Free Things to Do in Long Beach, California

Long Beach is the fifth largest city in California. Nicknamed "The International City", activities are as diverse as it's citizens. The first free thing to do in Long Beach is to visit the ocean town's beach. One might spend a lazy day there. Park your car on a city street, and it does not cost a penny to relax, enjoying the sunshine and cool ocean breeze. Depending on the weather, you might be treated to a breath taking rainbow over the ocean. Long Beach could be called "Rainbow City"; it's not unusual to see double-rainbows on drizzly days, anywhere in the city.

During wartime breakwaters were built to produce a safe harbor for ships. This means no big waves, making the beach a safe place for young children to frolic in the water. Within this harbor are 4 Islands which are home to oil-drilling wells. Looking at the islands from shore, you will not see any equipment. The oil rigs are covered with facades giving the appearance of buildings. Landscaping includes tall palm trees and other vegetation. From shore they look like tiny island oasis'. After sunset the islands are lit up with multi-colored lights. Especially beautiful is the island waterfall that can be seen up close from the jetty at Alamitos Street and Ocean Blvd.

Tip for Guys: A woman will not think you are cheap if you take her to the beach for a date. Nighttime is a good time for a romantic stroll along the beach. Bring along a picnic dinner and a single rose arriving just before sunset. Forget the wine, alcohol is prohibited and do not get too carried away, the beach closes at 10PM.

Head to the Belmont Shore section of Long Beach for summertime fun. You may have to pay for parking in a lot or on the street due to the popularity of this part of Long Beach's 8 1/2 mile long beach. If you have a net you can play volleyball anywhere along the beach. In Belmont Shore you can watch a tournament or the people getting ready for one. Belmont Shore's annual Beach Fest offers Sand Castle contests and Chili contests. Flying kites or motorized airplanes is one of the fun activities you can do for free on the beach. Sometimes it is just fun to watch the action.