, offering convenient options for a bite or coffee with ocean views. Reddit

Jounetsu Ramen is a highly recommended family-owned spot known for its rich, flavorful broths, especially the spicy Tonkotsu. Instagram

Yes, Belmont Brewing Company is a popular spot known for its drinks and sunset views. Many other establishments offer a variety of beverages. Instagram

Consider dining at a restaurant with a view of the Queen Mary or enjoying a meal at a beachfront cafe. The city's diverse neighborhoods offer many unique culinary finds. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The piers, Shoreline Aquatic Park, the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden, and the beaches themselves offer great photo opportunities. Don't miss the sunset views! Instagram+2

Yes, the Queen Mary is an iconic landmark and a popular subject for photography, offering a historic and majestic backdrop. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals. Instagram

The 'golden hour' before sunset and the 'blue hour' after sunset offer beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing vibrant beach scenes. Instagram

Besides the piers and gardens, the city skyline viewed from the waterfront, and the colorful murals found in various neighborhoods can make for interesting shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Long Beach offers a variety of family-friendly activities. The Aquarium of the Pacific is a major draw, providing educational and entertaining exhibits for all ages. The beaches themselves are great for building sandcastles and playing in the shallow waters, though it's wise to be mindful of cleanliness in certain areas. Reddit+1

For a peaceful outing, the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden offers a serene environment for a family stroll. Taking the Catalina Express ferry to Catalina Island is also a memorable adventure, with beautiful scenery and a different pace of life. Instagram+1 Many restaurants in Long Beach are accommodating to families, and the city's walkable areas and parks make it easy to navigate with children.

💰 Budget Travelers

Long Beach can be enjoyed on a budget by focusing on its free attractions. The public beaches are free to access, offering a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean. Walking or biking the Shoreline Aquatic Park Loop Trail is another excellent free activity with beautiful views. Instagram

Opt for casual eateries and food trucks rather than high-end restaurants. Many small restaurants along the beach offer affordable meals. Reddit Utilizing public transportation like the Long Beach Transit buses can save on costs compared to ride-sharing or taxis. Consider packing your own snacks and drinks for beach days to further reduce expenses.

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Long Beach offers a charming backdrop for couples. Enjoy sunset strolls along the piers or the Shoreline Aquatic Park, with the city lights twinkling in the distance. Instagram+1 A romantic dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants, perhaps with views of the Queen Mary, can be a perfect evening. Instagram

Consider a day trip to Catalina Island via the Catalina Express for a change of scenery and a touch of island romance. Instagram For a more relaxed and intimate experience, exploring the tranquil Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden provides a peaceful escape. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Long Beach's Beaches

Long Beach offers a stretch of coastline perfect for a day by the ocean. Visitors can enjoy walking, swimming, and relaxing on the sand. However, it's important to note that the cleanliness of the beaches can vary. Some areas, particularly towards the left side, have been described as quite dirty, with a noticeable amount of trash like plastics and bottles. Reddit+1

Despite these concerns, many find the beaches to be lovely spots for a stroll or a dip. The presence of numerous small restaurants along the waterfront provides convenient options for grabbing a bite or a coffee. Renting beach chairs and umbrellas is also an option for added comfort. Reddit+1

To make the most of your beach experience, consider bringing your own trash bags to help manage any litter you encounter. This proactive approach can contribute to a more pleasant environment for everyone. Reddit

Getting Active in Long Beach

Long Beach is a fantastic city for staying active, with numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Shoreline Aquatic Park Loop Trail and the Colorado Lagoon Loop Trail are highly recommended for easy, flat walks or bike rides, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding areas. Instagram

For those who enjoy beach sports, Long Beach hosts leagues and activities like coed beach soccer, providing a fun way to engage with the community and stay fit. Instagram

Beyond the trails and beach sports, the city's generally pleasant weather and coastal setting make it ideal for cycling along the extensive bike paths or simply enjoying a brisk walk along the waterfront. Instagram

Culinary Delights of Long Beach

Long Beach boasts a diverse and exciting food scene, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From casual beachfront cafes to more upscale dining establishments, there's something for everyone. Ramen lovers should definitely seek out Jounetsu Ramen, a family-owned spot praised for its rich, 18-hour simmered broths, particularly the spicy Tonkotsu. Instagram

The city also offers vibrant brewery culture, with places like Belmont Brewing Company providing a great atmosphere to enjoy drinks and watch the sunset. Instagram Many restaurants are situated along the waterfront, offering the added bonus of ocean views with your meal. Reddit

Exploring the different neighborhoods of Long Beach can lead to discovering hidden culinary gems, from international cuisine to local favorites. The variety ensures that any foodie will find plenty to savor during their visit. Instagram

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