How to Get from Long Beach Airport to Los Angeles

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is a convenient, less crowded alternative to LAX, located about 22 miles south of Downtown Los Angeles. Unlike major hubs, ground transportation options are simpler but require planning. There is no direct rail link at the terminal. Your primary choices involve a short shuttle ride to connect with regional rail, road-based options like buses and cars, or direct private transfers.

Key Distance & Time Facts:

• Distance to Downtown LA: Approximately 22 miles (35 km).
• Fastest Possible Time (Car, no traffic): 30 minutes.
• Typical Driving Time (with traffic): 45-90 minutes.
• Public Transit Time: 75-120 minutes.
• Main Challenge: Bridging the 3-mile gap between LGB and the nearest Metro Rail station.

This is the most recommended method for budget-conscious and solo travelers. It leverages Long Beach's excellent local shuttle and the extensive Metro rail system.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Step 1: Free “Passport” Shuttle: Upon exiting baggage claim, look for signs for the “Passport” shuttle (operated by Long Beach Transit). Take the Passport Route C (Blue).
   • Route: It runs from LGB to the Downtown Long Beach Transit Gallery.
   • Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes.
   • Cost: Completely free.
   • Travel Time: 15-20 minutes.
2. Step 2: Metro A Line (Blue Line): Disembark at the Transit Gallery. The Metro A Line station is directly inside this hub.
   • Direction: Take the northbound train towards “APU / Citrus College”.
   • Stops for LA: Key stops include Willowbrook/Rosa Parks (transfer to C Line), 7th Street/Metro Center (transfer to B/D Lines, heart of Downtown), and Pico (for LA Live/Convention Center).
   • Frequency: Every 10-12 minutes.
   • Travel Time to Downtown: About 50-60 minutes from Long Beach.
   • Cost: $1.75 for a one-way fare. Use a TAP card (available at station vending machines).

Pros: Extremely cheap ($1.75 total), reliable schedule, avoids traffic.
Cons: Total journey time can be long (75-90 min), not ideal with heavy luggage, requires a transfer.

Source: Schedules confirmed via Long Beach Transit Passport and LA Metro A Line Guide.

For groups, those with lots of luggage, or travelers seeking direct service, rideshares and taxis are the most convenient option from LGB.

Rideshare (Uber & Lyft)

• Pickup: Designated rideshare pickup zone is on the lower level, just outside baggage claim. Follow signs.
• Cost to Downtown LA: $45 - $70 depending on time of day, demand (surge pricing), and exact destination.
  • UberX / Lyft Standard: ~$45-$60.
  • Uber Comfort / Lyft Preferred: ~$55-$70.
  • UberXL / Lyft XL (6 passengers): ~$70-$90.
• Travel Time: 30 to 50 minutes (heavily traffic-dependent).

Taxis

• Pickup: Taxi stand is located on the lower level curbside.
• Cost to Downtown LA: Approximately $65 - $85 (flat rate or metered). Always confirm the approximate fare before departing.
• Companies: Yellow Cab and other licensed services.

Comparison & Tip: Rideshares are often slightly cheaper and easier to price-check in advance via their apps. Taxis offer fixed availability without surge pricing. For the best fare, check both Uber and Lyft apps upon arrival.