Where to Take Photos with Santa in Long Beach

Long Beach is once again brimming with holiday cheer, and plenty of chances to snap that perfect photo with Santa. From sparkling seasonal celebrations and festive waterfront strolls to lively family events filled with music, crafts and pet-friendly fun, there are many ways to capture magical moments with the Big Guy. Everybody say “Ho! Ho! Ho!”

SHORELINE VILLAGE

Dec. 14-15 & Dec. 21-22

Experience the magic of the season with beautiful decorations along the waterfront, joyful melodies of Christmas Carolers, oh, and Santa! Shoreline Village (429 Shoreline Village Dr) will host free, self-photos with Santa set against its stunning boardwalk and gorgeous views of the Pacific during its holiday celebrations. Photos with Santa Claus will take place: Dec. 14, 20 and 21 from 1 to 4 PM.

2ND & PCH

2ND & PCH (6400 Pacific Coast Hwy) has lots of ways to snap a Santa shot. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from Nov. 21 to Dec. 24, enjoy festive photo moments with professional photography, plus extended hours Dec. 19–24. Personal photography isn’t allowed during these sessions, but you can snap your own pictures on Selfies with Santa Mondays from Nov. 22 to Dec. 15. You can also have your pet photographed with Santa Paws. Professional pet photos with Santa take place Dec. 6–7, with appointments encouraged. On Dec. 8, enjoy Pet Selfies with Santa—your chance to capture your own festive shots. Silent Santa is perfect for children or adults with sensory sensitivities. It takes place on Dec. 7 and 14 from 9 to 11 AM to ensure fewer shoppers bustling to minimize triggers for stress.

QUEEN MARY

Santa will show up at the Queen Mary (1126 Queens Hwy) in several places during the ship’s Holly Days Aboard the Queen Mary. While enjoying a lavish holiday spread and entertainment you can also snap some photos with Santa during Royal Sunday Brunch on Dec. 7, 14 and 21. You can also capture the magic of the season as you not only meet Santa and share your holiday wishes, but get a keepsake photo during special photo sessions, Dec. 19, 20 and 21.

Credit: The Queen Mary

F/8 STUDIOS

f/8 Studios (3764 Orange Ave) is a magical spot to take your child for Santa photos right up until Christmas Eve! Families will enjoy a private, one-on-one Santa experience on beautifully styled sets featuring Santa’s sleigh and cozy library. Kids can meet Santa, Mrs. Claus and Blitzen the Reindeer, while delighting in festive surprises like a baby polar bear, all captured by a professional photographer in a sensory-friendly setting. f/8 Studios offers a Black Santa option and is home to a Santa voted No. 1 in the nation this year.

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.