Long Beach

Long Beach is a large port city in Los Angeles County in Southern California. With a population of 462,257 as of 2010, it is the second-largest city in greater Los Angeles as well as the seventh-largest city in the state of California.

For other places with the same name, see Long Beach (disambiguation).

Understand

Long Beach is a large coastal and port city in Southern California. It is situated at the very southeastern edge of Los Angeles County, bordering both the city of Los Angeles and Orange County, in a region known as the Gateway Cities.

Long Beach is recognized as one of the most culturally diverse cities in America. It has large percentages of Latinos and whites (non-Hispanic), as well as very sizeable percentages of blacks (non-Hispanic) and Asians.

You may hear different people say different things about Long Beach, either wonderful or horrible things. This is because the city has quite a large population, with a density rate greater than that of nearby Los Angeles. Therefore, like other large cities, Long Beach encompasses everything, such as large industrial areas, struggling neighborhoods, quiet middle-class communities and exclusive neighborhoods.

Long Beach has some nice people-gathering amenities and genuine tourist attractions, such as a world-class aquarium and the Queen Mary floating museum/hotel. Special events are also held in the city like the annual Long Beach Grand Prix (a premier racing event held on city streets) and the annual Long Beach Lesbian & Gay Pride event. When compared to other areas like Hollywood, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and West L.A., Long Beach may not always be at the top of someone's tourist visit to the Los Angeles area, but the city draws its fair share of visitors and has proven it can definitely hold its own.

The area code for Long Beach is 562. For emergency services, dial 911 from any phone.

Climate
Long Beach
Climate chart (explanation)
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Get in

By plane

Out of the five airports in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, Long Beach can easily be reached from three: Long Beach Airport (LGB), within the city itself; Los Angeles International (LAX), 22 miles away; and John Wayne (SNA), 23 miles away in Santa Ana. All three lie adjacent to Interstate 405. The other two airport options are Burbank (BUR IATA), 37 miles away; and Ontario (ONT IATA), 53 miles away. LGB will obviously be the most convenient to use location-wise and, being a smaller airport, provides less hassle; however, LAX offers more frequent service, service from more destinations, and better fares. Long Beach Airport is limited to around 40 daily flights, the vast majority of which are provided by carrier Southwest as of late 2020, as JetBlue moved operations to LAX.

Rental cars are available for hire at the airport, which is best for (local/regional) travel in Southern California. Long Beach Yellow Cab +1 562 435-6111 is another option, approximate fares to downtown hotels $30-40 one-way. Long Beach Transit Route 111 bus (Broadway/Lakewood) connects the airport to downtown Long Beach and to Metro's A Line train at the downtown Transit Mall. It runs south to downtown hourly from LGB. To find the bus stop, follow the taxi signs, walk one block beyond the taxi lineup, and turn right. Be sure to ask if the bus goes downtown, since both northbound and southbound Route 111 buses use this one bus stop at LGB.
  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX IATA): is the nearest airport for travel with multiple US and foreign airlines to more destinations in the US and around the world. Travelers can take the 111 bus from LGB to downtown Long Beach Transit Center. Take Metro's "A Line (blue)" train from downtown Long Beach to the Willowbrook/Rosa Parks Station. Transfer to the westbound "C Line (green)" train to the LAX/Aviation Station which is connected to the airline terminals by the "G (Green) Line/Metro C Line" shuttle bus. The LAX Flyaway bus no longer go to Long Beach.
  • John Wayne Airport (SNA IATA), Santa Ana, Orange County: City buses are limited in getting across longer distances into Orange County as it will require multiple transfers. Renting a car (as you will probably need anyway) or Mickey's Space Ship Shuttle (Tel: +1 714 642-5399) are better options in getting into Orange County. This airport and LAX are about equal distances from Long Beach (albeit, in different directions) and although busy, it is somewhat less busier than LAX for a little less airport hassle.

By rail

Long Beach is linked via the Metro Blue Line to Downtown Los Angeles with connections to Hollywood, Union Station, Universal Studios, Pasadena, and East L.A. among other locations.

Amtrak and Metrolink service Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles. To reach Long Beach from Union Station, take the Metro Red Line to the 7th St/Metro Center station and transfer to the Blue Line to Long Beach. Fare is $1.75 and requires a TAP card, which can be purchased at any Metro station for $1. Note: the Blue Line goes through some inner city locations (such as Watts and Compton) and there are not dedicated security guards on the trains, so it may be discomforting to take the Blue Line late at night.

By ship

Carnival Cruise Line has a home port at the new 🌍 Long Beach Cruise Terminal, next to the Queen Mary dock. Cruises return to this port from Baja California and the Mexican Riviera. Others begin or end trips through the Panama Canal destined for or having left major ports in the southern or eastern U.S. In season, some may go to or return from points North, e.g., Alaska. When cruise ships are docked, they receive service from many taxi companies, as well as various shuttle services (noted for LAX above) to and from local airports and select hotels and popular destinations.

A ferry to Catalina Island also operates from Long Beach.

By car

From the west (LAX, Santa Monica) or from Orange County, take the San Diego (405) freeway. Connect to the southbound Long Beach freeway (710) if your destination is downtown Long Beach. From the north, the Long Beach freeway (710) runs along the western city boundary, and the San Gabriel Freeway (605) along the eastern boundary. From the coastal areas of Orange County, a scenic and convenient route is Pacific Coast Highway (Rte 1).

By bus

The majority of the intercity bus stations and stops for the greater Los Angeles area are located in "Skid Row" east of downtown Los Angeles, downtown Union Station, El Monte, Huntington Park and/or east L.A. (along Olympic Blvd but can be elsewhere too). To a lesser extent some also have stops in Hollywood and North Hollywood as well. The following offer direct service to Long Beach:

  • Flixbus, (bus stop) Long Beach Transit Center at 107 E 1st St (Bus will board at the Long Beach Transit Gallery's bus bay A on E 1st St. Look for the silver bus shelter labeled with a gold "A".). Flixbus also have an additional stop at the Greyhound Station (1498 Long Beach Blvd). Check tickets and schedules. (updated Sep 2019)
  • Greyhound, (Bus station) 1498 Long Beach Blvd, ☏ +1 562 218-3011, toll-free: +1 800 231-2222. Greyhound travel primarily on I-5/405 (San Diego, Oceanside, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Long Beach); I-15/SR-91/I-405 (Long Beach, Santa Ana, Anaheim, San Bernardino Some variations of this route continues from San Bernardino up to Las Vegas); I-110 or 710 (to the downtown Los Angeles Greyhound terminal). Passengers transfer in Downtown Los Angeles, Santa Ana, San Bernardino or San Diego to get to additional destinations. It is served by Long Beach Transit #51 bus. (updated Oct 2017)
  • Hoang Express, bus stop at ABC Supermarket, 8970 Bolsa Ave, Westminster, ☏ +1 714 839-3500, toll-free: +1-888-834-9336. Travels between SoCal (San Diego, El Monte, Los Angeles, Westminster); northern California (San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland and Sacramento) and Arizona (Phoenix, Chandler and Tempe). They also have additional stops at the Metro Gold Line Chinatown Station near downtown Los Angeles and at Thuan Phat Supermarket at 2650 N Rosemead Blvd in El Monte. $60-65 to Bay Area; $80 to Sacramento. 

By public transit from Orange County

There are several ways to get to Long Beach from Orange County if you don't or can't rent a car. The most direct way is to take Orange County Transit Authority's Route 50 bus servicing Katella Avenue, which passes between Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center. The western terminus of this route is California State University-Long Beach (CSULB). If you are in the Beach Cities, take Route 1 servicing the Pacific Coast Highway and also terminating at CSULB. Some trips on Route 60 (Westminster Avenue/17th Street) terminate at CSULA.

Get around

A car is the most convenient way to get around Long Beach. Most areas of Long Beach have free parking but be aware that much of Downtown Long Beach has pay parking lots. The free bright red Passport buses serves the Long Beach downtown and waterfront attractions.

  • The Passport. A free bus, operated by Long Beach Transit, that connects you to downtown Long Beach's finest attractions and destinations, including the iconic Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, Pine Avenue, City Place Mall, The Pike at Rainbow Harbor, Convention Center, Shoreline Village, many downtown hotels and Long Beach Transit's water taxis, the AquaLink and AquaBus. (updated Nov 2020)

There are several transit agencies with bus routes in Long Beach.

  • Long Beach Transit (LBT), ☏ +1 562 591-2301. Offers 38 bus routes serving the cities of Long Beach, Lakewood, and Signal Hill. Fares Regular: $1.25; Seniors (62 and older), Medicare, Disabled: $0.60; Children 4 and under, Legally blind, persons in wheelchairs: Free. Long Beach Transit also offers a Day Pass Regular: $4; Seniors (62 and older), etc. $2.50. Transfers: $0.50. (updated Nov 2020)
  • Metro, ☏ +1 323 466-3876 (GO-METRO). Includes Blue Line light rail to downtown Los Angeles and Green Line to LAX. Fares Regular: $1.75 (transfers within the MTA system are not free); Seniors (62 and older), Medicare, Disabled: $0.75; Two children under age 5 may travel free with each fare-paying adult. Regular Metro Day Pass: $7, valid on all MTA Bus and rail lines. Transfers to other systems, $0.50. (updated Nov 2020)
  • Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), ☏ +1-800-636-7433. Fares Regular: $2; Seniors (60 and older), Medicare, Disabled: $0.75. OCTA also offers a Day Pass Regular: $4; Seniors (62 and older), etc. $1.50. See the website for multi-day passes. (updated Nov 2020)

See
  • 🌍 Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, ☏ +1 562 590-3100, fax: +1 562 951-1629, . 9AM-6PM daily, except Dec 25 and the weekend of the Grand Prix of Long Beach in April. As of Nov 2020, the indoor areas of the aquarium are closed due to COVID-19. One of the largest aquariums in the United States, its nearly 1,000 species fill 19 major habitats and 32 focus exhibits and take visitors through three regions of the Pacific Ocean: Southern California/Baja, the Tropical Pacific, and the Northern Pacific. There is also a Combo package with the Queen Mary. (Pay parking or take Passport C). $19.00. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Hwy, toll-free: +1-877-342-0738. M-Th 10AM-6PM, F-Su 10AM-7PM. The Queen Mary is a historic Cunard White Star ocean liner — a beautiful Art Deco structure and the largest passenger ship ever built — whose past includes being a troop transport in World War II, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Several different tours of the ship are offered including a Ghosts and Legends tour. The Queen Mary also boasts a hotel, several restaurants and bars (a particularly nice one is the Art Deco Bar, where you can get a good cocktail in vintage surroundings and watch the harbor), a shopping promenade and a wedding reception hall. General Admission includes a choice of one of several available tours (you can take a second guided tour for an additional charge), Self-Guided Queen Mary Shipwalk Tour and access to all open exhibit areas. There are several other tour packages including a Combo ticket with the Aquarium of the Pacific. (Pay parking or take Passport C). General Admission: adults $27, children (5-11) $17.50. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Russian Foxtrot Submarine: SCORPION, 1126 Queens Hwy (adjacent to the Queen Mary). This former Soviet Union submarine is moored adjacent to the Queen Mary. Due to safety issues with the submarine, visitors are no longer allowed inside but it can be viewed from the dock. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden, 1250 Bellflower Blvd (On the campus of California State University Long Beach), ☏ +1 562 985-5930, . Tu-F 8AM-3:30PM, Su noon-4PM, closed M and Sa. As of Nov 2020, it is closed until further notice. The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a 1.3-acre Japanese garden with a traditional tea house and koi ponds. A self-guided tour book is available for $1. Call to verify hours as university events sometimes require early closures. Tours for groups of 10 or more may be arranged by calling the garden office at ☏ +1 562 985-8420. Take Passport D. Free. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Long Beach Museum of Art, 2300 E Ocean Blvd, ☏ +1 562 439-2119, fax: +1 562 439-3587. Th 11AM-8PM, F-Su 11AM-5PM, closed Jan 1, Jul 4, Thanksgiving, and Dec 25. A small art museum featuring 20th-century art and decorative pieces with a focus on California artists. Take Passport A or D Adults $7, seniors (62+)/students (with ID) $6, children under 12 free. Every Thursday evening from 3PM-8PM free for all ages. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Adobe, 4600 Virginia Rd, ☏ +1 562 570-1755, fax: +1 562 570-1893, . W-Su 1PM-5PM except holidays. As of Nov 2020, only outdoor spaces are open, and reservations are recommended. A two-story Monterey-style adobe home built in 1844. A National, State, and Long Beach Historic Landmark, the site includes historic gardens and a research library. Docent-led tours on every hour from 1PM to 4PM. Groups over 10 should reserve two weeks ahead. Special events listed on the website. Free, donations welcomed. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Naples Island (Take Ravenna Dr south from 2nd St). A district in the southeast corner of Long Beach featuring canals with million dollar homes and walkways lining the canals. At Christmas, the residents extravagantly decorate their homes drawing crowds of pedestrians to admire the works of decorating art. Take Passport A or D. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Long Beach Firefighter's Museum (Old Station 10), 1445 Peterson Ave, . W 8AM-noon, 2nd Sa 10AM-3PM. A collection of historic fire equipment ranging from leather water buckets to a 1965 fire engine. Free. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 Rancho Los Alamitos Museum, 6400 E Bixby Hill Rd (enter through the residential security gate at Anaheim and Palo Verde), ☏ +1 562 431-3541, fax: +1 562 430-9694. W-Su 1PM-5PM. As of Nov 2020, only outdoor areas are open. Reservation required. Museum of the old Bixby Farmhouse and gardens. Free. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), 628 Alamitos Ave, ☏ +1 562 437-1689, fax: +1 562 437-7043, . W-Th Sa-Su 11AM-5PM, F 11AM-9PM. Closed Jan 1, Jul 4, Thanksgiving, Dec 24 and 25. As of Nov 2020, it is temporarily closed. MOLAA is the only museum in the western United States that exclusively features contemporary Latin American art. The museum seeks to educate through the utilization of its permanent collection, traveling exhibitions, and programs. MOLAA is in the newly developing East Village Arts District of Long Beach. Adults $10, seniors and students $7, children under 12 free. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Historical Society of Long Beach, 3490 Atlantic Ave, ☏ +1 562 424-2220. Tu, W, F: 1PM-5PM, Th: 1PM-7PM, Sa: 11AM-5PM. As of Nov 2020, it is temporarily closed. A small exhibit space with rotating exhibits on the history of Long Beach. There is also a publicly accessible research archive at this site. (updated Nov 2020)
  • Signal Hill Hilltop Park, 2351 Dawson Ave, Signal Hill (drive up Cherry if coming from Pacific Coast Highway and turn right onto Skyline Drive). 6AM-10PM. This park is in the city of Signal Hill which is a small, suburban city within Long Beach. The park features breathtaking views where you can see beaches of Orange County, Queen Mary, Palos Verdes Hills, and even Downtown Los Angeles! There are also walking trails and monuments honoring indigenous folks. Free. (updated May 2017)

Do

Activities
  • 🌍 Gondola Getaway, 5437 E Ocean Blvd, ☏ +1 562 433-9595, . 11AM-11PM daily, closed holidays. Romantic gondola boat ride along the canals in Naples. Make reservations at least one day in advance (3 weeks is recommended). Reservation office hours 10AM-5PM daily. 1 to 6 people: 2 passengers: $100, plus $20 for each additional person up to 6; 7 to 10 people: $350.00 for up to 10-guests. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Catalina Express, 320 Golden Shore (downtown Long Beach), ☏ +1 562 485-3200, toll-free: +1-800-612-1212, . Daily departures, varies with season. Boat service to Catalina Island. Reservations are recommended. Note that each passenger is allowed 2 pieces of luggage, no larger than 37x23x23 inches (94x58x58 cm) and weighing no more than 50 pounds (22 kg) each as well as one carry-on bag. Round trip fares: adults $74.50, seniors (55+) $67.50, children (2-11) $59, infants (under 2) $6. Bikes and surfboards $7. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Long Beach State Athletics (49er's), 1250 Bellflower Blvd, ☏ +1 562 985-4949. The 49ers compete in NCAA Division 1 collegiate sports, including baseball (the "Dirtbags"), softball, basketball, volleyball, water polo, and women's soccer and tennis. Venues include Blair Field and the blue Walter Pyramid, one of three true pyramids in the United States. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Belmont Plaza Pool, 4000 E Olympic Plaza Dr (At the foot of Termino Ave, near the Belmont Shore pier), ☏ +1 562 570-1805. Hours vary depending on age and activity. See web site for schedule.. The pool building is being rebuilt. A temporary outdoor pool has been erected nearby. Parking metered, 8AM-6PM, $1/hour. As of Nov 2020, reservations are required and only lap swimming is allowed. Adults $4, seniors (50 and over) $3, and youth (17 and under) $1. (updated Nov 2020)
  • 🌍 Long Beach Performing Arts Center (includes the Terrace Theatre), 300 Ocean Blvd, ☏ +1 562 436-3661, fax: +1 562 436-9491. Performances of International City Theatre, Long Beach Symphony Orchestra, and other events. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 El Dorado Park West, 2800 Studebaker Rd, ☏ +1 562 570-3225, . Info Desk: M-F 9AM-7PM, Sa noon-4PM, closed Su. Free to the public portion of El Dorado with Youth Recreation and Senior Center. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 El Dorado East Regional Park, 7550 E Spring St, ☏ +1 562 570-1771, . 7AM-dusk, closed on Christmas. Very large recreation park with bike paths, playgrounds, and ponds. M-Th $5, F $6, Sa-Su $7, holidays $8. (updated Feb 2016)
    • 🌍 El Dorado Park Nature Center, 7550 E Spring St (in El Dorado East Regional Park), ☏ +1 562 570-1745, . Trails: Tu-Su 8AM-5PM; museum: Tu-Su 8:30AM-4PM. The Nature Center is a large forested park with trails, a museum, two lakes and native Califonia wildlife. See website for special monthly events. See El Dorado East Regional Park for admission. (updated Feb 2016)

Golf

Long Beach is a very golf-friendly city, home to several golf courses.

Events

Learn

Long Beach is home to two major learning facilities, a California State University campus and a Community Junior College.

  • 🌍 California State University Long Beach (CSULB), 1250 Bellflower Blvd, ☏ +1 562 985-4111. CSULB offer a wide range of bachelor's degrees, as well as master's degrees in Anthropology, Fine Arts, Business, and Science. One of the specialities of the campus is International Business. 
  • Long Beach City College (LBCC), ☏ +1 562 938-4111. LBCC is a two-year transfer or AA-degree school, including a highly regarded nursing program. The school has two campuses, one focusing on traditional education, the other on vocational training. 
    • LBCC Liberal Arts Campus, 4901 E Carson St. 
    • LBCC Pacific Coast Campus, 1305 E Pacific Coast Hwy. 

Buy
  • 🌍 Belmont Shore (Pedestrian district, 2nd St in Belmont Shore). Bars, restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and national store outlets such as the Gap, Banana Republic, Buffalo Exchange and Vans. Take Passport A or D. 
  • 🌍 The Pike Outlets, 95 S Pine Ave, ☏ +1 877-225-5337. M-F 11AM-9PM, Sa 10AM-9PM, Su 10AM-7PM. Built up outlet shopping complex on the harbor with movie theater, comedy club, ferris wheel, food court, etc. 
  • East 4th, Between Cherry St and Junipero along 4th St. Home to independent retro and hipster bookstores, clothing shops, furniture shops, and an independent movie theater, the Art Theatre. Check out La Bomba for its extensive selection (including a literal mountain of clothes in the back of the store that you literally dig through.) Take Passport B. 
  • Magnolia and Willow; antique and vintage, 490 W Willow St (at Magnolia). M-Sa 11AM-6PM, Su noon-5PM. A mall of antique and vintage dealers. With a showroom over 2,500 sq. feet and over 20 dealers, you are bound to find a treasure. 
  • Los Altos Shopping Center (Bellflower and Stearns, Los Altos neighborhood), ☏ +1 562 430-4134 7. Stores include Target, Trader Joe's, Big Lots, Rite Aid, Golden Spoon Yogurt, Sears, Bristol Farms gourmet food store AM-10PM, includes cafe, Thursday wine tastings 5:30-7:30PM, $23), TJ Maxx, Baja Fresh Mexican Food, See's Candy(across Bellflower). Close to the Passport bus route D to Cal State and downtown Long Beach. 
  • Shoreline Village, 429-P Shoreline Village Dr (located at the south end of I-710, east of the Aquarium), ☏ +1 562 435-2668. Retail store hours are 10AM-9PM daily; summer retail hours are 10AM-10PM daily. Restaurant hours vary. Shoreline Village is a family friendly waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment center that overlooks beautiful Rainbow Harbor. Take Passport C. 
  • Vons, 600 E Broadway, ☏ +1 562-491-1210. M-F 9AM-9PM, Sa-Su 9AM-5PM. Large chain supermarket in downtown with a pharmacy which sells alcohol. (updated Jan 2017)

Eat

Formerly known as "Iowa by the Sea", but now populated by a diverse community, Long Beach has a full range of dining options.

American
  • 🌍 Gladstone's Long Beach, 330 S Pine Ave (at Shoreline Dr), ☏ +1 562 432-8588, fax: +1 562 432-8589. Su-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM. Seafood dining along the Long Beach waterfront. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 Jongewaard's Bake-n-Broil, 3697 Atlantic Ave (Bixby Knolls neighborhood), ☏ +1 562 595-0396. M-F 6:30AM-9PM, Sa 7AM-9PM, Su 7AM-8:30PM. A local secret known for homebaked pies, desserts, soups, and comfort food. Inexpensive (and popular so expect a wait). (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 Parkers' Lighthouse, 435-A Shoreline Village Dr (located in Shoreline Village within landmark lighthouse), ☏ +1 562 432-6500, fax: +1 562 436-3551, . M-F 11AM-3PM, 5-10PM; Sa Su 11AM-3PM, 4-10PM. Contemporary seafood restaurant with shoreline view of the Queen Mary. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 Polly's Bakery Cafe (Bixby Knolls location), 3490 Atlantic Ave, ☏ +1 562 595-5651. 6:30AM-9:30PM daily. Local chain known for site-baked pies especially fresh strawberry and ollalieberry in season. Roast turkey and chicken dinners. Inexpensive. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 Yard House Long Beach, 401 Shoreline Village Dr (located in Shoreline Village), ☏ +1 562 628-0455. Su-Th 11AM-midnight, F Sa: 11AM-1:20AM. Chain restaurant with extensive menu and large selection of draft beer. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 Higher Taste, Plant-Based (Ahimsa Vegan Cafe), 340 1/2 E 4th St, ☏ +1 562-435-7115. Noon-8PM daily. Ahimsa is a vegan/vegetarian/raw cafe. 

Mexican
  • 🌍 Enrique's, 6210 E Pacific Coast Hwy, ☏ +1 562 498-3622. Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F Sa 11AM-10PM. In addition to the usual combination plates, menu includes specialties such as pork shank, stuffed pasilla chiles, and bread pudding. Very popular, be prepared to wait. Offers takeout. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 Taco Surf, 5316½ E 2nd St, ☏ +1 562 434-8646, . Bar and taqueria. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 Baja Sonora (Clark location), 2940 Clark Ave, ☏ +1 562 421-5120, fax: +1 562 421-0562, . 10:30AM-9PM. Mexican food voted the Best Local Mexican Restaurant in Long Beach by the readers of the Long Beach Press-Telegram Newspaper 2013 & 2014. (updated Feb 2016)
  • 🌍 Hole Mole, 421 Obispo Ave, ☏ +1 562-439-2555. 9AM-10PM. Also at 1327 E 4th St and 5209 E Pacific Coast Hwy. Fish tacos, breakfast burritos. (updated Feb 2016)

Italian

Cambodian
  • 🌍 Sophy's Thai & Cambodian, 3240 E Pacific Coast Hwy, ☏ +1 562 494-1763. 9AM-10PM. Small place with Thai and Cambodian dishes. (updated Feb 2016)

Japanese

Vietnamese
  • 🌍 Benley, A Vietnamese Kitchen, 8191 E Wardlow Rd (at Norwalk Blvd), ☏ +1 562 596-8130. M-Th 11AM-9PM, F Sa 11AM-9:30PM, Su closed. Chic and casual tiny neighborhood cafe in a strip mall. Excellent pho, shaken beef, buttermilk panna cotta with Key Lime anglaise, cassava cake. Free corkage. $11-30. (updated Feb 2016)

Greek
  • 🌍 George's Greek Cafe, 5316 E 2nd St, ☏ +1 562 433-1755. Friendly Greek restaurant. The house specialty is the lamb chops, but there are fish and vegetarian options, and a selection of Greek wines. Indoor and outdoor seating. (updated Feb 2016)

French
  • 🌍 Creme De La Crepe, 400 E 1st St (at Elm), ☏ +1 562 437-2222. 8AM-10PM. Picture a Paris street cafe, add sunshine and cool breeze and what you get is "la creme de la crepe..." Authentic French cafe serving breakfast, lunch and diner daily. Award winner every year since 2005 and now recommended by Sunset Magazine, et voila!. $8-24. (updated Feb 2016)

Upscale

Aboard the Queen Mary
  • Sir Winston's (entrance is on the ocean side of the Sun Deck), ☏ +1 562 499-1657. Tu-Su 5:30–10PM. Features Continental and California cuisine. Smart-casual attire required and reservations are highly recommended. Due to the historic nature of the ship, Sir Winston's is located in an area that is only accessible by stairs. Accommodations will be made for guests with special needs. $31-78. (updated Feb 2016)
  • Champagne Sunday Brunch ("R" Deck), ☏ +1 562 499-1606. Su 9:30AM-2PM. Includes a Carving and Entree Station with a selection of cooked meats; an Oriental Station with stir-fry; a Pasta Station with a selection of gourmet pastas and sauces; a Dessert Station with such delectables as chocolate covered strawberries; and a Mexican Station featuring foods from south of the border. There is a special buffet island just for children. Adults $55.95, children (4-11) $24.95 (Tax and gratuity is additional. Holiday pricing is higher.). (updated Feb 2016)
  • Chelsea Chowder House & Bar (Shore side of Promenade Deck), ☏ +1 562 499-1685. Daily 5-10PM. Seafood specialties $24.50-47.00. 
  • Observation Bar (Forward section of the Promenade Deck.), ☏ +1 562 499-1740. Su–Th 11:30AM–midnight, F Sa 11:30AM–2AM. Hand crafted cocktails in the former First-Class Lounge which is lined with Art Deco tables, chairs and decor. (updated Feb 2016)

Drink
  • 🌍 Joe Jost's, 2803 E Anaheim St, ☏ +1 562 439-5446, . M-Sa 10AM-11PM, Su 10AM-9PM. Long Beach Classic--Opened in 1924, one of the oldest family operated taverns in the West. Schooners of draft beer, "Joe's Special" (Polish sausage on rye, with Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickle), fresh roasted peanuts, and pickled eggs. Turn of the century pool tables in the back room. $1.35-4.65 draft beers, $2.65 Special. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 The Yard House, 401 Shoreline Village Dr, ☏ +1 562 628-0455, fax: +1 562 435-5544. Su-Th 11AM-midnight, F Sa 11AM-1:20AM. View of Shoreline Village Marina, dockside seating, eclectic uspcale casual menu, 100+ beers on tap, wine by the glass, specialty martinis. Happy Hour M-F 3-6PM, pints $3.25, martinis $5.25, half-price appetizers. Food: $8.95-30.45. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Shannon's On Pine, 209 Pine Ave (at Broadway), ☏ +1 562 436-4363, . M-F 11:30AM-2AM, Sa Su 9AM-2AM. By far the friendliest bar in Long Beach. Inexpensive, strong drinks, and an excellent selection of alcohol. The food is reasonably priced and excellent. A wide selection of sandwiches, great dinner specials, and $9 bloody mary and omelette on weekends. Cocktails $3.75-6, beer $3.75-5, sandwiches $4-7, dinner $7-11. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 The Sweet Water Saloon, 1201 E Broadway (Corner of Orange Av. and Broadway), ☏ +1 562 432-7044. 10AM-2AM daily. Situated in a historic building (opened as the Villa Nova Restaurant in the 1940s), the Sweet Water Saloon is truly a neighborhood bar during the day time, and a party bar at night. Well known for having the coldest beers on the Broadway Corridor, home of the only bar on the strip to offer seasonal beers on tap. Happy Hour 7 days a week, from open until 8PM: $2 draft beers, $3 domestic bottled beers and well cocktails. Wednesday nights are $2 drink days where all well drinks, draft beers, and bottled domestic beers are $2 and free pool in one of the two pool tables. From $2. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Legends Sports Bar, 5236 E 2nd St, ☏ +1 562 433-5743. M-F 11AM-midnight, Sa Su 9AM-2AM. Check out the ribs (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Belmont Brewing Co, 25 39th Pl (Park in the beach lot by the Belmont Pier. $1 per hour until 6pm each day, and free thereafter.), ☏ +1 562-433-3891, . M-F 11:30AM-10PM, Sa Su 10AM-10PM. (updated Mar 2016)

Sleep
  • 🌍 Golden Sails Hotel, 6285 E Pacific Coast Hwy, ☏ +1 562 596-1631, toll-free: +1-800-762-5333, fax: +1 562 594-0623. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 11AM. $140-160. 
  • 🌍 Courtyard Long Beach Downtown, 500 E 1st St, ☏ +1 562 435-8511, toll-free: +1-800-321-2211, fax: +1 562 901-0296. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. On-site parking for both guests and non-guests, fee:$5/hour, $19 daily. Free high speed Internet. Smoke free hotel and pets are not allowed. $200-240. 
  • 🌍 Extended Stay America - Long Beach Airport, 4105 E Willow St, ☏ +1 562 989-4601, fax: +1 562 989-4501. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 11AM. Clean budget hotel suits with fully-equipped kitchens, plenty of work space and amenities you won't find in a typical hotel room. Practical stay for families with kids. Pets are welcome (fees applied). Office Hours 7AM-11PM $100-120. 
  • 🌍 Hilton Long Beach, 701 W Ocean Blvd, ☏ +1 562 983-3400, fax: +1 562 983-1200, . Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Outdoor heated pool. Pets are allowed. Complimentary health club. $220-260. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Holiday Inn Long Beach Airport, 2640 Lakewood Blvd, ☏ +1 562 597-4401, toll-free: +1-866-375-9947, fax: +1 562 597-0601, . Smoke-Free accommodation. Overnight Parking Fee at $9.00 Per Day. Complimentary wireless high speed Internet access and fitness center. Outdoor heated pool. $170-190. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Holiday Inn Long Beach (Downtown), 1133 Atlantic Ave, ☏ +1 562 590-8858, fax: +1 562 983-1607. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Not in the best part of town but provides free shuttle into the more tourist and business parts of the area. Underground parking available $10. Reasonably furnished rooms with refrigerator, microwave but thin walls. Cafe available which makes a good fresh omelet for breakfast. No pets allowed. $150-280. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Hotel Maya, 700 Queensway Dr, ☏ +1 562 435-7676, fax: +1 562 481-3909. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. Rooms featuring balconies and patios with bay or skyline views in a Latin resort theme. A member of the Doubletree hotel group. Pets allowed up to 50 lb. $50 non-refundable pet fee. $260-360. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Hyatt Regency Long Beach, 200 S Pine Ave, ☏ +1 562 491-1234, fax: +1 562 983-1491. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Full service luxurious hotel with water views from rooms. Pet allowed with $100 fee for up to 6 days. Additional pet fees after first 6 days. $230-430, Suites $1,500-3,000. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Long Beach Marriott, 4700 Airport Plaza Dr, ☏ +1 562 425-5210, fax: +1 562 425-2744. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Smoke free hotel. Fee for high speed Internet access. Pets not allowed. $220-310. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Motel 6 - Long Beach - International City, 1121 E Pacific Coast Hwy, ☏ +1 562 591-3321, fax: +1 562 591-2152. Check-out: 11AM. Free wi-fi. Pets allowed. $65-70. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Queen Mary, 1126 Queens Highway, toll-free: +1-877-342-0742, . Check-in: 4PM, check-out: noon. Sleep in one of the Sea Queen's grand first-class staterooms. Non-smoking hotel. Parking is $20/night. $150-235. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Renaissance Long Beach Hotel, 111 E Ocean Blvd, ☏ +1 562 437-5900, fax: +1 562 499-2509. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. High speed wireless for a fee. Smoke free hotel. Pets not allowed. Parking fee of $22/day. $350-480. (updated Mar 2016)
  • 🌍 Residence Inn Long Beach, 4111 E Willow St, ☏ +1 562 595-0909, toll-free: +1-866-440-5368, fax: +1 562 988-0587. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: noon. Smoke free hotel. Pets allowed with $100 non-refundable fee. Complimentary Wireless. 

Cope

Stay safe

Most areas of Long Beach are fairly safe, even after dark. There are two major areas that are not quite as safe and should be avoided after dark. Caution is called for even during the daytime in these areas.

The first of these areas is in the southwestern portion of the city. This area is bounded, starting from the southeast corner, by Redondo Blvd. and 4th, running north to the Signal Hill border. Along the Signal Hill border north-west to the 405 Freeway, along the freeway to the western border of Long Beach and Wilmington, down to 4th St.

The second and more dangerous of the areas is North Long Beach (north west of the LGB airport). The approximate boundaries of this area are from Del Amo and Cherry, north to the north border of the city, along the north border to the west border and back south to Del Amo. This area, which borders on Compton, has a reputation for gang activity and is one of the more active police and fire districts in the city.

Police

Long Beach has its own police department operating from four main stations throughout the city. Police can be reached by dialing 9-1-1 toll-free from any phone. The Long Beach Police now receive 9-1-1 calls directly from cell phones however calling 9-1-1 from a cell phone when near freeways will connect you with the California Highway Patrol. To reach the Long Beach Police directly from a cell phone, dial +1 562 435-6711.

  • South Station - 400 W Broadway
  • West Station - 1835 Santa Fe Ave
  • North Station - 4891 Atlantic Ave
  • East Station - 3800 E Willow St

Fire/Emergency Medical Services

Long Beach also has its own Class 1 Fire Department. The Class 1 designation indicates that response times to emergencies average 5 minutes or less. To request emergency assistance from the Fire Department, dial 911 toll-free from any phone.

Every fire engine and truck is staffed by fire-fighters with Basic Life Support training. The department also has a number of Advanced Life Support certified Paramedic Ambulances strategically stationed around the city. Fire Department Ambulances are available for emergency medical transport to a hospital, however, be aware that you will be billed for transport.

Hospitals

Long Beach is well-served by hospitals. There are three major hospitals in the city, including two that are trauma centers (Memorial and St. Mary) capable of handling the most critical emergencies. All five of the hospitals listed below have 24-hour emergency rooms.

While there are three hospitals in the city, they are all south of Interstate 405. In North and East Long Beach, the nearest hospitals are located in neighboring cities.

North:

East:

Consulates

Most of the foreign consulates are located along Wilshire Blvd in/around the Wilshire neighborhood and West Los Angeles, between downtown and Santa Monica in Los Angeles. The following are in Long Beach instead:

  • Cambodia (Honorary), 3448 E Anaheim St, ☏ +1 562 494-3000, fax: +1 562 494-3007. M-f 10:00-17:00. (updated Oct 2017)
  • Panama, 111 W Ocean Blvd, Suite #1570, ☏ +1 562 612-4677, +1 562 612-4678. M-F 09:30-15:00. The URL is linked to the Panamanian Embassy in Washington DC as the local consulate does NOT have a website of its own. (updated Oct 2017)

Go next
Routes through Long Beach
West LA ← Carson ←  N  S  → Seal Beach → Irvine
Whittier ← Lakewood ←  N  S  → END
East LA ← Compton ←  N  S  → END
Santa Monica ← Torrance ←  N  S  → Seal Beach → Dana Point
END ←  W  E  → Seal Beach → Orange/Santa Ana
Gardena ← Compton ←  W  E  → Bellflower → Anaheim
Downtown L.A. ← Compton ←  N  S  → END


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