Best Times to Visit Long Beach, California, USA
Quick Answer:
The most serene time to visit Long Beach is during the spring months of April-May, when the city awakens with a gentle warmth. Imagine strolling along the revitalized waterfront, the morning mist lifting to reveal dazzling golden sunsets over the Pacific. Summer (June-August) brings vibrant energy with bustling outdoor markets and lively events, though it can be quite warm. For a quieter, more reflective experience, the fall (September-November) offers serene days perfect for exploring the Aquarium of the Pacific or enjoying a leisurely bike ride along the beach paths. While winter can bring occasional rain, it also provides a unique opportunity to experience Long Beach's quieter side, with fewer crowds and a chance to appreciate the city's architectural beauty in a peaceful atmosphere.
Best Months to Visit:
Airport Code
LGB
Coordinates
33.76°, -118.19°
Top Things to Do
Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific: Penguin Encounter
Dive into the underwater world at the Aquarium, but skip the crowds and book a Penguin Encounter for an up-close experience with these charismatic birds. Learn about their behavior and conservation from expert staff; it's an unforgettable experience, especially for families. Best done in the morning for fewer visitors.
Explore the Long Beach Shoreline: Sunrise Stroll & Beach Bonfire
Walk along the expansive Long Beach shoreline at sunrise to witness a breathtaking display of colors over the Pacific. In the evening, gather with friends for a bonfire on the beach (check local regulations first!), roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars. The summer evenings are perfect for this.
Queen Mary Exploration: A Ghostly Night Tour
The Queen Mary is iconic, but for a truly unique experience, take a nighttime ghost tour. Hear spine-tingling tales of paranormal activity while exploring the ship's hidden corners. It's a thrilling adventure, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of mystery and intrigue.
Retro-Charm Shopping on Pine Avenue
Pine Avenue is a treasure trove of vintage shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Spend an afternoon browsing unique finds and soaking up the area's retro charm. Look for hidden alleyways with quirky murals and street art; it's a photographer's dream.
Essential Travel Tips
The Long Beach Transit app is your best friend for navigating the city's bus and park-and-ride system. It shows real-time arrival information, which is super helpful, especially on weekends when schedules can be slightly less frequent. Consider using the Passport parking app to easily pay for parking at meters around town, avoiding potential tickets.
Long Beach can be surprisingly affordable if you know where to look. Skip the tourist traps on the waterfront and explore the neighborhoods like Belmont Shore for more reasonably priced restaurants and shops. Many businesses offer discounts or deals if you sign up for their email lists.
Like any city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas, and avoid walking alone in less populated areas, particularly near the port. Use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft for late-night travel, especially if you're heading back from a concert or event at the Arena.
Long Beach has a vibrant arts scene. Check out the monthly First Fridays art walk in the East Village for a free, fun way to experience local galleries and street art. Many studios offer workshops and classes, so you can try something new like pottery or painting.
Beyond the typical tourist fare, explore the diverse culinary scene. Pine Avenue is a great place to find authentic Mexican food, while Belmont Shore offers a mix of cafes and upscale dining. Check out local blogs and review sites for hidden gems and daily specials.
Pack layers! Long Beach weather can be unpredictable. Even in summer, evenings can get cool, especially near the ocean. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll likely be doing a lot of exploring on foot. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat, even on cloudy days.
Weather Details
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 16°C | 9°C | 61°F | 48°F | 38mm | 6 days | 10h |
| Feb | 17°C | 10°C | 63°F | 50°F | 36mm | 5 days | 11h |
| Mar | 18°C | 11°C | 64°F | 52°F | 33mm | 5 days | 12h |
| Apr | 19°C | 13°C | 66°F | 55°F | 20mm | 4 days | 13h |
| May | 21°C | 15°C | 70°F | 59°F | 10mm | 2 days | 14h |
| Jun | 23°C | 17°C | 73°F | 63°F | 5mm | 1 days | 14.5h |
| Jul | 24°C | 18°C | 75°F | 64°F | 2mm | 1 days | 14.5h |
| Aug | 24°C | 18°C | 75°F | 64°F | 4mm | 1 days | 14h |
| Sep | 23°C | 16°C | 73°F | 61°F | 8mm | 2 days | 13h |
| Oct | 21°C | 14°C | 70°F | 57°F | 18mm | 3 days | 12h |
| Nov | 18°C | 11°C | 64°F | 52°F | 28mm | 5 days | 11h |
| Dec | 16°C | 9°C | 61°F | 48°F | 43mm | 7 days | 10h |
All Things to Do in Long Beach, California, USA
Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific: Penguin Encounter
attractionDive into the underwater world at the Aquarium, but skip the crowds and book a Penguin Encounter for an up-close experience with these charismatic birds. Learn about their behavior and conservation from expert staff; it's an unforgettable experience, especially for families. Best done in the morning for fewer visitors.
Best time: May-September
Explore the Long Beach Shoreline: Sunrise Stroll & Beach Bonfire
natureWalk along the expansive Long Beach shoreline at sunrise to witness a breathtaking display of colors over the Pacific. In the evening, gather with friends for a bonfire on the beach (check local regulations first!), roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars. The summer evenings are perfect for this.
Best time: June-August
Queen Mary Exploration: A Ghostly Night Tour
attractionThe Queen Mary is iconic, but for a truly unique experience, take a nighttime ghost tour. Hear spine-tingling tales of paranormal activity while exploring the ship's hidden corners. It's a thrilling adventure, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of mystery and intrigue.
Retro-Charm Shopping on Pine Avenue
shoppingPine Avenue is a treasure trove of vintage shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Spend an afternoon browsing unique finds and soaking up the area's retro charm. Look for hidden alleyways with quirky murals and street art; it's a photographer's dream.
Taste of Long Beach Food Tour: Hidden Gems
foodSkip the generic tourist traps and join a food tour focused on local favorites. Sample diverse cuisines from hidden gems and family-run eateries, getting a true taste of Long Beach's culinary scene. Ask your guide for recommendations beyond the tour.
Long Beach Museum of Art: Sunset Stroll & Sculpture Garden
culturalVisit the Long Beach Museum of Art, but focus on their stunning sculpture garden. Enjoy a relaxing stroll amidst the contemporary sculptures, especially beautiful during sunset. Check their website for special events and exhibitions.
Best time: April-October
Naples Island Gondola Ride: Romantic Getaway
activityTake a romantic gondola ride through the canals of Naples Island. Enjoy the charming waterfront views and the peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect date night or a relaxing way to experience a different side of Long Beach.
Best time: May-September
Grand Prix of Long Beach: Street Racing Excitement
activityIf you're visiting in April, experience the thrill of the Grand Prix of Long Beach. This world-class street race brings an electrifying atmosphere to the city. Book tickets and accommodation well in advance.
Best time: April
Getting Around Long Beach, California, USA
Long Beach Transit Buses
Long Beach Transit (LBT) operates an extensive bus network covering most of the city. It's affordable and reaches areas other transport options miss. Routes are frequent, especially during peak hours.
Long Beach Bike Sharing (LBS)
A network of bike-sharing stations across Long Beach, perfect for exploring the beach areas, downtown, and the waterfront. Bikes are easily rented and returned at various docking stations.
Ride-sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)
Uber and Lyft are readily available in Long Beach, offering convenient point-to-point transportation. They're particularly useful for late-night travel or reaching less accessible areas.
Long Beach Airport Shuttle
Several shuttle services connect Long Beach Airport (LGB) to various hotels and areas within the city. A cost-effective option compared to taxis, especially for groups.
Electric Scooters (Lime, Bird)
Numerous electric scooter companies operate in Long Beach. A fun and efficient way to navigate shorter distances, especially along the beachfront.
Similar Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit Long Beach for pleasant weather and fewer crowds?
Shoulder seasons, April-May and September-October, offer the best balance. You'll find comfortable temperatures, ideal for beach days and outdoor activities, with far fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Plus, hotel rates tend to be lower during these times.
What are some unique Long Beach experiences that aren't in the typical guidebooks?
Rent bikes and explore the extensive beachside bike path, stopping at the various parks and piers along the way. For a different perspective, take a harbor cruise – you'll see the Queen Mary up close and get amazing views of the city skyline. Don't miss the Aquarium of the Pacific; it's world-class.
How easy is it to get around Long Beach without a car?
Long Beach has a decent public transportation system, but it's not perfect. The best bet is a combination of the local bus system and ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft, especially if you plan on exploring areas outside the immediate downtown core. The city is quite spread out.
What's the deal with parking in Long Beach, especially near the beach?
Parking, particularly near the beach and popular attractions, can be expensive and challenging to find, especially on weekends. Consider using public transport or ride-sharing, or arrive early to secure a spot. Many areas have metered parking, so be sure to read the signs carefully.
Are there any local customs or cultural nuances I should be aware of when visiting Long Beach?
Long Beach has a diverse population, so you'll find a blend of cultures. Be mindful of respecting others' space, especially on crowded beaches and public transport. Also, remember that Southern California has a laid-back culture; don't be surprised by casual attire and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
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