Goodwill Bins W Esther St Long Beach, California Goodwill Outlet Store

The Goodwill location on West Esther Street in Long Beach is a truly unique beast in the world of Southern California thrifting. It’s a fascinating hybrid, a place that is both a high-energy auction house and a sprawling, traditional outlet, offering two completely different ways to score incredible deals all under one roof. The day here starts with a very specific energy. The morning hours bring out the serious buyers—the professional resellers, the antique dealers, the collectors—for the 9 a.m. live auctions. This is where big-ticket items, from furniture to high-end electronics, go under the gavel in a flurry of fast-paced bidding. Once the auctions wind down, the focus shifts to the massive, open-air outlet section, and a different kind of treasure hunt begins.

The bins here are a perfect reflection of Long Beach’s distinct identity as a major international port and a cornerstone of Southern California’s vibrant culture. The inventory is wonderfully eclectic and specific to the area. You’ll find authentic port worker uniforms and durable workwear, retro skate decks from the 70s and 80s that evoke the city’s deep roots in skate culture, and a surprising amount of marine hardware, boating supplies, and other nautical gear.

If you’re planning a trip to the outlet portion, you need to come prepared. Gloves, a dust mask, and plenty of water are absolutely essential. The large warehouse is open-air, which means it stays warm and can get quite humid year-round, especially in the summer months. The bins themselves are often dusty, and a mask can make the digging experience much more pleasant. The bins are flipped on a fast twenty-five-minute cycle, so the merchandise is always fresh. However, you need to pay attention to the daily schedule. The staff will periodically clear out entire sections of the bins to set up for the various auctions that take place throughout the day.

To have a successful digging session, you need to time your visit strategically. Try to find a window between the auction setups to avoid interruptions and maximize your hunting time. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination where you can witness the live drama and excitement of bidding wars and then immediately dive into a hands-on, get-your-hands-dirty treasure hunt. The unique combination of auction energy and traditional bin digging creates a dynamic and exciting atmosphere that you simply won’t find anywhere else. It’s the perfect spot for anyone who wants multiple ways to hunt for bargains in a single, fascinating location.