Long Beach Airport (LGB) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Long Beach Airport quick facts

Long Beach Airport (LGB) serves as a focus city for Southwest Airlines and maintains a significant operational presence for JetBlue. With a single, streamlined terminal structure, Long Beach Airport caters to over three million passengers annually while preserving the charm and ease of a bygone era of aviation. Here is what you need to know before you fly.

Long Beach Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Long Beach Airport features one of the most distinctive layouts in American aviation. Instead of a sprawling complex of interconnected buildings, the airport operates out of a single, iconic **Historic Terminal** originally built in 1941. The facility is characterized by its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and a unique open-air, walkable concourse. Because there is only one terminal, you will never need to worry about navigating between multiple buildings or catching a train to a distant gate. The entire airport experience is consolidated within a few hundred feet, making connections and navigation exceptionally straightforward.

The terminal is divided into two main buildings—the South Building (ticketing and departures) and the North Building (baggage claim and arrivals)—connected by a beautifully landscaped central courtyard. Unlike most major airports, Long Beach Airport does not use enclosed jet bridges. Instead, passengers walk out onto the tarmac and board their aircraft via air stairs. This provides a rare, up-close view of the planes and the Southern California sky. While the walk from the security checkpoint to the farthest gate is a brief stroll of under 400 feet, assistance is always available for those with mobility challenges. Given the compact nature of the facility, moving walkways are not necessary, and the airport does not operate any internal shuttles.

Navigating Long Beach Airport Terminals

The entire passenger journey happens in one linear, easy-to-navigate footprint.

Historic Terminal (Main Building)

• Airlines: All carriers operating at Long Beach Airport check in here, including Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, Delta Air Lines, and Hawaiian Airlines.
• Key Features: The pre-security courtyard is a traveler favorite, featuring Adirondack chairs, fire pits, and native landscaping. This is where you can enjoy a meal from a local vendor without a boarding pass. Post-security, the concourse is split into two areas: Gates 1-4 (South Concourse) and Gates 5-11 (North Concourse).
• Dining and Shopping Highlights: Post-security options include locally beloved concepts like **4th Street Vine** (wine bar) and **Long Beach Burger Bar**. Pre-security, the courtyard hosts **Local** for coffee and grab-and-go items.

Transportation to and from Long Beach Airport

Getting to and from Long Beach Airport is refreshingly simple compared to larger Los Angeles-area hubs. Located just three miles northeast of downtown Long Beach, the airport is well-integrated into the local freeway system, primarily accessible via Lakewood Boulevard and East Wardlow Road. Whether you are driving yourself, using a rideshare app, or taking public transit, the compact size of the airport means you won't waste time in long queues for ground transportation.

Getting to and from Long Beach Airport by Car

Traffic in Long Beach is generally lighter than in central Los Angeles, but the intersection of Lakewood Boulevard and the 405 Freeway can experience congestion during peak commute hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM). Allow an extra 15-20 minutes if your flight coincides with these times. The airport terminal loop is easy to navigate, with clear signage for parking and curbside pickup.

• Terminal Parking (Lot A): Located directly across from the terminal entrance. Ideal for short stays or picking up passengers. The rate is $3 per hour, with a daily maximum of approximately $25.
• Long-Term Parking (Lot B): Situated within easy walking distance of the terminal (about a 5-7 minute walk). This is the best option for on-site extended trips. The daily maximum is approximately $20.
• Economy/Off-Site Parking: Several private lots near the airport, such as **Staybridge Suites Long Beach Airport** (2680 N Lakewood Blvd), offer covered and uncovered parking starting around $16 per day. These facilities typically provide complimentary shuttle service to the terminal every 20-30 minutes.
• Park and Fly Packages: Hotels like the **Holiday Inn Long Beach Airport** and **Courtyard by Marriott** offer stay-and-park packages that can be more economical than airport parking for trips lasting a week or more.
• Cell Phone Waiting Lot: A free waiting area is located on Donald Douglas Drive, just west of the terminal entrance. Drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times while waiting for arriving passengers. Parking is limited to 30 minutes.
• Curbside Drop-off: Active loading and unloading is permitted directly in front of the terminal. There is no waiting allowed; vehicles left unattended will be ticketed and towed immediately.

Recommendation: Book parking in advance through the airport website or a third-party aggregator, especially during summer months and winter holidays, to secure the lowest rates.

Getting to and from Long Beach Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Ridesharing is the preferred method of transport for many locals and visitors. Uber and Lyft both operate extensively throughout Long Beach and Los Angeles County.

• Designated Pickup Area: The Transportation Network Company (TNC) pickup zone is located directly outside the baggage claim area in the North Building. Follow the signage for "Ride Share Pickup."
• How to Request: You must be physically standing in the designated pickup zone to request a ride. The app will prompt you to select a specific zone number (e.g., Zone 1, Zone 2).
• Fares: A ride to downtown Long Beach typically costs between $15-$20. A trip to Disneyland in Anaheim averages $35-$45, while a ride to Downtown Los Angeles can range from $45-$60 depending on demand and time of day.

Getting to and from Long Beach Airport by Public Transportation

Long Beach Airport is served by **Long Beach Transit (LBT)** . While there is no direct rail connection (Metro A Line/Blue Line) at the airport itself, the bus connection is reliable and cost-effective.

• Bus Service: LBT **Route 111** (Broadway/Lakewood) and **Route 104** (Spring/Willow) stop near the airport entrance on Donald Douglas Drive and Lakewood Boulevard.
• Connection to Metro: Take LBT Route 111 north to the **Willow Street Station** to connect with the Metro A Line (Blue Line), which provides light rail service to downtown Long Beach and downtown Los Angeles.
• Fare: LBT fare is $1.25 per ride. Transfers to Metro are available via TAP card.

Key Amenities at Long Beach Airport

ATMs

ATMs are conveniently located in the pre-security courtyard area and near the baggage claim in the North Building. Most machines are operated by Bank of America and Wells Fargo.

Lost and Found

Items left on an aircraft should be reported directly to the operating airline. For items lost in the terminal or security checkpoint, contact the Airport Lost and Found office managed by Airport Operations.

• Phone: +1 (562) 570-2615
• Location: Second floor of the Historic Terminal, Airport Administration Office.

Luggage Services

Due to the airport's smaller size and focus on point-to-point domestic travel, there are no luggage storage or luggage wrapping facilities available on-site. Luggage carts are available for rent in the baggage claim area for approximately $5.

Pets

Long Beach Airport is very pet-friendly. There is a fully fenced, outdoor **Pet Relief Area** located in the pre-security courtyard, allowing pets to stretch their legs before a flight. An additional relief area is located post-security near Gate 2. All service animals and pets traveling in cabins must remain in their carriers unless using the designated relief areas.

Showers

There are no public shower facilities available at Long Beach Airport. None of the current lounges offer shower amenities.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are not available at Long Beach Airport. Travelers are advised to use ATMs for local currency or exchange money at their destination or a local bank prior to arrival.

Smoking Area

Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices, is strictly prohibited inside the terminal building. Designated smoking areas are located on the sidewalk curbs outside the terminal, at least 20 feet from any entrance.

WiFi

Free, high-speed WiFi is available throughout the terminal and concourse. Simply select the network **"LGB Free WiFi"** and accept the terms of use. No password is required. Charging stations with standard outlets and USB ports are located throughout the seating areas in the concourse, particularly near gates 1, 5, and 9.

Other Amenities

• Information Desk: Located in the baggage claim area, staffed by volunteer Ambassadors who provide local tourism information.
• Medical Services: Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are located throughout the terminal. For emergencies, dial 911. There is no walk-in medical clinic on-site.
• Chapel: There is no dedicated chapel, but a quiet meditation room is available on the second floor of the Historic Terminal near the administrative offices.

Airport Lounges at Long Beach Airport

Long Beach Airport is not a hub for major international alliance carriers, and as such, it does not feature traditional airline-operated lounges like Delta Sky Club or United Club. The terminal's layout prioritizes open-air seating and local concessions over exclusive club spaces. However, premium credit card holders do have options for finding respite.

Airline Lounges at Long Beach Airport

There are currently no dedicated airline lounges operated by Southwest, JetBlue, or Delta at this airport.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

There is no **Centurion Lounge** (American Express) at Long Beach Airport. The nearest Centurion Lounge is located at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Priority Pass Lounges at Long Beach Airport

There are no physical Priority Pass lounges at Long Beach Airport. However, Priority Pass members can take advantage of an alternative experience at **4th Street Vine**, a local wine bar located post-security in the main concourse. Members receive a credit of $28 per person (up to $56 for member and guest) toward their food and beverage bill. This credit effectively covers a light meal and a glass of wine or craft beer.

Access Restrictions: American Express Platinum cardholders are not eligible for this restaurant credit due to Amex policy changes. Chase Sapphire Reserve and Capital One Venture X cardholders retain full access to this benefit.

Other Airports in the Region

While Long Beach Airport is the most convenient choice for the Gateway Cities region, Southern California is served by a network of major airports. Depending on your final destination or airline preference, these alternatives are worth considering.

• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Distance to Long Beach: 20 miles (35-60 min drive). Best for international flights and nonstop global connections. Unique advantage: Hub for nearly every major global airline. Recommended for trips to Hawaii or Asia.
• John Wayne Airport (SNA): Distance to Long Beach: 22 miles (25-40 min drive). Best for visiting Disneyland and central Orange County. Unique advantage: Similar small-airport ease to Long Beach but with a striking modern architecture and upscale dining.
• Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR): Distance to Long Beach: 35 miles (45-75 min drive). Best for visiting Universal Studios, Hollywood, and the San Fernando Valley. Unique advantage: Extremely easy terminal access where you walk from curb to gate in under two minutes.
• Ontario International Airport (ONT): Distance to Long Beach: 45 miles (50-70 min drive). Best for visiting the Inland Empire or eastern Los Angeles County suburbs. Unique advantage: Open-air, resort-style terminals with fewer delays due to inland weather patterns.

Long Beach Airport Overview

Long Beach Airport, officially designated as Long Beach Airport / Daugherty Field, is a study in contrasts—a municipal airport with big-city connections that feels more like a private aviation lounge than a commercial hub. Named after aviation pioneer Earl Daugherty, the airport has been a fixture of the Southern California skyline since the 1920s, though the current Historic Terminal dates to 1941. It is located approximately three miles northeast of downtown Long Beach and 19 miles south of Los Angeles Civic Center. The airport operates as a public facility owned by the City of Long Beach and is renowned for its strict noise ordinance, which limits the number of commercial flights and ensures a quieter, less stressful experience for travelers and neighbors alike. With roughly 3.5 million passengers passing through annually, it manages to offer the route network of a much larger city while retaining the soul of a beachside community.

Long Beach Airport Postal Code

Full Postal Code: 90808-1721
City: Long Beach
Province/State: California (CA)
Country: United States
Complete Mailing Address: Long Beach Airport, 4100 E Donald Douglas Dr, Long Beach, CA 90808, United States

Duty Free and Shopping at Long Beach Airport

Long Beach Airport is primarily a domestic airport with only limited seasonal service to international destinations (such as pre-clearance flights from Canada). Consequently, there is **no traditional Duty Free shopping** available for departing international passengers. Any international arrivals from points outside the U.S. are handled at the Federal Inspection Station (FIS) in the main terminal, but there is no arrivals duty free shop.

However, the airport more than makes up for this with a curated selection of local retail and concessions. Instead of generic newsstands, you will find a focus on Southern California lifestyle products. Shopping here is best for picking up last-minute beach reads, local gourmet snacks, or Long Beach-branded apparel. For authentic California souvenirs, the airport shops offer quality items that rival what you would find at the Pike Outlets downtown.

Dining Tip: The outdoor courtyard is home to a rotating lineup of Long Beach's favorite food trucks, offering everything from gourmet tacos to wood-fired pizza. Post-security, **Sweet Jill's** is a must-visit for their famous cinnamon rolls.

Security Wait Times Long Beach Airport

One of the primary advantages of flying from Long Beach Airport is the exceptionally efficient security screening process. With only one checkpoint serving the entire facility, the flow is predictable and swift. On a standard Tuesday morning, you can expect to clear security in under five minutes. Even during peak holiday rushes, the wait rarely exceeds 15-20 minutes, a stark contrast to the hour-plus waits common at larger regional airports.

Peak Times: The checkpoint is busiest between 6:00 AM and 8:30 AM for the first wave of Southwest and JetBlue departures, and again between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM for evening commuter flights.

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR: TSA PreCheck is fully operational and typically reduces wait times to under 2 minutes. The PreCheck lane is located on the far-left side of the checkpoint. **CLEAR Plus** is also available at Long Beach Airport, allowing members to bypass the ID check queue entirely and go straight to the conveyor belt screening.

Long Beach Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

• Departures Drop-Off: The upper-level roadway in front of the Historic Terminal. Active unloading only. Security strictly enforces a no-waiting policy; vehicles cannot be left unattended.
• Arrivals Pick-Up: The ground-level curb directly outside the North Building baggage claim area. This is the designated meeting point for private vehicles and rideshare.
• Cell Phone Lot: Located at 4100 Donald Douglas Drive. It offers free waiting for up to 30 minutes with views of the runway. Drivers must stay with the car.
• Kiss and Fly: There is no dedicated "Kiss and Fly" lot, but the free 30-minute grace period in Lot A is sufficient for quick goodbyes at the gate (parking rates apply beyond 30 mins).
• Commercial Vehicle Zones: Clearly marked zones for taxis and hotel shuttles are located at the southern end of the arrivals curb.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Long Beach Airport

Long Beach Airport is dominated by **Southwest Airlines**, which operates the majority of flights from the field, followed by **JetBlue** and **Delta Air Lines**. **Hawaiian Airlines** also offers seasonal or limited nonstop service to Honolulu (HNL). The airport is subject to a strict noise ordinance and slot restrictions, meaning airlines can only operate a limited number of flights per day, and the schedule is heavily weighted toward daytime operations.

• Hub Status: Focus city for Southwest Airlines.
• Popular Domestic Destinations: Las Vegas (LAS), Oakland (OAK), Phoenix (PHX), Sacramento (SMF), Salt Lake City (SLC), Denver (DEN), and Honolulu (HNL).
• JetBlue Transcontinental: Nonstop service to New York (JFK), Boston (BOS), and Fort Lauderdale (FLL).
• International: Limited to pre-cleared flights from Canada. There is no nonstop service to Mexico or Europe.

Getting to and from Long Beach Airport

The airport's central location in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County makes it a prime gateway for both beach cities and Orange County attractions. With minimal congestion on airport grounds, the transition from plane to car is seamless.

Car Rental at Long Beach Airport

Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Long Beach and the greater Los Angeles area. The **Rental Car Facility** is conveniently located directly across from the baggage claim exit in the North Building—no shuttle bus is required. Simply walk across the driveway to the first floor counters.

• On-Site Companies: Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, and Alamo all maintain counters here.
• Vehicle Types: A wide selection is available, from compact economy cars (ideal for city parking) to SUVs and minivans for families heading to Disneyland or the beach.
• Advance Booking: Essential. Vehicle availability can be limited during conventions at the Long Beach Convention Center or summer beach season.

Book your rental car in advance to secure the best rates and ensure availability.

Long Beach Airport Taxi Services

Traditional metered taxis are available at the taxi stand located outside baggage claim. **Long Beach Yellow Cab** is the primary operator. Fares are metered, and a ride to downtown Long Beach (Pine Avenue/The Pike) costs approximately $20-$25. All taxis accept major credit cards and cash.

Private Car Services at Long Beach Airport

For a more premium experience, black car services such as **Blacklane** and local limousine companies offer private transfers. This is an excellent option for cruise passengers traveling to the **World Cruise Center** in San Pedro or Long Beach. Drivers will meet you at baggage claim with a name sign. Fixed rates to the cruise terminal start around $55 for a luxury sedan.

Bus Services at Long Beach Airport

As detailed in the Public Transportation section above, **Long Beach Transit Route 111** is the primary connection to the Metro A Line. The bus stop is a short 3-minute walk from the terminal exit on Donald Douglas Drive. Fare is $1.25 exact change or TAP card.

Hotel Shuttles

Many hotels within a three-mile radius offer complimentary 24-hour shuttle service. Look for the **Hotel Shuttle Pickup Zone** located between the terminal exit and the parking structure. Major hotels offering this amenity include:

• Holiday Inn Long Beach Airport
• Courtyard by Marriott Long Beach Airport
• Residence Inn by Marriott Long Beach
• Hampton Inn Long Beach Airport

Parking at Long Beach Airport

• Short-Term (Lot A): Best for stays under 4 hours or picking up arriving passengers. $3 per hour, max $25/day. Electric vehicle charging stations (Level 2) are located on the first floor of Lot A.
• Long-Term (Lot B): Best for trips of 2-7 days. $20/day. Secure, well-lit, and a short walk to the terminal.
• Economy/Off-Site: Private lots on Lakewood Boulevard offer rates as low as $14-$16/day with frequent shuttle buses. Reservations strongly suggested for holiday periods.
• Payment: All airport lots accept cash and all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover).

Places to explore near Long Beach Airport

Long Beach Airport is a fantastic starting point for a Southern California adventure that extends far beyond the typical Los Angeles tourist trail.

• Downtown Long Beach (3 miles / 10 min drive): Explore the **Queen Mary**, the **Aquarium of the Pacific**, and the dining scene on Pine Avenue.
• Naples Island (4 miles / 12 min drive): Rent a Duffy boat and cruise the canals of this charming neighborhood, often called the "Venice of California."
• Seal Beach (7 miles / 15 min drive): A classic Southern California beach town with a historic pier and a walkable Main Street filled with boutiques.
• Disneyland Resort (18 miles / 25 min drive): Long Beach Airport is actually closer and easier to navigate than LAX for a trip to the "Happiest Place on Earth."
• Palos Verdes Peninsula (20 miles / 30 min drive): Dramatic ocean cliffs, hiking trails, and the stunning Wayfarers Chapel.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Long Beach

Long Beach enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year. Summers are warm but tempered by ocean breezes, while winters are mild and occasionally rainy.

• Spring (Mar-May): 60-75°F (15-24°C). Ideal for the Grand Prix of Long Beach (April). Mornings can be overcast with "May Gray."
• Summer (Jun-Aug): 70-85°F (21-29°C). Peak tourist season. Perfect beach weather, but book cars and hotels early.
• Autumn (Sep-Nov): 65-80°F (18-27°C). Often the warmest ocean water temperatures. "June Gloom" has burned off, offering crystal-clear skies.
• Winter (Dec-Feb): 50-68°F (10-20°C). Mild and pleasant, but the rainy season can bring occasional downpours (mostly Jan-Feb).

Best Time to Visit: September and October offer the best combination of sunny skies, warm water, and smaller crowds than mid-summer.

Essential Travel Tips

• Arrival Time: 90 minutes before departure is plenty of time, even with checked bags. 60 minutes is often sufficient for TSA PreCheck with carry-on only.
• Flight Status: Check with your airline directly. The airport's noise ordinance prohibits flights between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM, so late-night delays are rare but can result in cancellations if not airborne by curfew.
• Packing: Layers are key. Even in summer, the ocean breeze can make mornings and evenings feel cool.
• Currency: Cash is rarely needed, but small bills are useful for tipping shuttle drivers. Long Beach is largely cashless, with cards and contactless payments accepted everywhere.
• Car Rental Requirements: A valid driver's license from your home country is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English, though not strictly required by California law for tourists.
• Fuel Stations: The nearest gas station to return your rental car full is the **Chevron** at 4100 Lakewood Blvd (intersection of Lakewood and Donald Douglas Dr).

About the City

Long Beach is a vibrant coastal metropolis of nearly 500,000 residents, making it the seventh-most populous city in California. Distinct from Los Angeles yet intrinsically linked to it, Long Beach has a gritty industrial past tied to oil and the Navy that has given way to a thriving arts scene, a world-class aquarium, and one of the busiest container ports in the world. The city's cuisine is defined by a fusion of cultures: Cambodian (the largest population outside Cambodia resides here), Mexican, and classic American seafood. Whether it's the retro elegance of the Queen Mary or the modern street art of the East Village Arts District, Long Beach offers a more laid-back, authentic SoCal experience than its glitzier neighbors. It serves as an excellent base for exploring both Los Angeles and Orange County without the stress of LAX.

Start Your Journey at Long Beach Airport

Long Beach Airport is more than just a place to land; it's the first taste of Southern California's sunny disposition. With its historic charm, lack of long lines, and unbeatable location, it turns the often-dreaded airport experience into a genuine pleasure. Whether you're heading to a business meeting downtown, a romantic getaway on the coast, or a family vacation at Disneyland, you'll be on your way faster and with less stress. Plan ahead, pack light, and get ready to explore the best of the California coast. Secure your rental car today and unlock everything Long Beach and the surrounding region have to offer.