Junipero Beach

Also known as Cherry Beach, this stretch of shore located in Long Beach is easily accessible to beach goers and is stunning to look at. Being a more urban oceanside environment in Los Angeles county, Junipero Beach is well known both as a safe beach destination with lifeguards as well as for the amenities that surround the area. Here is every reason why you should add Junipero Beach to your list for your next California getaway.

Beach Access

Unlike many beaches in the area, parking is actually the least of your worries. Free street parking is widely available as well as various metered parking lots if it turns out to be a crowded day. 

In terms of working your way down to the beach, Junipero Beach is accessible via stairs that can be located every few blocks or so. This is no tucked away gem, it is right out in the open for all to enjoy in any way they see fit.

Parks

Junipero is well known for the parks that inhabit the area. Primarily is Bluff Park, where visitors go to stroll or bike along the winding pedestrian and bike paths that overlook the Pacific. This is a common place to go for a walk in the area as these paths will give you a spectacular view of the vistas as well as the harbor that is located near the southeastern end of the beach. Beach volleyball courts can also be found in the area!

Alternatively, there is Bixby Park which is famous for its yoga classes. On a cool and sunny day, I recommend stopping by and participating if you are a yoga enthusiast. They take place occasionally throughout the day and are completely free! Visitors are highly encouraged to bring a yoga mat and participate regardless of their experience. This is a great way to get to know some of the locals.

Across Ocean Blvd, Bixby Park expands and you will find a playground, fitness equipment, restrooms as well as a shady grassy area ideal for a picnic or just to lay back, listen to some music and take a break from your day.

Alfredo’s Beach Shack

Alfredo’s is a one stop shop for anybody seeking to participate in extraneous beach activities. Recently celebrating their 35th anniversary, this famous Long Beach establishment has been providing visitors with an ideal venue for weddings, corporate events, birthday parties and team building activities. 

If you do not plan on booking them they still have much to offer in terms of rentals. Here is the location you need to visit if you plan on biking along those paths along the beach, or want to get out and explore the water via pedal boat, kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals.

Alfredo’s also hosts a variety of events throughout the year so be sure to check their online character and see what they have going on during your visit. Some of their activities include Moonlight Movies on the Beach, the Love Long Beach Celebration, Pirate Invasion of Long Beach as well as the Kids’ Fishing Rodeo.

Ultimately there is no one way to make the most of your time during your time at Junipero Beach. Of course all of the activities and parks are listed here are highly recommended but we have barely even scratched the surface. Be sure to look into Rosie’s Dog Beach, The Long Beach Museum, Rainbow Harbor, Alamitos Beach among much more. For further ideas, check out #JuniperoBeach among any social media platform!

If you are looking for more beaches to visit in the area be sure to check out Sunset Beach and Victoria Beach. If you’re looking for a similar experience on the East Coast, check out our piece on the Best Beaches in Fort Lauderdale!