Mother's Beach in Long Beach

Mother's Beach (or Marine Park)
5839 Appian Way
Long Beach, CA

Hours: Open daily, sunrise to 10:30 PM

Admission: Free

Parking: Free on the street, or metered parking (25 cents for each 15 minutes). There's also a change machine in the parking lot in case you need quarters.

Ages: All

Description

This beach is aptly named because it's a mother/child hangout. A stretch of waveless waters in a lagoon type setting (perfect for small children), with lifeguards, and a playground. Back from the strand (near the parking lot) is a grassy area with trees and lots of shade, perfect for picnicing. Kayak rentals are available ($7/hr single, $14/hr double) during the summer and weekends only the rest of the year.

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I liked this Mother's Beach in Long Beach better than the Mother's Beach in Marina Del Rey, because this one has grass, trees, and shade. Even though it was a week day, there were lots of moms with kids, and nannies with kids; but there was still available free parking on the street. I opted to pay to park in the parking lot since it was closer and more convenient. We ended up staying for 2 hours and we will definitely be back.