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Long Beach Airport (LGB), located 3 miles northeast of downtown Long Beach, California, is a compact yet stylish hub known for its historic charm and modern efficiency. Serving the Los Angeles metro area, LGB operates with a single terminal split into two concourses—North Concourse and South Concourse—featuring 11 gates in total. Handling flights from airlines like Southwest, Delta, and Hawaiian, it’s a traveler-friendly alternative to larger airports like LAX, with a relaxed vibe and a capacity for over 1.4 million passenger boardings annually.
Terminal Overview
LGB’s single terminal is a breeze to navigate, blending its 1941 Streamline Moderne architecture with open-air courtyards and modern upgrades from a 2020-2024 improvement project. Level 1 houses arrivals, baggage claim (three carousels), and ground transport, while Level 2 handles departures, check-in, and security. The North and South Concourses extend from a central hub post-security, connected by a short outdoor walkway (5-7 minutes end-to-end). Its small size means minimal walking, though ongoing construction (like the new ticketing building) may shift layouts—check digital screens for updates.
- Where to Eat: Pre-security, 4th & Vine on Level 2 offers craft beers and sliders with a local twist. Post-security, the North Concourse’s Polly’s Coffee near Gate 2 serves pastries and espresso, while the South Concourse’s McKenna’s Burger Bar by Gate 8 dishes out juicy patties and fries. Sheldrake Coffee Roasting in the courtyard is a gem for artisanal brews.
- Where to Rest: The outdoor courtyard between concourses has shaded seating and fire pits—perfect for a calm wait. Post-security, The Club LGB near Gate 5 ($45 day pass) offers plush chairs and snacks. Near Gate 10, a quiet nook with outlets is a free, comfy spot.
- What to Do: Slot machines near Gates 3 and 9 bring a mini-Vegas thrill—penny slots are low-stakes fun. The historic terminal’s murals by Grace Clements (Level 1) showcase aviation history—snap a photo. Plane-watch from the open-air garden by Gate 7.
- Unique Features: Free Wi-Fi blankets the terminal—strongest in the courtyard. A pet relief area with faux grass is outside Door 4 (Level 1). The terminal’s living roof adds eco-flair and stunning views from Gate 11.
- How to Get There: Long Beach Transit Route 111 ($1.25, 20 minutes from downtown) drops at Level 1. Taxis ($20-$25 to downtown) and rideshares (pickup near Door 5) are curbside at Arrivals. The Rental Car Center is across Donald Douglas Drive—a quick walk or shuttle. Park in Garage A ($25/day) right across from the terminal or Garage B ($20/day) with 12 EV charging stations.
North Concourse
The North Concourse, with 5 gates (1-5), is Southwest Airlines’ stronghold, buzzing with domestic flights. Its open-air design and palm trees set a laid-back tone.
- Polly’s Coffee near Gate 2 offers fresh scones and lattes—ideal for a morning boost. George’s Greek Café by Gate 4 serves gyros and hummus with a Mediterranean flair. Hudson News near Gate 1 has grab-and-go snacks.
- Near Gate 5, cushioned seats with USB ports face the tarmac—a quiet perch. The courtyard’s benches (pre-security access via hub) are a breezy backup.
- Slot machines by Gate 3 tempt with quick plays. The gift shop near Gate 2 stocks Long Beach tees and souvenirs. Watch planes from Gate 5’s open walkway.
- Outdoor boarding ramps at Gates 1-3 let you stroll to your plane—a rare treat. An ATM near Gate 4 covers cash needs.
South Concourse
The South Concourse, with 6 gates (6-11), hosts Delta and Hawaiian Airlines, offering a slightly calmer vibe with its airy layout and courtyard adjacency.
- McKenna’s Burger Bar near Gate 8 grills up bacon cheeseburgers and sweet potato fries. Sweet Jill’s Bakery by Gate 10 tempts with cupcakes and cookies. CNBC Newsstand near Gate 7 has light bites for the rush.
- The Club LGB near Gate 5 is a sleek lounge with showers and Wi-Fi (open to all for a fee). Near Gate 11, a seating area with outlets and runway views is free and serene.
- Slot machines near Gate 9 keep the fun alive. The art mosaic near Gate 6 nods to LGB’s 1940s roots—worth a look. Plane-spot from Gate 11’s glass wall.
- Gate 11’s triple jetway handles bigger planes—a rarity here. A hydration station by Gate 8 encourages eco-friendly refills.
LGB’s terminal map is a traveler’s dream—small, stylish, and soaked in SoCal charm. Whether you’re dining, chilling, or chasing a jackpot, it’s a seamless start to your journey.
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Brian Mitchell