Long Beach International Airport
Long Beach, US · 3 mi (4.8 km) northeast of downtown Long Beach
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel and Parking Shuttles Shuttle · Varies by hotel, often every 20-30 min | 10-30 min to area hotels | Often free for guests |
| Long Beach Transit Bus Bus · Frequent service | Varies by route | $1.25 |
| Long Beach Transit Route 102 Bus · Every 30-60 min | 25-35 min to downtown Long Beach | $1.25-2 |
| Long Beach Transit Route 104 Bus · Every 30-60 min | 25-40 min to downtown Long Beach | $1.25-2 |
Insider notes
Save time by arriving closer to your flight since the single-terminal setup requires less walking and eliminates usual airport sprawl.
Enjoy the open-air garden while at the airport for a relaxed atmosphere unlike typical indoor terminal environments.
Boathouse on the Bay is a top sit-down pick around gate 7 if you're looking for more than a quick snack before flying.
Welcome
Long Beach Airport (LGB) sets itself apart as a small airport with a deeply local identity. Situated just 3 miles northeast of downtown Long Beach, it offers a quintessentially Southern California experience. Eschewing the generic feel of larger airports, LGB presents travelers with its unique single-terminal, open-air design architecture, and its offerings from local vendors make it feel like an extension of the beach town itself. It has earned a reputation as the most convenient and low-stress airport in the Los Angeles metro area, with the airport itself marketing the experience as akin to a resort-style atmosphere.
At a glance
Handling 3.8 million passengers a year with a single 11-gate terminal, LGB provides flights primarily through Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines. The airport fosters a local aesthetic, avoiding the chain-heavy landscapes of many airports by featuring concessions tied to Long Beach businesses. This includes options like George’s Greek Cafe and Taco Beach Cantina. While it may not offer extensive flight options or lounges, those who fly through LGB appreciate its efficiency and low-key nature.
Terminals & layout
LGB’s layout is as straightforward as it gets with only one terminal that streamlines the travel process. This 11-gate terminal is simple to navigate, minimizing transit stress and confusion. Unlike more sprawling airports, there’s a singular focus on ease of access—perfect for those wanting a quick and pleasant travel experience. If you're accustomed to larger airports, you might be surprised by the open-air garden and live music, which give the airport an atmosphere more akin to a public park than a transit hub.
Getting to and from the city
The airport sits conveniently close to downtown Long Beach at just 3 miles away. For ground transportation, taxi services charge a base fee of $3.10 with $2.97 per mile, while rideshare options vary in price. Those looking to utilize public transportation can opt for the Metro Rail A Line, priced at $1.75, which connects to the greater LA rail network, or the local Long Beach Transit buses at just $1.25 per ride.
Traveller essentials
Parking is a highlight at Long Beach Airport, contrasted with many airports in the region, as every lot offers the first 20 minutes free. This is ideal for quick drop-offs or pickups. For longer stays, daily parking ranges in price from $20 in Lot B to $29 for valet parking. The ease of parking is frequently cited as a benefit by those familiar with the area.
Dining & shopping highlights
Long Beach Airport boasts several local dining establishments. Boathouse on the Bay stands out, offering steak, seafood, and daily specials from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. For something quicker, Taco Beach Cantina provides a distinctly local flair, while the 4th Street Vine Wine & Beer Bar serves as a mellow spot for a pre-flight drink. For a satisfying breakfast, try Sheldrake Coffee & Sweet Jill’s Bakery, known for strong coffee and pastries that cater to early risers.
Lounges
Travelers at LGB won't find a traditional lounge network available, which underscores the airport's no-frills approach. This lack of lounges aligns with its reputation for simplicity; however, the live music and art exhibits common in the terminal offer enriching ways to pass the time.
Insider tips
- Time: Save time by arriving closer to your flight since the single-terminal setup requires less walking and eliminates usual airport sprawl.
- Local: Enjoy the open-air garden while at the airport for a relaxed atmosphere unlike typical indoor terminal environments.
- Insider: Boathouse on the Bay is a top sit-down pick around gate 7 if you're looking for more than a quick snack before flying.
- Quiet: The 4th Street Vine Wine & Beer Bar near gates 3-5 offers a relaxing drink stop without the clamor of busier airport bars.
- Money: Use the cell phone waiting lot to avoid parking fees if you're picking someone up but need to wait nearby.
- Local: Live music and art exhibits expand the terminal experience and can make wait times much more enjoyable; look for these events to infuse some local culture into your transit.
- Avoid: Don't circle the terminal for pickups. Opt for the cell-phone lot to save time and curbside congestion.