We Love LB
We Love LB Local Business Spotlight – Long Beach Waterbikes
Meet Melissa of Long Beach Waterbikes
Growing up on the bay, we have watched different businesses providing fun on the water pop up, and Long Beach Waterbikes is one of a kind. Melissa and Long Beach Waterbikes have been friends of We Love LB for many years; we even participated in the Naples Boat Parade as Santa and his reindeer. Spend an hour on the water getting vitamin D, a little exercise, and, of course, enjoying the view! Follow them on instagram to learn more!
WLLB: What neighborhood in Long Beach do you live in?
MA: Belmont Park
WLLB: Where is your business located?
MA: We’re located in Alamitos Bay Landing in Long Beach. Our address is 164 N. Marina Drive.
WLLB: How did you get started?
MA: In 2015, I owned a web design company, and my husband and business partner worked in real estate. We were presented with the opportunity to buy a small hydrobike rental operation. Armed with decades of experience in customer service, twenty years working as gondoliers at local gondola companies, Michael’s love of all things wheels, and my experience in digital marketing, we took the life-altering leap into operating the small fleet and dock. Since founding Long Beach Waterbikes in 2016, we’ve revitalized the once-small operation by building the fleet to 30 hydrobikes. Long Beach is now home to the largest rental fleet of hydrobikes in the United States, enabling us to offer our community a cost-effective way to explore scenic Alamitos Bay all year, day and night.
WLLB: Why do you love what you do?
MA: My customers are surely one of my biggest inspirations and the thing I love the most. Hydrobikes are so unique that most of my riders have never even seen one, let alone boarded one. Kids experience firsts every day, and at some point, there’s a feeling of “been there, done that,” and each of our world’s loses a little magic. So what I love is getting to watch adults try something new every day. It was super heartwarming to see, and it made me want to show up for them.
WLLB: Why do you love your small business?
MA: The LED-lit sunset and night Hydrobike rides have become popular helping the company become an expected staple in Southern California. I love that Long Beach Waterbikes has and will continue to grow with our hometown.
WLLB: Describe a memorable moment when your business positively impacted the local community.
MA: Before the pandemic, we partnered with Algalita Marine Research and Education to host free monthly bay cleanups on the Hydrobikes with buckets and nets provided. We hope to continue offering the fleet for cleanups in 2024.
