
Best Backpacking Destinations in Long Beach, California, United States
1. Rosie's Sugar Beach
A serene coastal spot offering stunning ocean views and a quiet place to relax.
- Coastal Beauty: Unmatched coastal scenery with clear blue waters.
- Peace and Quiet: Ideal for backpackers seeking tranquility during their journey.
- Photo Opportunities: Perfect location to capture breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific.
2. Bluff Park
A picturesque park with panoramic views of the ocean and a great spot for stargazing.
- Ocean Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Stargazing: Ideal location for night sky admirers and astrophotography enthusiasts.
- Hiking Trails: Features easy-to-moderate hiking trails suitable for backpacking.
3. Queen's Way Bridge
A historic pedestrian bridge overlooking the Los Cerritos Wetlands.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest steel bridges in Long Beach.
- Bird Watching: Offers opportunities for birdwatching and spotting wildlife.
- Photography: Iconic structure provides excellent photo opportunities.
4. Ellis Island
A unique island featuring an abandoned World War II barracks and historical ruins.
- Historical Ruins: Offers a glimpse into Long Beach's military past.
- Island Exploration: Provides a sense of adventure for backpacking travelers.
- Unspoiled Nature: Undeveloped island offers opportunities to observe local wildlife.
5. Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens
A historic ranch showcasing beautiful gardens and original adobe buildings.
- Historical Landmark: One of the oldest ranches in Southern California.
- Garden Tours: Features a variety of beautiful gardens and historical architecture.
- Educational Experience: Provides insight into the region's ranching history.
6. Bixby Hill Park
A scenic park with panoramic views of the city and the ocean.
- City Views: Offers breathtaking vistas of Long Beach's skyline.
- Hiking Trails: Features well-maintained hiking trails for backpacking.
- Relaxation Spot: Ideal for unwinding and enjoying peaceful surroundings.
7. Carter Park Beach
A family-friendly beach with calm waters and easy access to nearby attractions.
- Family-Friendly Beach: Ideal for families traveling with young children.
- Calm Waters: Features calm waters suitable for swimming and paddleboarding.
- Proximity to Attractions: Nearby shops, restaurants, and other attractions make it convenient for backpackers.
8. Belmont Shore
A vibrant neighborhood with beautiful beaches, unique shops, and delicious eateries.
- Shopping and Dining: Features a variety of shops and restaurants catering to diverse tastes.
- Beach Access: Offers easy access to several sandy beaches for backpacking travelers.
- Art Gallery Experience: Home to multiple art galleries showcasing local and international artists.
9. Long Beach Peninsula
A narrow spit of land offering stunning views of the ocean and nearby Catalina Island.
- Scenic Views: Provides breathtaking panoramic vistas.
- Beach Access: Features several beaches ideal for backpacking travelers.
- Catalina Island Sightings: Offers the chance to spot Catalina Island in the distance.
10. Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden
An ornate mausoleum located atop a hill with beautiful gardens and ocean views.
- Historical Landmark: A unique tribute to the founder of Long Beach, William Wrigley Jr.
- Garden Tours: Featuring a variety of exotic plants and flowers.
- Ocean Views: Offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
11. Stearns Wharf
A historic pier offering dining, shopping, and fishing opportunities.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest piers in California.
- Shopping and Dining: Features shops, restaurants, and a fishing market.
- Fishing Opportunities: Allows for fresh fish purchases or the chance to catch your own meal.
12. Alamitos Bay Landing
A marina with dining and shopping options and scenic views of the bay.
- Marina Atmosphere: Offers a relaxing marina ambiance.
- Dining and Shopping: Features restaurants, shops, and a market.
- Scenic Views: Provides beautiful views of Alamitos Bay.
13. Rossdown Park
A large park with a dog park, sports fields, and picnic areas.
- Dog-Friendly: Features a dedicated off-leash area for dogs.
- Sports Facilities: Includes sports fields and courts for various activities.
- Picnic Spots: Offers numerous picnic areas for travelers to enjoy meals.
14. Naples Island
A group of man-made islands featuring canals and unique homes.
- Canal Cruising: Offers the opportunity to explore the canals by kayak or boat.
- Unique Homes: Features a variety of architecturally unique homes.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a tranquil, scenic environment for backpackers to relax.
15. Rainbow Harbor
A bustling harbor offering dining, shopping, and boat tours.
- Marine Life Viewing: Allows for opportunities to view marine life, such as sea lions and dolphins.
- Dining and Shopping: Features restaurants, shops, and a variety of boat tours.
- Boat Tours: Offers the chance to explore Long Beach's coastline by boat.