Is Long Beach Worth Visiting? 43 Pros and Cons to Consider
Are you contemplating a trip to Southern California and wondering if Long Beach is worth adding to your itinerary? Look no further! As an LA local who visits Long Beach often, I’ll dive into the pros and cons of this vibrant city and explore the reasons why it’s worth visiting (and some reasons why it’s NOT). From its excellent waterfront attractions and vibrant cultural scene to its rich history and laid-back beach vibes, Long Beach offers a diverse range of experiences that are sure to captivate any traveler and make Long Beach a destination worth exploring.
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Here are the best places to stay:
⭐️ ALL-AROUND: Hyatt Centric The Pike Long Beach 🏆 8.8/10
💰 BUDGET: Beachrunners Inn 🏆 8.6/10
Is It Worth Going to Long Beach?
Yes, Long Beach can be a worthwhile destination, but it depends on your preferences and interests. The city offers a range of attractions such as the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Queen Mary, and the lively Pike Outlets. It has a fun, younger energy that is great for those looking for a night out and a city that has plenty to do but is a lot smaller than Los Angeles or San Diego. And if you are looking to get out on the open water, Long Beach is definitely worth your time!
However, it’s important to note that Southern California boasts several other beach towns that, if you’re short on time, I would actually recommend visiting first before considering Long Beach. There are quite a few other beaches that offer a more unique or picturesque experience. For example, destinations like Santa Monica, Laguna Beach, and Santa Barbara (in southern California) are often praised for their natural beauty, charming coastal communities, and upscale amenities.
Long Beach can be a very fun stop if you’re heading south from Los Angeles, spending time at Disneyland, visiting Catalina Island, or taking an extended southern California coastal trip!
Is Long Beach Expensive?
When it comes to affordability, Long Beach falls somewhere in the middle of the spectrum. It’s not the most budget-friendly destination in Southern California, but it’s also not as pricey as some of its neighboring beach cities.
The cost of living in Long Beach can be influenced by factors like housing, dining, and entertainment. While you may find reasonably priced accommodations and dining options, it’s important to keep in mind that certain areas, such as downtown or waterfront neighborhoods, can be a bit more expensive. However, with a little research and savvy planning, it’s definitely possible to enjoy the best of Long Beach without breaking the bank.
Getting Around Long Beach
Getting around Long Beach is fairly convenient and accessible, thanks to its well-developed transportation options. One of the most popular and efficient ways to navigate the city is through the Long Beach Transit (LBT) system. LBT buses cover a wide range of routes, connecting major neighborhoods and attractions.
For a more eco-friendly and leisurely option, consider renting a bike or scooter from the numerous bike-sharing and scooter-sharing services available throughout the city. Long Beach is also well-connected by ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, providing quick and convenient transportation at your fingertips.
Or, you can always use a service such as the Private One Way Shuttle Services airport to hotel/cruise port in Long Beach.
Do You Need a Car in Long Beach?
While you don’t need a car in Long Beach, it can be convenient to have one, especially if you are coming from or going to cities that are further away. If you prefer to drive, the city offers ample parking options, including street parking, parking garages, and designated parking lots. With a variety of transportation choices, navigating Long Beach is a breeze, allowing you to explore the city and its hidden gems with ease.
Is Long Beach Safe to Walk Around?
Long Beach is generally considered a safe city to walk around, especially the areas that hold tourist attractions. Like any urban area, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. I would NOT recommend walking certain neighborhoods in Long Beach, such as Poly High, North Long Beach, and areas near the Long Beach Airport bordering Signal Hill, which have a comparatively higher crime rate.
The downtown and waterfront areas of Long Beach are typically very tourist-friendly and safe to visit. However, it’s always advisable to take common-sense precautions such as walking in well-lit areas, not walking alone at night, staying on main streets, and avoiding isolated or unfamiliar areas, especially late at night.
It’s also wise to keep personal belongings secure and be mindful of your personal safety, just as you would in any urban environment. By practicing awareness and taking reasonable precautions, you can enjoy walking around Long Beach and exploring its many attractions and vibrant neighborhoods with peace of mind.
Where to Stay in Long Beach
Both of these hotel options are located in Downtown Long Beach, which is the best place to stay in the city. You will be centrally located to all of the top attractions, restaurants, and exciting things to do, with easy access to other parts of the city as well.
⭐️ Best All-Around Choice: Hyatt Centric The Pike Long Beach
🏆 Rating: 8.8/10 | ★★★★
🏨 Check Availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
Featured Amenities:
💰 Best Budget-Friendly Choice: Beachrunners Inn
🏆 Rating: 8.6/10 | ★★
🏨 Check Availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com
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Things to Consider When Visiting Long Beach for the First Time
Whether or not you will want to visit certain parts of California is very subjective to your interests and travel style. Let’s dive into the specifics of some positive and negative qualities to help you decide if Long Beach is worth visiting and adding to your California trip itinerary!
PROS – Why Long Beach IS Worth Visiting
1. Vibrant Waterfront: The city’s waterfront area offers a lively atmosphere with a marina, waterfront dining options, and picturesque views of the ocean.
2. Queen Mary: Explore the iconic Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner turned hotel and museum, and step back in time to experience its fascinating history.
3. Film and Television: Explore the city’s connections to the entertainment industry, as Long Beach has been the backdrop for numerous movies and TV shows.
4. Aquarium of the Pacific: Immerse yourself in the wonders of the ocean at this world-class aquarium (the biggest aquarium in California), home to a diverse range of marine life and interactive exhibits.
⭐️ Get your Aquarium of the Pacific General Admission Ticket HERE ⭐️
5. Downtown Long Beach: Discover the vibrant downtown district, featuring a bustling arts scene, trendy shops, delicious dining options, and lively nightlife.
6. Naples Island: Explore the charming neighborhood of Naples Island, known for its picturesque canals, beautiful homes, and quaint shops and restaurants.
7. Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as biking, rollerblading, or jogging along the beachside paths or at the city’s many parks and green spaces.
8. Annual Events: Long Beach hosts exciting events like the Long Beach Grand Prix, Long Beach Pride Parade, and the Long Beach Sea Festival, offering entertainment for everyone.
9. Beaches: Long Beach boasts miles of stunning coastline with sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water activities. (Make sure to see the CONS list on this one).
10. Shopping: Indulge in some retail therapy at popular shopping destinations like the Pike Outlets, Long Beach Exchange, and the Marketplace.
11. Boat Rides and Ocean Experiences: There are many ways to get out on the water including renting a Duffy boat, taking a swan ride, or going on a whale-watching day trip. Here are a few of the best boat tours to check out:
✔️ Swan Boat Rental at Rainbow Lagoon OR Illuminated Swan Boat Night Ride
✔️ 2.5-Hour Premier Dolphin & Whale Adventure
✔️ Glass Bottom Boat Eco-Tour
✔️ Private Luxury Harbor Cruise – up to 6 Guests
✔️ 3 Hour Sailing Lesson
12. Cultural Diversity: Long Beach embraces a multicultural community, offering a rich blend of cultures, festivals, and events throughout the year.
13. Museums and Galleries: Explore the city’s numerous museums and galleries, including the Long Beach Museum of Art, Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), and the Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum.
14. Dog-Friendly Destination: Long Beach is a paradise for pet owners, as it offers numerous dog-friendly parks, beaches, and establishments. Rosie’s Dog Beach in particular is one of the best dog beaches in southern California.
15. Live Music and Performances: Experience the vibrant music and entertainment scene with live performances at venues like the Terrace Theater, Carpenter Performing Arts Center, and the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center.
16. Parks and Recreation: Enjoy the city’s well-maintained parks, offering picnic spots, sports facilities, and outdoor recreational activities for families and nature enthusiasts.
17. Catalina Island: Take a short ferry ride from Long Beach to Catalina Island, where you can enjoy hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the charming island town.
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18. Bike-Friendly City: Long Beach is renowned for its bike-friendly infrastructure, featuring dedicated bike lanes and paths, making it a great city to explore on two wheels.
19. Food Scene: From trendy eateries to diverse ethnic cuisines, Long Beach offers a wide range of culinary delights to satisfy every palate.
There are many excellent taco spots in Long Beach and some of my all-time favorite restaurants include The Attic, Gladstone’s, Nick’s on 2nd, and Acapulco (for their Sunday all-you-can-eat brunch with bottomless mimosas!).
20. LGBTQ+ Friendly: Long Beach has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community and hosts one of the largest Pride festivals in Southern California.
21. Craft Breweries: Experience the thriving craft beer scene in Long Beach with a visit to local breweries like Ballast Point Brewing, Beachwood Brewing, Belmont Brewing Company, and Liberation Brewing.
22. Farmer’s Markets: Enjoy fresh produce, local artisanal products, and delicious street food at the city’s frequent farmer’s markets.
23. Outdoor Art Installations: Discover the city’s impressive collection of outdoor art installations, murals, and sculptures that add color and creativity to public spaces.
24. Educational Institutions: Long Beach is home to esteemed educational institutions like California State University, Long Beach, which brings a youthful energy and intellectual vibrancy to the city.
25. Retro Row: Shop and dine along Fourth Street’s Retro Row, a vintage lover’s paradise with its eclectic mix of retro stores, thrift shops, and trendy eateries.
26. Accessible Location: Long Beach is conveniently located near major highways and has easy access to popular Southern California destinations like Disneyland, Los Angeles, and Hollywood.
👉🏽 Psst… Check out this Los Angeles Highlights Tour from Long Beach
27. Community Events: Long Beach hosts a variety of community events such as street fairs, parades, and holiday celebrations, fostering a sense of togetherness and community spirit.
28. Friendly Atmosphere: Long Beach is known for its warm and friendly residents who contribute to the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere of the city.
29. Cruise Terminal: Embark on a memorable cruise adventure from Long Beach’s cruise terminal, offering a convenient departure point for exciting vacations.
CONS – Why Long Beach Is NOT Worth Visiting
While Long Beach has many appealing qualities, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks before planning your visit. Here are a few cons to take into account for why Long Beach might NOT be worth your time.
30. Traffic Congestion: Long Beach, like many urban areas in Southern California, can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting hours.
31. Parking Challenges: Finding convenient and affordable parking in popular areas of Long Beach can be a struggle, particularly during busy times or in downtown areas.
32. Higher Cost of Living: Long Beach can be relatively more expensive compared to other cities, particularly when it comes to accommodation costs and dining out. Although, relatively speaking, Long Beach tends to be on the more affordable side of many of the coastal California cities.
33. Crowded Beaches: Some of Long Beach’s popular beaches can become crowded during weekends and peak summer months, limiting personal space and tranquility.
34. Dirty Ocean Water: Especially during periods of rainfall, Long Beach is highly prone to water pollution. Proximity to the LA Harbor, the convergence of the Los Angeles and San Gabriel rivers in Long Beach, along with the presence of breakwater jetties, restricts the natural ocean currents that would otherwise disperse pollution further away from the shore.
I would personally not choose to swim at a beach in the Long Beach area, considering there are many better, cleaner beaches nearby either south in Orange County or north in the South Bay LA.
35. Crime Rates in Certain Areas: While Long Beach overall is considered safe, there are pockets of higher crime rates, such as in certain neighborhoods like Poly High and North Long Beach.
36. Limited Public Transportation: While Long Beach does have a public transportation system, it may not be as extensive or convenient as in other major cities, which can limit mobility options for visitors.
37. Limited Nightlife: While there are lively areas with bars and clubs, Long Beach’s nightlife scene might not be as robust or diverse as what you’ll find in cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco.
38. Noise Levels: Some areas of Long Beach, particularly those closer to busy streets or nightlife hotspots, may experience higher noise levels.
39. Air Quality: Like many cities in Southern California, Long Beach can experience air pollution due to its proximity to major freeways and industrial areas.
40. Limited Natural Scenery: While Long Beach has beautiful beaches, it may not offer the same level of scenic natural beauty as other coastal destinations in California, such as Big Sur or the Santa Barbara coastline. Long Beach is not really worth your visit if you’re specifically looking for natural scenery and pristine beaches.
41. Limited Historical Sites: While Long Beach has some historical landmarks, it may not offer the same level of historical depth and significance as other cities in California, like San Francisco or Sacramento.
42. Limited Outdoor Activities: While there are opportunities for outdoor activities, such as biking or walking along the beach, Long Beach may not offer as extensive options for outdoor enthusiasts compared to other regions of California, especially when it comes to hiking.
43. Weather Variability: While Long Beach typically enjoys pleasant weather, it can also experience marine layer fog, which may affect visibility and temperature, especially in the mornings.
Considering these cons alongside the pros will help you make an informed decision about whether Long Beach is the right destination for your specific preferences and interests.
FAQs – Deciding if Long Beach Is Worth Visiting or Not
Long Beach is known for its eclectic coastal community, beaches, and its significant role as a major port city in Southern California. It offers a diverse range of attractions, including the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the annual Long Beach Grand Prix.
Both cities have their own unique attractions. Long Beach offers a vibrant city-like downtown area, the Queen Mary, and the Aquarium of the Pacific. Huntington Beach is known for its iconic pier, surfing culture, and laid-back beach city culture. The better choice depends on personal preferences.
No, Long Beach does not have a traditional boardwalk like some other coastal cities. However, it does have the Long Beach Shoreline Pedestrian Bikepath, a scenic path along the beach that offers similar recreational opportunities and beautiful ocean views. Or, the Shoreline Village offers a strip with shops and restaurants that runs along parts of the water.
Long Beach has a diverse and lively vibe. It offers a mix of urban and beachfront atmospheres, with a vibrant arts and music scene. The city embraces its cultural diversity, has a laid-back and inclusive atmosphere, and offers a wide range of dining, entertainment, and outdoor activities.
The best time to visit Long Beach is during the spring and fall seasons. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds. If you’re willing to fight the crowds, the summer months offer the warmest weather and best events (the 4th of July is especially fun in Long Beach!). 
There are many excellent taco spots in Long Beach and some of the best restaurants include The Attic, Gladstone’s, Nick’s on 2nd, and Acapulco (for their Sunday all-you-can-eat brunch with bottomless mimosas!).
Long Beach has a vibrant nightlife scene and offers a variety of entertainment options, including bars, clubs, and live music venues. While you can certainly find plenty of parties, it may not be considered a typical “party town” compared to some other cities.
Yes, Long Beach is generally considered swimmable. The city has several miles of coastline with designated swimming areas. However, it’s always recommended to check for any current advisories or warnings before swimming to ensure safety and to be aware of potential hazards such as rip currents.
Long Beach is approximately 22 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. The driving distance between the two cities can vary depending on traffic conditions and the specific starting and ending points, but it typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes to travel between the two by car.
The water quality in Long Beach is generally decent for swimming, with designated areas meeting safety standards. However, swimming should be avoided in areas near discharging storm drains and after major rainstorms, as these can temporarily impact water cleanliness. It’s recommended to check for any advisories or closures during such conditions.
Yes, Long Beach has nice beaches that are worth visiting. The city offers several miles of sandy coastline with well-maintained beach areas.
Long Beach can get crowded, particularly during peak tourist seasons and popular events. Areas such as downtown, the waterfront, and popular attractions may experience higher levels of activity. However, compared to some other tourist destinations, Long Beach generally maintains a manageable level of crowds throughout the year.
The water temperature in Long Beach varies throughout the year. During the summer months, the water can range from around 65°F (18°C) to 70°F (21°C), making it generally comfortable for swimming. In the winter, water temperatures drop to around 55°F (13°C) to 60°F (16°C), which may be chilly for some swimmers.
CONCLUSION: So, Is Long Beach Worth Visiting?
Though it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and interests, Long Beach is definitely worth visiting for a variety of reasons. With its vibrant downtown, great beaches, and diverse cultural scene, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites like the Queen Mary or indulging in lively nightlife, Long Beach has it all.
The mild climate and pleasant spring and fall seasons make it an ideal time to visit. While there may be occasional crowding, traffic, and considerations for water quality after rainstorms, these factors do not detract from the overall appeal of this coastal gem.
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