The best city hikes and walks around Long Beach

The Shoreline Beach Bike Path offers a quintessential Southern California coastal experience, perfect for a leisurely walk. You'll enjoy continuous views of the Pacific Ocean, feel the ocean breeze, and pass by iconic landmarks like the Long Beach Shoreline Marina and the Queen Mary. This 5.0 miles (8.1 km) route is exceptionally flat and paved, with only 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, making it a moderate hike that takes around 2 hours and 2 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is easily accessible along the Long Beach coastline. Amenities like restrooms and water fountains are available, and you can even rent bikes near Shoreline Village. For the best experience, consider heading out in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest times and enjoy more comfortable temperatures, especially if you're bringing the family or your dog.

What makes this path stand out is its blend of scenic beauty and urban convenience. It connects to other extensive bike paths, like the Los Angeles River Bikeway, offering options for longer adventures. The path provides direct access to the white sand beach and passes by various attractions, including Alamitos Beach and the Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier, making it more than just a walk; it's an exploration of Long Beach's vibrant waterfront.

The Marine Stadium and Marina Pacifica Loop offers a delightful urban escape, guiding you along the scenic waterfront of Long Beach. You'll enjoy picturesque views of luxurious homes, private docks, and the historic Marine Stadium, a venue from the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. The flat, mostly paved terrain makes this 6.9-mile (11.1 km) route feel more like a leisurely walk than a strenuous hike, perfect for soaking in the California sunshine.

This moderate 2-hour and 48-minute loop, with a gentle 59 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, is highly accessible and family-friendly. You'll find convenient public restrooms at Marine Stadium Park and plenty of options for food and drink around the 2nd & PCH/Marina Pacifica area. Parking is generally available near the Marine Stadium, making it easy to start your adventure.

Beyond just hiking, the Marine Stadium area is a hub for various activities, including running, biking, and water sports. Its historical significance as an Olympic venue adds a unique layer to your experience, and the charming bridges of Naples Island provide additional visual interest, setting this trail apart as a versatile and engaging option in Long Beach.

If you're looking for a peaceful, accessible hike in Long Beach, the Heartwell Park Trail delivers a pleasant experience. This 6.1-mile (9.9 km) route, despite its 'moderate' rating, features a remarkably flat profile with only 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, making it feel much easier and suitable for all fitness levels. You'll stroll along well-maintained, tree-lined pathways, passing open recreational fields and a tranquil fishing pond often frequented by ducks, providing a continuous green corridor through the city.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as Heartwell Park offers extensive amenities and parking. The trail is enjoyable year-round thanks to Long Beach's mild climate, so you can pick any day for a leisurely walk or jog. No permits or fees are required, making it an easy choice for a spontaneous outdoor activity.

Beyond the hiking trail, Heartwell Park is a hub for community activities, featuring a public golf course, picnic areas, playgrounds, and various sports facilities. It's a true urban oasis, offering a diverse landscape that includes a dedicated bike and run path extending to the San Gabriel River path, perfect for those looking to extend their adventure.

The Bluff Park Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll along the Long Beach coastline, providing continuous, picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and Long Beach City Beach. You'll walk along a well-maintained path, passing memorial benches perfect for a moment of reflection, with the chance to spot wildflowers depending on the season. This 1.3-mile (2.2 km) loop is incredibly gentle, with only 25 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing outing that takes just 32 minutes.

Planning your visit to the Bluff Park Loop is straightforward, as it's easily accessible within Long Beach. Parking is typically available in the vicinity, though it can fill up quickly, especially around sunset, which is a highly recommended time to experience the trail. The area is well-equipped with amenities like restrooms and playgrounds, enhancing its appeal for families and casual walkers alike. No permits are needed, and the trail is enjoyable in all seasons.

This particular Bluff Park Loop stands out in Southern California for its stunning ocean vistas and accessibility, offering a refreshing escape from city life without requiring a long drive. It's a popular spot for dog walkers and those seeking a tranquil coastal experience, with stairways providing direct access to the Beautiful Beach Bike Path below. The trail's ease and beauty make it a local favorite for a quick dose of nature and sea air.