Discover Long Beach: Top Things to Do

Located in Southern California, Long Beach is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for travelers. With its beautiful beaches, world-class aquarium, historic ship museum, thriving art scene, and delicious cuisine, Long Beach has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, explore marine life, immerse yourself in art and culture, or indulge in local cuisine and craft beer, Long Beach has it all.

Key Takeaways

• Long Beach has beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
• The Aquarium of the Pacific is a must-visit attraction that showcases marine life from the Pacific Ocean.
• The Long Beach Boardwalk is a scenic spot for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
• The Queen Mary Ship and Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of ocean liners.
• Long Beach has a thriving art scene, with galleries and public art installations throughout the city.

Explore the Beaches of Long Beach

Long Beach is known for its stunning beaches that stretch for miles along the coast. From the popular Belmont Shore Beach to the more secluded Alamitos Beach, there is a beach for every preference. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear blue waters, sunbathing on the soft sand, or trying their hand at surfing in the waves. The beaches of Long Beach are also great for picnicking, beach volleyball, and building sandcastles with the family.

Discover the Aquarium of the Pacific

One of Long Beach’s most popular attractions is the Aquarium of the Pacific. This world-class aquarium is home to over 11,000 animals from more than 500 different species. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase marine life from the Pacific Ocean, including sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and colorful tropical fish. The aquarium also offers interactive experiences such as touch tanks and behind-the-scenes tours. Don’t miss the daily shows and feedings, where you can learn more about the animals and their habitats.

Take a Stroll Along the Long Beach Boardwalk

Distance	Duration	Difficulty	Scenery
2.2 miles	1 hour	Easy	Ocean views, beachfront, palm trees
Restaurants	Attractions	Parking	Public Restrooms
Multiple options	Aquarium of the Pacific, Shoreline Village	Available nearby	Available along the boardwalk

For a scenic walk with breathtaking views of the ocean, head to the Long Beach Boardwalk. This 3-mile-long boardwalk stretches along the coastline and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. Along the way, you’ll find shops, restaurants, and attractions such as the iconic Ferris wheel at The Pike Outlets. The boardwalk is also a popular spot for biking, rollerblading, and people-watching.

Visit the Queen Mary Ship and Museum

Step back in time and explore the historic Queen Mary ship, which is now a museum and hotel. The Queen Mary was once a luxury ocean liner that sailed the seas from 1936 to 1967. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the ship and learn about its fascinating history. Explore the grand ballrooms, elegant cabins, and even the engine room. The museum also offers exhibits that showcase the ship’s role during World War II and its paranormal activity.

Enjoy the Art Scene in Long Beach

Long Beach has a thriving art scene with numerous galleries, studios, and public art installations. The city is home to a diverse community of artists who showcase their work in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and street art. Visitors can explore galleries such as the Museum of Latin American Art and the Long Beach Museum of Art, which feature both local and international artists. Don’t miss the monthly art walks and festivals that celebrate the city’s creative spirit.

Try Local Cuisine and Craft Beer

Long Beach is a food lover’s paradise with a wide range of culinary options to satisfy every palate. From fresh seafood to international cuisine, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss the local favorites such as fish tacos, poke bowls, and gourmet burgers. Long Beach is also known for its craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering unique and flavorful brews. Take a brewery tour or visit one of the many beer bars in the city to sample some of the best craft beer in Southern California.

Shop at the Long Beach Antique Market

For vintage lovers and treasure hunters, the Long Beach Antique Market is a must-visit destination. Held on the third Sunday of every month, this outdoor market features over 800 vendors selling a wide range of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items. From furniture and clothing to jewelry and artwork, you never know what hidden gems you might find. Spend the day browsing through the stalls and hunting for unique pieces to take home.

Attend Festivals and Events in Long Beach

Long Beach is known for its vibrant festival scene, with numerous events held throughout the year. From music festivals to food festivals, there is always something happening in the city. Don’t miss the Long Beach Jazz Festival, which brings together world-class musicians for a weekend of smooth jazz. Other popular events include the Long Beach Grand Prix, the Long Beach Seafood Festival, and the Long Beach Pride Parade.

Experience the Nightlife in Downtown Long Beach

When the sun goes down, Downtown Long Beach comes alive with its vibrant nightlife scene. The city offers a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues where you can dance the night away or enjoy a cocktail with friends. Don’t miss the rooftop bars that offer stunning views of the city skyline and ocean. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back lounge or a high-energy nightclub, Downtown Long Beach has something for everyone.

Take a Day Trip to Catalina Island from Long Beach

If you’re looking to escape the city for a day, consider taking a day trip to Catalina Island. Located just off the coast of Long Beach, Catalina Island offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. Explore the charming town of Avalon, visit the Catalina Casino, or take a scenic hike to enjoy breathtaking views of the island. With its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty, Catalina Island is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Long Beach.

With its beautiful beaches, world-class attractions, thriving art scene, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, Long Beach is a travel destination that has it all. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, explore marine life, immerse yourself in art and culture, or indulge in local cuisine and craft beer, Long Beach offers something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to experience all that Long Beach has to offer.

FAQs

What is Long Beach?

Long Beach is a coastal city located in Southern California, USA.

What are some popular tourist attractions in Long Beach?

Some popular tourist attractions in Long Beach include the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Queen Mary, the Long Beach Museum of Art, and the Museum of Latin American Art.

What outdoor activities can be done in Long Beach?

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, kayaking, and paddleboarding in Long Beach. The city also has several parks and beaches for picnicking and sunbathing.

What is the best time to visit Long Beach?

The best time to visit Long Beach is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors can also enjoy the city’s attractions and activities year-round.

What is the cuisine like in Long Beach?

Long Beach has a diverse culinary scene with a variety of cuisines available, including Mexican, Asian, and seafood. The city is also known for its food trucks and craft breweries.

What is the transportation system like in Long Beach?

Long Beach has a public transportation system that includes buses and a light rail system called the Metro Blue Line. Visitors can also use ride-sharing services or rent a car to get around the city.