Looking for the best Long Beach beaches? I've researched each of them and compiled a list of the top 13 beaches PLUS the best places to stay in Long Beach!
If you are heading to Long Beach and want to hit the beach, I’ve got good news. There are plenty of beaches to choose from and I have the top 13 for you! These beaches in Long Beach are some of the best beaches in California, guaranteeing you an exciting beach trip.
Long Beach beaches are unique compared to the other beaches in SoCal. They are protected by the breakwater protecting the harbor, which means that the water is very calm (good for parents, bad for surfers!)
This makes Long Beach beaches perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, or just playing in the water.
So, in between hitting up Downtown LBC, Knott’s Berry Farm, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the Queen Mary, visit one of the many Long Beach beaches for some fun in the sun!
Key Takeaways
- Long Beach has both big city beaches and small, calming bay beaches.
- The most popular are Long Beach City Beach, Belmont Shore Beach, Alamitos Beach, Granada Beach, and Bayshore Beach.
- The best beaches for small kids are Mother’s Beach, Junipero Beach, and Colorado Lagoon Park.
Table of Contents
Looking for a place to stay in Long Beach?
The Hyatt Regency Long Beach is the winner of a TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice in 2023!
👉 Check prices and book your stay the the Hyatt Regency Long Beach by clicking here!
13 Best Long Beach Beaches
Long Beach has a variety of beaches with different vibes, so you’ll be able to find exactly the beach you are looking for. I’ll point out the details of each beach, plus what it’s best for.
So, whether you want a vibrant beach with plenty of activities and amenities, or a quiet spot to read a book while the kids play in the sand, it’s there.
👉 Read over this list of the 17 best beaches in California by clicking here.
1. Long Beach City Beach
Long Beach City Beach is the main beach of Long Beach. It’s a long, sandy beach, stretching for 4 miles, with calm waters.
The beach is protected from ocean waves by the Long Beach breakwaters, so the water is calm—which makes it great for families! An added bonus is that there are many restaurants and shops nearby on Ocean Blvd too, so you’ll be able to grab a bite or a few drinks after your day in the sun.
Best For
Families, a beach walk/bike
Beach Type
Long, wide ocean beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot ($2 per hour)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes, but seasonally
Food nearby: Yes
Rentals: Beach chairs, umbrellas, boats, jet-skis
Picnic tables: No
Accessibility: ADA beach access mats
Other: Paved path for walking and biking, volleyball courts
Activities
Long Beach City Beach offers a wide range of water activities, including swimming, boogie boarding, kite boarding, parasailing, jet-skiing, and boating. Guests can easily book rentals and tours nearby.
When to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon from May through September has the perfect beach weather.
Address
1 Junipero Avenue; Long Beach, CA 90803
2. Belmont Shore Beach
Belmont Shore Beach has something for everyone. It has sandy shores, along with calm lagoons and shopping nearby. Plus, it’s lined with beautiful homes, making it the perfect beach town.
Best For
All types of visitors
Beach Type
Long, sandy ocean beach
Amenities
Parking: Various parking lots ($1 to $2 per hour)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes, in the summer
Food nearby: Yes
Rentals: Beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers, towels, kayaks, paddleboards, sailboats
Picnic tables: Yes
Accessibility: Paved beach access path
Activities
You can relax on the shore, explore nearby shops, or partake in water activities like swimming, paddleboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet-skiing, or boating.
When to Visit
The weather is perfect in the early morning and late afternoon from May through September.
Address
4000 East Olympic Plz Long Beach, CA 90803
3. Alamitos Beach
Alamitos Beach is the closest and most convenient beach to Downtown Long Beach, within walking distance of many downtown hotels. This beach has everything you’ll need for the day!
The beach is expansive and it’s a great place for laying out, playing volleyball, or swimming. There’s even an inflatable water playground in the ocean!
There’s also a variety of restaurants to choose from on Ocean Boulevard and 2nd Street, a short walk away from the beach.
Best For
A full-service beach day
Beach Type
Expansive ocean beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot ($2 per hour)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes, but seasonally
Food nearby: Yes
Rentals: Bikes, roller blades, fishing gear, beach chairs
Picnic tables: No
Accessibility: Beach access mat and paved pathways
Other: Concession stand, volleyball courts, inflatable playground
Activities
Alamitos beach is perfect for all beach activities, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, biking, roller blading, and playing on the inflatable playground.
When to Visit
Late spring through early summer offers warm temperatures without being overly hot and crowded.
Address
Alamitos Ave and Ocean Blvd; Long Beach, CA 90803
4. Junipero Beach
Junipero Beach begins where Alamitos Beach ends so you can walk from one to the other in the same afternoon.
The small stretch of beach is nice for a low-key beach day with the family. If Alamitos Beach is a little too busy, head over to Junipero.
The parking lot is large and right next to the sand which is good for carrying all the gear from the car.
But even better, the first on-sand (like literally ON the sand) restaurant, Saltwater Deck, is at this beach. AND added bonus, there’s a playground too!
Best For
Families, a low-key beach day
Beach Type
Narrow strip of sand, ocean beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot ($2 per hour)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes, but seasonally
Food nearby: Yes
Rentals: Beach chairs, paddleboards, jet-skis, bikes
Picnic tables: No
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance
Other: Basketball courts, nearby playground, nearby picnic area
Activities
You can relax on the shore, explore nearby paths, or enjoy the water by going swimming, sailing, paddleboarding, or jet-skiing. Plus, a block away is Bixby Park which hosts yoga classes on a regular basis plus exercising equipment, a big grassy area, and picnic tables.
When to Visit
Any time between May and September has ideal weather. Stop by at 11am or 6pm on weekdays for yoga.
Address
1 Junipero Ave, Long Beach, CA
5. Alamitos Bay Beach (or Bayshore Beach)
Alamitos Bay Beach is a protected beach on the bay. It’s the local’s favorite spot for swimming due to the calm and clear waters.
Note that during the summer, Bay Shore Avenue is closed to provide a safe environment for the beach goers.
Best For
Getting in or on the water, outdoor activities
Beach Type
Narrow strip, bay beach
Amenities
Parking: Free street parking, parking lot ($2 per hour)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: No
Lifeguards: Yes, but seasonally
Food nearby: Yes
Rentals: Kayaks, paddleboards, surfboards, umbrellas, beach chairs, sand toys
Picnic tables: No
Accessibility: Beach wheelchairs are available
Other: Basketball court, handball court, inflatable playground
Activities
Because it’s a sheltered bay, it’s a great place for kayaking or paddleboarding. There are spots to rent kayaks and paddleboards nearby. For some action for the kids, there’s an inflatable obstacle course in the water and a playground, Bayshore Playground, walking distance from the beach.
When to Visit
Late summer and early fall have the best weather with fewer crowds.
Address
5415 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803
6. Mother’s Beach
Mother’s Beach is perfect for families looking for a fun beach day (could you tell by the name of the beach??)
It’s located at the southern end of Alamitos Bay below Marine Stadium, and it’s packed with things to do. The beach is broad and wide, and the water is calm and clear.
In addition to the protected swimming area, there’s a large playground, a big grassy area, a concession stand, and picnic tables.
Best For
Families with little kids
Beach Type
Broad and sandy bay beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot, street parking (prices vary)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes, but seasonally
Food nearby: Yes
Rentals: Kayaks, paddleboards, beach chairs
Picnic tables: Yes
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible ramp, beach access mats, sand wheelchairs
Other: Playground, concession stand, volleyball courts, grassy area
Activities
Kids can have a blast swimming here safely. The calm waters are also perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding too!
When to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon from May through September has perfect weather.
Address
5839 Appian Way; Long Beach, CA 90803
7. Alamitos Park Beach
Alamitos Park Beach is a wide sandy spot on the southern tip of the Long Beach peninsula. It’s unique to the other Long Beach beaches because there’s a huge rock jetty that serve as a breakwater.
Unlike some of the other beaches on this list, this beach isn’t bustling. This is the spot you go to if you want a quiet, relaxing beach day.
It’s next to Alamitos Park so there’s a small grassy area with a couple of picnic tables. Locals love the beauty of this beach.
Best For
A quiet beach visit
Beach Type
Wide ocean beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot ($2 per hour)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes
Food nearby: Yes
Rentals: Beach chairs, umbrellas, bikes
Picnic tables: Yes
Accessibility: Beach access mats and sand wheelchairs
Other: Grassy area, small playground
Activities
It’s a great place to watch the sunset, view boats sailing by into the marina, or just to enjoy the beautiful views across the water. It’s also the perfect place for swimming and fishing.
When to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon in the summer months
Address
72nd Place and, E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803
8. Granada Beach
Located in the bustling Belmont Shore area, and actually a part of Belmont Shore Beach, Granada Beach is a popular spot because there’s a variety of things you can do there. The beach is huge!
Granada Beach is also the site of many popular beach events, like a summer beach movie series!
Best For
A fun beach day, playing volleyball
Beach Type
Wide and sandy ocean beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot, street parking (prices vary)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes, but seasonally
Food nearby: Yes
Rentals: Beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers
Picnic tables: No
Accessibility: Beach access mats and paved path
Other: Boat launch, volleyball courts, walking/biking trail
Activities
You can lay out, go swimming, play volleyball at one of the many nets, or watch the kites flying in the air on the breezy shoreline. It’s also a great spot for boating, jet-skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
When to Visit
Early mornings and late afternoons from early spring to late fall.
Address
4120 Ocean Blvd.; Long Beach, CA 90803
9. Peninsula Beach
Peninsula Beach is a wide sandy beach right next to Alamitos Park Beach on the southern tip of the Long Beach peninsula.
It’s backed by the Seaside Walk boardwalk in a quiet, family-centric neighborhood. This makes it great for families or anyone who wants a quiet beach day.
Since it’s right next to Alamitos Park Beach, the nearby jetties make sure the water is calm.
Best For
A low-key beach day
Beach Type
Wide sandy beach, ocean beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot, street parking (prices vary)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: No
Lifeguards: Yes
Food nearby: Yes
Rentals: Beach chairs, umbrellas
Picnic tables: No
Accessibility: Complementary beach wheelchairs
Activities
In addition to swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding are both a great idea here because of the calm waters.
When to Visit
Early mornings and late afternoons from summer to fall can help you avoid crowds.
Address
E Seaside Walk between 55th Pl and 69th Pl; Long Beach, CA 90803
10. Colorado Lagoon Park
Referred to as a hidden gem, Colorado Lagoon Park is an inland saltwater lagoon with small sandy beaches. It’s north of all the other Long Beach beaches, surrounded by parks.
It has beautiful views, relaxing vibes, and everything you need for a fun family beach day.
Calm waters, soft sand, picnic tables, grassy areas with shade trees—and added bonuses of a playground for toddlers, AND a pier older kids can jump off into the water.
You might also see wildlife like egrets, pelicans and small schools of fish!
Best For
Families with small kids
Beach Type
Small, sandy, lagoon beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot, street parking (prices vary)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Lifeguards: Yes, but seasonally
Food nearby: No
Rentals: Paddle boards
Picnic tables: Yes
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance
Other: BBQs, grassy area, playground, pier for jumping
Activities
This popular beach is great for swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking. It’s even a great place to simply relax on the shore or go for a walk since there’s plenty of nature to admire.
When to Visit
Spring and fall in the early morning, late afternoon, or evening.
Address
5119 East Colorado Street; Long Beach, CA 90814
11. Rosie’s Dog Beach
Dog owners, this one’s for you! Rosie’s Beach is the only off-leash beach in the city! The beach is right next to Granada Beach and is huge with soft sand.
The dog-friendly area on the beach is defined by orange, plastic cones. And while dogs are allowed to go leash-less on the beach, they are required to be on one on their way out.
Also, while bags are provided in dispensers, users are highly encouraged to bring their own.
Best For
A doggie beach day
Beach Type
Wide and sandy, ocean beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot, street parking (Prices vary)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes
Lifeguards: No
Food nearby: Yes
Picnic tables: No
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance
Other: Paved walking/biking path
Activities
During your visit, let your dog run off leash, where they can swim and play fetch while you socialize with other dog owners.
When to Visit
Spring and summer, when the weather is warm enough for your pup to swim.
Address
5000 E. Ocean Blvd.; Long Beach, CA
12. Shoreline Aquatic Park
Shoreline Aquatic Park is a city park near downtown Long Beach. It’s not the traditional beach vibes—this is more of a tranquil spot to relax.
While the beach itself is serene, it’s near many key attractions. The north side of the park on Rainbow Harbor is sandy, but then it ends at a rocky shoreline.
Not many people get into the water, but you’ll spot people relaxing.
Best For
A quiet beach to enjoy the views
Beach Type
Sandy and rocky, bay beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot ($2 to $16)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: No
Lifeguards: No
Food nearby: Yes
Picnic tables: Yes
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible parking and entrance
Other: Grassy area
Activities
You can stroll along the boardwalk, visit the central lighthouse, check out the Aquarium of the Pacific, or eat a picnic lunch while enjoying the views of the Queen Mary and Long Beach skyline.
When to Visit
Late spring through early fall, especially in the early morning, late afternoon, or evening.
Address
308 Golden Shore; Long Beach, CA 90802
There’s an amazing whale watching tour that departs in this area!
👉 Check prices and buy your tickets here!
13. Marine Stadium Beach
Marine Stadium Beach is the spot for anyone interested in water sports. It hosts many water-based events and even two Olympic rowing competitions!
It’s open daily for rowing in the morning and 8am to sunset for water-skiing. Boats can be launched here for a small fee too.
There isn’t much of a beach (it’s a long strip of sand on the water), and public swimming isn’t allowed, but there are other fun activities.
Best For
Water sports
Beach Type
Long strip, sandy, bay beach
Amenities
Parking: Parking lot, street parking (Prices vary)
Restrooms: Yes
Showers: No
Lifeguards: No
Food nearby: No
Rentals: Rental equipment may be available
Picnic tables: No
Accessibility: Accessible parking spaces
Other: Boat launch, grassy area
Activities
While you can’t swim here, you can go boating, rowing, and waterskiing. There are great events here during the summer, like concerts in the park, movie nights, and Farmer’s Markets.
When to Visit
In the summer months, for the warmest weather.
Address
5255 Paoli Way; Long Beach, CA 90803
Long Beach Beaches Map
Where to Stay in Long Beach
Value Option: The Queen Mary Hotel
The most unique hotel you can stay at, The Queen Mary is a permanently docked ocean liner turned Art Deco hotel. It’s in a great location, has plenty of fun activities onboard, a spa, and multiple restaurants.
Rooms range from standard rooms, family rooms, to suites.
👉 Check prices and book your stay at the Queen Mary by clicking here!
Mid-Range Option: Renaissance Long Beach Hotel
The Renaissance is a hit with guests because of the top location downtown, modern rooms, big pool, and delicious on-site restaurant.
Rooms are standard with one king or two full beds, but there are different types of views you can choose from.
👉 Check prices and book your stay at the Renaissance Long Beach Hotel by clicking here!
Luxury Option: Hyatt Regency Long Beach
Winner of a TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice in 2023, the Hyatt will make all types of guests happy. It’s centrally located in downtown, walking distance to the beach, has a pool and on-site dining, and a huge outdoor courtyard.
Rooms range from standard to family suites.
👉 Check prices and book your stay at the Hyatt Regency by clicking here!
FAQs: Long Beach Beaches
1. Can you swim in the ocean in Long Beach?
Absolutely, you can swim in the ocean in Long Beach. And you should! Because of the breakwaters, the beaches in Long Beach have calm waters.
The ocean beaches that are great for swimming are Alamitos Beach, Junipero Beach, Long Beach City Beach, and Belmont Shore Beach.
2. Where is the beach with no waves in Long Beach?
The bay beaches in Long Beach have little to no waves since they are protected. The best bay beaches in Long Beach are Mother’s Beach, Alamitos Bay, and Colorado Lagoon Park. But because of the breakwaters in Long Beach, all of the beaches have calm waters for the most part!
3. Does Long Beach have a sandy beach?
Yes, most beaches in Long Beach are sandy. Not only that, but they are broad beaches with plenty of room to spread out. A few of the beaches also have volleyball nets up for visitors.
Wrapping Up: Long Beach Beaches
No matter which beach you choose, you’re sure to have a great time in Long Beach.
Whether you head to Alamitos or Belmont Shore Beaches to enjoy a vibrant, fun beach scene or take the kids to Mother’s Beach or Colorado Lagoon Park, you are sure to have a great time.
So, pack your sunscreen and your beach toys, and head to the coast for a day of fun in the sun. I hope you have a wonderful time exploring the beaches in Long Beach!
