Summer’s in full swing, and you know what that means – endless days of sunshine, beach vibes, and oh-so-much fun! But let’s be real, we don’t always want to spend a ton of cash to have a good time. Lucky for us, Long Beach is packed with awesome activities that won’t cost you a dime. So grab your shades and let’s dive into some of the best free things to do in Long Beach this summer!

Free Things to Do: Beach Days

Of course, we have to start with the classic beach day. But let’s get into the details, because Long Beach has some stellar spots to enjoy the sun and sand!

Alamitos Beach

This is the tourist spot for soaking up the sun, dipping toes in the water, and just chilling out. Alamitos Beach is perfect for a laid-back day with friends or solo. Parking is available along Ocean Boulevard, and there are several pay lots nearby if you’re struggling to find a spot. Bring your beach chair, umbrella, and don’t forget the sunscreen! There are public restrooms and showers to rinse off, and you can even grab a bite from the nearby food trucks or cafes.

Horny Corner

If you’re up for a bit more action, head over to Horny Corner at the end of Bayshore Avenue. This spot is popular for kayaking, paddleboarding, and people-watching. The vibe here is energetic and fun, especially on weekends. Parking can be a bit tricky, so arrive early or be prepared to walk a bit. Bring your water gear and maybe even a volleyball – there are usually some games going on. Restrooms are available, and the nearby Grill ‘Em All is perfect for grabbing a burger or snack.

The Peninsula

Looking for a quieter beach day with the locals? The Peninsula is your sanctuary. Located between Alamitos Bay and the Pacific Ocean, this spot offers calm waters perfect for a relaxing swim. Street parking is usually available, but it can fill up fast, so early birds get the best spots. Pack a picnic, bring a good book, and enjoy the serene surroundings. There are public restrooms available only at the far southern end by the jetty, but the views of the Bay are just stunning.

Mother’s Beach

If you’re planning a family day out, Mother’s Beach is where it’s at. This beach is nestled in a cove within Alamitos Bay, offering calm waters that are perfect for kids. There’s a large playground, picnic tables, and BBQ grills, making it ideal for a full day of fun. Parking is available in the adjacent lot, and there are plenty of restrooms and showers to use. Don’t forget to bring your sand toys and floaties for the little ones!

Yoga at Bluff Park with Yogalution

Okay, imagine this: late morning, a light breeze, and you’re stretching it out with an ocean view. Sounds dreamy, right? Head over to Bluff Park where Yogalution Movement offers donation-based yoga classes. It’s the perfect way to start the day feeling zen and refreshed.

Yogalution Movement

Yogalution offers daily yoga classes at Bluff Park, and they’re truly something special. These classes are donation-based, which means you can join even if you’re on a tight budget, but if you can, definitely donate. The suggested donation is $5-$10, and it goes towards supporting the amazing work they’re doing in our community.

Class Times and Location

During the summer, classes are held every day at 11:00 AM and in the evenings at 6:00 PM. Just show up with your mat and some water, and you’re good to go. The classes take place at the corner of Ocean Boulevard and Junipero Avenue, right by the Bluff Park sign.

Parking and Amenities

Parking can be found along Ocean Boulevard, but it can get busy, so arriving a bit early is a good idea. There are also some side streets where you might find spots. Restrooms are available nearby, so you can freshen up before or after your session. And trust me, practicing yoga with the ocean breeze and stunning views is an experience you don’t want to miss!

First Fridays in Bixby Knolls

Mark your calendars for First Fridays! On the first Friday of every month, Bixby Knolls comes alive with art, music, and good vibes.

Where and When

First Fridays happens along Atlantic Avenue in Bixby Knolls, from Bixby Road to San Antonio Drive. The event kicks off at 6:30 PM and goes until around 9:30 PM. It’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend without spending a dime.

What to Expect

You’ll find galleries, shops, and businesses open late with special exhibits and activities. There’s live music, street performers, and sometimes even free food samples! It’s a cultural feast and a great way to explore local talent. Just walk around, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy the night.

Parking and Amenities

There’s plenty of street parking available, but it can get busy, so try to arrive early. There are also a few lots in the area. Just bring your sense of adventure and maybe a little cash if you want to buy something from the vendors.

Nature Walks at El Dorado Nature Center

Need a break from the hustle and bustle? El Dorado Nature Center is your oasis.

Location and Hours

El Dorado Nature Center is located at 7550 E Spring St. The trails are open Tuesday through Sunday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

What to Expect

Wander through trails surrounded by trees, lakes, and wildlife. You can spot turtles, birds, and even the occasional rabbit. There’s a beautiful two-mile trail and a shorter one-mile trail, so you can choose your adventure.

Is it Free?

Yes, it’s free to walk around, but there’s a small parking fee of $5 on weekdays and $7 on weekends. It’s totally worth it for the tranquility and beauty you’ll experience.

Family-Friendly

It’s a great spot for kids! There are educational displays and lots of opportunities to learn about nature. Plus, kids love spotting all the wildlife.

Concerts in the Park

What’s summer without some live music? Long Beach hosts free concerts in various parks throughout the summer.

When and Where

Concerts usually start around 6:30 PM. Check the Long Beach Parks, Recreation & Marine website for the full schedule and locations.

What Kind of Music

You’ll find a variety of music genres, from rock and pop to jazz and classical. There’s something for everyone!

What to Bring

Pack a blanket, some snacks, and maybe even a picnic dinner. Bring your friends, family, and get ready to groove to some tunes. It’s always a blast! Here’s the schedule for the rest of this summer:

July 2024

Jul 23, 6:30pm: Long Beach Municipal Band Concert at Bixby Annex Park, Cherry Ave. & Ocean Blvd.
Jul 24, 6:30pm: Long Beach Municipal Band Concert at Los Cerritos Park, 3750 Del Mar Ave.
Jul 25, 6:30am: El Dorado Nature Center Summer Concert – Sligo Rags at El Dorado Nature Center, 7550 E. Spring St.
Jul 25, 6:30pm: Long Beach Municipal Band Concert at Recreation Park, 4900 E. 7th St.
Jul 26, 6:30pm: Long Beach Municipal Band Concert at El Dorado Park West, 2800 N. Studebaker Rd.
Jul 27, 4pm: 7 Saturday’s of Summer Concert Series – Bossa Val Vai at Recreation Park Band Shell, 4900 E. 7th St.
Jul 30, 6:30pm: Long Beach Municipal Band Concert at Bixby Annex Park, Cherry Ave. & Ocean Blvd.
Jul 31, 6:30pm: Long Beach Municipal Band Concert at Los Cerritos Park, 3750 Del Mar Ave.

August 2024

Aug 24, 4pm: 7 Saturday’s of Summer Concert Series – Knight Ryder at Recreation Park Band Shell, 4900 E. 7th St.
Aug 1, 6:30pm: Long Beach Municipal Band Concert at Recreation Park, 4900 E. 7th St.
Aug 2, 6:30pm: Long Beach Municipal Band Concert at El Dorado Park West, 2800 N. Studebaker Rd.
Aug 3, 6pm: 7 Saturday’s of Summer Concert Series – Camerata Singers, Music of Laurel Canyon at Recreation Park Band Shell, 4900 E. 7th St.
Aug 8, 6:30pm: El Dorado Nature Center Summer Concert – JP McDermott and Western Bop at El Dorado Nature Center, 7550 E. Spring St.
Aug 10, 4pm: 7 Saturday’s of Summer Concert Series – King Salmon and the Funk Yard Horns at Recreation Park Band Shell, 4900 E. 7th St.
Aug 17, 4pm: 7 Saturday’s of Summer Concert Series – The Salty Suites with Honey Whiskey Trio at Recreation Park Band Shell, 4900 E. 7th St.
Aug 22, 6:30pm: El Dorado Nature Center Summer Concert – Steel Parade at El Dorado Nature Center, 7550 E. Spring St.

Art Tours and Murals

Long Beach has some seriously cool street art. Take a self-guided tour and discover vibrant murals around the city.

Exploring the Murals

Check out Long Beach Walls to learn more about the murals and find their locations. You can bike around to find them or take a car if you prefer. It’s like an outdoor art gallery, and it’s totally free to explore.

Movies in the Park and Movies on the Beach

Who doesn’t love a good movie night? Long Beach hosts free movies in the park and on the beach throughout the summer.

Movies in the Park

Various parks around Long Beach host these events. They usually start at dusk, around 8:00 PM. No need to sign up, just show up with a blanket, some popcorn, and your favorite movie buddy. Check the city’s website for the full schedule and locations. Here’s the schedule for the rest of this summer:

July 2024

Jul 24, 8pm: “Monsters Inc.” at Whaley Park, 5620 Atherton St.
Jul 26, 8pm: “Monsters Inc.” at Orizaba Park, 1435 Orizaba Ave.
Jul 31, 8pm: “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” at Coolidge Park, 352 Neece St.

August 2024

Aug 23, 8pm: “Elemental” at Stearns Champions Park
Aug 2, 8pm: “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” at Veterans Park, 101 E. 28th St.
Aug 5, 8pm: “Kung Fu Panda 4” at McBride Park, 1550 Martin Luther King Jr. Park
Aug 7, 8pm: “Kung Fu Panda 4” at Long Beach Animal Care Services, 7700 E. Spring St.
Aug 9, 8pm: “Kung Fu Panda 4” at Signal Hill Park, 1780 E. Hill St.
Aug 12, 8pm: “Guardians of the Galaxy (2023)” at Drake Park, 951 Maine Ave.
Aug 14, 8pm: “Guardians of the Galaxy (2023)” at Heartwell Park, 5801 Parkcrest Ave.
Aug 16, 8pm: “Guardians of the Galaxy (2023)” at Marine Park (Mother’s Beach) Appian Way below Second St.
Aug 19, 8pm: “Elemental” at Somerset Park, 1500 E. Carson St.
Aug 21, 8pm: “Elemental” at Scherer Park, 4600 Long Beach Blvd.

Movies on the Beach

Head to Granada Beach for Movies on the Beach. It’s an epic summer tradition in Long Beach. Picture this: your toes in the sand, the sound of waves, and a classic movie on the big screen. Movies usually start at dusk, around 8:00 PM. Bring a cozy blanket, snacks, and maybe even a jacket – it can get chilly by the water. Check the schedule online to see what’s playing and when, but here’s a list:

“The Sandlot” – Tuesday, July 23 (Granada Beach)
“The Breakfast Club” – Tuesday, Aug. 6 (Granada Beach)
“Mamma Mia!” – Tuesday, Aug. 13 (Granada Beach)
“A League of Their Own” – Tuesday, Aug. 20 (Granada Beach)
“Coco” – Thursday, Aug. 22 (LBCC – Pacific Coast Campus)

Food & Popcorn

Local food trucks and a kettle corn vendor will be onsite, so you can grab some tasty treats. Bringing your own food (BYOF) is also welcomed, but remember that alcohol is prohibited.

Parking

Free parking is available after 6 PM at all locations, but it’s limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Make sure to allow yourself 10-15 minutes for parking.

So there you have it! Long Beach is bursting with free fun this summer, and now you’ve got the scoop on the best spots to hit up. Let’s make the most of these sunny days and create some epic memories. See you out there!