Long Beach Airport serves as a key gateway to Southern California’s coastline. Located just south of downtown Los Angeles, it handles both commercial flights and private planes. The terminal features modern amenities including dining options, rental services and public transit connections for easy access into the city and nearby beaches. Its proximity to major highways makes driving convenient while maintaining a quieter atmosphere compared to larger regional airports. Visitors find it practical for short trips or connecting routes across the state.
| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
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| Currency: |
US Dollar (USD) £1 ≈ US$1.33 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
The U.S. is highly cashless, with credit and debit cards accepted almost everywhere. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary and expected in the U.S. In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides also expect tips, usually around 10-20% depending on the service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking laws vary by state, but it is generally prohibited in public spaces without a permit. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is restricted in most indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas. Local laws vary. |
| Etiquette: | Greet with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, respect personal space, and avoid discussing politics or income unless invited to share opinions. Politeness and friendliness are appreciated. |
| Thanksgiving (November) |
A major holiday with closures and domestic travel surges. |
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| Independence Day (July) |
Expect parades, fireworks, and celebrations nationwide. |
| Christmas (December) |
Markets, festive events, and crowded tourist spots. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Lyft, Bolt |
| Helpful links: |
Wikipedia Visa regulations Customs & border control Travel with medicine |
| Other: | The U.S. is known for its diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and regional cuisines. Public transport is efficient in cities but less so in rural areas. Renting a car is recommended for exploring national parks. |
Long Beach Airport uniquely combines a historic charm with modern convenience, catering to about 1.4 million passengers annually. The airport’s beautifully preserved art deco terminal is a local icon, inviting travelers into a relaxed Southern California atmosphere that feels more personal and manageable than larger hubs like LAX.
Despite its intimate setting, the airport provides all necessary amenities including free Wi-Fi, a good selection of eateries showcasing local flavors and retail shops with local artisan goods. However, it lacks dedicated lounges commonly found in larger airports, which travelers should note if seeking premium quiet spaces.
Ground transportation is straightforward, with taxis and ride-share pickups easily accessible outside the terminal. The airport is well connected by public transit with nearby Wardlow Station providing access to the LA Metro A Line, linking passengers to downtown LA and beyond. Traffic can occasionally slow travel, so plan with some flexibility.
The climate is characterized by mild, dry summers and cool, wet winters, typical of coastal Southern California. The open-air design of the terminal allows travelers to enjoy the pleasant coastal weather year-round, but packing layers for cooler evenings is wise.
Hotels around Long Beach Airport and downtown provide a range of options from budget chains to boutique lodgings, appealing to leisure and business travelers alike. Many locations offer free airport shuttles, ensuring convenient access to the terminal.
To Downtown Long Beach:
Downtown Long Beach is just a short 5 to 10-minute drive from the airport. Travellers can use taxis, ride-shares, or the nearby Wardlow Metro Station to connect to the Los Angeles Metro A Line. Public transport fares are affordable, and taxis typically cost around US$15 – 25 (£11.21 – 18.69) depending on traffic.
To Los Angeles:
Los Angeles is approximately 25 miles away and accessible via multiple routes including the Metro A Line from Wardlow Station or by taxi and rideshare which generally take about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Hire cars are also popular among visitors for exploring the region.
To Long Beach Beaches:
The popular beaches along Long Beach’s coastline are reachable within 10-15 minutes by car, taxi, or rideshare from the airport, making day trips easy and convenient for travellers seeking sun and surf.
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