How to Visit the Long Beach Marathon Cheaply

The Long Beach Marathon is one of Southern California’s most iconic running events, drawing thousands of athletes and spectators each year with its scenic coastal route, vibrant atmosphere, and historic significance. Held annually in early December, the marathon winds through downtown Long Beach, past the iconic Pike Outlets, along the waterfront, and under the majestic Queen Mary, offering runners and visitors a unique blend of urban energy and oceanfront serenity. But while the event itself is celebrated for its charm and organization, the cost of attending—especially for out-of-town participants—can quickly add up. Flights, accommodations, food, and transportation often make the experience financially daunting.

This guide is designed to help you visit the Long Beach Marathon without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a runner aiming to complete your 26.2-mile goal or a supporter planning to cheer on a loved one, this tutorial provides actionable, budget-conscious strategies to experience the full magic of the marathon while minimizing expenses. From securing the cheapest lodging options to leveraging free entertainment and public transit, every step is crafted for real-world savings. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a comprehensive roadmap to attend the Long Beach Marathon affordably—without sacrificing the experience.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Trip at Least 4–6 Months in Advance

One of the most effective ways to reduce costs when attending any major event is early planning. The Long Beach Marathon typically takes place on the first Sunday of December. Start researching and booking at least four to six months ahead to take advantage of early-bird pricing on registration, flights, and accommodations. Hotels in Long Beach and surrounding areas begin to fill up rapidly after October, and prices can double or even triple as the event nears.

Set up price alerts on travel platforms like Google Flights, Hopper, and Kayak for round-trip flights to Long Beach Airport (LGB) or nearby Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). LAX often offers more flight options and competitive fares, especially if you’re flying from outside California. Consider flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) to avoid weekend surcharges and return on Monday to avoid peak departure pricing.

2. Register for the Marathon During Early Bird Periods

The Long Beach Marathon offers tiered registration pricing, with the lowest rates available during the early bird window—usually opening in late January or early February. Prices rise incrementally through the spring and summer, with final registration rates often exceeding $150 for the full marathon and $85 for the half. If you’re a runner, locking in early bird pricing can save you $30–$60 outright.

Sign up for the official marathon newsletter and follow their social media channels to be notified the moment registration opens. Many runners also qualify for discounted entry through charity partnerships. Organizations like the American Cancer Society or local youth foundations often offer guaranteed entry in exchange for fundraising commitments, which can be a cost-effective route if you’re already inclined to support a cause.

3. Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Staying in downtown Long Beach during the marathon is convenient—but expensive. Hotel rooms within a mile of the start/finish line can cost $250–$400 per night during event weekend. Instead, consider these alternatives:

• Stay in nearby cities: Cities like Signal Hill, Lakewood, or Paramount offer significantly lower rates (often under $100/night) and are just 10–15 minutes from the marathon route via car or public transit.
• Book a vacation rental: Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo often have entire homes or private rooms available for less than hotel rates, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Look for listings with kitchens to save on meals.
• Consider hostels or university housing: Cal State Long Beach sometimes opens dorm rooms to visitors during major events. These are basic but clean, safe, and priced under $70/night.
• Use loyalty programs: If you’re a member of hotel chains like Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors, check for member-only discounts or points redemption options.

Book your lodging as soon as you register for the race. Many runners wait too long and end up paying premium rates for last-minute stays.

4. Use Public Transportation and Ride-Sharing Wisely

Long Beach has a surprisingly robust public transit system, especially for a city of its size. The Long Beach Transit system offers free shuttle buses on marathon weekend that connect major parking areas, hotels, and key points along the course. These shuttles are free for registered runners and often available to spectators with a valid race bib or event pass.

Additionally, the Metro C Line (Green Line) connects LAX to downtown Long Beach in under 45 minutes for just $1.75 per ride. If you fly into LAX, take the Metro Green Line to Willowbrook/Rosa Parks Station, then transfer to the Long Beach Transit Line 101 or 110 to reach your accommodation or the race start. This entire trip costs less than $5 and avoids expensive airport shuttles or Uber surge pricing.

For short-distance travel during the event, consider using Lime or Bird scooters for quick trips between hotels and viewing spots. They’re cheaper than taxis and more flexible than walking long distances in the heat.

5. Pack Your Own Food and Snacks

Food and beverage costs at the marathon expo, along the course, and in downtown Long Beach can easily exceed $50 per person per day. To avoid this, pack your own snacks and meals. Bring:

• Energy gels and bars (for runners)
• Trail mix, bananas, and granola bars (for spectators)
• Reusable water bottles (many hydration stations are free, but having your own reduces the need to buy bottled water)
• Non-perishable sandwiches or wraps

Many hotels and vacation rentals include a small kitchenette or microwave. Use it to prepare simple breakfasts or reheated meals. Grocery stores like Trader Joe’s, Target, and Ralphs are located near major transit corridors and offer affordable, healthy options.

6. Attend Free Events and Festivals

The Long Beach Marathon weekend includes more than just the race. The expo, held Friday and Saturday at the Long Beach Convention Center, is free to attend and features vendor booths, gear demos, and free samples. Even if you’re not running, the expo is worth visiting for the atmosphere and freebies.

Additionally, check out the free “Marathon Festival” events hosted by the city. These often include live music, food trucks (with affordable pricing), kids’ activities, and runner meetups. The waterfront area near the Pike Outlets hosts free evening concerts on Friday and Saturday nights. Bring a blanket and enjoy the show under the stars—no ticket required.

7. Watch the Race from Free Viewing Spots

You don’t need to pay for VIP seating or premium viewing packages to experience the marathon’s excitement. The best spectator spots are completely free:

• Start Line (Downtown Long Beach): The race begins near the Long Beach Convention Center. Arrive early to secure a spot near the starting arch. The energy here is electric.
• 3-Mile Mark (Rainbow Harbor): A scenic spot with views of the harbor and yachts. Fewer crowds here than at the finish.
• 10-Mile Mark (Catalina Way): A quieter stretch with benches and shade—ideal for families.
• Finish Line (Pier Plaza): The most popular spot, but also the most crowded. Arrive by 9:30 AM to get close to the finish arch. Bring a chair or blanket if allowed.

Use the official marathon course map (available on the website) to identify shaded areas, restrooms, and water stations near your chosen viewing point. Avoid paying for bleacher seating—free spots offer just as much excitement.

8. Travel in a Group to Split Costs

If you have friends or family who also want to attend, consider pooling resources. Rent a larger vacation home together and split the cost. Share a car to avoid parking fees and ride-share charges. Coordinate meals to buy groceries in bulk. Even splitting the cost of a shuttle from LAX can reduce individual expenses by 50–75%.

Group travel also increases your chances of getting group discounts on registration. Some charity partners offer reduced entry fees for teams of 5 or more. Check the official website for group registration options.

9. Use Student, Military, and Senior Discounts

Many services offer discounts to specific groups. If you’re a student, active-duty military member, or senior citizen, ask about discounts on:

• Marathon registration
• Hotel stays
• Public transit passes
• Attractions like the Queen Mary or Aquarium of the Pacific

Bring a valid ID to qualify. Some hotels offer up to 20% off for military personnel, and students can often get discounted tickets to the marathon expo or related events.

10. Avoid Last-Minute Add-Ons

During registration, you’ll be offered upgrades: medal engraving, race photos, premium finisher shirts, and VIP packages. These can add $50–$150 to your total. Unless these are meaningful to you, decline them. Your finisher medal is included in the base registration. You can purchase high-quality race photos later from the official photographer’s website for less than the bundled price.

Similarly, avoid buying branded merchandise at the expo unless it’s essential. Many items are available year-round online at a discount, or you can find similar gear at local thrift stores or discount retailers.

Best Practices

Set a Realistic Budget and Track Spending

Before you even register for the marathon, determine your total spending limit. Break it down into categories: registration ($60–$150), lodging ($100–$300/night), transportation ($50–$150), food ($30–$70/day), and incidentals ($20–$50). Stick to that budget religiously.

Use a free budgeting app like Mint or Google Sheets to log every expense during your trip. Seeing your spending in real time helps prevent impulse buys and keeps you accountable.

Travel Off-Peak Days

If your schedule allows, arrive on Wednesday or Thursday and depart on Monday. This avoids the peak hotel and flight demand of Friday–Sunday. You’ll also have more time to explore Long Beach without crowds. The city is vibrant year-round, and visiting the beach, visiting the Aquarium of the Pacific, or walking the Shoreline Pedestrian Path on a quiet day can be just as rewarding.

Use Cashback and Rewards Programs

Sign up for cashback apps like Rakuten or Ibotta before booking your flights, hotels, or groceries. You can earn 5–10% back on qualifying purchases. Use a credit card that offers travel rewards—points can be redeemed for future trips or gift cards. Just ensure you pay off your balance to avoid interest charges.

Book Flexible Cancellations

Even with the best planning, things change. Book accommodations and flights with free cancellation policies. Many budget hotels and vacation rentals now offer “free cancellation until 24 hours before check-in.” This gives you peace of mind and the flexibility to adjust your plans if needed—without penalty.

Prepare for Weather and Comfort

December in Long Beach averages 60–70°F during the day and 50–55°F at night. Pack layers: a light jacket, moisture-wicking base layers, and a hat. Avoid buying expensive running gear on-site. Bring your own hat, gloves, and sunscreen. The sun can be strong even in winter, and wind off the ocean can be chilly.

Connect with Local Runners

Join the Long Beach Marathon Facebook group or Reddit community before you go. Local runners often share tips on free parking, hidden food spots, and last-minute shuttle updates. You might even find someone offering a spare couch or a ride from the airport.

Arrive Early on Race Day

Arriving at the start line by 5:30 AM ensures you avoid traffic, find parking (or a drop-off spot), and secure a good viewing position if you’re spectating. Early arrival also means you can use the free porta-potties before the lines get long. Bring a headlamp or flashlight if you’re walking in the dark—many areas are well-lit, but it’s better to be prepared.

Stay Hydrated and Energized

Even if you’re not running, walking around the course for hours can be physically taxing. Carry electrolyte tablets or drink water regularly. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and poor decision-making—like buying overpriced drinks or snacks you don’t need.

Tools and Resources

Official Long Beach Marathon Website

www.longbeachmarathon.com is your primary resource for course maps, registration details, shuttle schedules, and event updates. Bookmark it and check it weekly as the event approaches. The site is updated regularly with FAQs, weather forecasts, and volunteer opportunities.

Google Maps and Transit Apps

Use Google Maps to plan walking routes from your hotel to key locations. Switch to “Transit” mode to see real-time bus schedules. Download the Long Beach Transit app for live bus tracking and route alerts.

Flight and Hotel Comparison Tools

• Google Flights: Best for tracking price trends and setting alerts.
• Hopper: Predicts whether prices will rise or fall and recommends when to book.
• Kayak: Compares hotels, flights, and rental cars in one place.
• HotelsCombined: Aggregates prices across Booking.com, Expedia, and others.

Free Entertainment and Local Guides

• Visit Long Beach: www.visitlongbeach.com offers curated free and low-cost itineraries.
• Long Beach Post: Local news site with event calendars and hidden gems.
• Meetup.com: Search for “Long Beach Marathon” groups to connect with fellow attendees.

Discount and Coupon Sites

• Coupons.com: Offers printable coupons for grocery stores and local restaurants.
• Student Beans / UNiDAYS: If you’re a student, verify your status for discounts on hotels, flights, and food.
• AAA Membership: Offers discounts on hotels, rental cars, and attractions—even if you’re not driving.

Free Race Photo Sites

While official race photos are paid, many spectators take high-quality photos along the course. Use Instagram hashtags like

LongBeachMarathon2024 or #LBM2024 to find candid shots of runners you know. Often, friends or strangers will tag you in their posts—free, authentic memories.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah, a Runner from Arizona

Sarah, a 32-year-old teacher from Phoenix, wanted to run her first marathon. She didn’t have a large budget but was determined to make it happen. She:

• Registered during early bird ($99 instead of $149)
• Flew into LAX on a Tuesday for $120 round-trip (booked 5 months in advance)
• Stayed in a private room at a Cal State dorm for $65/night (3 nights = $195)
• Took the Metro Green Line to Long Beach ($1.75 each way = $7 total)
• Packed her own meals and snacks, spending only $15 on food
• Watched the race from the finish line with friends, no paid tickets
• Used a free shuttle from her hotel to the start line

Total cost: $326. She finished the marathon, enjoyed the festival, and saved over $1,200 compared to a typical traveler’s budget.

Example 2: The Martinez Family, Spectators from San Diego

The Martinez family—parents and two teens—wanted to cheer on their daughter running the half marathon. Instead of booking a hotel, they:

• Stayed at home in San Diego and drove to Long Beach (30 minutes, $12 in gas)
• Packed a picnic lunch and reusable water bottles
• Used free parking at the Long Beach Transit Center (valid with race bib)
• Attended the free expo on Saturday and took photos with runners
• Watched the race from Rainbow Harbor and the finish line
• Did not buy any merchandise or paid experiences

Total cost: $45. They spent the day enjoying the event, took home memories, and returned home with money in their pockets.

Example 3: James, a Veteran Using Military Discounts

James, a retired Marine, used his veteran ID to get:

• 30% off a hotel at the Hyatt Regency ($220 → $154/night)
• Free entry to the Aquarium of the Pacific ($40 value)
• Discounted registration ($110 instead of $150)
• Free bus passes from Long Beach Transit

He stayed two nights, attended the expo, ran the half marathon, and explored the waterfront—all for under $300. He said, “I’ve done this race five times. This was the most affordable—and most meaningful—yet.”

FAQs

Is it cheaper to fly into LAX or Long Beach Airport (LGB)?

Generally, LAX offers more flight options and lower fares, especially from out-of-state. While LGB is closer to the marathon route, flights are often more expensive and limited. Taking the Metro Green Line from LAX to Long Beach costs under $5 and takes under an hour.

Can I bring my dog to the marathon?

No. Dogs are not permitted on the course or in the expo area for safety and crowd control reasons. Service animals are allowed with proper documentation.

Are there free parking options near the marathon?

Yes. Long Beach Transit operates free park-and-ride lots at key locations like the Willowbrook/Rosa Parks Station and the Long Beach Transit Center. These lots connect directly to marathon shuttles. Avoid parking downtown—rates can exceed $20/day.

Do I need to buy a spectator pass?

No. All public areas along the marathon route are free to access. There are no tickets required to watch the race from sidewalks, parks, or public plazas.

What’s the best day to arrive to avoid crowds?

Wednesday or Thursday. Friday and Saturday are peak arrival days. Arriving early gives you time to settle in, explore the city, and avoid traffic and hotel check-in lines.

Can I get a refund if I can’t run?

Registration fees are non-refundable. However, you can transfer your bib to another runner up to 30 days before the event for a $25 fee. Check the official website for current policies.

Are there free water stations for spectators?

Yes. Water stations are available along the course for runners and often have extra cups for spectators. Bring your own bottle to refill. Avoid buying bottled water on-site.

What if it rains on race day?

The marathon runs rain or shine. Bring a lightweight, packable rain jacket. Most viewing areas are open-air, so waterproof footwear and a hat are recommended. The event rarely cancels due to weather.

Can I volunteer to get free entry or perks?

Yes. The Long Beach Marathon relies on hundreds of volunteers each year. Volunteers receive a free T-shirt, meal vouchers, and sometimes a bib for the following year’s race. Sign up through the official website under “Volunteer.”

How early should I book my hotel?

At least 4–6 months in advance. The best budget options sell out quickly. If you wait until November, you’ll pay premium rates or be forced to stay far from the action.

Conclusion

Visiting the Long Beach Marathon doesn’t have to be an expensive luxury—it can be a deeply rewarding, budget-friendly adventure. With thoughtful planning, smart choices, and a willingness to embrace local resources, you can experience the thrill of the race, the energy of the community, and the beauty of Long Beach without overspending. The key lies in early action: register early, book early, and plan your transportation and meals ahead of time.

By following the strategies outlined in this guide—from staying in nearby towns and using public transit to packing your own food and watching from free vantage points—you’ll not only save hundreds of dollars but also gain a more authentic, less commercialized experience. Real runners and true fans know that the heart of the marathon isn’t in the branded merchandise or VIP lounges—it’s in the cheers of strangers, the grit of the runners, and the shared joy of crossing a finish line, whether you’re running or watching.

So lace up your shoes, pack your bag, and head to Long Beach. With the right approach, you’ll leave with more than just a medal—you’ll leave with memories, savings, and the quiet satisfaction of knowing you made the most of every dollar. The finish line is waiting. Make it yours—affordably.