Summer in Long Beach is all about warm weather, ocean breezes, and alfresco dining. From sandy beachfront patios to elevated rooftops with city views, Long Beach has a vibrant outdoor food scene that keeps locals and visitors alike coming back for more.

To help you savor the season, we’ve rounded up the top five outdoor dining experiences—from casual beachfront to upscale rooftop. 

Here’s where to eat outside this summer for unforgettable meals and sunsets.

1. Parkers’ Lighthouse – Shoreline Village Local Favorite

A local favorite tucked into Long Beach’s iconic shopping destination, Parkers’ offers premium seafood, award-winning wines, and a full-service patio with uninterrupted harbor views. Their signature mesquite-grilled dishes and fresh sushi make it a standout for both casual afternoons and upscale evenings. 

Plus, being steps away from Shoreline Village’s shops, arcades, and carousel makes it a perfect family-friendly stop or romantic date night wrapped in one. Come for the view, stay for the flavors.

2. BO‑beau Kitchen + Rooftap – Downtown Urban Vibes

Just a few flights up at 144 Pine Ave., BO‑beau’s Rooftap blends industrial chic with casual elegance. Its upstairs beer garden features picnic tables, marquee lights, and a full bar pouring craft brews and cocktails. 

The menu mixes California‑French flavors—like Brussels sprouts or Wagyu sliders—with vegetarian options, making it a neighborhood favorite.

3. Saint & Second – Belmont Shore’s Hidden Rooftop Gem

On 2nd Street in Belmont Shore, Saint & Second feels like the perfect summer evening in SoCal. Offering a chic rooftop lounge with cocktail flights and farm‑fresh New American dishes, it’s cozy during dinner and lively during happy hour. 

Their elevated bar menu and stylish ambiance make it a hit for date nights and friend hangouts alike.

4. Gaucho Beach – Beachy Argentine Flair

For a laid‑back, beachfront dining experience, Gaucho Beach melts the gap between casual lunch and full evening out. Set right on Alamitos Beach, its open-air format includes a rooftop, coffee bar, kid’s play area, and empanada station.

Expect coastal Argentinian‑inspired dishes, cocktails, and ocean breezes for an easy summer vibe.

5. Boathouse on the Bay – Upscale Waterfront Dining

For elegant waterfront dining, Boathouse on the Bay serves fresh seafood and steaks with panoramic marina views. It’s well‑suited for date nights, brunches, or summer celebrations. 

With happy hour specials and live music on select nights, its patio livens up evenings with both ambiance and excellent food.

Bonus Picks: Honorable Mentions

Can’t get a reservation at the top five? Don’t worry—Long Beach is full of fantastic outdoor dining gems that deserve a spot on your summer list. 

Here are a few more we love:

  • Michael’s on Naples: Refined rooftop dining with Italian fare and sunset views 
  • Murphy’s Pub: Cozy Belmont Shore rooftop with beers and pub snacks 
  • The Bungalow Kitchen & Ola Mexican Kitchen: Shared waterfront patios overlooking Alamitos Bay 

Whether you’re looking for relaxed vibes or an elevated experience, these honorable mentions prove that great outdoor dining is never far away in Long Beach.

Tips for Dining Outdoors in Long Beach

Planning ahead can make the difference between a so-so patio night and an unforgettable one. 

Here are a few insider tips to help you make the most of your alfresco experience:

  • Reserve early for rooftops – Popular spots fill fast, especially on weekends.
  • Arrive before sunset – Enjoy cooler temperatures and the best light.
  • Dress in layers – Coastal breezes can turn chilly after dusk.
  • Watch parking – Downtown lots near BO‑beau; street and public lot options in Belmont Shore.
  • Check for events – Many patios offer live music and happy hours, perfect for a lively evening.

Keep these tips in mind, and your summer meals will be as breezy and enjoyable as the Long Beach coastline itself.

Why Outdoor Dining in Long Beach Is a Summer Must

There’s something special about dining outside in Long Beach—especially when the sun sets over the water and the lights flicker on. But it’s more than just aesthetics. 

Here’s why it’s become a summer essential:

  • Fresh air & ocean breezes reduce indoor crowding and enhance the dining experience.
  • Scenic settings—from harbor sunsets to skyline views—make meals feel special.
  • Community vibe: outdoor spaces keep neighborhoods active, social, and local.
  • Beyond just food, Long Beach’s outdoor venues offer connection, creativity, and coastal charm.

In a city that thrives on community, creativity, and coastal living, dining outdoors isn’t just a trend—it’s part of what makes Long Beach feel like home.

Final Word

Whether you’re catching up over artisanal cocktails, enjoying fresh seafood with friends, or treating family to beachfront bites, Long Beach’s outdoor dining scene has something for everyone.

Ready for a Long Beach patio crawl? Bookmark this list, grab a friend, and make your next summer evening a delicious adventure.

Looking for curated itineraries, patio guides, or seasonal events? Visit our website for monthly outdoor dining features and more.