🛫 How to Quickly Get from Los Angeles Airport to Long Beach

If you’re flying into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and you have your heart set on Long Beach, you’re in luck! The 20-mile journey can feel surprisingly quick and seamless with the right plan. Over the years, I’ve made this journey multiple times and have found several ways to make the trip easy, whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or just need a quick getaway. I’ll share my personal experiences and tips to help you get from LAX to Long Beach with as little hassle as possible.

🚕 Option 1: Taking a Taxi or Rideshare (The Easiest Option)

One of the quickest and most convenient ways to get from LAX to Long Beach is by taking a taxi or using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. It’s the method I usually opt for when I’m traveling with luggage or when I want to avoid public transport hassles.

What to Expect:

The ride from LAX to Long Beach typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost you approximately \$45 to \$65 for a standard ride. If you’re traveling during peak hours, you might experience longer travel times, especially on the I-105 or I-405, where traffic can slow down. However, if you’re in a hurry or simply want the most direct option, taxis and rideshares will get you to your destination without any additional stress.

What Makes It Convenient:

• Door-to-door service: You’re picked up directly from your terminal and dropped off at your Long Beach destination.
• No transfers: Unlike public transportation, you won’t need to switch between buses or trains.
• Comfort: You can relax, especially after a long flight. Whether it’s a Lyft XL or an Uber Comfort ride, you can upgrade for more spacious seating.

Travel Tip:

• Download the rideshare apps before arriving at the airport. It’s always faster to request a ride with the app than trying to hail a taxi on the spot.
• If you have extra time and want to keep the cost lower, consider sharing a ride with another person—some services, like Lyft Line or Uber Pool, allow you to do this.

✈️ Option 2: Direct Flights from LAX to Long Beach (Super Fast & Efficient)

If you’re short on time and prefer a quick way to travel, flying from LAX to Long Beach might be the best option for you. Although it sounds like a short hop, it’s surprisingly effective for those who don’t want to deal with the ground traffic. This option is especially ideal for business travelers or anyone on a tight schedule.

There are a couple of direct flights that fly from LAX to Long Beach Airport (LGB).

Flight Option 1: American Airlines

American Airlines offers a short 30-minute flight from LAX to LGB. While this flight isn’t always a top choice for many due to its price, it is a quick and easy way to get from one airport to another in a matter of minutes.

• Flight Duration: 30 minutes
• Price: Approximately \$70–\$150 for a one-way ticket (depending on the time of booking)
• Services:
• Free snacks and drinks in first class.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi for in-flight entertainment.
• A comfortable, smooth flight experience that doesn’t feel rushed or cramped.

What Passengers Say:

Travelers generally have a positive experience with American Airlines, especially for this short-haul flight. The flight crew is known for being professional, and passengers love the simplicity of not having to switch terminals or go through customs again. It’s ideal for those who want to bypass the complexities of ground transportation.

Best Booking Platform:
For the best deals, I recommend checking Google Flights or Expedia. Both platforms will show you available flights from American Airlines and allow you to compare prices and book with ease. Be sure to book early to lock in the lowest fares.

Flight Tip:
Book in advance using fare comparison websites like Skyscanner or Kayak for great deals. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you might be able to find discounts that reduce your ticket price.

Flight Option 2: JetBlue Airways

JetBlue Airways also operates a direct flight from LAX to Long Beach Airport. It’s another excellent option for travelers who prefer to fly instead of driving. The flight is typically shorter than a taxi ride and skips the dreaded L.A. traffic.

• Flight Duration: Around 30–40 minutes
• Price: \$55–\$125, depending on availability.
• In-Flight Service:
• Free Wi-Fi is offered on board.
• Snacks and beverages (including alcoholic options for passengers 21 and older).
• JetBlue has a reputation for having comfortable seats with plenty of legroom, even in economy.

Passenger Reviews:

JetBlue is praised for its customer service and the quality of its flights, particularly the comfortable seats and extra perks like free Wi-Fi and snacks. This short journey feels luxurious in comparison to other quick flights.

Booking Tip:
I recommend booking directly through JetBlue’s official website or using Kayak for fare comparisons. JetBlue often has promotions, so check for any available discounts.

Flight Option 3: Delta Air Lines

Delta offers another solid option with direct flights between LAX and Long Beach. These flights tend to be a bit pricier but offer great service and convenience.

• Flight Duration: Around 35 minutes
• Price: Usually \$75–\$160 one-way.
• Services:
• Delta’s economy class service includes snacks and drinks.
• For those flying first class, Delta offers complimentary alcoholic beverages and a premium experience.
• You can enjoy excellent customer service from check-in through to your final destination.

Why Travelers Choose Delta:

Delta is known for its top-tier customer service and efficient flight schedules. Even though the flight is short, the flight attendants are friendly, and the cabin is always kept clean.

Best Booking Platform:
Booking directly through Delta’s website will allow you to select seats in advance. Expedia also offers competitive rates, so it’s worth checking.

Booking Tips for Flights:

• Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare multiple airlines for your LAX to Long Beach route.
• Keep an eye out for flash sales on travel deal sites like The Flight Deal or Secret Flying, which often highlight discounts on shorter flights.

🚆 Option 3: Using the FlyAway Bus Service

Although a flight is an excellent choice for quick travel, I can’t forget to mention the FlyAway Bus service that connects LAX with Long Beach. It’s more budget-friendly and offers a relaxing ride to Long Beach from the airport without the headache of traffic.

🚆 Option 3: Using the FlyAway Bus Service

If flying isn’t your top choice, or if you prefer a more cost-effective option, the FlyAway Bus is a great alternative. It’s an affordable and convenient way to get from LAX to Long Beach without the stress of driving or navigating traffic.

What to Expect:

The FlyAway Bus departs from LAX at regular intervals and takes you directly to Long Beach, making it one of the most reliable public transportation options for travelers. It’s a non-stop, direct service that avoids the need for transfers, and it offers a comfortable ride to your destination.

• Travel Time: Depending on traffic, the journey typically takes about 40-50 minutes.
• Price: The one-way ticket costs around \$9.75, making it a very budget-friendly option.
• Departure Frequency: The FlyAway Bus departs from LAX every 30 minutes, which gives you flexibility in case you miss your scheduled departure.

What Makes It Convenient:

• Non-stop Service: The bus goes straight from LAX to Long Beach, which means no stops along the way.
• Comfortable and Affordable: With comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, you can relax and catch up on emails or enjoy the scenery during your ride.
• Easy to Use: The bus is easy to board, and tickets are sold directly at the FlyAway kiosks or via the FlyAway mobile app.

What Travelers Say:

The general consensus among travelers is that the FlyAway Bus offers great value for money. It’s a solid choice for those on a budget who don’t mind a slightly longer travel time in exchange for significant savings compared to taxis or flights. Reviewers often mention the punctuality of the service, along with the convenience of not having to worry about navigating through traffic or parking.

Booking Tips:

• Purchase tickets directly at the FlyAway kiosk, or use the FlyAway app to buy your tickets ahead of time for faster boarding.
• The FlyAway mobile app also offers real-time updates, which is handy if you want to track your bus or check for any delays.
• If you’re traveling with luggage, don’t worry—there’s plenty of space on the bus for your bags, and you don’t need to pay extra for oversized luggage.

🚗 Option 4: Rental Car (For Flexibility & Freedom)

Another great way to get from LAX to Long Beach is by renting a car. For those who like flexibility, this is a fantastic choice. While this option requires navigating the roads yourself, it can be ideal if you have plans to explore areas around Long Beach or if you simply prefer the freedom of having your own vehicle during your trip.

What to Expect:

Once you pick up your car from one of the rental agencies at LAX, you’ll drive approximately 25-30 miles south on the I-405 to get to Long Beach. The trip typically takes around 30-45 minutes, but it can take longer depending on the traffic, especially during peak hours.

• Price: The cost of a rental car can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of your rental, but expect to pay between \$30–\$80 per day for a compact car.
• Rental Options: Major rental car companies such as Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, and Avis have offices at LAX, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

What Makes It Convenient:

• Flexibility: You can take your time, stop along the way, and have your own car ready for further exploration once you reach Long Beach.
• Great for Group Travel: If you’re traveling with friends or family, renting a car can be an affordable way to get around.
• Explore More: Having your own car means you can easily visit nearby attractions in Long Beach and Los Angeles, such as the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, or even further attractions like Venice Beach or Santa Monica.

What Travelers Say:

Renting a car is often the preferred method for people planning to travel beyond Long Beach or if they prefer a more independent trip. The convenience of having your own vehicle is valued, though some travelers find L.A.’s traffic to be a bit overwhelming. It’s always a good idea to check the traffic conditions before you set off to avoid frustration.

Booking Tips:

• Book in Advance: Rental car prices can fluctuate based on demand, so booking in advance using platforms like Kayak, Expedia, or Enterprise can help you lock in a great rate.
• Check for Discounts: If you’re a member of an auto club like AAA, you might be eligible for discounts on rental cars.
• Fuel Economy: Consider opting for an economy or compact car to save money on fuel. L.A. traffic can sometimes lead to long commutes, so having a more fuel-efficient vehicle can help.

🚌 Option 5: Public Transportation (A Cost-Effective Alternative)

For the truly budget-conscious, public transportation offers a low-cost alternative to other forms of travel. The Metro Green Line combined with a bus ride can get you from LAX to Long Beach at a fraction of the cost of other methods. It’s not as fast, but it’s an option if you’re okay with a longer journey.

What to Expect:

1. Metro Green Line: Start by taking the FlyAway Bus from LAX to the Aviation/LAX Metro Station. From there, transfer to the Metro Green Line at the Aviation/LAX station.
2. Transfer to Long Beach: The Green Line takes you east toward Norwalk, where you’ll switch to the Metro Blue Line, which runs directly into Long Beach.

• Travel Time: The entire journey will take about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on wait times and transfers.
• Cost: A one-way ticket on the Metro will cost you around \$1.75, plus the FlyAway bus fare of \$9.75.

What Makes It Convenient:

• Affordable: It’s one of the cheapest options available, especially if you’re traveling on a tight budget.
• Sustainable: Public transit is environmentally friendly and offers a great way to see more of Los Angeles while traveling through different neighborhoods.

What Travelers Say:

While public transportation can be slower, travelers who choose this method often praise its affordability. The combination of FlyAway buses and Metro lines is a great way to travel on a budget, but it requires a bit of patience.

Booking Tips:

• Purchase your Metro tickets directly at the station or use the Metro TAP card, which can be loaded with multiple trips.
• Check the Metro website for up-to-date schedules and transfer times, as they can vary during rush hours.

By now, you should have a better understanding of the different ways to travel between LAX and Long Beach, each offering varying degrees of convenience, price, and speed. Whether you’re flying into LAX, renting a car, or taking public transit, there’s a method for every kind of traveler. Happy journeying!