Dental Implants Near Long Beach, CA

There will be 11 sporting events taking place along Long Beach's waterfront during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

Fernando Haro, Patch Staff

LONG BEACH, CA — Long Beach has been selected to host 11 sporting events for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, city officials said in a statement Tuesday.

During the city of Los Angeles' initial 2017 bid to host the 2024 games, Long Beach was proposed as a site for five beachside sports. The 2024 Olympics, however, were instead hosted in Paris and Los Angeles was picked as the location for the 2028 games.

Now, Long Beach's waterfront will serve as the backdrop for a series of competitions such as beach volleyball, sport climbing, target shooting, handball, marathon swimming, and more, according to city officials.

This decision comes after the International Olympic Committee's Executive Board approved the venue plan for the 2028 Olympics on April 9.

“Long Beach is now confirmed to serve as a premier waterfront venue for the 2028 Games," Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson said in a statement Tuesday. "We are proud to share our unique waterfront with athletes and fans from across the globe as we unite to celebrate the power of sport."

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Beach volleyball will take place at Alamitos Beach, while other sports, such as water polo and artistic swimming, will be held in a temporary aquatics center at the Convention Center lot, city officials said. Canoe-sprint and rowing competitions will take place at Marine Stadium and sailing in Belmont Shore.

The triathlon competitions that were previously announced for Long Beach, meanwhile, will be relocated to a different city, city officials said.

"The additional events to Long Beach's already established competition zones will not only enhance the overall experience for both athletes and spectators but will also keep additional expenses and impact lower while bringing in more visitors, economic activity, and revenue to Long Beach," city officials said.

The 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles are scheduled to run from July 14 through July 30.

Long Beach is also expected to host competitions for the 2028 Paralympic Games that will take place from Aug. 15 to Aug. 27 in Los Angeles. It's unclear what sports will be held in the city at this time, but city officials said it would be announced in the coming months.

Long Beach is set to approve a $16.5 million plan to construct and operate a temporary amphitheater near the Queen Mary, aiming to establish the city as a premier entertainment destination. While city officials highlight the economic benefits, some residents argue that Long Beach should focus on more pressing local issues.

The proposed Long Beach Bowl will be a 10,000- to 12,000-seat outdoor amphitheater, expected to open in spring 2026. The venue will host 30 to 40 ticketed concerts annually, along with private and community events. Officials say the amphitheater will provide an economic boost, attract major touring acts, and complement existing entertainment venues like the Long Beach Arena.

ASM Global, a leading venue management company, will oversee operations under a five-year contract with an option for renewal, receiving $300,000 per year in management fees. The City will pay $1.5 million in startup costs to ASM Global, which will also contribute $1 million in capital investment. The company manages the Long Beach Convention Center and renowned venues like the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles and Dignity Health Amphitheatre in Bakersfield.

“We’ve addressed some of the challenges in our Downtown, and now it’s ready to add some infusion of new economic activity, and the most immediate form is the amphitheater,” Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson said. “Overnight, it will be a top-10 venue that can’t be ignored.”

The City will allocate $14 million from the Tidelands Fund to cover design, permitting, and construction, including $4 million for infrastructure improvements such as grading the land and upgrading parking lots. Officials expect these costs to be repaid through future operating profits, with revenue projections showing $26 million in net profit, $6 million in new parking revenue, and $11 million in additional tax revenue over the next decade.

The Long Beach Bowl is intended to serve as a temporary venue for the next 10 years, after which city officials hope to replace it with a permanent amphitheater.

Richardson emphasized that the project aligns with Long Beach’s strategy to generate alternative revenue sources as the city moves away from oil extraction, which has historically funded municipal services. “The way we’ve generated revenue is changing fundamentally,” he said. “And there are some things that we have to do in the next few years.”

City planners envision the Long Beach Bowl as a major cultural addition, similar to the Hollywood Bowl, which draws nearly 300,000 attendees annually. Officials believe the amphitheater will attract major concerts and festivals, helping Long Beach compete with other Southern California entertainment hubs.

The venue is also expected to host local events, including performances by the Long Beach Symphony, the Long Beach Jazz Festival, and the city’s annual Juneteenth celebration.

A 2023 market analysis conducted by consulting firm AECOM found a gap in mid-sized venues (10,000 to 12,000 seats) in the greater Los Angeles area. City officials argue that Long Beach is well-positioned to fill this gap and establish itself as a year-round music destination.

Despite the city’s enthusiasm, some Long Beach residents and community activists have criticized the project, arguing that taxpayer funds should be spent on more urgent local issues, such as homelessness, infrastructure repairs, and public safety.

“Our streets have potholes, our public transportation system needs improvements, and we have a growing homeless crisis,” said Maria Lopez, a downtown resident. “Spending $14 million on a temporary amphitheater feels like misplaced priorities.”

Others have raised concerns about noise pollution, traffic congestion, and parking availability in the surrounding area. “How will this affect the people who actually live here?” asked Daniel Kim, a resident of nearby Drake Park. “We already deal with road closures and noise from festivals. Adding a full-time concert venue will just make it worse.”

Local business owners, however, have expressed cautious optimism. “If done right, this could be a major boost for tourism and small businesses,” said Carlos Mendez, who owns a restaurant near the waterfront. “But the city needs to make sure it’s not just another attraction that benefits big corporations while ignoring local issues.”

City officials maintain that the amphitheater will ultimately generate new revenue to fund public services and infrastructure projects. However, they acknowledge residents’ concerns and stress that community engagement will be essential moving forward.

“This project is about economic growth,” said Johnny Vallejo, Deputy Director of Economic Development. “But we also need to make sure we’re addressing the needs of the people who live and work here every day.”

With construction set to begin in July, the debate over the Long Beach Bowl reflects a broader discussion on how the city should allocate its resources—balancing ambitious development projects with the everyday concerns of its residents.

As the City Council prepares to vote, one question remains: Is an amphitheater the best investment for Long Beach right now?

Long Beach officials have postponed tryouts for the city’s Junior Lifeguards program after a sea lion bit a teenage girl participating in a swimming trial.

The incident occurred on March 30 as a group of about a dozen cadets, aged 15 to 17, swam roughly 25 yards from shore in front of the Long Beach Lifeguard Headquarters at 2100 Ocean Boulevard, according to Long Beach Fire Department Capt. Jack Crabtree.

Crabtree described the sea lion as “aggressive,” stating that it swam directly up to the girl and bit her on the arm. Lifeguards stationed along the route quickly intervened, rushing to assist the girl while a nearby lifeguard boat helped two other teenagers back to shore. The sea lion swam away after the attack.

In an interview with KTLA, the girl recounted her fear during the encounter, initially believing she was being attacked by a shark. Fortunately, she sustained only bites and scratches on her arm and hand and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

While sea lion attacks on swimmers are rare, experts say recent reports of erratic and aggressive behavior among the animals may be linked to a toxic algae bloom affecting the Southern California coastline. The bloom produces domoic acid, a neurotoxin that accumulates in small fish consumed by sea lions, leading to disorientation and aggression. The Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro has been overwhelmed with cases of sick and dying sea lions as a result.

There is no clear timeline for when the toxic bloom will subside, but in the meantime, Long Beach officials have postponed all Junior Lifeguard tryouts. When they resume, lifeguards will continue closely monitoring the courses to ensure participants’ safety from sea life, tides, and other ocean hazards.

After serving the corner of Broadway and Hermosa Avenue for nearly a decade, BLACK Bar will be closing its doors in Long Beach at 1800 E. Broadway.

It’s the end of an era for Bethany Black and Shannon McManus, owners of Black in Hollywood. The two have spent over three decades in the industry, with McManus operating the Viper Room from 1993 to 1998, where Bethany also worked. After this, they ran the Darkroom on Melrose before taking over BLACK in Hollywood in 2013. Now, according to LongBeachize, they have decided to sell the business to Pamela and Joshua Beadel, who operate The Breakfast Bar’s two locations. Black Bar is set to close at the end of April 2025.

“We are so proud of what we accomplished and happy that we’ve been able to give back to the community through various fundraisers,” the owners shared on Instagram. “We will always remain grateful to the Long Beach community for the time we had and connections made. Thank you. We will announce our final day in the coming weeks, and we hope you’ll spend some time with us before we close our doors the final time. Lastly, we implore you to support small businesses. Unless you have one and managed to make it through the pandemic years, you can’t imagine the hard work it took to keep going over the last 5 years. Small businesses are the heartbeat of this country, it is the place where human connections are made. We must fight to keep them alive. Thank you for supporting us all these years.”

The nature of what the Breakfast Bar owners will do with the space is unclear. Earlier this year, the duo submitted a liquor license application for a new concept called The Hare at this address. Despite not returning What Now’s requests for more information, the Beadels are excited to return to Long Beach, where Joshua is a native and even worked as a bartender at Hamburger Mary’s. The restaurant owners will have some big shoes to fill, especially in Long Beach’s LGBTQ neighborhood.

“Let’s just say this: We are extremely excited to be apart of the gayborhood.” Joshua Beadel tells Longbeachize.

Thinking about making a move to Long Beach? Nestled between Los Angeles and Orange County, this coastal city blends laid-back beach vibes with urban convenience. With its Mediterranean climate, vibrant neighborhoods, and diverse food scene, Long Beach has a lot going for it—but like any city, it comes with its share of trade-offs.

Whether you’re considering renting an apartment in Long Beach or exploring homes for sale in the area, this guide breaks down the pros and cons to help you decide if Long Beach is the right place to call home.

Interested in moving to Long Beach? Check out: Homes for sale in Long Beach, CA | Apartments for rent in Long Beach, CA | Houses for rent in Long Beach, CA

1. Pro: Housing and living costs are lower than other major CA cities

While Long Beach isn’t cheap, it’s generally more affordable than other major cities in California like San Francisco or Los Angeles. The median home price sits around $771,000, which is relatively lower compared to neighboring coastal markets. Plus, the city offers programs like rental assistance through the Affordable Housing Program and homebuying support via the Long Beach Community Land Trust, helping make housing more accessible for some residents.

Compare the costs of renting vs buying and find a lender to secure your mortgage. Use calculator Get pre-approved 2. Con: The overall cost of living is high here

Even though Long Beach is more affordable than cities like L.A. or San Francisco, its cost of living is still high—about 49% above the national average. The median home price is well above the U.S. average of $424,647, and daily expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation can add up quickly, making it a pricey place for many households.

3. Pro: Year-round sunshine and mild temperatures

The Mediterranean climate, featuring mild temperatures and abundant sunshine year-round, is one of the greatest advantages of living in Long Beach. With average high temperatures around 75°F (24°C) in summer and lows around 55°F (13°C) in winter, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a range of activities throughout the year, from surfing, swimming, and paddleboarding to jogging, cycling, and hiking. The city’s numerous parks, beaches, and recreational areas cater to an active lifestyle, while the pleasant weather fosters a strong sense of community engagement, with residents participating in outdoor events, sports leagues, and group activities.

4. Con: The air quality is not the best

The air quality in Long Beach can be less than ideal, particularly due to its proximity to major transportation routes and industrial zones. Pollution from vehicles and nearby ports often affects air quality, leading to smog and potential respiratory issues. This environmental concern is exacerbated during hot weather when ground-level ozone can increase, impacting overall health and quality of life.

5. Pro: Ideal for commuters and explorers

Long Beach’s central location between Los Angeles and Orange County offers easy access to a wide range of employment opportunities. With major highways, the Metro Blue Line, and extensive bus routes, commuting to nearby job centers is convenient. The city is also well-connected by air—Long Beach Airport provides regional flights, while LAX and John Wayne Airport are both within a reasonable drive—making work travel and business trips easier. Plus, the nearby Port of Long Beach drives the local economy, creating jobs in trade, logistics, and manufacturing.

6. Con: Property taxes are high

Property taxes in Long Beach are relatively high, reflecting California’s broader tax structure. Homeowners face significant annual tax bills, which can add a considerable financial burden. The high property taxes are a result of the state’s funding mechanisms for local services and schools, and they can influence the overall affordability of living in the area.

7. Pro: There’s endless fun and adventure in Long Beach

Long Beach offers a vibrant lifestyle with something for everyone—from parks and beaches to cultural attractions. Outdoor lovers can enjoy El Dorado Park, Bluff Park, and over five miles of coastline at spots like Belmont Shore and Alamitos Beach. The city’s marinas also make it easy to sail, kayak, or paddleboard. For cultural experiences, visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, explore the historic Queen Mary, or check out the Museum of Latin American Art.

“What makes Long Beach a great place to live is its micro-neighborhoods—each one unique, with its own vibe and community feel,” shares Elizabeth Borsting Public Relations. “A best-kept secret is the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden on the campus of Cal State Long Beach, which is free to enjoy. Dine Out Long Beach Restaurant & Cocktail Week, held each February, is also a delicious way to explore the city’s dining scene while supporting local restaurants.”

“With a wide array of restaurants, there’s always something exciting happening in the foodie world. If you’re looking for a unique experience, support a small business and try our favorite Italian sandwiches from Angelo’s on 2nd Street. Afterward, stroll along the bay and watch the boats go by—it’s our go-to spot for a fun-filled day out,” recommends Ally & D from Playa Picnics.

8. Con: Long Beach is a popular place to visit

Long Beach is a popular tourist destination, which means that its beaches, attractions, and dining areas can become crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. This influx of visitors can lead to congestion in public spaces and strain on local amenities, potentially detracting from the resident experience and making it challenging to enjoy the city’s attractions without encountering large crowds.

9. Pro: Strong education system for all ages

Long Beach offers access to quality education from early childhood through higher education. The Long Beach Unified School District, one of the largest in California, serves over 70,000 students across 84 schools, with a wide range of programs and a strong focus on student achievement.

For college-level education, California State University Long Beach (CSULB) is known for its academic excellence and diverse degree programs. Long Beach City College (LBCC) provides affordable associate degrees, vocational training, and transfer options. Residents also have the option to pursue legal studies at Pacific Coast University School of Law, which emphasizes hands-on, practical training.

10. Con: The city is prone to earthquakes

The city is situated in a seismically active region, making it prone to earthquakes. Residents must be prepared for the potential of seismic events, which can cause property damage and require significant preparedness and mitigation efforts. The risk of earthquakes is a serious consideration, influencing building codes, insurance costs, and emergency planning for those living in Long Beach.

Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.