How to Get Around Long Beach Without a Car

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its cultural diversity, scenic waterfront, and thriving downtown scene. Yet, despite its urban energy, many assume that navigating Long Beach requires a personal vehicle. The truth? You dont need a car to experience everything this city has to offer. With a thoughtful blend of public transit, bike infrastructure, ride-sharing options, and pedestrian-friendly zones, Long Beach is increasingly accessible to those who choose to live, work, or explore without wheels. This guide offers a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to moving through Long Beach without relying on a carwhether youre a resident, a student, a tourist, or someone committed to sustainable living. By the end of this guide, youll understand how to plan efficient routes, leverage local resources, avoid common pitfalls, and enjoy the freedom of a car-free lifestyle in one of Southern Californias most walkable cities.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand Long Beachs Public Transit Network

The backbone of car-free mobility in Long Beach is the Long Beach Transit (LBT) system. Operated by the city, LBT provides an extensive network of bus routes that connect neighborhoods, shopping districts, medical centers, educational institutions, and major transit hubs. The system includes local routes, express services, and even a dedicated bus rapid transit line called the Blue Linea high-frequency service running along the 7th Street corridor from Downtown Long Beach to the Los Angeles County Metros Green Line at the Willow Street Station.

To begin your journey, identify your starting point and destination. Use the LBT website or mobile app to map your route. Most local buses run from 5:00 a.m. to midnight, with reduced service on weekends. The Blue Line operates every 1015 minutes during peak hours, making it ideal for commuters. Fares are affordable: a single ride costs $1.75, and day passes are available for $5. Transfers between LBT buses are free within two hours of initial boarding.

Dont overlook connections to regional transit. The Long Beach Transit Mall, located in downtown, serves as a major hub where you can transfer to Metro Bus lines heading toward Los Angeles, Compton, or the San Pedro waterfront. This makes it possible to travel to LAX, USC, or the Getty Center without ever touching a car.

2. Master the Long Beach Bike Share Program

Long Beach launched its public bike-share system, Long Beach Bike Share, in 2017. With over 150 stations strategically placed across downtown, the waterfront, the University of Southern California (USC) Health Sciences Campus, and key commercial corridors, its one of the most efficient ways to cover short to medium distances quickly.

To use the system, download the BCycle app (the operators platform), create an account, and pay a daily, weekly, or annual fee. The first 30 minutes of each ride are free with most passes. Stations are equipped with touchscreen kiosks and are clearly marked with blue and white signage. Bikes are available 24/7, and you can return them to any station in the network.

For safety and efficiency, stick to designated bike lanes. Long Beach has invested in over 100 miles of protected and painted bike lanes, including the popular Long Beach Bike Patha 16-mile paved trail running along the coast from the Belmont Shore neighborhood to the Los Angeles County line. This path is perfect for leisure rides, commuting, or connecting to neighboring cities like Seal Beach and Naples.

3. Walk with Confidence Using Pedestrian-Friendly Infrastructure

Long Beach has made significant strides in becoming more walkable. Downtown, the Pike Outlets, the Arts District, and the Shoreline Village area are all designed with wide sidewalks, pedestrian signals, and low-speed traffic zones. Many streets, such as 4th Street and 5th Street, feature curb extensions, pedestrian islands, and crosswalks with countdown timers.

Start by mapping out walkable corridors. The distance from the Long Beach Convention Center to the RMS Queen Mary is just under 1.5 milesa manageable walk that takes about 30 minutes and offers scenic views of the harbor. Similarly, walking from the Long Beach City College campus to the downtown library (approximately 1.8 miles) is safe, well-lit, and lined with cafes and public art.

Use Google Maps walking directions to plan routes with the fewest intersections and best lighting. Avoid poorly maintained sidewalks in industrial zones or near the airport; stick to the citys designated Walkable Corridors, which are regularly maintained and monitored.

4. Utilize Ride-Hailing and Micro-Mobility Options

While not a replacement for public transit, ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft play a valuable role in filling gaps in coverageespecially during late-night hours or for trips to locations beyond walking or biking distance.

Use these services strategically: combine them with public transit for first-mile/last-mile connections. For example, take a bus to the Willow Street Metro station, then use Uber to reach your final destination if its more than a half-mile from the stop. This approach reduces cost and environmental impact.

Also consider micro-mobility: electric scooters from companies like Lime, Bird, and Voi are widely available in Long Beach. These are ideal for trips under two miles. Download their apps, scan the QR code on the scooter, and ride. Always wear a helmet, obey speed limits (15 mph max), and park responsibly in designated zones. Avoid riding on sidewalks in downtown areasuse bike lanes instead.

5. Plan Around Major Transit Hubs

Knowing where to transfer between systems is critical. The three most important transit hubs in Long Beach are:

• Long Beach Transit Mall (5th and Pine Streets): The central transfer point for LBT buses and Metro Bus lines.
• Willow Street Station: Connects the LBT Blue Line to the Metro Green Line, providing access to the rest of the Los Angeles metro area.
• Long Beach Airport Station: A newer stop on the Blue Line that links directly to the airport terminal via a short, covered walkway.

Always check the schedule before heading to a hub. During holidays or special events (like the Long Beach Grand Prix or the Long Beach Jazz Festival), transit routes may be rerouted or suspended. The LBT website and app provide real-time alerts.

6. Leverage University and Institutional Shuttles

Long Beach is home to several major educational institutions, each offering free or low-cost shuttle services to students, faculty, and sometimes the public:

• California State University, Long Beach (CSULB): Operates the Beach Bus, which runs every 1520 minutes during weekdays between campus, the Long Beach Transit Mall, and nearby residential areas.
• Long Beach City College (LBCC): Provides free shuttles between its two campuses (Pacifica and Liberal Arts) and key bus stops.
• Keck Medicine of USC: Offers a shuttle from the Long Beach Medical Center to the downtown transit mall for patients and visitors.

These shuttles are often underutilized by non-students. If youre visiting a medical facility, attending an event, or even just exploring campus art galleries, check their websites for public access policies.

7. Coordinate with Local Events and Pop-Up Services

Long Beach hosts over 100 community events annually, many of which include complimentary shuttle services or extended transit hours. Examples include:

• The Long Beach Pride Parade (June): Free shuttles run from parking lots to the event zone.
• Long Beach Jazz Festival (July): Extended LBT service until 2 a.m. on event nights.
• Summer Nights at the Pike: Free trolley service loops between the Pike, Shoreline Village, and the Aquarium of the Pacific.

Subscribe to the City of Long Beachs events calendar or follow @LongBeachCA on social media to stay informed. Many events also offer bike valet services and free parking for bicycles, making it easy to combine cycling with public festivities.

Best Practices

1. Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible

While transit schedules are generally reliable, delays can occur due to traffic, weather, or construction. Always allow 1520 minutes of buffer time between connections. Use real-time tracking apps like Transit or Google Maps to monitor bus locations. If your bus is running late, consider switching to a bike or scooter for the final leg of your trip.

2. Carry a Backup Power Source

Your smartphone is your lifeline for navigation, schedules, and ride-hailing. Always carry a portable charger. Many LBT buses and transit hubs now offer USB charging stations, but dont rely on them. A fully charged phone ensures you can access maps, contact support, or unlock a bike-share vehicle when needed.

3. Pack Light, But Be Prepared

Carrying a small backpack with essentialswater, snacks, a light jacket, and a foldable umbrellamakes transitions smoother. Long Beach weather can shift quickly, especially near the coast. A compact foldable bike lock is also useful if you plan to park your bike at a station for extended periods.

4. Learn the Local Etiquette

On buses, offer seats to seniors, pregnant individuals, or those with disabilities. Avoid loud phone conversations. On bike paths, yield to pedestrians and use a bell or voice to alert others when passing. In downtown areas, avoid blocking sidewalks with scooters or bikesuse designated parking racks.

5. Use Off-Peak Hours for Maximum Efficiency

Traveling during off-peak hours (10 a.m.3 p.m. on weekdays, or early mornings on weekends) often means fewer crowds, shorter wait times, and more available bike-share vehicles. If your schedule allows, take advantage of these windows to reduce stress and improve your commute experience.

6. Engage with the Community

Join local groups like the Long Beach Bicycle Coalition or the Walkable Long Beach Initiative. These organizations offer free workshops on route planning, safety training, and advocacy. Participating helps you stay informed about upcoming infrastructure improvements and gives you a voice in shaping the citys future mobility landscape.

7. Monitor for Service Changes

Long Beach Transit occasionally updates routes based on ridership data and city development. For example, in 2023, the Blue Line was extended to include a new stop near the Long Beach Museum of Art. Subscribe to LBTs email newsletter or follow their Twitter account (@LongBeachTransit) for real-time updates.

Tools and Resources

1. Long Beach Transit App

The official Long Beach Transit App (available on iOS and Android) provides real-time bus tracking, route planning, fare payment, and service alerts. Its the most reliable tool for navigating the citys bus network. You can purchase digital passes directly through the app, eliminating the need for cash or physical tickets.

2. Google Maps

Google Maps has excellent transit integration for Long Beach. When you enter a destination, select the transit icon to see all available options: bus, bike, walk, and ride-hail. It calculates travel time, transfers, and even estimates how many stairs or elevators youll encounterhelpful for accessibility planning.

3. Transit App

The Transit App (transitapp.com) is a third-party platform that aggregates data from multiple transit systems. Its particularly useful for planning multi-modal tripslike combining a bus ride with a bike-share segment. The app also shows live vehicle locations and estimated arrival times with greater accuracy than some official apps.

4. Long Beach Bike Share App

Download the BCycle App to locate nearby stations, unlock bikes, and view pricing. The app includes a map of all 150+ stations, real-time bike availability, and instructions for proper parking. It also tracks your ride history and carbon savings.

5. City of Long Beach Mobility Map

The citys official Mobility Map is an interactive web tool that displays all bike lanes, sidewalks, transit stops, and pedestrian crossings. Its ideal for visual learners and those planning new routes. You can filter by accessibility features, lighting, and surface quality.

6. Ride Share Discount Codes

Uber and Lyft occasionally offer promotions for Long Beach residents. Check local community boards, university newsletters, or the citys sustainability portal for discount codes. Some employers and schools provide subsidized ride-hail credits for employees and students.

7. Local Libraries and Community Centers

Long Beach Public Libraries offer free Wi-Fi, computer access, and printed transit maps. Staff can assist with route planning. Some branches, like the Main Library and the Lakewood Library, have bike repair stations and loaner helmets available for public use.

8. Accessible Transit Resources

For individuals with mobility challenges, Long Beach Transit offers ADA-compliant paratransit service called Access Long Beach. This door-to-door service requires pre-registration but is available to those who qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Visit their website for eligibility details and application forms.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Student Commuting from Lakewood to CSULB

Sarah, a freshman at CSULB, lives in Lakewood with no car. Her daily routine begins at 7:15 a.m. with a 10-minute walk to the Lakewood Center bus stop. She boards the LBT Route 11, which runs every 20 minutes and arrives at the CSULB campus at 8:00 a.m. After class, she takes the Beach Bus (free for students) to the Transit Mall at 4:00 p.m., then transfers to the Blue Line to reach her apartment near 4th and Pine. On Fridays, she bikes the last mile home using a bike-share from the mall. Total weekly transit cost: $12 for a 7-day pass. She saves over $200 monthly compared to owning a car.

Example 2: A Tourist Exploring Long Beach in One Day

Michael, visiting from Chicago, arrives at Long Beach Airport and wants to see the Queen Mary, Shoreline Village, and the Aquarium of the Pacific. He takes the free airport shuttle (operated by LBT) to the Airport Station, then rides the Blue Line to the Downtown Transit Mall (15 minutes). He walks 10 minutes to the Aquarium, then takes the Summer Nights Trolley (free) to Shoreline Village. He bikes the 2-mile path back to his hotel along the coast, enjoying ocean views. Total cost: $0 for transit (trolley is free), $5 for a bike-share day pass. He spends less than $10 on transportation for the entire day.

Example 3: A Healthcare Worker Traveling to Keck Medicine

Maria works the night shift at Keck Medicine of USCs Long Beach facility. Her apartment is in the North Long Beach neighborhood. She takes the LBT Route 23 bus to the Transit Mall, then transfers to the Keck shuttle, which runs until 1 a.m. on weekdays. On weekends, she uses Uber for the final 1.2-mile leg. She tracks her rides using the Transit App and has saved $1,800 annually by not owning a car. She also bikes to work on sunny mornings, parking her bike in the hospitals secure rack.

Example 4: A Family Visiting the Long Beach Zoo

The Rivera familyparents and two childrenarrive by Metro Bus from Compton. They transfer at the Transit Mall to LBT Route 4, which drops them off at the zoo entrance. They walk through the zoo, then take the same bus back. They bring their own snacks and refill water bottles at the zoos hydration stations. The children enjoy the free trolley ride between the zoo and the adjacent botanical gardens. Total cost: $3.50 per person for a round-trip bus fare. No parking fees, no fuel costs, no stress.

FAQs

Is it safe to walk or bike in Long Beach at night?

Yes, in most areas. Downtown, the waterfront, and major corridors like 4th Street and the Bike Path are well-lit and patrolled. Avoid isolated industrial zones near the port or unlit side streets in East Long Beach after dark. Use apps to check crime maps and stick to main roads. Many bike-share stations have built-in lighting, and scooters have front and rear lights.

Can I bring a bike on Long Beach Transit buses?

Yes. All LBT buses are equipped with front-mounted bike racks that hold up to two bicycles. Load and unload at your own pacethe driver will assist if needed. Bikes are free to carry. Folding bikes can be brought on board as luggage.

Are there any free transportation options in Long Beach?

Yes. The Summer Nights Trolley, CSULB Beach Bus, LBCC shuttles, and the airport shuttle are all free. Some employers and schools offer free transit passes. The Long Beach Public Library also provides free transit maps and route assistance.

How reliable is Long Beach Transit?

Most routes run on schedule, especially the Blue Line. Delays can occur during rush hour or special events. Real-time tracking apps improve reliability. LBTs on-time performance rate is approximately 88%, which is above average for a city of its size.

Can I use my Metro TAP card on Long Beach Transit?

No. Long Beach Transit uses its own fare system. However, you can transfer from Metro Bus to LBT buses using cash or a paper transfer. Digital transfers are handled automatically through the LBT app.

What if I need to travel outside Long Beach without a car?

Use the Blue Line to connect to the Metro Green Line at Willow Street Station. From there, you can reach downtown LA, Carson, Torrance, and even LAX via the Metro C Line. For destinations like Santa Monica or Pasadena, transfer to Metro Bus lines at the Transit Mall.

Are electric scooters legal in Long Beach?

Yes, but with rules. Scooters must be ridden in bike lanes or on streets with speed limits under 25 mph. They cannot be ridden on sidewalks in downtown or near schools. Helmets are recommended for all riders and required for those under 18. Always park upright in designated zones.

How do I report a broken bike rack or unsafe sidewalk?

Use the City of Long Beachs 311 app or website to submit a service request. You can also call (562) 570-3111. The city responds to infrastructure issues within 710 business days.

Conclusion

Getting around Long Beach without a car isnt just possibleits practical, affordable, and increasingly enjoyable. With a well-connected public transit network, a growing bike-share system, safe pedestrian corridors, and smart use of micro-mobility tools, the city offers a compelling alternative to car dependency. Whether youre commuting to work, exploring cultural landmarks, or simply running errands, the tools and resources are in place to make your journey seamless.

The key to success lies in planning, flexibility, and familiarity with local systems. Start small: try walking to the nearest bus stop one day, then add a bike-share ride the next. Over time, youll discover that car-free living in Long Beach isnt a compromiseits an upgrade. Youll save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and experience the city in a more intimate, human way.

Long Beach is evolving into a model of sustainable urban mobility. By choosing to move without a car, youre not just navigating the cityyoure helping shape its future. So grab your phone, load your transit app, and step out. The coast is calling, and you dont need wheels to answer.