Long Beach, California, is renowned for its beautiful coastline, cultural diversity, and thriving urban scene. But for skateboarders, it holds an additional allure: a
vibrant skate culture and some of the best skate parks in Southern California. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started, Long Beach offers a variety of parks that cater to different skill levels and styles. Let's take a closer look at some of the top skate parks in this skater's paradise. Fun fact: the owners of The Rivera Group both LOVE to skate...
1. Cherry Park Skatepark
One of the most iconic spots in Long Beach for street skaters is Cherry Park. While not a traditional skatepark with ramps and bowls, Cherry Park is well-known for its urban environment, drawing skaters who thrive on hitting ledges, stairs, rails, and benches. It’s a cultural hub for the local skateboarding community, with professional skaters frequently stopping by for casual sessions.
- Why it's popular: Perfect for street skating and the community atmosphere.
- Pro tip: Go early in the day or later in the evening to avoid crowds.
2. Houghton Park Skate Plaza
Nicki’s favorite at the moment: Located in North Long Beach, Houghton Park Skate Plaza is one of the newer additions to the city's skate scene. It’s designed as a hybrid of a skatepark and a street plaza, making it ideal for those who enjoy a mix of traditional skatepark elements and more urban features like ledges and rails.
- Features: Multiple stairs, rails, ledges, and a variety of transition elements for all levels.
- Vibe: It's usually less crowded than other parks, which makes it perfect for honing your skills in a relaxed environment.
3. El Dorado Skate Park
Zak and Nicki’s most skated park: If you’re looking for a skatepark with a mix of bowls, ramps, and street features, El Dorado Skate Park is a must-visit. This park caters to all types of skaters, from beginners to advanced riders. The park is part of the larger El Dorado Regional Park, so it's a great spot for families or those looking to spend a full day outdoors.
- Features: Transition areas, a snake run, pyramid-style ramps, and a well-maintained street section.
- Skill level: Beginner to advanced.
- Bonus: The larger park surrounding the skate area offers plenty of green space and picnic areas.
4. Michael K. Green Skate Park
Located in the downtown Long Beach area, Michael K. Green Skate Park is a relatively small but well-designed park perfect for local skaters. The park features a variety of obstacles in a compact space, making it a great place to practice your tricks without the intimidation of larger parks. While it’s not as large as others, it’s an essential part of Long Beach’s skate scene due to its convenient location.
- Why visit: Central location, mellow vibe, and good for intermediate skaters.
- Best time: Evenings or weekends.
5. Bixby Park Skate Spot
Bixby Park is more of a community park, but it recently added a small skate area, making it a nice spot for a quick skate session. The park is located near the beach, so after skating, you can enjoy the ocean breeze or take a walk along the shoreline.
- Features: Small, simple setup with a few ledges, stairs, and manual pads.
- Atmosphere: Laid-back and ideal for casual skating.
6. Ghetto Park (Seaside Skatepark)
Nicknamed Ghetto Park, this spot has an edgy, DIY vibe and has grown in popularity due to its gritty charm. Skaters who like to push their limits in a more challenging environment will appreciate the park's array of obstacles, including homemade ramps, rails, and some transition features.
- Why skaters love it: It’s raw, challenging, and brings a true underground feel.
- Vibe: Expect local skaters with serious skills. It’s not for beginners, but it’s a great place to step up your game.
The Skateboarding Scene in Long Beach
Skateboarding is deeply embedded in the culture of Long Beach. With events like the Dew Tour making frequent stops and a long history of skate pros hailing from the area, it's no wonder Long Beach remains a hotspot for skateboarders of all levels.
One of the best parts about skating in Long Beach is the sense of community. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere at most parks. The city’s skate parks aren't just places to practice tricks—they’re places where skaters bond, share tips, and become part of a larger movement that celebrates creativity and freedom of expression.
Tips for Skating in Long Beach
- Respect the locals: Each park has its own unwritten rules, so be courteous and respect the flow of skaters.
- Stay hydrated: Long Beach can get hot, especially in the summer months, so always bring water and take breaks.
- Check out local skate shops: Stores like Pharmacy Boardshop and MVP Boardshop not only sell gear but are also great places to meet other skaters and learn about local events.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a casual skater looking for a fun afternoon or a die-hard skateboarder pushing your limits, Long Beach’s skate parks offer something for everyone. From the DIY vibes of Ghetto Park to the family-friendly El Dorado Skatepark, there's no shortage of places to shred. Grab your board, head to one of these parks, and immerse yourself in one of Southern California's most exciting skate scenes!
