Tanaka Park

A Touch of History in West Long Beach

In 2004, a vacant lot plagued by illegal dumping and code enforcement headaches was transformed into a community asset. The land had been part of the Tanaka farm, and the Tanaka family leased it to the City of Long Beach, turning a problem space into the 1.4-acre park that sits between Wardlow Road and Caspian Avenue today.

It wasn't just a top-down decision, though. The community came together through meetings, multiple funding sources joined forces, and the Conservation Corps of Long Beach rolled up their sleeves to help make it happen.

What You'll Find There

One of the coolest features is the rubberized perimeter walking trail that loops around the park. It's not just comfortable to walk on - it's eco-friendly too! Made with recycled California tires through a grant from the California Integrated Waste Management Board, it's literally turning trash into treasure.

Though Tanaka Park is primarily designed for peaceful enjoyment, it doesn't skimp on fun activities. Kids can burn off energy at the playground, while basketball enthusiasts can shoot some hoops at the half-court. Bringing lunch? You'll find picnic areas for a casual outdoor meal.

If you're just looking to sit and enjoy some greenery, you'll come across benches thoughtfully placed within the park. The design strikes that perfect balance between activity zones and quiet spots where you can just sit and be.

Tanaka Park packs several amenities into a compact space that serves the West Long Beach neighborhood well. It's not the biggest park around, but it's a practical green space for local residents.