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Best Time to Visit Long Beach

Best Time to Visit Long Beach

Long Beach California, USA Travel Guide

Best Times to Visit

Long Beach enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate, featuring warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This consistent weather pattern makes the city a comfortable destination throughout the year, though specific seasons hold special benefits.

For comfortable exploration, consider visiting during the transitional seasons.

Climate Patterns

  • Spring (March-May): Temperatures typically 55-70°F (13-21°C). Days are generally mild and sunny.
  • Summer (June-August): Temperatures 65-80°F (18-27°C). Mornings often have "June Gloom," dissipating by midday.
  • Fall (September-November): Pleasant temperatures, 60-75°F (16-24°C). This season frequently brings clear skies.
  • Winter (December-February): Cooler, 45-65°F (7-18°C). This period sees most rainfall, with an annual average of about 12.3 inches (312 mm).

Seasonal Analysis

High Season (June to August) brings warmest weather perfect for beaches and water activities, along with numerous outdoor events. However, prices are higher, and attractions see larger crowds.

Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October) offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Prices for travel and lodging are more moderate. It is ideal for sightseeing.

High Season

From june To august

Pros

Warmest weather, perfect for beaches plus water-based fun. Numerous outdoor events, concerts, and festivals.

Cons

Higher prices for accommodations and flights. Larger crowds, requiring advance booking. Heavier traffic.

Shoulder Season

April-May, Sep-Oct

Pros

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds. Moderate prices. Ideal for sightseeing, outdoor dining.

Cons

Evenings can be cool, requiring a light jacket. Water activities might feel a bit chilly in early spring or late fall.

Low Season

November to March

Pros

Lowest prices for flights and accommodations. Fewer tourists, less crowded attractions, relaxed pace. Access to winter events.

Cons

Cooler temperatures, higher chance of rain. Some outdoor activities limited by weather. Fewer hours of daylight.

Special Weather Considerations & Ideal Timing

Weather Notes

Long Beach does not experience monsoons or hurricanes. Extreme temperatures are uncommon. Heatwaves can occur in late summer or early fall, but typically short-lived. Coastal fog, "June Gloom," is common in late spring and early summer mornings, usually dissipating by midday. Wildfire smoke from distant fires can occasionally affect air quality; check local forecasts if concerned.

Activity Timing

Beach plus water-based fun are best from June to September. Sightseeing and outdoor exploration in April-May or September-October. Whale watching prime duration is December to May for Gray Whales, May to October for Blue Whales. Largest outdoor festivals occur during summer.

Activity Focus

  • Beach & Water

    June-September.

  • Sightseeing

    April-May, Sep-Oct.

  • Whale Watching

    Dec-May (Gray), May-Oct (Blue).

  • Festivals

    Mainly summer months.

  • Alfresco Dining

    Shoulder seasons.

Visa & Entry Requirements

  • Visa Waiver Program (VWP): For citizens of 40 countries, entry for up to 90 days without a visa with Approved ESTA application.
  • Non-immigrant Visas: B-1 for business, B-2 for tourism. Application process involves online form, fee, and embassy interview.
  • Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond intended stay.

Travel Document Alert

Start visa or ESTA applications well in advance. Carry copies of all documents.

Budgeting & Costs

The United States Dollar (USD) is the currency.

Currency & Exchange

Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) are widely accepted. ATMs are common. Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card freezing.

Payment Essentials

  • Credit Cards: Widely taken for all purchases.
  • ATMs: Readily available for cash withdrawals.
  • Currency Exchange: Available at airports and some banks, often with less favorable rates.
  • Bank Notification: Advise your bank of travel dates.

Cost Breakdown: Per Person, Per Day Estimates

Prices vary significantly based on travel style and choices.

Typical Daily Spend

  • Budget Traveler: $100-$220/day. Hostels/basic motels, fast food/self-catering, public transit, free attractions.
  • Mid-Range Traveler: $270-$480/day. 3-star hotels/vacation rentals, mix of casual/sit-down dining, ride-sharing/occasional car rental, paid attractions.
  • Luxury Traveler: $600-$1400+/day. 4-5 star hotels/premium rentals, fine dining, private car services, exclusive tours.
  • All estimates exclude major shopping or unexpected costs.

Money-Saving Strategies for Long Beach

Transportation Savings

  • Public Transit: Utilize A Vast beach Transit buses, seasonal AquaLink/AquaBus. Passport shuttle offers free rides downtown.
  • TAP Card: Purchase for Metro Rail and LBT, consider a Day Pass for numerous rides.
  • Walkable Areas: Explore beaches, parks, Naples Canals, and Shoreline Village on foot.
  • Biking: Rent a bike to explore coastal paths and neighborhoods.

Accommodation & Dining Tips

  • Accommodation Deals: Look for hotel deals or packages, especially during shoulder/low seasons. Consider staying slightly outside downtown.
  • Self-Catering: Cook some meals if your accommodation has a kitchenette. Buy groceries.
  • Free Attractions: Visit beaches, parks, or enjoy just looking at Shoreline Village.
  • Discount Apps: Use apps like Groupon or LivingSocial for dining and activity discounts.

Health & Safety Considerations

  • Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Stay hydrated.
  • Drinking Water: Tap water is safe. Carry a reusable bottle.
  • Emergency: Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
  • Hospitals: A Vast beach Memorial, St. Mary Medical Center, Miller Children's & Women's Hospital.

General Safety Advice

Long Beach, like any urban area, has varying crime rates. Property crime is more common than violent crime. Popular tourist most areas are safe.

Personal Safety

  • Awareness: Maintain awareness of surroundings.
  • Nighttime: Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar or unlit areas.
  • Valuables: Secure valuables, use hotel safes.
  • Cars: Avoid leaving items visible in parked cars.

Natural Hazards

  • Earthquakes: Familiarize with "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" procedures.
  • Tsunamis: Low risk, but coastal areas could be affected by distant quakes. Warning systems in place.
  • Wildfires: Risk mainly in the adjacent hilly areas. Smoke can affect air quality.
  • Heatwaves: Occasional extreme heat. Stay hydrated, seek A/C.

Travel Insurance Insight

Travel insurance is highly recommended. It protects against medical crises, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and delays. Confirm coverage for planned activities.