Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in City of Long Beach
Where to look for an Airbnb in City of Long Beach
West End
The West End neighborhood is known for its laid-back vibe, colorful bungalows, and lively bar and café scene. Vacation rentals in City of Long Beach here place visitors steps from the beach, nightlife, and local shops. The neighborhood is walkable and ideal for those who enjoy a social atmosphere by the sea. Guests will appreciate a mix of charm and convenience in this popular area.
The Canals
The Canals offer a peaceful setting with picturesque waterways, docks, and homes lining narrow inlets. Airbnbs in City of Long Beach in this area often include balconies, patios, and waterfront views perfect for quiet mornings. Visitors can kayak through the canals or take scenic walks along residential streets. This neighborhood is great for travelers seeking tranquility near the water.
Central District
The Central District includes the Long Beach LIRR station, City Hall, and an array of shops and restaurants along Park Avenue. Guests staying in vacation rentals in City of Long Beach in this area benefit from walkable access to both the beach and transportation. The area provides urban convenience with coastal flavor. Travelers who want quick rail access to Manhattan while enjoying a beachside stay will find this location ideal.
East End
The East End features quieter beaches, wider streets, and a mix of family homes and condos. Airbnbs in City of Long Beach in this neighborhood are perfect for visitors who prefer a peaceful environment with space to spread out. The area is close to tennis courts, playgrounds, and scenic dunes. Guests looking for a slower pace with easy beach access will enjoy staying here.
North Park
North Park is an up-and-coming residential neighborhood with a strong sense of community and growing local amenities. Vacation rentals in City of Long Beach in this area tend to offer larger homes and quieter settings for longer stays. Visitors can explore nearby parks or drive just a few minutes to reach the beach and downtown attractions. This district works well for travelers looking for value and a more local experience.
What to do if you spend a vacation in City of Long Beach
Long Beach Boardwalk
The Long Beach Boardwalk stretches over two miles along the Atlantic and is a favorite spot for walking, biking, and oceanfront people-watching. Guests can rent bikes, grab a smoothie, or catch the sunrise during a morning jog. The boardwalk also features public art and seasonal pop-up events. It’s a central hub of activity for both locals and visitors.
Long Beach Beach
Long Beach Beach is wide, clean, and lifeguard-protected, attracting swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers throughout the summer. Visitors can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and take surf lessons from local instructors. The beach hosts volleyball games, yoga sessions, and movie nights during peak season. Access is easy from many vacation rentals in City of Long Beach.
Magnolia Playground and Skate Park
Magnolia Playground and Skate Park offers a space for families and skaters to enjoy outdoor fun near the beachfront. The park includes a modern playground, skate features, and open seating for parents. It’s a great stop for those traveling with kids or teens. The setting is active, energetic, and close to dining and the beach.
Long Beach Historical & Preservation Society Museum
Located in a historic craftsman-style home, this museum tells the story of Long Beach through photographs, exhibits, and memorabilia. Visitors can learn about the town’s transformation from a beach resort to a year-round community. The museum also hosts seasonal events and walking tours. History enthusiasts will enjoy a deeper look at local heritage.
Kennedy Plaza Farmers Market
Held weekly during the warmer months, the Kennedy Plaza Farmers Market offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music. Guests can shop from local vendors, enjoy lunch at a food truck, or pick up souvenirs. The market is centrally located near the boardwalk and City Hall. This event brings community spirit and flavor to every visit.
Fishing at Magnolia Pier
Magnolia Pier provides a great spot for casual fishing with views of the bay and skyline. Visitors can cast a line, enjoy the breeze, and chat with local anglers. The pier is especially scenic at sunset and makes a great detour after a beach day. Fishing gear is available at nearby shops for those looking to join in.
Arts In The Plaza
Arts In The Plaza is a summer art fair held on weekends, showcasing regional artists, craftspeople, and musicians. The plaza transforms into a lively open-air gallery with everything from paintings to handmade jewelry. Visitors can enjoy live performances while browsing creative works. This recurring event highlights the artistic energy of the community.
Nearby Surf School Experiences
Long Beach is a popular surf destination, and several surf schools offer lessons and board rentals for all ages and skill levels. Guests can take beginner classes, join group surf sessions, or watch competitions during seasonal surf events. Lessons take place right off the main beach near the boardwalk. Surfing here adds an active, authentic touch to a coastal escape.
Where to find a vacation rental near Long Beach, New York
New York City, New York
Located just under an hour northwest, New York City offers an unmatched variety of culture, entertainment, and iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore Central Park, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or catch a Broadway show. Stay in a vacation rental in New York City with views stretching across Manhattan or nestled in a Brooklyn brownstone. NYC’s endless energy and global appeal provide a dramatic and exciting contrast to Long Beach’s relaxed oceanside setting.
Brooklyn, New York
About 50 minutes from Long Beach, Brooklyn is known for its creative energy, food scene, and historic brownstone neighborhoods. Travelers can explore Prospect Park, enjoy views from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, or visit museums like the Brooklyn Museum. Unwind in a loft apartment in Brooklyn surrounded by cafés, galleries, and leafy streets. Brooklyn's cultural depth and dynamic neighborhoods offer an urban twist to a beachside stay in Long Beach.
Queens, New York
Just 30 minutes north, Queens is New York City’s most diverse borough, home to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Citi Field, and an incredible range of global cuisine. Visitors can explore MoMA PS1, tour The Louis Armstrong House, or catch a tennis match at the US Open. Enjoy access to culture and cuisine from a vacation rental in Queens in vibrant neighborhoods like Astoria or Forest Hills. Queens’ international flavor and cultural offerings make it a compelling counterpart to Long Beach.
Hempstead, New York
Located about 20 minutes north of Long Beach, Hempstead is one of Long Island’s most populous towns, offering shopping, parks, and easy access to nearby beaches. Visitors can explore Hempstead Lake State Park, enjoy local eateries, or take a short drive to Nassau County attractions. Find suburban comfort in a house in Hempstead with a yard and easy beach access. Hempstead’s convenience and accessibility make it a logical nearby stay.
Staten Island, New York
Roughly 90 minutes west, Staten Island offers a quieter side of New York City with beaches, parks, and panoramic views of the harbor. Guests can ride the Staten Island Ferry, visit Snug Harbor Cultural Center, or explore Staten Island Greenbelt. Experience local life from a vacation home in Staten Island near the waterfront or nestled in its green neighborhoods. Staten Island’s laid-back feel and natural spaces offer a relaxing break from the city and a scenic contrast to Long Beach.
Discover more serene beach escapes and lush nature retreats in the United States.
The City of Long Beach offers some delightful beachside experiences, yet the allure of exploring other captivating shores should not be overlooked. Consider visiting the scenic shores of San Diego with a stay at a Del Mar airbnb, where rolling waves meet the sun-kissed sands. If your wanderlust takes you to the Gulf Coast, seek out charming lodging in Bonita Springs, famed for its tranquil beaches and lush nature. For a Hawaiian adventure, the serene waters and palm-fringed beaches await, and you can find some of the most breathtaking rentals at Kikaua Point to complete your stay.
While Long Beach’s natural beauty entices visitors, those craving a deeper connection with nature will find endless possibilities elsewhere in the US. Venture into Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains for unforgettable experiences and discover various airbnb options in Gatlinburg to embrace the mountainous scenery fully. Georgia’s Alpine-inspired charm can be enjoyed with vacation rentals in Helen, nestled amongst lush forests and serene rivers. New England’s more rugged landscapes offer a distinct character, best experienced with vacation rentals in Maine. Finally, the rolling hills and diverse ecosystems of West Virginia provide a unique backdrop for those who choose holiday homes in West Virginia, perfect for a nature-inspired getaway.