26/04/2019
For many British travellers, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) serves as the primary gateway to the vibrant city of Los Angeles, particularly if your final destination is the bustling Long Beach area. Long Beach is not only a fantastic place to stay but also a major hub for numerous cruise lines, making it a popular point of departure. While LAX is undeniably one of the busiest and most important airports globally, getting from your arrival gate to your accommodation in Long Beach isn't always as straightforward as one might expect. Unlike many international airports, you can't simply step out of the terminal and hail a taxi or jump onto a train directly. This guide aims to demystify the journey, focusing on taxi options and providing comprehensive details on all viable transportation methods, including their prices and typical timings, tailored for a UK audience.
The distance from LAX Airport to Long Beach is approximately 23 miles (37 kilometres), which is roughly the same distance to the cruise terminal. Understanding the unique procedures at LAX is key to a smooth onward journey, especially given the ongoing developments and changes at the airport.
Understanding LAX: A Unique Airport Experience
LAX operates differently from many airports you might be accustomed to in the UK or elsewhere. One of its most distinctive features is the designated area for ground transport pickups, known as LAXit. This means that whether you're planning to take a taxi, an Uber, or a Lyft, you'll first need to make your way to this specific zone. The good news is that getting to LAXit is relatively simple, though it does add a small extra step to your journey.
Upon exiting the arrivals gate, keep an eye out for clear signage directing you to LAXit. These signs will lead you to a bus stop marked with a green sign that reads "Taxi Ride App" (which also serves rideshares). Free shuttle buses to LAXit run approximately every 7 minutes, 24 hours a day, ensuring constant availability. Alternatively, if you're travelling light or prefer a short walk, it's possible to reach LAXit on foot from some terminals. From terminals 1, 7, and 8, the walk is a brief 3-8 minutes. However, from terminals 4 and 5, be prepared for a longer stroll of 20-25 minutes. Planning this step beforehand can save you time and hassle, especially after a long flight from the UK.
The Taxi Journey: Costs and Considerations from LAX to Long Beach
Once you've successfully navigated to the LAXit area, finding a taxi is straightforward. The black cabs are readily available, and drivers will be waiting to assist passengers. The journey time from LAX to Long Beach typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes, largely depending on the notoriously variable Los Angeles traffic conditions and the precise location of your destination within Long Beach.
When it comes to the cost, a taxi from LAX Airport to Long Beach will generally set you back a minimum of $60 USD, with an average fare hovering around $80 USD. It's important to be aware that heavy traffic can significantly increase this total, potentially pushing the fare to over $100 USD. While taxi fares are metered, it's always advisable to confirm with your driver if there are any additional charges that might apply, such as surcharges for luggage or extra passengers, though these are less common with standard taxi services in the US compared to some other regions. Paying for your taxi can usually be done with a credit card, though having some US dollars cash on hand for tips or unexpected situations is always a sensible precaution.
Key Factors Affecting Taxi Fares:
- Traffic Conditions: Los Angeles is infamous for its congestion. Peak hours (mornings and late afternoons on weekdays) will almost certainly lead to longer journey times and higher metered fares.
- Exact Drop-off Location: While Long Beach is the general destination, a precise address further into the city might slightly extend the journey and thus the fare.
- Time of Day: While not usually a direct surcharge, late-night or early-morning travel might encounter less traffic, potentially leading to a quicker and slightly cheaper ride.
Comparing Your Options: A Quick Guide to Transport from LAX to Long Beach
While taxis offer a convenient door-to-door service (after the LAXit shuttle), it's worth considering other popular options available from LAX, particularly for budget-conscious travellers or those seeking a premium experience.
| Option | Typical Cost (USD) | Journey Time | Convenience Level | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | $60 - $100+ | 30 - 45 mins | Good | Requires LAXit shuttle; metered fare can increase with traffic. |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | $50 - $150 | 30 - 45 mins | Good | Requires LAXit shuttle; surge pricing can significantly increase cost. |
| Private Transfer | Varies (often similar to high-end taxi/rideshare) | 30 - 45 mins | Excellent | Pre-booked, driver meets you at arrivals; fixed price; premium service. |
| Public Bus (Line 232) | $1.75 | 1h 20m - 2h | Low | Requires shuttle to City Bus Centre; multiple transfers; slowest option. |
| Metro (A Line) | $1.75 + $2 TAP card | 1h - 1h 30m | Medium | Requires shuttle to Aviation Station; TAP card needed; potentially less direct. |
Just like with traditional taxis, if you're planning to use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, you'll also need to make your way to the LAXit area. The process is identical: take the free "Taxi Ride App" shuttle bus or walk from your terminal. The convenience of these apps is popular, but their pricing can be highly variable. An Uber or Lyft to Long Beach from LAX can cost anywhere between $50 USD and $150 USD. This wide range is primarily due to "surge pricing" during peak demand times, such as rush hour or late at night, and the type of vehicle you select (e.g., standard, XL, or premium). The travel time is comparable to taxis, typically 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
For those prioritising comfort, convenience, and a seamless start to their trip, booking a private limousine or transfer service is an excellent option. With a private transfer, your driver will be waiting for you directly at the arrival gate, often holding a sign with your name. This eliminates the need to navigate to LAXit, wait for shuttles, or walk with your luggage, saving you valuable time and effort after a long flight. Many companies allow you to book and pay online in advance, meaning no fumbling with currency or credit cards upon arrival. Most reputable services also offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your scheduled arrival. While this convenience comes at a higher cost than public transport, the fixed price is often competitive with fluctuating taxi and rideshare fares, especially during busy periods. The journey time remains consistent at 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Budget-Friendly Options: Buses and Metro
If you're a budget-conscious traveller, public transportation offers the cheapest way to get from LAX to Long Beach. While significantly more affordable, these options require more time and effort, involving transfers. Bear in mind that these methods might not be ideal if you have a lot of luggage.
LAX Airport To Long Beach By Bus
To take the bus, after exiting your arrivals terminal, turn left and walk towards the pink sign that reads "LAX Shuttles." Here, you'll need to wait for shuttle bus C (City Bus Center – LAX). This free shuttle ride takes no more than 10 minutes. The shuttle to LAX City Bus Center does not operate between 2 am and 4 am. Once you arrive at the City Bus Center, you can board bus line 232, which is headed directly to Long Beach. The journey time by bus can vary significantly, ranging from 1 hour and 20 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the time of day and traffic. Bus line 232 runs daily between 4:22 am and 11:47 pm, with departures every 15-30 minutes. The bus fare is $1.75 USD per person. You can pay the driver directly, but you must have the exact amount in coins or small bills, as drivers typically do not carry change. Alternatively, you can use a TAP card, which is recommended for ease of travel on LA's public transport system.
Metro From LAX Airport To Long Beach
The metro is often a slightly faster and more comfortable public transport option than the bus. Similar to the bus, you'll need to locate the pink "LAX Shuttles" sign outside your terminal. From there, take shuttle bus M (Metro Connector). This free shuttle service will take you directly to Aviation Station. At Aviation Station, you'll need to purchase a TAP card from the ticket machines. The card itself costs $2 USD, and you'll then load it with a single journey ticket, which costs $1.75 USD. It is crucial to remember to "tap on" your TAP card before you go up the platform escalators to board the train. Failing to tap your card before boarding can result in a hefty fine if you are caught by ticket inspectors.
From Aviation Station, ensure you take the metro train going towards Norwalk. You'll need to get off at the sixth station, which is Willowbrook/Rosa Parks. From there, follow the signs downstairs to connect to Line A (Azusa-Long Beach). Line A has several stops in Long Beach, including 1st Street, 5th Street, Downtown Long Beach, and Pacific Avenue. Make sure you know which station is closest to your final destination in Long Beach before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it easy to get a taxi at LAX?
Yes, it is relatively easy to get a taxi at LAX, but it requires an initial step of getting to the designated LAXit area. Once you're there, taxis are readily available and operate 24/7. The process is well-signposted, and free shuttle buses frequently run from all terminals to LAXit, making it accessible.
What's the quickest way to get from LAX to Long Beach?
The quickest way is generally a private transfer, taxi, or rideshare, as they offer direct routes. The actual travel time (30-45 minutes) largely depends on traffic conditions. Private transfers offer the added benefit of immediate pick-up at the terminal, saving time on internal airport transit.
Can I pay for a taxi with a credit card in Los Angeles?
Yes, almost all taxis in Los Angeles accept major credit and debit cards. It's rare to find a taxi that is cash-only. However, it's always a good idea to have some small US dollar bills for tips or in case of any unexpected payment system issues.
Are there any additional charges for taxis from LAX?
Beyond the metered fare, there are typically no significant additional charges for standard taxis from LAX. Unlike some other global airports, specific airport surcharges are usually incorporated into the fare calculation. However, if you have an excessive amount of luggage that requires a larger vehicle, or if you request specific detours, these might incur extra costs. Always confirm with your driver if you have any concerns.
Is it safe to take a taxi from LAX at night?
Yes, it is generally very safe to take a licensed taxi from LAX at any time, including at night. Taxis operating from LAXit are regulated, and drivers are licensed professionals. The LAXit area is well-lit and monitored, ensuring a secure environment for passengers waiting for their rides.
Navigating from LAX to Long Beach doesn't have to be a daunting experience. By understanding the unique LAXit system and weighing up your transport options, you can choose the method that best suits your budget, time constraints, and preference for convenience. Whether you opt for the directness of a taxi or private transfer, or the economy of public transport, a smooth onward journey to Long Beach awaits.
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