Fun Things to Do in Long Beach | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Long Beach Travel Guide
Quick overview of Long Beach with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Long Beach! Located in Southern California, Long Beach is a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and exciting attractions. With its year-round sunny weather and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, it's no wonder that Long Beach is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Whether you're looking to relax on the sandy shores, explore the city's rich history, or indulge in delicious seafood, Long Beach has something for everyone. From the iconic Queen Mary ship to the bustling Belmont Shore neighborhood, there are endless opportunities to discover and enjoy in this charming city. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Southern California in Long Beach!
Long Beach Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Long Beach videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Long Beach in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
![Top 10 Best Things To Do In Long Beach, California [Long Beach Travel Guide 2023]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/U42gNeX-d7Y/hqdefault.jpg)
![[4K] Sunset at Shoreline Village in Long Beach, California USA - Walking Tour & Travel Guide 🎧](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/-LGxy3Ab8eM/hqdefault.jpg)
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Things To Do In Long Beach
There are numerous things to do in Long Beach that cater to a variety of interests. Whether you are a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for some fun activities, Long Beach has something for everyone.
One of the main attractions in Long Beach is the Aquarium of the Pacific. This world-class aquarium is home to over 11,000 animals and showcases the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can explore various exhibits, including the Tropical Pacific Gallery, the Southern California/Baja Gallery, and the Northern Pacific Gallery. The aquarium also offers interactive experiences like animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Long Beach offers beautiful beaches where you can relax, swim, or engage in water sports. Belmont Shore Beach and Alamitos Beach are popular choices, offering stunning views of the ocean and opportunities for sunbathing, picnicking, and beach volleyball.
Another highlight of Long Beach is the Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner turned floating hotel and museum. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the ship's history, explore its various decks, and even spend the night in one of its luxurious cabins. The Queen Mary also hosts special events and exhibits throughout the year, making it a must-visit attraction.
If you are interested in history and culture, the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) is worth a visit. This museum showcases contemporary Latin American art and hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events. MOLAA also has a beautiful sculpture garden where visitors can relax and appreciate the artwork.
For a unique shopping and dining experience, the Pike Outlets is a vibrant waterfront destination. This open-air shopping center features a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, shop for trendy fashion items, or indulge in delicious cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
Lastly, Long Beach is known for its vibrant nightlife. The city offers a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues where you can dance the night away or enjoy a live performance. The Long Beach Performing Arts Center is also a great place to catch a Broadway show, concert, or theatrical performance.
In conclusion, Long Beach offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
Tours And Activities In Long Beach
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Best Time To Visit Long Beach
The best time to visit Long Beach is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). It is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect crowded beaches and busy attractions. However, if you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, the spring months of April and May are also a good time to visit. During this time, the temperatures range from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C), and you can enjoy pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The winter months of December, January, and February are the off-peak season, with cooler temperatures ranging from 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C). While it may not be ideal for beach activities, you can still explore indoor attractions and enjoy lower hotel rates. Overall, the best time to visit Long Beach depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities.
Flight Calendar For Long Beach
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Best Areas To Stay In Long Beach
Long Beach offers a variety of great areas for accommodation. Here are a few of the best areas to consider:
1. Downtown Long Beach: This vibrant area is perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action. It is home to numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The Pike Outlets and The Queen Mary are popular attractions in this area. Downtown Long Beach also offers easy access to the Long Beach Convention Center and the Aquarium of the Pacific.
2. Belmont Shore: Located along the coast, Belmont Shore is a charming neighborhood known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. It features a wide range of boutique hotels and beachfront rentals. Visitors can enjoy strolling along 2nd Street, which is lined with unique shops, restaurants, and bars. Belmont Shore is also close to Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier and Rosie's Dog Beach.
3. Naples Island: Situated in Alamitos Bay, Naples Island is a picturesque neighborhood known for its stunning canals and waterfront homes. It offers a peaceful and upscale atmosphere, making it a great choice for those seeking a more relaxed stay. Visitors can take a gondola ride along the canals or explore the local shops and restaurants. Naples Island is also close to Mother's Beach and Marina Vista Park.
4. Bixby Knolls: Located in North Long Beach, Bixby Knolls is a historic neighborhood with a suburban feel. It offers a mix of hotels and vacation rentals. This area is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets and charming homes. Bixby Knolls is home to the Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site and the Long Beach Museum of Art. It also offers easy access to the Long Beach Airport.
5. East Village Arts District: This trendy neighborhood is perfect for art enthusiasts and those looking for a unique cultural experience. It is home to numerous art galleries, theaters, and live music venues. The Museum of Latin American Art and the Long Beach Playhouse are popular attractions in this area. East Village Arts District also offers a variety of boutique hotels and loft-style rentals.
Overall, Long Beach offers a diverse range of accommodation options in these fantastic areas.
Hotels Map Of Long Beach
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Long Beach.
Transportation To Long Beach
There are several transportation options to Long Beach. You can fly into Long Beach Airport (LGB) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and then take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or public transportation to Long Beach. Additionally, you can drive to Long Beach using your own vehicle or rent a car. There are also bus and train services available from various locations to Long Beach.
Nearby Destination From Long Beach
1. Los Angeles: A bustling metropolis known for its entertainment industry and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign.
2. Anaheim: Home to Disneyland Resort, a popular destination for families and theme park enthusiasts.
3. Santa Ana: A vibrant city with a rich Hispanic heritage, offering a variety of cultural attractions and delicious cuisine.
4. Huntington Beach: Known as "Surf City USA," this coastal town is famous for its beautiful beaches and world-class surfing.
5. Newport Beach: A luxurious seaside community known for its upscale shopping, stunning harbor, and picturesque coastline.
6. Torrance: A diverse city with a thriving business community and a wide range of dining and shopping options.
7. Garden Grove: A multicultural city with a strong Vietnamese influence, offering authentic cuisine and vibrant festivals.
8. Irvine: A planned community known for its well-maintained parks, top-rated schools, and a thriving tech industry.
9. Fullerton: Home to California State University, Fullerton, this city offers a lively downtown area with a vibrant arts scene.
10. San Pedro: A historic waterfront neighborhood with a bustling port, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and access to Catalina Island.