The Best Hikes in Long Beach, California

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Accessible year-round and great for all skills, the El Dorado Park Nature Trail will make you forget that you’re a short trip away from the bustling city of Long Beach. The main route is just a little over 2.5mi (4km), so it will take approximately two hours to complete the full circuit. The park is home to some of Southern California’s more indigenous wildlife, making it popular with birdwatchers and animal enthusiasts. The park can get busy during the weekends, so be sure to get here early if you want a more serene stroll.

Although it’s a more urban trail, the Marina Stadium and Marina Pacifica Loop is a scenic route along Long Beach’s gorgeous waterfront. The 5mi (8km) path will take you past some of the charming houses and quays in the area, with plenty of potential rest points for those wanting a bite to eat. Although the route is open to the public, parts of it take you through private docks, so be sure to keep any dogs on leashes and noise to a minimum.

Sitting alongside some of the best beaches in the area, the Long Beach Shoreline Bike Path offers charming ocean views. If you were to follow the trail to its completion, it’s about 7mi (11km) from start to finish and is suitable for beginners and those who want to take a longer stroll. As its name suggests, certain sections of the trail are more popular with rollerbladers, cyclists and skateboarders, so be prepared for some congested areas.

Taking you through the charming neighborhood of Naples, this trail offers a great way to explore the canals and waterways of Long Beach. As it’s a shorter trail, the route is ideal for a Sunday stroll and for getting a better look at the neighborhood’s distinctive character. If you are looking for something a little different at the end of your walk, consider taking one of the gondola rides that still operate in the area.

One of the more secluded paths on this list, the Dominguez Gap Trail is a perfect hike for discovering some of Long Beach’s extensive wetlands. Although it’s a relatively short track at 2mi (3km), the area has a wide variety of local birds, including ducks, hawks and cormorants. The path has little shade along the way, so be sure to apply sunscreen before setting off. Also, if possible, visit in the spring for a chance to see the park’s wildflowers in bloom.

The Colorado Lagoon Loop is a nice, steady trail ideally suited for families. It has light traffic and takes you around the Colorado Lagoon Park, which features a small beach perfect for a quick dip. A nature center and picnic area are also included on the route, adding some interesting rest spots along the way.