Belmont Shore, Long Beach Travel Guide

Discover Belmont Shore in Long Beach, California: A coastal paradise with sandy beaches, boutique shopping, diverse dining, vibrant nightlife, and endless outdoor activities.

Belmont Shore in Long Beach, California, is a seaside gem that offers a delightful blend of sun, surf, and sophistication. This vibrant neighborhood is renowned for its pristine sandy beaches, making it a haven for sunbathers, swimmers, and surfers alike. The gentle waves and warm waters of the Pacific Ocean create an idyllic setting for a perfect day at the beach. Belmont Shore is more than just its beautiful coastline. The bustling streets are lined with an eclectic mix of boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and cozy cafes. Stroll down 2nd Street, the neighborhood's main thoroughfare, and you'll find everything from unique fashion boutiques to mouth-watering eateries offering a variety of cuisines. Whether you're in the mood for a casual brunch or a fine dining experience, Belmont Shore has something to satisfy every palate. The neighborhood also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with an array of bars and lounges where you can unwind with a cocktail or dance the night away. For those who prefer a quieter evening, the serene canals of Naples Island, which is just a short walk away, offer a romantic and peaceful escape. Renting a gondola for a sunset ride through these picturesque waterways is an experience not to be missed. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous recreational activities available in Belmont Shore. The nearby Alamitos Bay is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier is a popular spot for fishing or simply taking in the breathtaking ocean views. Additionally, the neighborhood hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its lively and welcoming atmosphere.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Belmont Shore.

Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or use ride-sharing services.
Check the local event calendar to catch a festival or special event during your visit.
Rent a bike to explore the Shoreline Pedestrian Bike Path for stunning ocean views.
Don't miss the Naples Island gondola rides for a unique and romantic experience.
Try the local seafood; many restaurants offer fresh catches from the Pacific.

Explore Belmont Shore: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Belmont Shore

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Aquarium of the Pacific

Explore the depths of the Pacific Ocean at the Aquarium of the Pacific, an educational and entertaining aquatic adventure in Long Beach, California.

4.6

Shoreline Village

Experience the vibrant charm of Shoreline Village in Long Beach, a waterfront haven for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

4.6

Rosie's Dog Beach

Explore Rosie's Dog Beach, the ultimate dog-friendly destination in Long Beach, where you and your furry friend can enjoy sun, sand, and sea together.

4.7

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden

Explore the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden, a serene haven in Long Beach featuring stunning landscapes and Japanese cultural elements.

4.6

Best landmarks in Belmont Shore

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The Queen Mary

Experience the grandeur of The Queen Mary, a historical ocean liner turned hotel and attraction, rich in maritime history and unforgettable adventures.

4.4

Shoreline Village

Discover the vibrant charm of Shoreline Village in Long Beach, California, where shopping, dining, and scenic views come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.6

Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier

Discover the charm of Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier, a serene fishing pier in Long Beach, California, where ocean views and coastal relaxation await you.

4.5

Rancho Los Cerritos

Discover the captivating history and serene gardens of Rancho Los Cerritos, a cultural gem in Long Beach, California, perfect for every traveler.

4.8

Best restaurants in Belmont Shore

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Open Sesame Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Open Sesame Grill in Belmont Shore - where health meets deliciousness.

4.7

King's Fish House

Experience fresh seafood delights at King's Fish House in Long Beach—where coastal flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.4

Saint & Second

Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Saint & Second in Belmont Shore - where every meal is a celebration.

4.6

Nick's on 2nd Long Beach

Experience authentic American breakfast and brunch at Nick's on 2nd Long Beach – where great food meets inviting atmosphere.

4.7

Best bars in Belmont Shore

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Saint & Second

Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Saint & Second, a must-visit bar and restaurant in Long Beach's Belmont Shore.

4.6

Belmont Brewing Co

Belmont Brewing Co: Delight in American cuisine and craft brews with stunning ocean views in Long Beach, California.

4.5

Legends Restaurant & Sports Bar

Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Legends Restaurant & Sports Bar in Long Beach, CA, where great food and live sports meet.

4.3

Dogz Bar & Grill

Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious hot dogs at Dogz Bar & Grill in Long Beach's Belmont Shore – a perfect spot for families and sports fans.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Belmont Shore

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Harvelle's Long Beach

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Harvelle's Long Beach, where live music and delicious cocktails create unforgettable memories.

4.5

los potros nightclub

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Los Potros Nightclub in Long Beach, where live music and dancing collide with delicious food for an unforgettable evening.

4.1

PCH Club

Discover the exhilarating nightlife at PCH Club in Long Beach, where dining meets dancing in a vibrant coastal setting.

4.3

Que Sera

Discover Que Sera, a vibrant Long Beach bar known for its eclectic music, creative cocktails, and lively themed nights that promise endless fun.

4.2

Best shops in Belmont Shore

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Shoreline Village

Experience the best of Long Beach at Shoreline Village, a vibrant shopping mall with dining, entertainment, and breathtaking waterfront views.

4.6

Marina Pacifica

Experience the charm of Marina Pacifica, a premier shopping destination with exquisite dining and stunning waterfront views in Long Beach, California.

4.4

2ND & PCH

Discover 2ND & PCH: a vibrant shopping hub in Long Beach, combining trendy stores, delicious dining, and stunning coastal views for an unforgettable experience.

4.4

Luna Belmont Shore

Discover unique gifts and coastal-inspired treasures at Luna Belmont Shore, a charming gift shop in Long Beach, California.

4.3

Explore Belmont Shore on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Belmont Shore, mapped for you.

Belmont Shore Essentials

Belmont Shore is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Long Beach. If you're coming from Downtown Long Beach, you can take the Metro Blue Line to the Long Beach Transit Mall and then catch a bus (Line 151) that heads toward Belmont Shore. Alternatively, it's a 10-15 minute drive or a 30-minute bike ride along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway. For those arriving from Los Angeles, the Long Beach Airport is the closest airport, located about 15 minutes away by car.
Belmont Shore is a walkable neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. The Long Beach Transit system provides bus services throughout the area. Bicycles are popular for both locals and tourists; bike rentals are available at various locations. For those who prefer public transport, the Metro Blue Line connects Belmont Shore to other parts of Long Beach and Los Angeles. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.
Belmont Shore is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to exercise caution, especially at night. Areas north of 4th Street and some parts of downtown Long Beach may experience higher crime rates. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid isolated streets after dark. It's advisable to stay in well-lit, populated areas.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, located just a few miles away. Keep a list of emergency contacts handy and consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Local pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many have staff who speak English.
Fashion: Do wear casual beach attire, especially in warm weather, but don’t forget sunscreen. Religion: Do respect local customs if visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to those in need. Don’t eat or drink on the bus. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or wave; a simple 'hello' goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and enjoy the beachside cafes. Don't bring outside food and drinks into restaurants.
To experience Belmont Shore like a local, stroll along Second Street, where you'll find unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visit during the weekend for the Belmont Shore Art Walk, featuring local artists and live music. Don’t miss out on renting a beach cruiser to explore the beach paths. Engaging with local residents can provide insight into hidden gems and must-visit spots in the area.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Belmont Shore

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Belmont Shore. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [Hey]
- GoodbyeLater
  [Lay-ter]
- YesYeah
  [Yeah]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [Please/No worries]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [Excuse me/My bad]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [How's it going?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Good. You?]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [You speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu, please
  [Menu, please]
- I don't eat meatNo meat for me
  [No meat for me]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [Check, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Go away!
  [Go away!]
- Call the Police!Call the Cops!
  [Call the Cops!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [Call a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [I want to buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust looking
  [Just looking]
- How much is it?How much?
  [How much?]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [Too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [Can you do better?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [Ten thirty]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me?
  [Can you show me?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket, please
  [A ticket, please]

History of Belmont Shore

Belmont Shore was established in the early 1900s, originally as a seaside resort community. The area was developed after the Long Beach Land and Water Company purchased the land in 1902, transforming it into a desirable neighborhood for vacationers and residents alike. The development featured a mix of residential homes and recreational spaces, designed to attract families and tourists seeking coastal leisure.
In 1916, the Long Beach Bathhouse was opened, symbolizing the area’s burgeoning status as a beach destination. This establishment provided amenities for visitors and locals, helping to foster a strong community identity centered around beach culture. The Bathhouse became a gathering place for social events and was pivotal in promoting Belmont Shore as a key leisure destination in Long Beach.
The 1920s saw the development of the Belmont Shore business district, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues lining Second Street. This growth reflected the increasing popularity of the area as a residential neighborhood, and the commercial hub became known for its unique local businesses and vibrant community events, such as street fairs and parades.
During World War II, Belmont Shore, like much of California, experienced significant changes. Many residents served in the military, and the community rallied together in support of the war effort. Post-war, there was a housing boom, resulting in an influx of new residents attracted by the area’s charm, amenities, and proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
In the late 20th century, Belmont Shore underwent a cultural renaissance, marked by a renewed interest in local arts and community events. The neighborhood hosted various festivals, art walks, and music events, which highlighted its diverse culture and history. The revitalization of Second Street and the promotion of local businesses contributed to the area’s vibrant atmosphere, making it a sought-after destination for both locals and visitors.