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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Long Beach Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
United States – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| 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. |
|---|---|
| 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. |
|---|---|
| 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) |
|---|---|
| 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. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Long Beach, United States
Overcast mornings (May Gray and June Gloom) are common at the coast from May to June
Sea temperatures suit swimming only from about July to September
Grand Prix of Long Beach (IndyCar street race) takes place in mid April
Don't miss
- 🐠 Explore marine life at Aquarium of the Pacific
- 🏖️ Stroll Shoreline Village, enjoy waterfront cafés
- 🌅 Catch sunset from Naples Pier’s lighthouse
- 🚢 Tour the historic Queen Mary ocean liner
- 🚴♂️ Bike Marvin Braude Trail along scenic coastlines
- 🎨 Admire contemporary art at Long Beach Museum
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Long Beach?
Long Beach offers a blend of coastal charm and urban convenience that makes it an appealing destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment. The city’s waterfront is anchored by the historic Queen Mary, now a museum and hotel that provides insight into maritime history and architectural grandeur. Nearby, the Long Beach Museum of Art showcases contemporary works from local and international artists, offering a quiet space to appreciate modern creativity. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the Shoreline Village area features a promenade with bike rentals, cafés and seasonal events such as farmers’ markets and music performances. The nearby Alamitos Bay is popular for kayaking and paddleboarding, giving visitors an opportunity to explore marine life up close. Long Beach’s parks, including the expansive 1,000‑acre San Pedro Creek Regional Park, provide ample green space for picnics, jogging or simply watching sunset over the Pacific. Culinary options reflect the city’s diverse population, with eateries ranging from fresh seafood shacks to authentic Mexican taquerias and vegan-friendly cafés. The local food scene is complemented by a growing craft beer culture, highlighted in the Long Beach Brewing Company and other neighborhood taprooms. Overall, Long Beach delivers a relaxed coastal atmosphere while remaining connected to Los Angeles’ broader cultural offerings, making it an accessible yet distinct spot for travelers exploring Southern California.
Knowledge before you go
- Arrive early for beach crowds; parking fills by noon.
- Use public transit or rideshare to avoid traffic, especially during peak hours on the 405 and I-110 corridors.
- Check tide charts before visiting Shoreline Village; low tide reveals hidden tide pools and better walking paths.
- Explore the historic Long Beach Harbor District for vintage architecture and local seafood markets, but be aware of seasonal festivals that may close streets.
How to travel to Long Beach
Long Beach, California is accessible via several transportation methods. The city is served by Long Beach Airport (LGB), offering domestic flights and limited international options. For rail travel, the Metro Orange Line connects to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and downtown LA, with a stop in Long Beach. Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner route stops at the Long Beach Transit Center, linking to major cities like San Diego and San Francisco. Driving is feasible via Interstate 710 or Highway 4, connecting to I-5 and I-10. Public transit includes buses operated by Long Beach Transit, with routes covering local neighborhoods and regional hubs. The city’s compact size supports walkability and cycling for shorter distances.
Access summary
- From LAX (Los Angeles International): Taxi or rideshare to Long Beach 30–45 min.
- From Burbank (BUR): Bus or train 20–25 min; from Santa Monica (SMO) via Metro 35–40 min.
- By ferry from San Pedro: 15–20 min to Long Beach Harbor.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Long Beach
Long Beach offers a spectrum of lodging that caters to every budget and taste. Budget travelers can find well‑maintained hostels and boutique motels along the waterfront, often featuring ocean views at a fraction of downtown rates. Mid‑range guests enjoy modern hotels with amenities such as rooftop pools, fitness centers and complimentary breakfast, many situated within walking distance of the beach promenade and the historic pier. Luxury seekers are drawn to upscale resorts that blend contemporary design with classic Southern California charm, offering spa services, private cabanas and concierge assistance for a seamless stay. The city’s proximity to major attractions – like the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Long Beach Museum – makes it an ideal base for both leisure and business travelers.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Long Beach
Long Beach offers several convenient transportation options for getting around. The city is well-connected by car, with major highways like the I-710 and I-405 providing easy access to nearby areas such as Los Angeles and Orange County. Public transit includes the Long Beach Transit (LBT) bus system, which covers most neighborhoods and connects to regional rail lines at the Long Beach Airport Station or Union Station in downtown LA. The city also features bike lanes along many streets, making cycling a practical choice for short trips. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, as is car rental from local agencies near the airport. Walking is feasible in denser areas, though limited parking may be found in commercial zones.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Long Beach are around 6% higher than the average across United States. That means you'll spend more on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to USD) is 4% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Long Beach offers a generally safe environment for travelers, with low violent crime rates and well‑patrolled tourist areas. Visitors should stay alert in crowded spots, avoid poorly lit streets after dark and keep valuables secure to maintain peace of mind.
Health & Medical
Long Beach offers excellent medical care with numerous hospitals, specialty clinics and a high density of board‑certified physicians. Clean air quality is generally good, though occasional smog from Los Angeles can affect respiratory patients. Travelers should stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
Accessibility
Long Beach offers many accessible attractions, with wheelchair‑friendly beaches, public transit and ramps at major museums. However, some older buildings lack elevators and parking can be tight. Plan ahead for curb cuts, accessible restrooms and elevator availability.
Tap water
Long Beach’s tap water is safe and well‑treated, meeting strict EPA standards. Public fountains and refill stations are plentiful in parks, downtown and near beaches, making it easy for residents and visitors to stay hydrated without buying bottled water.
Packing recommendations for Long Beach
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
🚰
Reusable water bottle
🧥
Light jacket
🕶️
Sunglasses
🎒
Small rucksack
🩱
Swimwear
🏖️
Beach towel
🗺️
Map or GPS device
👜
Anti-theft bag
🔋
Power bank
👒
Sun hat
📃
Travel insurance
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
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