Long Beach International Airport

Overview

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is a convenient mid-sized airport serving the greater Los Angeles and Orange County areas. Known for its historic Streamline Moderne terminal built in 1941, the airport has a relaxed, uncongested feel compared to larger hubs like LAX. It primarily handles domestic flights, with airlines such as Southwest, Delta, American, and United offering nonstop service to major cities across the U.S. The airport is popular among business travelers heading to the Long Beach business district and leisure travelers visiting the nearby beaches and attractions. Its compact size means shorter walking distances and quicker security lines, making it a favorite for those who value efficiency.

Location & Access

Long Beach Airport is located at 4100 Donald Douglas Drive, about three miles northeast of downtown Long Beach and roughly 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. The airport sits near the junction of Interstate 405 (San Diego Freeway) and the Long Beach Freeway (I-710), providing easy access from Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. By car, driving from LAX takes about 30–45 minutes without traffic; from Orange County’s John Wayne Airport, about 20 minutes.

Public transportation options include Long Beach Transit’s Route 111, which connects the airport to the Metro A Line (Blue Line) at the Willow Street Station, offering rail service to downtown Los Angeles and other destinations. Ride-share services and taxis are readily available at designated pickup zones. The airport also provides on-site parking for those driving themselves.

Nearby cities include Santa Ana, Anaheim, and Huntington Beach. For visitors heading to Disneyland or the Anaheim Convention Center, LGB is a convenient alternative to the larger airports.

Facilities

Long Beach Airport offers a range of amenities focused on passenger comfort and accessibility. The terminal is fully wheelchair-accessible, with designated parking spaces, accessible entrances, and accessible restrooms. A wheelchair-accessible car park is available close to the terminal.

For travelers needing to store luggage, baggage storage services are available, though it’s advisable to check hours and availability directly. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected. Restrooms are clean and well-maintained, with changing tables in both men’s and women’s facilities.

Parking options include a multi-storey car park, a paid parking lot, and valet parking. The multi-storey offers covered parking close to the terminal, while the open lot is a more budget-friendly option. Valet parking is available for those prioritizing convenience.

Note that the airport terminal is not open 24 hours; it opens early in the morning (around 4 a.m.) and closes after the last flight. Passengers should plan accordingly and check their airline’s flight times.

About the Region

Long Beach is a coastal city in Los Angeles County, known for its active port—one of the busiest in the world—and its vibrant waterfront. The city boasts the historic RMS Queen Mary ocean liner, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and a lively downtown with dining and entertainment. The climate is Mediterranean: warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a year-round destination.

The region is a hub for aerospace and shipping industries, with companies like Boeing and the Port of Long Beach providing significant employment. For travelers, the area offers beaches, hiking trails in nearby Palos Verdes, and cultural attractions like the Museum of Latin American Art. LGB serves as a gateway to both Los Angeles and Orange County attractions, from Disneyland to Hollywood.

Practical Information

The airport operates daily but is not open 24 hours. It is closed between approximately 11 p.m. and 4 a.m., so passengers should confirm their flight times and plan arrivals accordingly. The official website (www.lgb.org) provides real-time flight information, parking rates, and terminal maps. For specific questions, travelers can contact the airport administrative offices via the website; no direct phone number is available. It’s always a good idea to check flight status and parking availability before heading to the airport, especially during peak hours like 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., when terminal congestion is highest.