12 Areas to Avoid in Long Beach, CA [TOURIST SAFETY GUIDE]

Welcome to the sunny allure of Long Beach, a coastal city brimming with vibrant culture and picturesque views. However, as with any popular urban destination, certain areas are less than ideal for casual exploration. Knowing the areas to avoid in Long Beach is key for both new visitors and seasoned tourists seeking a fun and safe experience.

During my last visit, I couldn’t help but notice distinct contrasts within the city’s sprawling landscape. While most neighborhoods boast friendly locals and eclectic haunts, there are pockets where caution is advised. It’s these less-talked-about spots in Long Beach that can catch unwary travelers off guard.

I’ve compiled vital insights and tips for steering clear of these areas. From personal encounters to shared anecdotes from locals, this knowledge is your gateway to a hassle-free Long Beach adventure. So let’s dive in, ensuring your beachside getaway is filled with nothing but pleasant memories.

 

Top Areas to Avoid in Long Beach, California

1. Central Long Beach

Central Long Beach brims with cultural diversity and urban energy, yet certain parts fall under the category of areas to avoid in Long Beach due to safety concerns. Visitors are cautioned to remain alert, especially at night, as some pockets are known to exhibit higher crime rates than other parts of the city. Offering a wealth of eclectic attractions, it is prudent to conduct thorough research and plan your itinerary with an emphasis on safety, favoring well-lit and more populated streets.

Enjoying Central Long Beach’s varied points of interest is generally a daytime delight, but prudence dictates being mindful of high-risk areas in Long Beach, CA after the sun sets. Engaging with the community can yield useful tips about which neighborhoods to savor and which to sidestep to ensure a positive experience.

 

2. Wilmington

Venturing into Wilmington, one discovers a stark contrast within Long Beach’s dynamic tapestry. Known for its industrial backdrop, Wilmington presents a grittier side of the city. As one of the areas in Long Beach with high crime, caution is urged here, especially after dusk. The area is marked by higher crime statistics, so the prudent visitor would do well to stick to daytime excursions and maintain a keen sense of awareness.

While Wilmington has its own unique charm, with pockets of community strength, it’s advisable to plan your visit strategically. Engage with locals and heed their guidance to ensure your safety. While this district has potential, night-time exploration without proper local knowledge can be ill-advised.

 

3. Downtown

Downtown Long Beach is a vibrant cluster of entertainment, art, and dining options that sometimes belies its gritty edges. After the sun sets, some pockets of the area emerge as Long Beach cautionary zones and certain streets can feel isolated, demanding a vigilant attitude from visitors. With its stunning skyline and bustling day scene, it’s a jewel worth witnessing, albeit with proper planning for safety.

By night, it’s recommended to circumvent areas less frequented by the public, sticking to the brightly lit promenades and populated venues. Local advice and common sense are key to navigating this urban core safely, and preserving the enjoyment of its myriad offerings.

 

4. Poly High District

Poly High District bears a juxtaposition of community resilience and cautionary tales. It’s an area where day visits can illuminate local initiatives yet caution after dusk remains a mantra. Though possessing a vibrant spirit, travelers should navigate with an alert eye, tapping into neighborhood wisdom during their explorations.

This district’s narrative is enriched by historical threads, and as one of the areas in Long Beach with safety issues, prudent travelers restrict their after-hours presence. The cultural fabric here is robust by daylight, but ensure any nocturnal ventures are guided by local insight. Embrace Poly High’s daytime zest, while prioritizing personal safety at all times.

 

5. Alamitos Beach

Alamitos Beach beckons with its golden sands and serene ocean views, presenting an idyllic daytime retreat. By day, it’s a haven for sun-seekers and beachgoers, offering a picturesque escape within Long Beach. However, caution is advised when the sun dips below the horizon, as areas around Alamitos Beach might be adjacent to some high-risk areas in Long Beach, CA, feeling deserted and less secure.

After dark, it’s wise to stay within well-lit, popular spots or to visit with a group, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in this coastal allure. Visitors should relish the daytime vibrancy of Alamitos Beach but remain cautious and grouped after sunset, echoing the safety-first approach advised throughout Long Beach. To experience this scenic locale, one can find it easily accessible at the heart of the city’s shoreline attractions.

 

6. West Side

Venturing into the West Side of Long Beach requires a cautious approach, especially as evening shadows fall. This area, known as one of the neighborhoods with safety issues in Long Beach, serves as a reminder for visitors to stay vigilant. Despite the challenges, the West Side showcases a community striving to uplift its streets and promote positive change. Daylight hours are best for exploring its authentic local culture and spirited enterprises.

Nevertheless, the prudent explorer will adhere to the advice of steering clear after dark, unless with trusted local companionship. Recognizing the duality of the West Side helps ensure a respectful and secure visit. Embrace its daytime vibrancy, but prioritize safety with sundown.

 

7. Circle Area

The 7th Circle Area, nestled in East Long Beach, reflects a contrasting character. By day, it’s a hub of activity, where the spirit of local enterprise blooms under the California sun. Nevertheless, as the city succumbs to the night, this segment of Long Beach manifests itself as a place where safety warnings for Long Beach visitors are pertinent.

Streetlights cast long shadows in the evening, and while not infamous for danger, it’s prudent for travelers to stay aware. Enjoy its daytime charm but consider a companion after dusk, blending safety with exploration in this community.

 

8. North Long Beach

North Long Beach stands as a testament to the city’s diversity and resilience, its streets echoing with the promise of tomorrow. Yet as night descends, travelers are reminded to tread with caution, as some may consider it one of the Long Beach areas with high crime. Rich in culture and spirit, the area buzzes with potential during the sunlight hours, drawing visitors to its unique local vibes.

However, as evening approaches, it is wise for those unfamiliar with its corners to practice mindfulness or visit in the company of those who know it well. While North Long Beach is not officially a no-go zone, prudence in the evening upholds a secure and enjoyable experience.

 

9. California Heights

California Heights boasts a rich tapestry of historic charm, making it a picturesque daytime stroll beneath the Long Beach sky. Its well-kept homes and manicured lawns tell tales of a proud, tight-knit community. Despite its charm, like any city, Long Beach has areas with safety concerns, and as the sun sets, it’s wise to be more vigilant, especially in neighborhoods known to be less secure.

The neighborhood whispers with a serene quietude as evening sets in, inviting visitors to respect its peaceful nature. To best enjoy this suburban gem after dark and avoid the risky Long Beach neighborhoods, it’s recommended to do so with company and stay street-savvy. California Heights showcases the allure of Long Beach while echoing the importance of nighttime prudence.

 

10. Airport Area

The Airport Area in Long Beach is an industrial hub, pulsing with daytime energy as flights ascend and business thrives. Its practical charm attracts visitors with a specific purpose, rather than leisurely exploration. Yet as dusk settles, the bustling atmosphere diminishes, giving way to deserted lots and a stark ambiance.

While not inherently perilous, the Airport Area is best traversed with purpose after nightfall or in the company of locals, as it can be one of the places to be cautious in Long Beach, CA. It lacks the vibrant street life present in other Long Beach neighborhoods, suggesting a cautious approach during the nocturnal hours. Engage with this zone during the day, when its utilitarian spirit is most apparent.

 

11. Lincoln

Lincoln is an area in Long Beach that, like many urban landscapes, takes on a different character after dark. Though not typically labeled as one of the dangerous districts in Long Beach, it’s known less for its tourist appeal and more for its residential makeup, thus caution is advisable when exploring after sundown. The lack of bustling activity that characterizes safer, more vibrant districts is conspicuously absent here, leaving the streets quiet and potentially unnerving for unfamiliar visitors.

During the day, the community’s vibe is more apparent, but nightfall brings a stillness that suggests caution and awareness. If you must travel through Lincoln at night, do so with purpose and ideally with local guidance or in groups. It’s a place where practical street smarts can make all the difference.

 

12. Carmelitos

Carmelitos in Long Beach presents a duality, transforming as the sun retreats. By day, the area is quieter and less visited, lacking notable attractions for tourists or locals. Yet, nightfall ushers in a sense of wariness, as the streets empty and the community’s energy wanes. Given that Carmelitos is often mentioned among the troubled areas in Long Beach, California, visitors are advised to exercise increased vigilance after dark, as the area is not renowned for its nightlife and can feel isolating.

It’s wise for those passing through Carmelitos in the evening to maintain a sense of purpose and remain aware of their surroundings. Like the neighboring Airport Area and Lincoln, the subdued nocturnal atmosphere warrants caution and ideally, the presence of companions or locals who know the area well.

 

Conclusion

Navigating the vibrant city of Long Beach can be a delightful experience with its sunny beaches and lively cultural scene. However, locals and visitors alike need to stay informed about the areas to avoid in Long Beach, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit. Certain neighborhoods have been marked by higher rates of crime, and it’s wise to exercise caution, especially after dark. Steer clear of problematic spots, and instead, soak up the best of what Long Beach has to offer in its many safer areas.

As you plan your Long Beach itinerary, remember that a little local know-how goes a long way. Be street-smart, keep your wits about you, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring the rich tapestry that is Long Beach. Equip yourself with the knowledge of areas to avoid and dive into the city’s endless opportunities for adventure and cultural enrichment. Stay safe and relish every moment in this coastal gem!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common safety concerns to be aware of in Long Beach?

Common safety concerns in Long Beach include petty theft, burglary, and street crimes such as robberies and assaults. It’s always important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and secure your belongings.

Are there any particular neighborhoods that are considered more dangerous?

Yes, certain neighborhoods have higher crime rates and might be considered more dangerous. These can include parts of areas such as North Long Beach and some sections along the Pacific Coast Highway. However, crime can occur anywhere, so it’s best to stay informed and cautious.

Is it safe to use public transportation in Long Beach at night?

While public transportation is generally safe, there can be an increased risk at night, especially at isolated stops or when the system is less busy. It’s recommended to travel with a friend, stay in well-lit areas, and remain alert. Always plan your route to minimize waiting times.

What precautions can visitors take to stay safe when visiting Long Beach?

Visitors should research the areas they plan to visit, stay in reputable accommodations, keep valuables out of sight, and use well-lit and busy streets for travel. It can also be helpful to download a safety app, use licensed taxis or verified ride-share services, and keep emergency numbers handy.

How does Long Beach compare to other cities in terms of safety?

Long Beach, like any large city, has its share of crime, but it also has many safe and vibrant areas with active community policing efforts and improvements in public safety. It is important to compare recent crime statistics and to read up on neighborhood safety before visiting or moving to any new city.