The Pike, Long Beach Travel Guide
Discover The Pike in Long Beach, a vibrant waterfront destination offering scenic views, shopping, dining, and entertainment for a memorable coastal experience.
The Pike in Long Beach, California, is a vibrant waterfront destination that seamlessly blends the charm of historic attractions with modern entertainment. Originally established in 1902 as an amusement park, The Pike has evolved into a bustling neighborhood that offers a rich mix of leisure activities, dining, and shopping experiences. Visitors can stroll along the scenic Rainbow Harbor, where colorful boats and yachts are docked, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities. The Pike Outlets provide a shopper's paradise with a variety of stores, from high-end brands to unique local boutiques. Food lovers will delight in the diverse culinary scene, featuring everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. For those seeking entertainment, The Pike is home to the iconic Ferris wheel, providing breathtaking views of Long Beach's coastline. The Aquarium of the Pacific, located nearby, is a must-visit for families and marine life enthusiasts. At night, the neighborhood comes alive with vibrant nightlife, including bars, live music venues, and cozy cafes perfect for a relaxed evening out. Whether you're looking to explore historical landmarks, indulge in retail therapy, or simply soak up the coastal atmosphere, The Pike offers something for every traveler. Its blend of old-world charm and contemporary amenities makes it a unique and memorable destination.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Pike.
- Visit The Pike Outlets early in the day to avoid crowds and secure the best deals.
- Take a ride on the Ferris wheel at sunset for stunning views of the harbor and coastline.
- Don't miss the Aquarium of the Pacific, especially if traveling with children or marine life enthusiasts.
- Explore the various dining options; seafood lovers should try one of the waterfront restaurants for a fresh catch.
- Check the local event calendar for any festivals or live music performances happening during your visit.
Explore The Pike: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Best attractions in The Pike
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Best Attractions
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Hilltop Park
Explore Hilltop Park in Signal Hill, California – a scenic retreat with breathtaking views, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
ShoreLine Aquatic Park
Experience the beauty of ShoreLine Aquatic Park in Long Beach, a serene waterfront oasis perfect for relaxation, recreation, and scenic views.
Lions Lighthouse
Experience breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Long Beach's iconic Lions Lighthouse, a must-visit tourist attraction along the California coast.
The Pike Ferris Wheel
Discover breathtaking views and family fun at The Pike Ferris Wheel, a premier attraction in Long Beach, California, perfect for all ages.
Best landmarks in The Pike
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Aquarium of the Pacific
Explore the vibrant marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California, and immerse yourself in a world of ocean wonders and conservation.
The Queen Mary
Explore The Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner turned hotel in Long Beach, California, offering rich maritime history and breathtaking ocean views.
Shoreline Village
Explore Shoreline Village in Long Beach, where shopping, dining, and beautiful waterfront views await every visitor.
The Pike Outlets
Discover unbeatable deals and a vibrant atmosphere at The Pike Outlets in Long Beach, the ultimate shopping destination along the California coast.
Best restaurants in The Pike
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Yard House
Discover Yard House in Long Beach: A New American eatery with an extensive beer selection and delicious dishes by the beautiful shoreline.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Experience coastal charm at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., where delicious seafood meets unforgettable views in Long Beach.
Parkers' Lighthouse
Discover exquisite seafood dining at Parkers' Lighthouse in Long Beach, where stunning views meet culinary excellence along California's coast.
Nick's on 2nd Long Beach
Discover the best of traditional American cuisine at Nick's on 2nd in Long Beach—perfect for breakfast and brunch enthusiasts seeking flavorful delights.
Best bars in The Pike
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Yard House
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Yard House in Long Beach, CA, where great food meets an extensive selection of craft beers.
Congregation Brewery & Cocina - Long Beach
Discover the perfect blend of craft beer and American-Mexican cuisine at Congregation Brewery & Cocina in Long Beach, CA.
Pike Restaurant & Bar
Discover Pike Restaurant & Bar, where delicious food meets lively entertainment in the heart of Long Beach, CA.
Blind Donkey
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Blind Donkey, a cocktail bar and beer hall in Long Beach, offering creative drinks and a lively social scene.
Best nightclubs in The Pike
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Harvelle's Long Beach
Discover the lively nightlife of Harvelle's Long Beach, where live music and burlesque performances create an unforgettable experience in downtown.
los potros nightclub
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Los Potros Nightclub in Long Beach, where live music and dancing create unforgettable memories.
PCH Club
Discover the lively PCH Club in Long Beach, where delicious dining meets vibrant nightlife, offering an unforgettable experience along the California coast.
Que Sera
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Que Sera, Long Beach's beloved bar with lively music events and a welcoming atmosphere.
Best shops in The Pike
Top-rated picks
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Shoreline Village
Explore Shoreline Village, a vibrant shopping and dining destination in Long Beach, offering stunning marina views and a unique coastal experience.
Songbird
Explore Songbird in Long Beach for unique gifts and local artistry, where every item tells a story and every visit is a journey through creativity.
Prism Boutique
Explore Prism Boutique: A charming women's clothing and vintage store in Long Beach, offering unique apparel and home goods.
Fair Trade Long Beach Retail Collective
Explore Fair Trade Long Beach, where unique handmade gifts from around the world meet ethical shopping and cultural diversity.
Explore The Pike on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in The Pike, mapped for you.
The Pike Essentials
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The Pike is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Long Beach. If you're coming from Downtown Long Beach, you can take a short walk along the waterfront promenade. For those coming from further locations like Belmont Shore, the Long Beach Transit offers bus services, including the 1 and 3 lines. If you're arriving from Los Angeles, the Metro Blue Line connects to Long Beach, and you can transfer to local buses or rideshare services to reach The Pike.
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The Pike is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Long Beach also has a bike share program, allowing you to rent bicycles to navigate the area. Public transportation includes the Long Beach Transit buses, which provide convenient routes throughout the city. Additionally, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available for those who prefer not to walk or bike.
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While The Pike is generally a safe area for tourists, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially at night. Areas with higher crime rates tend to be further from the main tourist attractions, particularly in the outskirts of downtown. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuables in crowded places.
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In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are several hospitals and urgent care facilities in Long Beach. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical situations. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available to purchase over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you will likely be walking a lot. Don’t wear overly revealing outfits, especially if you plan to visit nearby religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and be mindful of any religious practices you may encounter. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly or disabled passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile. A simple 'hello' is usually appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and craft beverages. Don’t leave a tip less than 15% in restaurants, as it can be considered disrespectful.
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To experience The Pike like a local, explore the unique shops and boutiques rather than sticking to chain stores. Visit the nearby Aquarium of the Pacific for an educational experience about marine life. Check out local events or live music at the waterfront, as there are often community events that showcase local culture. Don’t miss out on trying food from local vendors at the outdoor markets and food festivals that frequently take place along the promenade.
Useful Local Phrases for The Pike
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
Here are the phrases I use most often in The Pike. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHey
[hey] - GoodbyeLater
[lay-ter] - YesYeah
[yeh] - NoNah
[nah] - Please/You're welcomeSure thing
[shur thang] - Thank youThanks
[thaynks] - Excuse me/SorryMy bad
[mai bad] - How are you?What's up?
[wuts up] - Fine. And you?Chillin'. You?
[chil-in. yu] - Do you speak English?You speak English?
[yu speek ing-glish] - I don't understandI don't get it
[ai dont get it]
- HelloHey
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
[kan ai chek out the menu] - I don't eat meatI'm veggie
[ai'm vej-ee] - Cheers!Cheers!
[cheers] - I would like to pay, pleaseCash me out, please
[cash mi out]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
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- Help!SOS!
[ess-oh-ess] - Go away!Beat it!
[beet it] - Call the Police!Dial 911!
[dai-el nain-wan-wan] - Call a doctor!Get a doc!
[get a dok] - I'm lostI'm lost
[ai'm lost] - I'm illI'm sick
[ai'm sik]
- Help!SOS!
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- I'd like to buy...I wanna cop...
[ai wana kop] - I'm just lookingJust browsing
[just brau-zing] - How much is it?How much?
[hau much] - That's too expensiveThat's wack
[thats wak] - Can you lower the price?Can you hook it up?
[kan yu huk it up]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna cop...
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- What time is it?What time?
[wut time] - It's one o'clockIt's one
[its wun] - Half past (10)Ten thirty
[ten thur-tee] - MorningMorning
[morn-ing] - AfternoonAfternoon
[af-ter-noon] - EveningEvening
[ee-ven-ing] - YesterdayYesterday
[yes-ter-day] - TodayToday
[to-day] - TomorrowTomorrow
[to-mor-row] - 1One
[wun] - 2Two
[too] - 3Three
[three] - 4Four
[for] - 5Five
[five] - 6Six
[siks] - 7Seven
[sev-en] - 8Eight
[ate] - 9Nine
[nine] - 10Ten
[ten]
- What time is it?What time?
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- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
[weers the] - What's the address?What's the addy?
[wuts the add-ee] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me?
[kan yu show mi] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next one?
[whens the nixt wun] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
[a tik-et]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
History of The Pike
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The Pike began as a prominent amusement district in the early 1900s, originally established in 1902. It was known for its vibrant boardwalk, featuring a variety of attractions such as roller coasters, arcades, and the iconic Pike Ferris Wheel. This area became a central entertainment destination for residents and visitors alike, drawing crowds with its lively atmosphere and waterfront views.
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During the 1920s and 1930s, The Pike flourished, becoming a key part of Long Beach's identity. However, the post-World War II era brought significant changes, including the rise of automobile culture and the decline of traditional amusement parks. By the 1970s, The Pike faced economic hardships, leading to the dismantling of many of its attractions and a transformation of the area.
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In the 1990s, efforts to revitalize The Pike began, leading to the development of The Pike at Rainbow Harbor, a mixed-use entertainment, dining, and shopping complex. This redevelopment aimed to blend the historical essence of The Pike with modern attractions, contributing to the resurgence of Long Beach as a thriving urban waterfront. Key features include a movie theater, restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
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Today, The Pike serves as a cultural hub, hosting various community events and festivals throughout the year. The area reflects Long Beach's diverse population and cultural heritage, with events celebrating the arts, music, and community engagement. This ongoing cultural significance reinforces The Pike's role as a central gathering place in Long Beach.
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The Pike stands as a testament to Long Beach's evolving history, illustrating the transition from a bustling amusement district to a modern entertainment complex. Its legacy continues to influence the city's identity and serves as a reminder of the vibrant entertainment culture that once thrived along the Southern California coast.
Neighbourhoods near The Pike
The closest neighbourhoods to The Pike, if you have time for more than one stop.
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Explore More of Long Beach
Looking beyond The Pike? Discover Long Beach for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore Long BeachThe Pike in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
The Pike: A Seaside Gem in Long Beach
The Pike in Long Beach, California, is a vibrant waterfront destination that seamlessly blends the charm of historic attractions with modern entertainment. Originally established in 1902 as an amusement park, The Pike has evolved into a bustling neighborhood that offers a rich mix of leisure activities, dining, and shopping experiences. Visitors can stroll along the scenic Rainbow Harbor, where colorful boats and yachts are docked, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities. The Pike Outlets provide a shopper's paradise with a variety of stores, from high-end brands to unique local boutiques. Food lovers will delight in the diverse culinary scene, featuring everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. For those seeking entertainment, The Pike is home to the iconic Ferris wheel, providing breathtaking views of Long Beach's coastline. The Aquarium of the Pacific, located nearby, is a must-visit for families and marine life enthusiasts. At night, the neighborhood comes alive with vibrant nightlife, including bars, live music venues, and cozy cafes perfect for a relaxed evening out. Whether you're looking to explore historical landmarks, indulge in retail therapy, or simply soak up the coastal atmosphere, The Pike offers something for every traveler. Its blend of old-world charm and contemporary amenities makes it a unique and memorable destination.