Top Things to Do in Long Beach California

Are you thinking of escaping for a short vacation? Long Beach is an excellent addition to your California bucket list!

In this article, we offer a summary of the best things to do in Long Beach, California, along with important details about its main attractions. Plus, we’ve included essential tips to ensure you have the best experience possible. Don’t miss out!

Photo by Isaac Garcia

 

 

Things To Do In Long Beach California

Explore Long Beach’s Bluff Park

Bluff Park has breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and many recreational activities. It is an ideal place for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. There are well-maintained trails, perfect for walking, jogging or biking. One of the park’s featured attractions is the Lone Sailor Memorial, which pays tribute to Long Beach’s naval heritage.

The park has picnic tables to enjoy cookouts with family and friends. It also has play areas suitable for children and opportunities to photograph various species of birds that come to the site. The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and you can take the Long Beach Transit bus or walk from downtown.

Karl Garske (Kgarske (talk)), CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

 

Aquarium of the Pacific - Plan Your Visit

For marine life lovers, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California is an ideal destination. Here you can enjoy exhibits showcasing more than 11,000 animals from over 500 species. Some of the highlights include Pacific Visions; Shark Lagoon, home to several species of sharks; and Baby Exhibits, an opportunity to see young marine animals.

It is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Admission prices range from $35 to $25. Additional packages may include other attractions, such as whale watching. Parking is available for $8 per day with aquarium validation. To get there, we recommend the free Long Beach Passport bus, which connects the aquarium to downtown.

 

Exploring Shoreline Village Attractions

One of the things to do in Long Beach, California, is to spend a fun day at Shoreline Village. Here, you’ll find several unique stores offering Long Beach souvenirs, home décor items, and jewelry.

Top restaurants in the area include Parkers’ Lighthouse which offers breathtaking views of the harbor, ideal for a special dinner. Louisiana Charlie’s offers a delicious selection of Cajun and Creole dishes, such as gumbo and jambalaya. Yard House is known for its large selection of beers and varied menu.

Enjoy the recreational activities Shoreline Village has in store for you, for example, the Antique Carousel is perfect for kids; you can rent bicycles to tour the waterfront or boats to explore the bay through Wheel Fun Rentals; or enjoy scenic views of the harbor and the famous Queen Mary through Harbor Cruises.

Photo by Isaac Garcia

 

Discover Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site

Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site is an important cultural and historical destination in Long Beach, California, not to be missed. The main house is an outstanding example of Monterey-style adobe architecture. It is furnished to reflect the life of the occupants between the 1860s and 1880s, with a unique view of life in that era. The ranch gardens are ideal for strolls and exploration.

Free tours of the house and gardens are offered, lasting approximately one hour. It is recommended to arrive before 4 p.m. to ensure a guided tour. Also, Rancho Los Cerritos organizes various community events and programs such as “Creation Station” that allow children to participate in creative activities. Admission is free, although donations are accepted.

 

Queen Mary Tours and History Walkthrough

The Queen Mary is an iconic destination not to be missed in Long Beach, California. It offers many tours and experiences for those interested in its history and Art Deco architecture. For example, the Self-Guided Tour is included with general admission. It allows you to explore the ship at your own pace. Stick to the map that will point out points of interest such as the main salon, engine room, and historical exhibits.

The Ghosts and Legends Tour focuses on the ghost stories and legends associated with the ship. Glory Days Historical Tour highlights the ship’s history, including its role during World War II, and guides share anecdotes about celebrities who have been aboard. Also, the Captain’s Art Deco Tour shares details about the ship’s elegant Art Deco décor and unique architectural features.

 

Take a Boat Ride at Rainbow Lagoon Park

Taking a boat ride at Rainbow Lagoon Park is another great activity to do in Long Beach, California. The swan pedal boats are equipped with a Bimini top for shade. They’re ideal for a family outing, a romantic date or just enjoying the great outdoors. They can accommodate up to 5 people with a maximum total weight of 1,400 lbs and rentals cost between $13 and $7.50 per hour.

Daytime rentals are available daily and lighted night tours begin at dusk. Online reservations are required through the Wheel Fun Rentals website. All boaters must be instructed to wear life jackets provided on-site.

Clotee Pridgen Alloc…, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

 

Visit the Museum of Latin American Art

For art lovers, visiting the Museum of Latin American Art is one of the things to do in Long Beach, California. Here you can enjoy a permanent collection of more than 1,300 works and a sculpture garden. It is considered one of the most important museums dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American art in the United States.

It is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Admission varies from $15 to $10 and is free for children under 12. It is also free every Sunday of the year and on the fourth Friday of each month from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Take advantage of these days to enjoy the museum free of charge.

 

Bike Rentals and Routes along the Beach Path

Enjoying bike rides in the ocean breeze is another great thing to do in Long Beach, California. Here you’ll find several rental options. For example, Wheel Fun Rentals includes electric bikes, tandems, and surreys. Long Beach Bike Share is ideal for short trips because it allows you to pick up a bike at any station and return it to another.

Shoreline Pedestrian Bike Path is the most popular route, with a three-mile paved route from Shoreline Village to Alamitos Bay. It is ideal for enjoying ocean views and accessing local cafes and restaurants. Also, the Mark Bixby Memorial Bicycle Pedestrian Path rises 205 feet above sea level and offers spectacular scenery.

 

Catalina Island Day Trip from Long Beach

A trip to Catalina Island from Long Beach is an exciting experience to include in your trip. There are several transportation options, such as the Catalina Express, which offers an approximately one-hour ferry ride and up to 30 daily departures from Long Beach to Avalon.

Once there, you can do many activities, such as strolling the streets of Avalon and enjoying the local stores and restaurants; visiting the Avalon Casino, an iconic building with a ballroom and movie theater; or taking a kayak or paddleboard tour along the coast. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at one of the waterfront restaurants, such as the Bluewater Grill, which offers fresh seafood.

Related: Catalina Island: Things to Do Guide

Elena.laps, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

 

Scenic Kayaking at Alamitos Bay

Kayaking in the waters of Alamitos Bay is another great thing to do in Long Beach. There are several rental options, for example, Kayaks On the Water offers single and double kayak rentals, as well as paddleboards, with prices starting at $10 per hour. In addition, Long Beach Waterbikes offers water bikes and other sports equipment.

The Naples Canal is one of the best routes, surrounded by luxurious homes and a tranquil paddling environment. You can sail under arched bridges and enjoy the view of the boats. Alamitos Bay is a protected harbor, so there are no waves and it is ideal for beginners. You can paddle approximately six miles through navigable waters, enjoying the coastal scenery. Afterward, you can disembark at Mother’s Beach, where there is a local cafe called Mom’s Beach House Café that is perfect for relaxing and enjoying a meal.

 

Expert Tips for Visitors in Long Beach California

1. Don’t miss the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Queen Mary, and Shoreline Village. Each offers unique experiences, with marine life exhibits and historical tours.

2. Explore local art with a visit to the Museum of Latin American Art and the Long Beach Museum of Art to learn about the culture and creativity of the region.

3. Enjoy outdoor activities and rent a bike to traverse the Shoreline Bike Path, which runs along the boardwalk.

4. To enjoy the ocean in a fun and active way, participate in activities like paddleboarding or kayaking in Alamitos Bay.

5. Parker’s Lighthouse is known for its fresh seafood and breathtaking views. This restaurant is perfect for a memorable dining experience. For diverse culinary options, also explore the restaurants of Shoreline Village and downtown Long Beach.

6. Attend local events such as the Long Beach Grand Prix or art walks in the East Village Arts District, which frequently feature live music and food trucks.

7. Use Long Beach Transit buses or the Metro Blue Line for convenient access to the various attractions without a car. If driving, be aware of parking regulations and fees in crowded areas such as downtown and Shoreline Village.

8. If possible, visit the city on weekdays to avoid crowds at popular attractions. Early or late afternoons are ideal for enjoying beaches and parks with fewer visitors.

9. Many parks, such as Bluff Park and El Dorado Nature Center, offer free access to beautiful scenery, perfect for picnics or strolls.

 

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