17 Free Things To Do In Long Beach Recommended By Locals!

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Last updated on April 18, 2023 by Wandering our World

Is your vacation to Long Beach near but you want to plan a budget-friendly trip? If so, then you’re in the right place!

That’s because we’ve put together a list of our favorite things to do for free in Long Beach! From aquarium days to yoga, to free fishing and hiking, there’s a surprising number of fun free things to do in Long Beach.

So read on to find out some of the best things to do for free in Long Beach!

Long Beach, California, USA skyline.
iStock.com/SeanPavonePhoto

1. Aquarium of the Pacific

Hands down, the Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the best aquariums in the United States, exhibiting over 500 species from jellyfish to sharks!

They offer great programs during the day for both children and adults too.

Now we know what you must be thinking – how did this make it on to a list of free things to do in Long Beach?

Well on Friday from 6pm to 9pm, this aquarium provides free access to their outdoor shark lagoon where you can get up close and personal with the likes of bamboo sharks and sting rays. That’s one way of spending your holiday in Long Beach!

2. Shoreline Park

This gorgeous park is no ordinary park. It has a giant lighthouse resting on top of a hill looking across the water, a lovely sandy beach on its north side, and a fishing platform on its south side.

And if you own a bike, you are in luck as there are multiple walking, biking and scooter paths around the park.

Of course you can rent a bike or scooter too, but since you are trying to save money, a walk around the park is always good fun. Plus you can always watch the sunset and relax while looking out across the water at Queen Mary.

Lighthouse-Long Beach California
iStock.com/William Reagan

3. Water Taxis

We’re cheating here, and maybe this shouldn’t be on a list of free things to do in Long Beach – but it is a notable budget tip.

If you are new to town and want to get out on the water then you don’t have to hire a boat or take a Harbour Cruise. Instead just use the water taxis: Aqualink and Aquabus.

At only a few bucks they are an inexpensive way to enjoy a tour of Long Beach waterfront, and you will get loads of picture opportunities at the same time.

4. Beaches

Visiting a beach while you are on a trip to Long Beach is compulsory – and of course free!

Along with fun on the sand there are also biking and walking paths along the coast, or go to Bluff Park for some of the best views around.

Full length shot of an affectionate young couple sharing an intimate moment at the beach
iStock.com/PeopleImages

5. Murals in Long Beach

Long Beach is a city full of different cultures and art. And that’s reflected through the various murals you’ll find around the city, providing you with plenty of opportunities to spice up your Instagram feed.

The great thing is, there’s plenty of maps online which you can follow in order to do a self-guided mural and art tour around LB – like this one here.

6. Hilltop Park

Hilltop Park is one of our favorite spots to watch the sunset or go for a picnic.

The best part about visiting this park is that it provides a full panoramic view of the area so this place really is worth visiting. If taking a car, keep in mind that you might find it hard to park as Hilltop can get busy, especially on weekends.

7. The Japanese Garden at California State University

Renowned for its beautiful Japanese style garden and giant koi fish, this garden is well worth a visit.

The entrance is also entirely free, although if travelling by car you will have to pay for parking, which is unfortunately inevitable.

You can walk around and enjoy the serenity and calmness this garden has to offer or you can have a picnic there too! There are also yoga sessions around 12 pm if you are able to catch them.

This garden also gives you another opportunity for getting some great pictures, so don’t forget to bring your camera when you visit.

8. Rosie’s Dog Beach

If you’re travelling with your dog then this place is a must visit. Or if you just want to meet a few dogs and their friendly owners, this beach is great too!

You do have to pay the parking there, which honestly we think is a bit pricey. However if you don’t mind walking a bit then you can park your car a little behind the beach parking for free instead.

A cute dog is watching the sunset
iStock.com/Grahedphotography

9. Yoga on the Bluff

Shout out to all yoga lovers out there! Fancy some free yoga classes in Long Beach?

Well this place has just that, and no surprise considering Long Beach has such a warm and welcoming vibe. So if you are looking for some relaxation amidst the city life, some free yoga is the activity for you.

Yogalution on the Bluff is a community yoga experience located at Bluff Park which has welcoming yoga instructors and free classes. Feel free to immediately take off your shoes, experience the feeling of being free, all while listening to the nearby ocean waves.

10. The Museum of Latin American Art

For a unique and interesting experience, you should visit the Museum of Latin American Art. It is a small museum, but very insightful.

This museum frequently has different terrific art work and exhibits so before you go there, check what exhibit is on display on their website.

But the best thing is that on Sundays the entrance is free! So it’s the perfect spot for us budget conscious travellers.

11. Fishing in Belmont Pier

Belmont Pier is a fishing pier in Long Beach, which is also a great place for a family walk.

The pier actually offers free fishing and you just have to pay the inevitable parking fee – although that too is free after 6 pm!

So if you want to fish with an open view of the water, this is a place with a variety of fish to try and catch. Maybe you can also grab a free dinner!

Even if you have no luck the pier is still a nice place for a stroll, and several people come to workout or just lay back and meditate. There’s plenty of space so don’t worry about it getting crowded.

Twin brothers fishing on  a pier
iStock.com/mule_patterson

12. The Skinniest House in America

Visiting the ‘Skinniest House in America’ is another one of the free things to do in Long Beach.

This Guinness-record approved house is known for being the skinniest house in the US! Interestingly, this house has a bit of a history and was actually built out of spite!

Why not visit and take a picture in front of this place and show it off on your social media feed.

13. Shoreline Village

Add Shoreline Village to your to-do list as it has a lot to offer too. You can walk alongside the ocean or on the boardwalk here but one interesting thing about this place is the “Love Locks” where couples can place a padlock on a fence overlooking the water as a symbol of their love.

It’s a pretty, and quite special, spot.

14. Naples

Naples, which is part of Long Beach, is another place worth visiting. This is a great spot for walking and enjoying the view as it’s surrounded by canals. They sometimes even have free local concerts here too.

Beautiful Sunset on the Beach of Naples, Florida
iStock.com/Susanne Neumann

15. Colorado Lagoon Park

This park is no ordinary park as it actually has a fairly large family area for swimming which is perfect for kids. There is also a nice little hiking trail to try out.

16. Carpool Karaoke

What about carpool karaoke! Technically speaking you can enjoy this activity almost anywhere but we’re mentioning it here because there’s nothing better than enjoying good music in your car while driving around the coastal roads of Long Beach.

17. Long Beach Museum of Art

This museum displays local art and is a great place to visit and vibe at. Though the museum doesn’t have free entrance, if you book tickets online in advance for Fridays, you can get a 50% discount. That’s why we think this place is worth mentioning.

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  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.