How to Visit the Long Beach Sea Festival

The Long Beach Sea Festival is one of Southern California’s most cherished annual events, blending marine conservation awareness, cultural celebration, and family-friendly entertainment along the iconic Pacific coastline. Held each summer in Long Beach, California, this vibrant festival draws tens of thousands of visitors from across the nation and beyond. From dazzling maritime parades and live marine biology exhibits to artisan markets and sunset concerts on the beach, the Long Beach Sea Festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with ocean ecosystems while enjoying world-class coastal festivities.

For many, planning a visit to the Long Beach Sea Festival can feel overwhelming—especially with limited information available online, conflicting schedules, and evolving local regulations. This comprehensive guide is designed to eliminate confusion and empower you with everything you need to know to experience the festival fully, responsibly, and joyfully. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a seasoned traveler, or a local resident looking to make the most of the event, this tutorial provides a clear, step-by-step roadmap to ensure your visit is seamless, memorable, and aligned with sustainable tourism principles.

By the end of this guide, you’ll understand not only how to attend the festival, but also how to engage with its mission of ocean stewardship, navigate logistics with confidence, and contribute positively to the community and environment that makes this event possible.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm the Festival Dates and Schedule

The Long Beach Sea Festival typically takes place over a five-day period in late July or early August. Exact dates vary slightly each year based on tidal patterns, weather forecasts, and city permitting schedules. To avoid disappointment, always verify the official calendar on the festival’s primary website—longbeachseafestival.org—by early spring. The site is updated annually by mid-March with confirmed dates, daily itineraries, and special event highlights.

Once dates are confirmed, download or print the full schedule. Key events include:

• Opening Ceremony & Marine Life Parade (Day 1, 10:00 AM)
• Beachside Art & Craft Market (Daily, 11:00 AM–7:00 PM)
• Seafood & Sustainability Food Fair (Daily, 12:00 PM–8:00 PM)
• Marine Science Expo & Interactive Aquariums (Day 2–4, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM)
• Surf & Sail Competitions (Day 3–5, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM)
• Fireworks & Sunset Concert on the Pier (Final Night, 8:30 PM–10:00 PM)

Some events require advance registration, particularly the guided tide pool walks, kayaking tours, and youth science workshops. Mark these on your calendar and register as soon as slots open—typically two to three weeks before the festival begins.

Step 2: Plan Your Transportation and Parking

Long Beach is a car-dependent city, but the festival is designed with accessibility in mind. Public transit, rideshares, and bike-sharing options are strongly encouraged to reduce congestion and emissions.

For those driving:

• Use the official festival parking map on longbeachseafestival.org to locate designated lots. Popular options include the Long Beach Convention Center Garage, Shoreline Village Parking Structure, and the Aquarium of the Pacific Lot.
• Arrive before 9:00 AM on event days to secure a spot. Parking fills quickly after noon.
• Consider parking at a satellite lot (e.g., the Long Beach Transit Center) and taking the free shuttle bus to the festival zone. Shuttles run every 10–15 minutes from 7:30 AM to 10:30 PM.

For public transit users:

• Take the Metro C Line (Green Line) to the Long Beach Transit Center. Transfer to the free festival shuttle or walk 15 minutes to the main event area.
• Use the Long Beach Transit bus routes 1, 4, and 23, which all serve key festival entrances.
• Download the Transit app for real-time tracking and route planning.

Biking is an excellent option. The city has over 20 miles of protected bike lanes along the waterfront. Bike racks are available at all major event entrances. Consider renting a bike from Long Beach Bike Share stations located near Shoreline Village and the Aquarium.

Step 3: Purchase Tickets and Passes

Most festival events are free and open to the public. However, certain experiences require tickets:

• Marine Science Expo Pass: $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 5–12), free for under 5. Includes access to live animal encounters, scientist Q&As, and hands-on labs.
• Surf & Sail Competitions VIP Viewing: $25 per person. Reserved seating on the pier with shaded areas, complimentary water, and exclusive commentary.
• Guided Kayak Tour of the Wetlands: $45 per person. Limited to 12 participants per tour. Must be 12+ years old. Includes all gear and a marine biologist guide.
• Family Fun Pass: $35 for up to four people. Bundles admission to the Science Expo, one food voucher, and a festival goodie bag.

Tickets are available exclusively through the official website. Avoid third-party resellers—they often charge inflated prices or sell invalid tickets. Purchase at least 48 hours in advance to ensure digital entry codes are processed and emailed to you. Print or save your tickets on your mobile device with offline access enabled.

Step 4: Prepare Your Packing List

Weather in Long Beach during summer is typically sunny with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 82°F. However, ocean breezes can make evenings cool, and sudden fog rolls in near the pier. Pack smartly:

• Clothing: Lightweight, breathable fabrics; a light jacket or sweater for evenings; wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes (sandals are discouraged due to uneven pavement and beach debris).
• Hydration: Reusable water bottle (fill stations are available throughout the festival grounds).
• Protection: Reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based, non-nano zinc oxide), insect repellent (DEET-free, ocean-safe formulas recommended), and a small towel.
• Essentials: Portable phone charger, cash (some vendors are cash-only), small backpack, and a reusable tote bag for souvenirs.
• For Families: Stroller (if needed), baby carrier, snacks, and a change of clothes for young children.

Prohibited items include glass containers, drones, pets (except certified service animals), and large coolers. Security checks are conducted at all entry points.

Step 5: Navigate the Festival Grounds

The festival spans approximately 1.5 miles along the Long Beach waterfront, from the Aquarium of the Pacific to the Pike Outlets. The area is divided into four themed zones:

• Marine Discovery Zone: Centered at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Features interactive exhibits, live animal shows, and educational booths from NOAA, Scripps Institution, and local universities.
• Coastal Arts & Crafts District: Located along Shoreline Drive. Showcases local artisans, marine-themed jewelry, upcycled ocean art, and sustainable fashion.
• Seafood & Sustainability Pavilion: Near the Long Beach Pier. Offers tastings from regional chefs using sustainably sourced seafood, zero-waste cooking demos, and composting workshops.
• Active Ocean Zone: Along the beachfront. Hosts surf competitions, paddleboard races, beach yoga, and children’s sandcastle contests.

Use the festival’s interactive map (available via QR code at entry points or on the app) to plan your route. Most attractions are within a 10–15 minute walk. Rest areas with seating, shaded canopies, and public restrooms are spaced every 500 feet.

Download the official festival app (available on iOS and Android) for real-time updates, event reminders, and live navigation. The app also features a “Green Points” system—earn points for recycling, using public transit, or attending educational talks, redeemable for festival merchandise.

Step 6: Engage Responsibly with Marine Life

One of the festival’s core values is ocean conservation. All exhibits and activities are designed to foster respect for marine ecosystems. Follow these guidelines:

• Never touch, feed, or remove marine animals—even if they appear docile. Sea turtles, seals, and seabirds are protected by federal law.
• Use only reef-safe sunscreen. Chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned in California waters and can harm coral reefs.
• Participate in the “Clean Beach Pledge” by joining one of the daily beach cleanups (sign up at the Information Booth). Each volunteer receives a commemorative reusable tote.
• Dispose of all trash in designated bins. Recycling and compost stations are clearly marked and monitored by volunteers.
• Support vendors who use biodegradable packaging and source ingredients locally. Look for the “Ocean-Friendly Vendor” badge.

By engaging mindfully, you become part of the solution—not just a spectator.

Step 7: Capture Memories Ethically

Photography is encouraged, but always prioritize the well-being of wildlife and fellow visitors.

• Do not use flash photography near animals or in quiet zones.
• Respect personal space—do not crowd people for photos.
• Use drones only in designated areas (check the app for approved zones).
• Tag the festival’s official social media handles (@LongBeachSeaFest) when posting. Your photos may be featured on their website or in the annual photo gallery.

Many photo ops are curated for visitors: the glowing jellyfish exhibit at dusk, the synchronized sailboat parade at sunset, and the illuminated pier at night. Arrive early to secure the best vantage points.

Best Practices

Arrive Early, Stay Late

Weekday mornings (Tuesday–Thursday) are the least crowded. Arriving by 8:30 AM allows you to experience exhibits before crowds build and secure prime seating for popular talks. Stay for the evening events—fireworks, concerts, and lantern releases are magical and less crowded than daytime activities.

Adopt a Zero-Waste Mindset

The festival aims for zero landfill waste by 2025. You can contribute by:

• Bringing your own reusable cup, utensils, and container.
• Choosing food vendors who use compostable packaging.
• Refusing single-use plastics—even if offered.
• Using the “Recycle & Reward” stations: return 5 clean plastic bottles for a free festival pin.

Support Local and Ethical Businesses

Over 85% of vendors are Long Beach-based. Choose local artisans, seafood restaurants using catch from the California coast, and nonprofits with transparent funding. Avoid chain brands or imported goods that contradict the festival’s sustainability mission.

Respect Cultural Traditions

The festival honors Indigenous Chumash and Tongva heritage with ceremonial performances, storytelling, and traditional dance. These events are sacred and should be observed quietly. Do not record without permission, and never interrupt performances.

Stay Informed and Flexible

Weather, tides, and safety protocols can alter schedules. Sign up for SMS alerts via the festival website. If a water-based event is canceled due to high surf or strong winds, alternative indoor workshops are always offered.

Travel with Intention

Consider extending your stay to explore Long Beach’s other ocean-focused attractions: the RMS Queen Mary, the Long Beach Museum of Art’s marine collection, or the Alamitos Bay Nature Trail. Book accommodations early—hotels fill quickly, and many offer festival discounts.

Tools and Resources

Official Festival Website

longbeachseafestival.org is your central hub. It includes:

• Live event calendar with downloadable PDFs
• Interactive map with real-time crowd levels
• Online ticketing portal
• Volunteer sign-up forms
• Accessibility accommodations (ASL interpreters, sensory-friendly zones, wheelchair rentals)

Festival Mobile App

Available on Apple App Store and Google Play. Features:

• Push notifications for schedule changes
• Augmented reality (AR) scavenger hunt for kids
• Live streaming of key performances
• Carbon footprint tracker for your visit

Public Transit Tools

• Transit App: Real-time bus and train tracking.
• Long Beach Transit Website: Schedules, fare info, and shuttle routes.
• Google Maps: Use “Transit” mode for optimized multi-modal routes.

Marine Conservation Resources

Deepen your understanding with these trusted organizations:

• NOAA Fisheries – Pacific Region: noaa.gov/fisheries
• Scripps Institution of Oceanography: scripps.ucsd.edu
• Surfrider Foundation – Long Beach Chapter: surfrider.org/long-beach
• Monterey Bay Aquarium – Seafood Watch: seafoodwatch.org

Accessibility Resources

The festival is fully ADA-compliant. Services include:

• Free wheelchair and mobility scooter rentals (reserve 48 hours in advance)
• ASL interpreters at all main stages
• Sensory-friendly hours (10:00 AM–12:00 PM daily) with reduced noise and lighting
• Braille and large-print schedules available at Information Booths

Weather and Tide Tools

• NOAA Tides & Currents: tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov
• AccuWeather – Long Beach: accuweather.com
• Windy.com: For real-time wind and wave forecasts ideal for sailors and surfers

Real Examples

Example 1: The Garcia Family – First-Time Visitors from Arizona

The Garcias, a family of four from Phoenix, planned their first coastal vacation around the Long Beach Sea Festival. They booked a hotel in downtown Long Beach two months in advance and used the festival app to map their route. They purchased the Family Fun Pass, which saved them $40 compared to buying individual tickets.

They arrived by train, took the free shuttle, and spent their first day at the Marine Science Expo. Their 8-year-old daughter participated in the “Build a Coral Reef” workshop and was so inspired she started a school project on ocean acidification. The family joined a beach cleanup and earned their reusable tote. They ate at a local vendor serving sustainable halibut tacos and watched the fireworks from the pier.

“We came for the fun,” said Maria Garcia, “but we left with a new purpose. We’re already planning to volunteer next year.”

Example 2: Jamal, a Local High School Teacher

Jamal, a marine biology teacher from Long Beach, brought his 11th-grade class to the festival as a field trip. He coordinated with the festival’s education team to receive a custom curriculum packet aligned with California state standards. His students interviewed scientists, collected data for a citizen science project on microplastic levels, and presented their findings to a panel of marine biologists.

One student, 16-year-old Lena, was so moved by the experience she applied for an internship at the Aquarium of the Pacific. She now leads monthly beach cleanups in her neighborhood.

“The festival isn’t just an event,” Jamal says. “It’s a catalyst. It turns curiosity into commitment.”

Example 3: The Ocean Advocates Collective – A Nonprofit Partnership

A coalition of 12 environmental nonprofits partnered with the festival to launch the “1000 Tons of Hope” campaign. They collected over 1,200 pounds of plastic waste during the event, recycled 98% of it, and turned the rest into an art installation displayed at the festival’s closing ceremony.

The installation, titled “Waves of Change,” featured 10,000 plastic bottles woven into a giant wave. Visitors could scan QR codes to learn how each bottle was collected and what it represented—a single person’s decision to refuse single-use plastic.

The campaign went viral on social media, reaching over 2 million people globally. The festival now partners with the group annually to expand the initiative.

FAQs

Is the Long Beach Sea Festival free to attend?

Most events are free, including the parade, art market, beach activities, and open-air concerts. However, certain experiences like the Marine Science Expo, guided kayak tours, and VIP viewing areas require paid tickets.

Can I bring my dog to the festival?

Only certified service animals are permitted within the festival grounds. Emotional support animals and pets are not allowed for safety and environmental reasons. There is a designated pet-friendly area near the Long Beach Transit Center with water stations and shaded seating.

Are there vegan or gluten-free food options?

Yes. Over 40% of food vendors offer vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free items. Look for the “Plant-Powered” or “Allergen-Safe” icons on vendor signs. You can also filter options in the festival app.

What if it rains during the festival?

The festival operates rain or shine. Most indoor exhibits remain open, and covered areas are available throughout the grounds. In case of severe weather, the event may pause temporarily for safety. Updates are sent via the app and website.

Can I volunteer at the festival?

Yes. Volunteers are essential to the festival’s success. Roles include event assistants, cleanup crews, information greeters, and education aides. Sign up on the official website—no experience is required, and all volunteers receive a free festival T-shirt and meal voucher.

Is parking available for RVs or campers?

RV parking is not available on-site. The closest designated RV lot is the Long Beach Marina RV Park, located 2.5 miles from the festival. Shuttles run hourly from this location.

Are there activities for young children?

Yes. The “Little Ocean Explorers” zone offers age-appropriate activities: sandcastle building, storytime with marine biologists, face painting with ocean creatures, and a mini-aquarium touch tank. All activities are free and supervised.

Can I buy souvenirs online after the festival?

Yes. The festival’s online store (longbeachseafestival.org/shop) offers select merchandise year-round, including reusable bottles, tote bags, educational books, and limited-edition prints from featured artists.

How is the festival funded?

The Long Beach Sea Festival is a nonprofit initiative funded through city grants, corporate sponsorships from eco-conscious brands, private donations, and ticket sales. No public tax dollars are used for operational costs. All proceeds support local marine conservation programs.

What happens to the waste collected during the festival?

Over 92% of waste is diverted from landfills. Recyclables are sorted by trained volunteers and sent to certified facilities. Organic waste is composted and used in local community gardens. Plastic collected during cleanups is repurposed into art or recycled into new products through partnerships with Ocean Recycling Co.

Conclusion

Visiting the Long Beach Sea Festival is more than a day out on the beach—it’s an immersive experience that connects you to the rhythm of the ocean, the creativity of coastal communities, and the urgency of marine conservation. By following this guide, you’re not just attending an event; you’re becoming part of a movement that values sustainability, education, and respect for the natural world.

From planning your transportation and purchasing tickets to engaging mindfully with exhibits and leaving no trace behind, every step you take contributes to the festival’s enduring legacy. The magic of the Long Beach Sea Festival lies not only in its fireworks and parades, but in the quiet moments: a child’s awe at seeing a live sea star, a family sharing a meal made from sustainably caught fish, a volunteer collecting plastic from the shore with a smile.

As you prepare for your visit, remember: the ocean doesn’t need heroes. It needs participants. You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference. Just show up—with curiosity, care, and a reusable water bottle—and you’ve already begun.

Plan your trip. Pack wisely. Arrive with intention. And let the sea guide you.