Loomis Lake State Park
"Long Beach is the closest visitor hub, with dining, lodging, and beach access. Visitors often pair a stop at Loomis Lake with the boardwalk, shops, and oceanfront activities."
Loomis Lake State Park offers a calm freshwater lake setting just inland from the Pacific Ocean, making it a good stop for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. Its compact size and easy access from nearby beach communities make it a convenient outdoor destination for families and casual visitors.
Hempstead Lake State Park
"Long Beach visitors come to Hempstead Lake State Park for freshwater fishing, picnics, and a change of scenery from the oceanfront."
Hempstead Lake State Park features a large freshwater lake, extensive trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It is ideal for fishing, walking, horseback riding, and family outings.
Cape Disappointment State Park
"Long Beach visitors come for a scenic coastal outing that pairs well with the park’s beaches and historic sites. It is close enough for an easy half-day or full-day visit."
Cape Disappointment State Park is known for its windswept headlands, historic North Head and Cape Disappointment lighthouses, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Columbia River. The park offers beaches, tide pools, interpretive sites, and access to one of Washington’s most iconic coastal landscapes.
Leadbetter Point State Park
"Long Beach is the closest major visitor hub and a convenient base for coastal lodging, dining, and beach activities. Visitors often pair a trip here with a quiet day at Leadbetter Point."
Leadbetter Point State Park offers a rugged Pacific shoreline, sheltered bay views, and habitat for shorebirds and waterfowl. Visitors come for beach walks, clamming, fishing access, and the sense of solitude found at one of Washington’s most scenic coastal points.
Valley Stream State Park
"Long Beach visitors enjoy the park's shaded picnic areas and sports fields, offering a change of pace from the beach."
Valley Stream State Park features shaded picnic areas, sports fields, and a network of walking trails. Its convenient location and family-friendly amenities make it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
Bolsa Chica State Beach
"Long Beach offers attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific and Queen Mary, and is a popular destination for visitors seeking a mix of city amenities and coastal recreation."
Bolsa Chica State Beach features wide sandy beaches, fire rings, and access to the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. It’s a hotspot for surfing, fishing, and birdwatching, with convenient amenities for day use.
Watts Towers of Simon Rodia State Historic Park
"Long Beach visitors can enjoy the city’s waterfront and cultural sites, then take a short drive to explore the unique artistry of Watts Towers."
Watts Towers of Simon Rodia SHP features a remarkable collection of folk art towers constructed by Simon Rodia over three decades. The park is a testament to artistic vision and cultural heritage, offering guided tours and educational programs.
Buccaneer State Park
"Long Beach families often visit for swimming, camping, and coastal recreation. The park is a convenient option for a day trip or weekend stay along the Gulf."
Buccaneer State Park is one of Mississippi’s most popular coastal parks, offering a mix of RV and tent camping, a seasonal waterpark, and access to the sandy shoreline of the Gulf of Mexico. Its location near Bay St. Louis makes it a convenient base for beach outings, fishing, and exploring the Mississippi Coast.
Pío Pico State Historic Park
"Long Beach visitors appreciate the park’s cultural heritage and tranquil gardens, offering a peaceful escape and insight into California’s past."
Pío Pico State Historic Park showcases the restored adobe residence of Pío Pico, surrounded by lush gardens and informative exhibits. Visitors can explore California’s rich history through guided tours and educational programs.
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
"Long Beach residents visit Kenneth Hahn SRA for its family-friendly amenities and expansive green spaces, perfect for a day trip."
Kenneth Hahn SRA features hiking trails, fishing lakes, playgrounds, and sports courts, all set against sweeping views of Los Angeles. It's a favorite spot for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat within the city.
Los Angeles State Historic Park
"Long Beach visitors come to experience the park’s events and to explore the vibrant neighborhoods of central Los Angeles."
Located near Chinatown, Los Angeles State Historic Park is a 32-acre urban oasis offering scenic views, cultural programs, and recreational opportunities. Its central location makes it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Rio de Los Angeles State Park State Recreation Area
"Long Beach residents visit for community events and to enjoy the park’s sports fields during regional tournaments and gatherings."
Rio de Los Angeles State Park SRA is a revitalized urban park offering sports facilities, native landscaping, and access to the Los Angeles River. It serves as a vital green space for recreation and community events in Northeast Los Angeles.
Santa Monica State Beach
"Long Beach residents often visit Santa Monica State Beach for its wide recreational offerings, iconic pier, and proximity to shopping and dining."
Santa Monica State Beach features expansive sandy shores, the historic Santa Monica Pier, and a variety of recreational opportunities. Its central location and amenities make it a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike.
Corona del Mar State Beach
"Long Beach locals and tourists enjoy the short trip south to explore Corona del Mar’s tidepools and sandy shores."
Corona del Mar State Beach features a half-mile of protected sandy shoreline, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. Its dramatic cliffs and tidepools attract nature lovers and photographers.
Crystal Cove State Park
"Long Beach residents enjoy day trips to Crystal Cove for beachcombing, tide pooling, and exploring the park’s scenic bluffs."
Crystal Cove State Park offers a unique blend of sandy beaches, coastal bluffs, and backcountry wilderness. Visitors can explore tide pools, hike scenic trails, and enjoy the historic Crystal Cove Beach Cottages.
Verdugo Mountains Prop
"Long Beach visitors are drawn to the Verdugo Mountains for hiking and wildlife viewing, offering a change of pace from the coast."
Verdugo Mountains Prop features miles of multi-use trails, sweeping vistas of the San Fernando Valley, and abundant native flora and fauna. Its proximity to Los Angeles makes it a convenient spot for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Grayland Beach State Park
"Long Beach visitors may drive north for a less developed shoreline and a more relaxed camping atmosphere. It appeals to travelers looking for a quieter Pacific Coast destination."
Grayland Beach State Park offers a classic Washington coast experience with long stretches of beach, dune scenery, and opportunities for shellfish harvesting. It is a popular base for camping, beach walks, and exploring the nearby South Beach area.
Los Encinos State Historic Park
"Long Beach residents enjoy day trips to Los Encinos SHP for its tranquil setting and rich historical significance."
Los Encinos SHP highlights California’s rancho history with its preserved adobe, historic structures, and tranquil pond. The park is ideal for picnics, educational visits, and exploring local heritage.
Shepard State Park
"Long Beach visitors can enjoy a short drive to a quieter inland park experience with camping and lake access."
Shepard State Park offers a laid-back escape with a scenic freshwater lake, shaded picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing and paddling. Its location near the Gulf Coast makes it a convenient base for outdoor recreation and day trips to nearby beaches and attractions.
Topanga State Park
"Long Beach residents visit for hiking and picnicking, enjoying a natural retreat within an hour’s drive from the city."
Topanga State Park features more than 36 miles of trails through diverse landscapes, providing opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Its proximity to Los Angeles makes it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.