Welcome to Long Beach, California! Located just south of Los Angeles, Long Beach offers a unique blend of urban energy and coastal tranquility. With its beautiful waterfront, thriving arts scene, and diverse dining options, Long Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Here’s a quick guide to help you discover the best that Long Beach has to offer.
- Attractions:
- Aquarium of the Pacific: Explore the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean at this world-class aquarium, featuring interactive exhibits and a variety of aquatic species.
- Queen Mary: Visit this historic ocean liner, now permanently docked and serving as a hotel, museum, and event venue.
- The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA): Discover the rich artistic heritage of Latin America through rotating exhibitions and permanent collections at this unique museum.
- Food and Dining:
- The Attic: Savor American comfort food with a Southern twist, including their famous mac ‘n’ Cheetos, in a charming Craftsman-style bungalow.
- Open Sesame: Enjoy authentic Lebanese cuisine, including delicious grilled meats, hummus, and baklava, at this popular eatery.
- Parkers’ Lighthouse: Dine on fresh seafood and steaks with a spectacular view of the Long Beach Harbor at this waterfront restaurant.
- Shopping and Services:
- The Pike Outlets: Shop popular retail stores, dine at various restaurants, and enjoy entertainment options at this outdoor shopping center.
- Shoreline Village: Browse unique boutiques, dine at waterfront restaurants, and partake in recreational activities at this quaint, harbor-side shopping destination.
- 2nd & PCH: Discover a mix of retail stores, dining options, and wellness services at this modern, open-air shopping center.
- Outdoor Activities:
- Long Beach Waterfront: Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, rent a bike, or take a harbor cruise to experience the beauty of the Long Beach coastline.
- El Dorado Regional Park: Enjoy picnicking, fishing, hiking, and golfing at this sprawling park, which also features a nature center and several lakes.
- Rosie’s Dog Beach: Bring your canine companion to this dog-friendly stretch of beach, where they can play off-leash and enjoy the ocean.
- Fitness and Recreation:
- Gold’s Gym: Take advantage of a variety of cardio and strength training equipment, group fitness classes, and personal training at this well-known gym.
- Belmont Shore Pilates: Strengthen your body and improve flexibility through Pilates classes in this boutique fitness studio.
- Recreation Park Golf Course: Enjoy a round of golf at this public 18-hole course, suitable for players of all skill levels.
- Events and Festivals:
- Long Beach Pride (May): Celebrate the LGBTQ+ community with a colorful parade, live music, and various festivities at this annual event.
- Long Beach Jazz Festival (August): Experience live jazz performances by renowned artists at this popular music festival held at Rainbow Lagoon Park.
- Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach (April): Witness thrilling car races, concerts, and other entertainment at this exciting annual event.
Be sure to check local event calendars for additional activities and festivals during your visit. Enjoy your stay in the vibrant and coastal city of Long Beach!