Seaside Park

A Slice of History

Tucked away at 14th Street and Chestnut Avenue in Long Beach, Seaside Park is a compact 2.5-acre green space with a story to tell. Opened in 2011, this nearby retreat sits on what was once the grounds of Seaside Hospital, which served the community from 1913 to 1960 before transforming into what we now know as Long Beach Memorial Medical Center.

Art That Speaks

What really sets this park apart are the two stunning murals created by artist Jose Loza. As you walk along the soccer field, you can't miss the first mural, "Peacemakers" - a massive 325-foot artwork showcasing influential figures who changed our world through peaceful means: Rosa Parks, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Martin Luther King Jr., Gandhi, Cesar E. Chavez, and Harvey Milk.

The second mural offers a different kind of inspiration, stretching 225 feet near Cowles and Chestnut. Here, birds and butterflies float against a serene wetlands backdrop - a gentle reminder to take care of our natural world as we enjoy these public spaces.

Places to Play and Unwind

The soccer field is definitely the heart of Seaside Park, drawing locals for impromptu matches and organized games alike. Fair warning: it can get pretty busy on weekends, so you might need to wait your turn or arrive early to claim your spot. The natural turf provides a decent playing surface for casual kickarounds.

Younger visitors have their own dedicated playground area that's well-maintained and offers various play structures - though it's worth noting there aren't any swings. For family gatherings, you'll discover picnic areas shaded by mature trees, excellent for a weekend lunch or birthday celebration.

During summer months, the park occasionally comes alive with Zumba classes, adding a rhythmic beat to the neighborhood and bringing the community together through movement and music.

Programs for Young Minds

The park goes beyond just physical space, offering supervised after-school programs for children ages 5-14. These include a mix of sports, games, tournaments, arts and crafts, and even homework help - making Seaside Park a valuable resource for working parents and kids alike.

Community Effort

This neighborhood park was created through collaborative funding from several sources, including the City of Long Beach, Community Development Block Grants, Open Space Bonds, Land and Water Conservation Fund, and a State of California Proposition 40 Youth Soccer Grant.