How much to tip in Long Beach

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 12/1/2024

Alright folks, put on those shades and prepare for some sunshine because today we're diving into the vibrant, sandy playground that is Long Beach, United States of America. I've got the lowdown on perhaps one of the most mysterious rituals known to tourists - tipping. That's right, we're about to crack the code on the ins and outs of tipping in this Californian hot spot. So buckle up, because we're diving into these buzzing establishments, one bill at a time.

How Much to Tip at Restaurants

Tipping with cash
US cash and coins placed on a restaurant receipt, highlighting the practice of tipping for service.

Laughter fills the air, silverware clanks, and tantalizing aromas from the near distance stir your appetite. Ah, yes, we are at the heart of the culinary world of Long Beach. Whether you're devouring a monster burrito at Lola’s Mexican Cuisine or savoring a sophisticated dish at James Republic, remember this golden rule: generosity is always in good taste here. When it comes to service staff, a 15%-20% tip on your total bill is considered standard. If your taste buds went on a delightful joyride thanks to the sheer culinary brilliance, don’t hesitate to tip a little extra.

How Much to Tip at Coffee Shops

Table with tip and coffee
A customer leaves money as a tip next to a half-drunk cup of coffee, exhibiting the common practice of tipping for service.

Fancy a cup of joe? Long Beach has got you covered. Stroll into any one of its charming coffee shops, such as the Portfolio Coffeehouse, and bask in the smell of freshly brewed coffee. Here, you're not expected to tip as generously as in a full-service restaurant. However, leaving those shiny coins or a dollar or two in the tip jar is a sure-fire way to bring a gleaming smile to your barista's face.

How Much to Tip at Bars

Clinking glasses, roaring laughter, and the popping of bottle tops – welcome to the bustling nightlife of Long Beach! Whether it's enjoying a chilled glass of white at The Wine Bar or savoring a craft brew at Beachwood BBQ & Brewing, generous tipping ensures the drinks keep flowing. The trick to good tipping at bars is $1-2 per drink. If your bartender is doubling as a magician mixing up intricate cocktails, consider bumping it up a bit more.

How Much to Tip in a Taxi

Whisking you from the sandy shores to neon-lit nightlife, the taxi drivers of Long Beach are your unsung heroes in exploring this sprawling city. If your taxi ride was smooth enough to let you daydream about the city or the driver introduced you to a secret local spot, tipping 10%-15% of the fare is a beautifully kind gesture.

Should You Tip With Card or Cash

Ah, the age-old conundrum - to tip with card or with cash? Here on the sun-soaked streets of Long Beach, it's all about the convenience. Both are accepted and appreciated. However, keep in mind, cash tips go directly into the pocket of those providing the service and can be a quicker aid. Nevertheless, if you're a digital enthusiast and plastic is your go-to, fear not. Your show of appreciation will not be lost; it may just take a bit longer to reach its recipient.

And there you have it, my savvy travelers – your inside guide to the art of tipping in Long Beach. Time to pull out those sun hats and dive into the endearing buzzing energy of this Californian gem! Because remember, in Long Beach, your generosity is not just welcomed; it's a part of the vibrant heartbeat that gives this city its rhythm.


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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