If you’re planning to visit Mother’s Beach in Long Beach, it’s good to know that it is a well-liked spot with gentle waves and tidy sand. This is an ideal place for spending quality time with your family by the sea. No matter if you are from the area or a visitor, keep in mind these tips before you go.
The beach can be found on the east side of Long Beach, where Alamitos Bay and the Pacific Ocean meet. You can access it from both directions using Second Street and Pacific Coast Highway. The beach sits between Long Beach Marina and Marine Stadium. Its address is 5839 Appian Way, Long Beach, CA 90803.
Limited street parking is available near the beach, which is why most visitors choose to park in the adjacent parking lot. The parking lot costs $15 per day or visitors can choose to purchase a seasonal parking pass for $100. As the parking lot can get filled up quickly on weekends, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.
One of the main draws of the beach is its calm waters. The beach is situated in a protected cove, which means there are no waves to contend with. The water is also relatively shallow, making it an ideal spot for young children and inexperienced swimmers. However, visitors should still exercise caution when swimming, as there can be strong currents at times.
Another popular activity at this place is kayaking and paddleboarding. Visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboards from several vendors located near the beach. Prices vary depending on the vendor and the length of the rental, but expect to pay around $20-$30 per hour. Kayaking and paddleboarding are great ways to explore Alamitos Bay and get some exercise while enjoying the scenery.
When kayaking or paddleboarding at this beach, there are a few important things to remember. First, it is important to check the weather conditions before heading out on the water. Strong winds and storms can make for hazardous conditions that can be dangerous for inexperienced boaters. Furthermore, visitors should be aware of tide patterns, as the water level can change drastically throughout the day.
Fishing is also permitted at this beach, although visitors must have a valid California fishing license. The beach is home to several species of fish, including halibut, perch, and croaker. Visitors can fish from the shore or rent a small boat to fish in the bay. It’s important to note that fishing is not allowed in the designated swimming area, and all fishing rules and regulations must be followed. To be specific, visitors must have a valid California fishing license in order to legally fish in the area. It is also important to check the weather conditions before heading out on the water, as strong winds and storms can make for hazardous conditions that can be dangerous for inexperienced boaters. Furthermore, visitors should be aware of tide patterns, as the water level can change drastically throughout the day.
There are several dining options available near the beach. One of the most popular choices is McKenna’s on the Bay, a seafood restaurant located on the marina. McKenna’s offers stunning views of the harbor and serves up fresh seafood dishes. Other nearby options include Ballast Point Brewery, Naples Rib Company, and Boathouse on the Bay.
When visiting this place, you should also be aware of local regulations. Alcohol is not allowed on the beach for several safety reasons. It can be difficult to gauge how much alcohol someone has had, so it is important that visitors are aware of their surroundings and the risk of injury or accident when around water. Alcohol affects judgment and coordination, making it more likely for someone to injure themselves in an accident or fall while swimming.
Additionally, alcohol consumption near water increases the risk of drowning due to impaired coordination and confusion about one’s whereabouts. Finally, drinking at the beach can lead to disorderly behavior and disruption of other people’s enjoyment at this public space. For these reasons, alcohol is prohibited at this beach.
In the same way, swimming after dark is prohibited at this beach for safety reasons. After the sun sets, visibility in the water is greatly reduced and it can be difficult to gauge depth or potential obstacles. Moreover, swimming in dark waters increases the risk of drowning due to confusion and impaired coordination. Additionally, swimming after dark can lead to risky behavior that could end up putting visitors in danger or cause disruption of other people’s enjoyment at this public space.
Additionally, no pets are allowed on the sand or in the water. Finally, any fires must be contained within designated fire pits.
Lastly, the beach is home to several annual events that draw large crowds. One of the most popular events is the Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival, which takes place every July. The festival includes dragon boat races, food vendors, and cultural performances. Other events held at Mother’s Beach include the Naples Island Swim and SUP Races.
In conclusion, Mother’s Beach in Long Beach, CA, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to spend a day by the water. With its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder why it’s such a popular spot. Just be sure to arrive early to secure parking, and don’t forget your sunscreen!