Long Beach's Colorful Ocean Playground Returns For The Summer

LONG BEACH, CA — The colorful aquatic playgrounds in Alamitos Beach and Bay Shore Avenue in Long Beach are back for the summer, starting Friday.

The green and yellow inflatable structures, which city officials say have become a "beloved summer tradition" in the Long Beach community, feature several amenities, including springboards and bouncers, that allow visitors to jump into the water in creative ways.

“The return of the Wibit aquatic playgrounds is something families across Long Beach look forward to every summer," Mayor Rex Richardson said in a statement this week. “These free, fun and active amenities reflect our commitment to providing accessible recreation for all residents and visitors, right on our beautiful beaches.”

People looking to enjoy the Wibit must pass a swim test as life jackets or flotation devices are not allowed on the structure, city officials said. Children under nine years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The Wibit will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and lifeguards will be supervising the area during those hours.

“We’re thrilled to welcome everyone back to the Wibit playground for another exciting summer season at Alamitos Beach,” Second District Councilwoman Cindy Allen said in a statement Monday. “These inflatable play structures offer a safe and engaging way for people of all ages to enjoy our Long Beach waterfront while climbing, jumping and having fun in the water.”

The Alamitos Beach Wibit is located south of Ocean Boulevard and East of Shoreline Drive. The Bay Shore Wibit is located at 5415 E. Ocean Blvd.