Breezy Days, Sunny Afternoons: What to Pack for Long Beach
From misty marine-layer mornings to sunny boardwalk afternoons, bring sunscreen, a light windbreaker, comfy sneakers for Shoreline Village, water-ready sandals, and a polished outfit for rooftop bars by the Queen Mary.
Updated on September 18, 2025
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Long Beach days stretch from breezy boardwalk mornings to sunlit hours on the sand and late dinners along the waterfront. You can’t pack for every scenario, so aim for a small capsule that moves from beach casual to city neat with a single smarter layer. Think comfort first, polished second, and let the ocean set the pace. Quick tip: choose versatile shoes that handle pavement, pier boards and sand.
Style here reads relaxed but tidy. By day it’s tees, breezy shirts and unfussy sneakers among cafés, markets and bike paths — by night the same base sharpens easily for rooftop drinks or a marina reservation. Expect clean lines, sun-faded tones and fabrics that breathe without looking sloppy. Swap in a linen shirt or low-key dress and you’re set.
Expect a persistent marine layer that keeps mornings cool before skies clear to warm afternoons, then breezes return after dark. Typical summers run 68–77°F, spring and autumn sit around 59–72°F, and winters land near 50–64°F with most rain from November to March. The water and wind can make it feel cooler than the numbers. Practical move: carry a light wind layer for evening walks.
The guide ahead turns that rhythm into a tight plan: first the sun-smart essentials and coastal layers, then how to adjust for summer, spring/fall and mild winter days. After that, footwear that works from boardwalk to boat, outfit ideas for beach time and waterfront dining, what to skip, and the practical notes on safety, transport and packing light.
Part 1: Packing Essentials
Packing List
Adults
Clothing
Footwear
Essentials
Kids Clothing
Infant Clothing
Infant Essentials
Sleep & Feeding
Day bag checklist for Long Beach
What you'll carry for a typical day exploring the city.
Part 2: Style & Weather
What to Pack for Long Beach: Coastal Layers & Sun Essentials
Long Beach has a Mediterranean coastal climate: mild year-round with a persistent marine layer. Mornings and evenings can be cool and breezy while afternoons warm to 68-77°F. Most rain falls Nov-Mar; spring and fall range 59-72°F. Plan sun protection, light layers and versatile, sand-ready shoes.
Monthly Temperature Guide
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 66°F | 48°F |
| Feb | 66°F | 48°F |
| Mar | 66°F | 50°F |
| Apr | 68°F | 52°F |
| May | 70°F | 55°F |
| Jun | 72°F | 59°F |
| Jul | 77°F | 63°F |
| Aug | 79°F | 64°F |
| Sep | 79°F | 64°F |
| Oct | 75°F | 61°F |
| Nov | 70°F | 55°F |
| Dec | 66°F | 50°F |
Seasonal Insights
spring
Spring in Long Beach runs 55-68°F. Pack a light windbreaker, linen shirts and a thin merino. Cool marine-layer mornings give way to sunny afternoons for beach time. Outfit: tee + linen shirt + packable shell; sneakers or water sandals.
summer
Summer in Long Beach is typically 68-77°F with a cool marine layer in the morning and sunny afternoons. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a wide-brim hat. Outfit: swimsuit, quick-dry shorts, tee, cover-up and a light windbreaker.
fall
Fall in Long Beach sits around 59-72°F with variable marine layers and occasional windy afternoons. Pack a light sweater, breathable shirt and a packable shell for seaside gusts. Outfit: long-sleeve tee + sweater + slim chinos and slip-on loafers.
winter
Winter in Long Beach averages 50-64°F with the wet season Nov-Mar. Expect rainy days and chilly, windy waterfront evenings. Pack a warm mid-layer (merino), a packable waterproof shell and closed-toe shoes. Outfit: long-sleeve base + sweater + shell.
What to Pack for Long Beach: Coastal Layers & Sun Essentials
Long Beach style is sun-first and unfussy: lightweight, breathable layers that handle cool marine mornings and warm afternoons, quick-dry swimwear for spontaneous beach time, and tidy smart-casual looks for waterfront dining. Pack cottons, linen and a packable windbreaker for 15–22°C days, plus versatile footwear for sand, boardwalk and city streets.
The Local Dress Code
Casual coastal norms rule: beachwear by day and smart-casual for waterfront dinners—linen shirts, clean sneakers or loafers. Avoid formal gowns and stiletto heels; bring a light layer for chilly 10–18°C evenings. Reef-safe swimwear is recommended for ocean activities and respect local relaxed dress.
Friendly, locally informed style guide for Long Beach: think breathable separates, reef-safe sun protection and versatile shoes that handle sand, boardwalks and waterfront nights with easy layering.
Style at a Glance
- • Breathable cottons and linens for daytime comfort
- • Packable windbreaker for 15–22°C marine mornings and evenings
- • Versatile footwear: sneakers, water sandals and slip-ons
- • Reef-safe sunscreen and wide-brim hat are essential
- • Mix-and-match capsule: 3 tops, 2 bottoms, 1 lightweight layer
Color Palette
Shopping in the City
Shop local for beach-ready performance gear, breathable resort fabrics and easy evening pieces. Prioritize quick-dry swimwear, packable shells and versatile footwear from surf shops and independent boutiques scattered across the waterfront and retro commercial strips.
Brands to Look For
Harbor & Shore: Independent shop focused on coastal staples: linen separates, quick-dry swimwear and sun-protective layers crafted for beach-to-city transitions. ($$ - $$$)
Pacific Threadworks: Locally made casual wear and lightweight knitwear in cotton and merino blends—ideal for layering through cool marine mornings and warm afternoons. ($$ - $$$)
Marina Performance Gear: Surf and water-sport specialists carrying neoprene accessories, reef-safe swimwear, waterproof pouches and durable water shoes for boating and paddle sports. ($ - $$)
Queen's Seaside Apparel: Curated waterfront-ready pieces—smart-casual tops, tailored shorts and slip-on footwear suited to dining on the marina or a night out. ($$ - $$$)
Where to Shop
Shoreline Village: Tourist-friendly shops, gifts and casual waterfront apparel
Belmont Shore: Surf shops, boutiques and beach-ready fashion
Retro Row: Vintage finds, independent designers and local markets
Neighborhood Vibes
Downtown/Waterfront: Smart-casual waterfront energy: neat linen shirts, slim chinos or tailored shorts and slip-on loafers or clean sneakers for dinners and boardwalk strolls; layers for breeze and evening chill.
Belmont Shore: Laid-back beach-meets-retro shopping strip: breathable tees, easy linen dresses, sport sandals and compact totes. Perfect for daytime beach trips, casual cafés and bike rides along the shore.
Retro Row & Arts District: Eclectic, vintage-forward looks mix with polished casual: denim, patterned shirts, lightweight sweaters and espadrilles for gallery nights, markets and relaxed nightlife.
Seasonal Outfit Formulas
spring
Marina Morning Walk — Casual waterfront stroll and coffee during cool, breezy mornings.
- • Striped cotton tee: Lightweight, breathable for layering
- • Light wash denim shorts
- • White leather sneakers: Easy to clean after sandy walks
- • Wide-brim hat: Packable protection from sun and glare
Beach to Brunch — Quick transition from a morning beach visit to seaside brunch.
summer
Sunny Beach Day — Full beach day with sun, swimming and relaxed shoreline time.
- • Quick-dry swim top
- • Quick-dry swim trunks
- • Compact flip flops
- • Reef-safe sunscreen: Broad-spectrum protection, ocean-friendly formula
Harbor Cruise Evening — Casual evening cruise or waterfront rooftop with slightly cooler breeze.
fall
Foggy Morning Coffee — Cool, gray mornings by the water—comfortable and casual for errands and cafés.
Gallery Night — Evening out at galleries or a casual waterfront restaurant—polished but relaxed.
winter
Rain-Ready Errands — Light rain and cool temperatures—layered and waterproof for errands and markets.
Cozy Waterfront Dinner — Dinner at a waterfront spot with slightly dressier casual expectations and cool breezes.
Footwear Guidelines
- • Pack comfortable sneakers for walking the waterfront and city streets
- • Bring water-resistant or sport sandals for beach and boardwalk use
- • Include slip-on espadrilles or loafers for waterfront dining and nightlife
- • Carry compact flip-flops only for beach use; avoid them for long walks
Accessory Guidelines
- • Reef-safe broad-spectrum sunscreen and SPF lip balm
- • Polarized sunglasses and a wide-brim packable hat
- • Waterproof phone pouch or small dry bag for boating and paddle sports
- • Lightweight reusable water bottle and a compact microfiber towel
- • Minimal crossbody or canvas tote for beach-to-city transitions
What to Wear for Every Long Beach Activity
Beach days and sunbathing
Classic Long Beach beach days blend sun and a cool marine breeze—sun protection and sand-ready gear are essential for comfort.
Walking the Shoreline Village and boardwalk
Shoreline Village and the boardwalk are flat, photogenic and walkable—easy shoes and hands-free bags make exploring effortless.
Visiting Aquarium of the Pacific and Queen Mary
Aquarium of the Pacific and the Queen Mary pair indoor exhibits with outdoor decks—plan for both climate-controlled galleries and windy ship decks.
Biking or scootering along the waterfront
Biking or scootering is often faster than driving downtown—choose practical clothing and a helmet for short flat trips along the waterfront.
Boating, harbor cruises and whale-watching
Harbor cruises and whale-watching venture into open water—layers, seasickness prep and closed-toe shoes keep you comfy on deck.
Water sports: paddleboarding, surfing, kayaking
Water sports are popular here—rent gear or book lessons near guarded beaches, and prioritize reef-safe sunscreen and functional wetsuits.
Waterfront dining, rooftop bars and nightlife
Long Beach nightlife skews casual but waterfront venues appreciate smart-casual looks—pack a light layer for breezy evenings.
Part 3: Expert Tips
What Not to Pack for Long Beach — Coastal Overpack to Avoid
Save luggage space and avoid common overpacking mistakes by leaving these items behind.
- • Heavy winter parka: Long Beach rarely needs a heavy parka — winters are mild 10–18°C and chilly nights come from ocean breeze. Pack a packable windbreaker and mid-layer instead for evenings.
- • Stiletto heels: Stilettos sink in sand and wobble on slick wooden boardwalks; Long Beach's flat waterfront favors water-resistant sport sandals or cushioned slip-on loafers for walking, dining and nightlife.
- • Formal suits or gowns: Formal suits or gowns are overkill in Long Beach's casual coastal scene. Bring a lightweight blazer or dressy linen shirt with tailored chinos as versatile evening alternatives that save suitcase space.
- • Large terry beach towel (bulky): Large terry towels eat suitcase space and trap sand; Long Beach travelers prefer quick-dry microfiber towels or a sand-proof mat that packs small, dries fast and is easy to shake out on the boardwalk.
- • Multiple heavy hiking boots: Long Beach is flat and pedestrian-friendly; multiple heavy hiking boots are unnecessary. Pack one pair of supportive sneakers and a compact trail shoe only if you plan inland hikes outside the immediate coast.
- • Only cheap flip-flops for all-day use: Relying solely on flimsy flip-flops underestimates Long Beach distances and biking; they lack arch support and traction. Swap in cushioned sneakers or water-resistant sport sandals for comfort during long boardwalk walks.
- • Non-reef-safe sunscreen: Regular chemical sunscreens can harm marine habitats during paddleboarding or swimming. Choose reef-safe, broad-spectrum sunscreen in a travel pump or stick, and reapply when exposed to sun and saltwater.
- • Bulky power bricks and extra chargers: Bulky power bricks and numerous chargers eat luggage weight and are unnecessary in 120V Long Beach with easy access to shops. Bring a compact multi-port USB charger, one spare cable and a small power bank.
Local Packing Secrets for Long Beach
Local wisdom and practical advice gathered from seasoned travelers and residents.
- • Layer for the marine breeze: Pack a thin windbreaker and a lightweight sweater—Long Beach mornings often sit around 15°C with a cool marine layer, while afternoons warm to 22–25°C. Layers keep you comfy from beach to waterfront dinner.
- • Reef-safe sunscreen and sun shirt: Bring broad-spectrum, reef-safe sunscreen and reapply frequently—UV is strong even on chilly 16°C mornings. Pack a lip balm with SPF and a lightweight sun shirt for long beach or boat days.
- • Versatile footwear for sand and streets: Bring comfortable sneakers for the flat, walkable waterfront plus water-resistant sandals for sand and slick boardwalks. Keep a pair of closed-toe shoes for boat trips and evening waterfront dining.
- • Light beach kit and valuables safety: Swap bulky terry towels for a quick-dry microfiber towel and a sand-proof bag—easier on public transport or scooters. Use a small waterproof pouch or beach locker for phones and cash to reduce theft risk.
- • Hands-free gear for walking and scooters: Bring a comfortable crossbody or small daypack for hands-free walking and scooter rides—Long Beach is flat and bike-friendly. Carry a compact lock or use docked bikes to avoid theft and keep cards handy for rentals.
- • Waterproof pouch and local rentals: For paddleboarding or kayaking, pack a waterproof phone pouch, quick-dry clothes, and neoprene water shoes. Rent boards locally if you don't travel with gear—local shops have proper fit and leash options.
- • One smart-casual outfit for evenings: Bring one smart-casual outfit and slip-on espadrilles or loafers for waterfront restaurants—evenings near the water can drop to around 18°C and wind makes lightweight layers feel cooler.
- • Portable power and charging tips: Bring a compact multi-port USB charger and a small travel adapter only if your plugs differ—Long Beach uses 120V. A portable battery keeps phones charged for maps, bike rentals and sunset photos on the shore.
- • Protect gear and respect ocean safety: Keep valuables off the sand—use your hotel safe or a locked car and bring a small cable lock for gear. Swim near lifeguarded areas and respect rip current warnings; ocean conditions change quickly with tides.
- • Pack light: capsule and laundry hacks: Pack a capsule wardrobe: 3 tops, 2 bottoms, one lightweight layer and one smart-casual outfit—laundromats and grocery stores are common, so you can travel carry-on only and wash mid-trip if needed.
- • Dusk repellent and an extra layer: Carry a small bottle of insect repellent for dusk hours near marinas and green spaces—mosquitoes can be active after sunset. A lightweight scarf or merino layer also helps keep bites and chill away on evenings.
- • Smart-casual dining and payment tips: Carry a spare smart-casual top and one pair of slip-on shoes for waterfront dining—most places are casual but elevated. Keep a few small USD bills for beach kiosks; contactless cards work widely for restaurants.
What to Pack for Long Beach — Coastal Layers & Sun FAQs
Common questions from fellow travelers, answered with local insight and practical experience.
What layers and clothing should I pack for Long Beach?
Which shoes are best for sand, boardwalks and waterfront dining?
How should I protect my skin and eyes from strong coastal sun?
Is Long Beach walkable — should I bring a bike or rent a scooter?
Can I swim or surf safely here — what should I know about ocean hazards?
What beach gear fits in a carry-on and what can I buy locally?
Are there safety or theft precautions I should take on the beach and at night?
Common Packing Mistakes for Long Beach
Learn from others' experiences to avoid these common packing pitfalls and travel more comfortably.
Underestimating UV on cool, breezy days
Cool marine layer mornings (around 15°C) hide strong afternoon sun. UV spikes after the fog clears. Bring reef-safe SPF 30+, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses and reapply every 2 hours.
Relying solely on flip-flops for long walks
Flip-flops are fine for the sand but painful on boardwalks and streets. For Shoreline Village and long waterfront walks bring comfortable sneakers or water-resistant sport sandals, plus compact espadrilles for dining.
Overpacking formal attire for a casual city
Long Beach leans casual; packing many formal pieces wastes space. Bring one smart-casual outfit (light linen shirt or dress, loafers/espadrilles) and mix-and-match separates for evenings, saving space for beach gear.
Skipping layers for chilly waterfront evenings
Even warm afternoons can turn chilly near the water; evenings often drop to 10–15°C with steady breeze. Pack a lightweight windbreaker, a thin merino or cotton sweater, and a compact scarf or packable shell.
Forgetting reef-safe sunscreen for ocean activities
Using ordinary sunscreen at the beach can harm marine habitats and be less water resistant. For paddleboarding, surfing or swimming bring reef-safe broad-spectrum SPF 30+, water-resistant formulas, and a waterproof phone pouch.
Over-relying on ride-hailing for short trips
Long Beach is flat and highly walkable; relying on ride-hail adds cost and parking headaches. Pack comfortable walking shoes, a small daypack, a compact bike lock or use docked rentals and a lightweight rain shell if needed.
Ready for Long Beach
You're ready for Long Beach. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and polarized shades; bring a light windbreaker or thin sweater for breezy mornings (around 15°C) and evenings, and versatile shoes: comfortable sneakers plus water-resistant sandals for sand, boardwalks and waterfront dining. Remember to lock bikes, swim near lifeguards for ocean outings, and keep one smart-casual outfit for rooftop dinners. Embrace the relaxed coastal style and go confident. Long Beach is waiting.
