If Shoreline Village represents the vibrant, urban waterfront of Long Beach, Belmont Pier is its laid-back, beachy counterpart. Located in the heart of Belmont Shore, this iconic pier and surrounding neighborhood offer one of the most classic Southern California coastal lifestyles, and for condo buyers, it’s one of the most desirable areas to call home.
In this guide, we’ll break down what it’s like to live near Belmont Pier, which condo options to consider, and what makes this area so consistently in demand.
Why Live Near Belmont Pier?
Belmont Pier sits at the end of Termino Avenue, where the city meets the sand. It’s surrounded by wide beaches, bike paths, and the lively 2nd Street corridor, giving residents the best of both beach life and neighborhood charm.
Living near Belmont Pier means you’re within walking distance of the beach and oceanfront bike path, volleyball courts and open sand areas, Rosie’s Dog Beach (a big plus for pet owners), 2nd Street shops, dining, and nightlife, and Bayshore’s calmer water for kayaking and paddleboarding.
This is one of the few areas in Long Beach where you can truly live a leave-your-car-parked-all-weekend lifestyle.
The Lifestyle: Classic Beach Living with a Neighborhood Feel
Belmont Shore has a completely different energy than Downtown Long Beach. It’s less high-rise and more community-oriented, with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and a steady coastal breeze.
Buyers drawn to condos near Belmont Pier tend to be beach lovers who want quick sand access, young professionals who enjoy walkability without a dense urban feel, downsizers looking for a relaxed coastal lifestyle, and investors targeting high-demand rental areas.
The pace here is slower, but still social, especially along 2nd Street, where restaurants and cafes stay active throughout the week.
Condo Options Near Belmont Pier
Unlike Downtown, Belmont Shore doesn’t have many large high-rise buildings. Instead, you’ll find a mix of smaller condo complexes, mid-century buildings, and boutique developments, many just steps from the sand.
Here are the main types of condo options:
Ocean Blvd Condo Buildings (Oceanfront and Beach Adjacent)
Ocean Blvd is where you’ll find the closest condos to Belmont Pier and the beach. These buildings typically offer:
- Direct or partial ocean views
- Beach access just across the street
- Smaller HOAs compared to high-rises
- A mix of updated and original units
Many of these buildings were constructed between the 1950s and 1980s, so interiors can vary widely depending on renovations.
Low-Rise Condos in Belmont Shore
Just a few blocks inland, you’ll find smaller condo communities scattered throughout Belmont Shore. These offer:
- A quieter, more residential feel
- Walking distance to both the beach and 2nd Street
- Lower price points compared to oceanfront units
- Often limited amenities (no pools or gyms in many cases)
These are popular with buyers who prioritize location over luxury amenities.
Bayshore Area Condos
On the bay side, near Bayshore Avenue and Marine Stadium, condos offer a slightly different lifestyle:
- Calmer water views, great for paddleboarding and kayaking
- Less wind compared to the oceanfront
- A more peaceful environment
- Still walkable to Belmont Pier and 2nd Street
This is a hidden gem area for buyers who want coastal living without the busier beachfront energy.
Price Range: What to Expect
Condos near Belmont Pier vary based on proximity to the water, condition, and size. Typical price ranges:
- Studios / 1-bedrooms: ~$500,000 – $800,000
- 2-bedrooms: ~$750,000 – $1,300,000
- Oceanfront or fully renovated units: $1.3M+
Because of limited inventory and strong demand, well-priced units, especially near the beach, tend to move quickly.
HOA dues are generally more moderate here compared to Downtown high-rises, but may still vary depending on building upkeep and amenities.
Pros of Living Near Belmont Pier
True Beach Access: You’re steps from the sand, with no need to drive or deal with parking.
Strong Community Feel: Belmont Shore has a neighborhood vibe that’s hard to replicate elsewhere in Long Beach.
Walkability to 2nd Street: Dining, shopping, coffee, and nightlife are all within easy reach.
Outdoor Lifestyle: From biking and beach volleyball to paddleboarding in the bay, this area is built for staying active.
Things to Consider
Limited Inventory: There aren’t many large condo developments here, so options can be limited.
Older Buildings: Many condos are in older buildings, so buyers should pay attention to HOA reserves, maintenance, and potential upgrades.
Parking Challenges: Street parking near the beach can be tight, especially in summer. Secured parking is a big plus.
Premium for Location: You’re paying for proximity to the beach and lifestyle, sometimes more than for square footage or amenities.
Belmont Pier vs. Downtown Waterfront
Buyers often compare Belmont Pier to areas like Shoreline Village or the Downtown waterfront. Here’s a quick breakdown.
Belmont Pier and Shore: lower density, a beach-focused lifestyle, boutique condo buildings, and a strong neighborhood feel.
Downtown and Shoreline Village: high-rise living, more amenities, more urban energy, and easier access to offices and transit.
It really comes down to whether you prefer a relaxed beach community or a more city-oriented waterfront lifestyle.
Is This Area Right for You?
Condos near Belmont Pier are ideal if you want to live steps from the beach, prefer a neighborhood vibe over a high-rise environment, value walkability and outdoor living, and are okay with older buildings in exchange for location.
It may not be the best fit if you’re looking for newer construction, full-service amenities, or a quieter inland setting.
Final Thoughts
Belmont Pier and the surrounding Belmont Shore neighborhood offer one of the most authentic coastal living experiences in Long Beach. It’s the kind of place where mornings start with a walk on the sand, afternoons are spent biking along the coast, and evenings end with dinner on 2nd Street.
For condo buyers, it’s not just about the property, it’s about the lifestyle. And in Long Beach, few areas deliver that better than Belmont Pier.