Great Picnic Spots in Long Beach

With its ever-present sunshine, sprawling park spaces and incredible views, Long Beach is a picnicker's dream. From lively activities to tranquil naps, the city offers a canvas for every whim; from sandwiches to sandcastles. Here are some terrific locations for you to spread out a blanket, enjoy a bite and do as much or as little as you desire.

BLUFF PARK

Bluff Park (Ocean Blvd, between 20th and 36th Place) has expansive views of the Pacific and spacious lawns for kids to play upon while presenting plenty of possibilities for people watching. You can lounge on your blanket, kick a ball around with the kids or stroll the walkway along the bluff. Use the stairs to head down to the beach below where you can swim, bike, or walk along the pedestrian path.

SHORELINE AQUATIC PARK

Set up a picnic on the sloping hill surrounding Lions Lighthouse in Shoreline Aquatic Park (200 Aquarium Way). Sit on the south side for views of the Queen Mary and boats passing in and out of Queensway Bay. Sit on the north side for one of the best views of the Downtown Long Beach skyline. The north side of the park also features sandy dunes and a boardwalk that connects to the Rainbow Harbor Esplanade for post-picnic strolling, shopping, or dining.

EL DORADO EAST REGIONAL PARK

El Dorado East Regional Park (7550 E Spring St) has ample space to set up a picnic on the grass near one of the lakes, or you can reserve a shelter that comes with a barbecue grill. After your meal, you can rent a four-wheel surrey for the whole family from Wheel Fun Rentals, watch the model aircraft buzz about at Glider Field, check out the train ride and carousel at El Dorado Frontier, or cross Spring Street for a little peace at the the wonderful El Dorado Nature Center.

HILLTOP PARK

There are views, and then there are views. Hilltop Park (2351 Dawson Ave) sits at the peak of Signal Hill, 365 feet above sea level and on a clear day you can see all of Long Beach surrounding you, plus Catalina Island, downtown Los Angeles, and the Santa Monica Mountains. The view of the city lights at night is exceptionally romantic. Spread out on the grass, or contact the City of Signal Hill to reserve one of the picnic tables under the shade structures.

DEFOREST PARK

DeForest Park (6255 DeForest Ave) features ample and ambling grassy areas ready for picnicking, running around–for kids–and relaxing–for you. The playground has a nice selection of play equipment: swings, slides, bridges, and climbing structures, and shares space with fitness equipment. Though the playground skews fairly young, it’s bordered by a basketball court and, just a few steps away, a wetlands area that the entire family can explore, whether hiking, bird watching or enjoying the native plants.

LBC Beach Guide Learn More

Creative Playgrounds in Long Beach Learn More

Walking Paths in Long Beach Learn More

About the Author

Steve Lowery

Steve Lowery is a longtime local. Over the years he has written for the Los Angeles Times, ESPN, and others. If you're looking for the hidden gems of Long Beach, Steve is your go-to.