A layover in Long Beach is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Long Beach /Daugherty Field/ Airport sits just 70 minutes from the city center by Long Beach Transit Bus, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of LGB:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 70-minute journey each way by Long Beach Transit Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into Long Beach from LGB
From LGB, the Long Beach Transit Bus gets you to Long Beach in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Long Beach Transit Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Long Beach, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Long Beach.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at LGB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Long Beach’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
What to See and Do in Long Beach
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Long Beach, two standouts are:
- Aquarium of the Pacific — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- The Queen Mary — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Long Beach.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside LGB — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- LGB Outdoor Concourse & Garden
- LGB Terminal Art Deco Architecture
Best Bites Near LGB
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Long Beach: Ballast Point Brewing Company (Long Beach) and Naples Rib Company. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for George’s Greek Cafe (LGB) or Long Beach Burger Bar (LGB). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Sleep & Lounge Options at LGB
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at LGB.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at LGB for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Long Beach or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Long Beach is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Long Beach.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.