2024 Long Beach Vacation Guide
Long Beach is a popular destination exploding with impeccable services. Long Beach also offers an array of fine restaurants, luxurious hotels, museums, and a repertoire of shops and boutiques. Long Beach provides a great location for leisure as well as business traveler due to its location in southern Los Angeles. While you are here you will want to take in some of the unique attractions and activities.
Long Beach has some unique attractions which the whole family can enjoy. One of the nation’s best aquariums is on ling beach along with museums, art galleries, beaches, and plenty of outdoor recreation. Long Beach is so diverse it has something for everyone. So whether you plan to stay for a day or a week we are certain you will find enough to make your stay fulfilling.
Long Beach California Travel & Visitors Guide
Whether you’re on a budget or not, you should be able to find affordable accommodations in Long Beach at any time of the year. All About Long Beach’s online reservations system offers many hotels & resorts to choose from with discounted rates. You can view individual hotel web pages with pictures and information.
Check rates, and availability and make secure online reservations. All About Long Beach also offers the guaranteed lowest rates on car rentals anywhere in the city from all of the major car rental companies like Budget, Alamo, Hertz, National, Enterprise & Thrifty. Our online services are easy to use and very secure. We provide quality service to all of our customers. Look to the left for information about nearby cities such as Los Angeles and Anaheim.
What to See & Do in Long Beach
Long Beach has the advantage of being so close to Los Angeles and many Southern California attractions and activities it makes for a great place to stay. Even though many of the world-famous attractions are in and about Los Angeles, Long Beach has a few of its own. One of the nation’s best aquariums, Venetian Gondola Rides, and The Queen Mary are all here for you to enjoy. Below we have highlighted some of the things to see and do while you visit Long Beach. If you need help with your hotel and car rental needs please use the links to the left and be guided through our secure, hassle-free online reservations service.
Attractions & Activities
Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
Garden includes a spectacular koi pond, waterfalls, a tea house, and a bonsai collection. Hosting special events, group tours, and garden rental. Open Tuesday – Friday 8 a.m. -3:30 p.m., Sunday Noon to 4:00 p.m. (562) 985-8885
Gondola Gateway
Established in 1982, the Gondola Getaway is the gondola company that was the first to offer Venetian-style gondola cruises in the United States. Many have come on board since our beginning. Please visit us to enjoy a relaxing cruise around the canals of Naples in the city of Long Beach, California. Sit back, sip on a cool beverage and let our gondoliers row you and your guests back in time. Phone (562) 433-9595
The Aquarium of the Pacific
The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the largest aquariums in the United States! Its 550 species fill 17 major living habitats, 30 smaller exhibits and take visitors on a journey throughout the Pacific Ocean’s three regions: Southern California/Baja; the Tropical Pacific and the Northern Pacific. Visitors to the Aquarium can also take advantage of the surrounding Long Beach area. Located only minutes from trendy Pine Avenue in Downtown Long Beach, the Long Beach Convention Center, the Queen Mary, Belmont Shore (Long Beach’s charming Beach community), and hotels, tourists will find the Aquarium convenient to anywhere in Long Beach they wish to visit. The Aquarium also anchors the upcoming Queensway Bay (the largest waterfront development in California history). Queensway Bay will transform the downtown Long Beach skyline with a 2,000-foot seawall, a two-level public esplanade, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. (562) 590-3100
Pilgrim of Newport
Experience history on a replica from the 18th Century. Help raise sails and steer the ship as it sails alongside dolphins and whales. Public and private voyages or educational expeditions to Catalina. (949) 496-2274
The Queen Mary
The Queen Mary is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and remains one of the most famous ships in history. For directions, click here. The Queen Mary features 365 hotel staterooms, an elaborate Champagne Sunday Brunch, award-winning restaurants, a wedding chapel, and 18 Art Deco reception salons for private celebrations, and exciting tours. (562) 435-3511
Unique Restaurants to Try in Long Beach
Hungry? Long Beach has plenty to offer, ranging from seafood to steaks and from Chinese to Mexican. Make no mistake Long Beach has more to offer than just dinner. Look for great restaurants serving outstanding breakfasts, great lunches as well as savory dinners. While visiting Long Beach you’ll never go hungry for quality food or shopping. Long Beach offers lots of great restaurants that will please anyone’s appetite. You can eat everything from seafood to sushi and do it with a fantastic ocean view. Restaurants serving Italian, French, American, and Seafood can all be found close by.
Dine in Style at the Queen Mary
Spend a night aboard the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach, California and enjoy one of the best dining experiences you’ll find in Southern California. The iconic ship offers seven unique restaurants that each offer an unforgettable experience. From fine dining to casual pub fare, there’s something for everyone at the Queen Mary.
The Art Deco-style Sir Winston’s Restaurant & Lounge serves up classic dishes with modern flare on its outdoor patio overlooking Long Beach’s harbor. Enjoy classic seafood dishes like cedar plank salmon or try their signature dish, the Prime Rib Wellington. Then wrap up your meal with a delicious dessert like the warm dark chocolate cake served with vanilla gelato and raspberry coulis.
For a more casual experience, check out Chelsea Chowder House & Bar located inside the old First Class Swimming Pool area of the ship.
Take a Bite Out of Tacos El Galuzo
Tacos El Galuzo is the place to go for anyone looking for an authentic Mexican taco experience in Long Beach. Serving up some of the best tacos around, this family-run business has been a local favorite since it opened its doors in 2018.
The menu offers everything from traditional carne asada and al pastor tacos to more creative offerings such as veggie and shrimp tacos. Each taco is packed with flavor and comes with a generous helping of house-made salsas that add a piquant note to every bite. Their friendly staff is always happy to help customers choose the perfect taco combination according to their tastes.
Whether you’re looking for tasty lunch options or late-night eats, Tacos El Galuzo offers something special for everyone!
Enjoy a Night of Gourmet Comfort Food at The Attic
The Attic in Long Beach is the perfect spot for those looking to indulge in a night of delicious comfort food. This cozy restaurant offers the classic feel of an old-style diner, but with a modern twist. With classic yet innovative dishes such as Mac & Cheese Fries and Fried Chicken Croquettes, The Attic is guaranteed to satisfy any appetite.
The Attic’s menu caters to all types of palates. Whether you’re craving something savory or sweet, they have it all! From hearty sandwiches and burgers to creative entrees like their popular Blackened Fish Tacos and Italian Sausage Flatbread Pizza, there’s something for everyone. Plus, they offer an array of sides from light salads and fries to more traditional accompaniments like mashed potatoes and coleslaw. They also feature daily specials that are sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Outdoor Activities for Families in Long Beach
Long Beach, California is the perfect place to take your family for a fun-filled day of outdoor activities! From exploring the boardwalk and visiting the beach to taking in the sights of nature at El Dorado Nature Center – there are a variety of activities that can keep you and your family entertained.
The Long Beach Boardwalk offers plenty for families to do in one place. With an amusement park, mini-golf course, batting cages, rock wall climbing, and rides – there’s plenty to keep kids occupied. And if your kids love animals, bring them to visit the Aquarium of The Pacific where they can learn about various species from around the world. Plus if you’re looking for some time on the beach with your family – Long Beach has miles upon miles of riprap jetties for some fishing or kayaking fun.
Long Beach Boardwalk
The Long Beach Boardwalk is one of the most beloved attractions in all of Long Beach. This long stretch of wooden planks lining the beachfront provides a great place to walk, bike, roller-blade or just relax and take in the views. The boardwalk has become an iconic symbol for this vibrant city, drawing locals and tourists alike to its popular destinations.
Established in 1888 as part of a major waterfront improvement project, the original boardwalk was built from recycled lumber salvaged from local shipyards. Since then, it has been continually updated and improved to ensure that it can withstand strong coastal winds and high tides. Stretching over three miles along the shoreline, visitors will find plenty of activities such as shopping, dining at outdoor cafes or grabbing a snack at one of the many food stands.
Shopping Destinations in Long Beach
If shopping is what you are looking for you are in luck. Long Beach has everything from your department store chain to local gift shops. Shopping here is great for everyday items as well as the special gift items you are looking for. So, while you are here come shopping with the stars!
Whether you are looking for the latest fashion trends or unique souvenirs, there is something to fit everyone’s needs. Here are some of the best shopping destinations in Long Beach:
Pike Outlets
The Pike Outlets, located near Rainbow Harbor, is where you can find your favorite name brands. Find designer clothing from Prada and Dior at discounted prices as well as electronics from Apple and Sony. The outdoor mall also features plenty of restaurants so you can take a break between shops.
Retail Therapy
Retail Therapy is another great stop for those seeking stylish finds at lower costs than regular malls. This downtown boutique specializes in vintage clothing pieces, accessories, and more from local designers and independent makers from around the area.
Fun Nightlife Spots in Long Beach
With its variety of lively bars and nightclubs, this beach city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an upscale lounge or an outdoor spot with live music, Long Beach has it all. The Blind Donkey is a popular bourbon bar located near the shoreline that serves craft cocktails in a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for catching up with friends over drinks, The Blind Donkey boasts an extensive selection of whiskey and beer on tap. For live music lovers, check out Alex’s Bar – it hosts local bands every night of the week! This dive bar has been around since 1999 and features some of the best punk rock acts from all over Southern California.
Long Beach Visitors Guide
Click the icon in the bottom right to expand the 2024 Visitors Guide to Long Beach to full-screen.
Where to Stay in Long Beach
Long Beach offers hotels, resorts, motels, and inns for almost any budget. Whether you need a room downtown, by the beach or just a little closer to Los Angeles and Hollywood, the selection is enormous. By clicking on the link below, you can view a variety of accommodations in the Long Beach area.
Golf Courses in the Long Beach Area
Looking for a game of golf? Sunny Long Beach has some great courses for your game. While the climate remains moderate all year round Long Beach golf ranges from driving ranges to public & resort courses. After a day at many of Long Beach’s activities and attractions, you may wish to relax the next day with a game of golf in a serene setting. Look below for a highlight of what the Long Beach area has to offer!
| Name | City | Holes | Green Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cypress Golf Club (714) 527-1800 |
Los Alamitos, CA | 18 | Call For Rates |
| Meadowlark Golf Course (714) 846-1364 |
Huntington Beach, CA | 18 | Call For Rates |
| Ocean Trails Golf Club (310) 265-5525 |
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA | 18 | Call For Rates |
| Anaheim Hills (714) 998-3041 |
Anaheim, CA | 18 | $30 – $32 (Cart Included) |
| Catalina Island Golf Club (310) 510-0530 |
Avalon, CA | 18 | $23 – $63. |
| El Rivino Country Club (909) 684-8905 |
Riverside, CA | 18 | $18. – $55. |
| Los Angeles “Dad Miller” Golf Club (714) 748-8900 |
Los Angeles, CA | 18 | $20 – $26 |
| Los Angeles Hills Golf Club (714) 998-3041 |
Los Angeles, CA | 18 | $34 – $40 (Cart Included) |
| Big Canyon Golf Club (949) 644-5404 |
Newport Beach, CA | 18 | $75 |
| Griffith Park Golf Course (213) 664-2255 |
Los Angeles, CA | 18 | $18. – $43. |
| Los Robles Golf Course (805) 495-6171 |
Thousand Oaks, CA | 18 | $22. – $47 |
| Candlewood Country Club (562) 941-1228 |
Wittier, CA | 18 | $45 – $55 |
| Casta Del Sol Golf Club (949) 581-0940 |
Mission Viejo, CA | 18 | $17 – $25 |
| Costa Mesa Golf & CC (714) 540-7500 |
Costa Mesa, CA | 18 | $18 – $33 |
| El Toro Marine Memorial (949) 726-2577 |
Irvine, CA | 18 | $15 – $32 |
Museums in Long Beach
Long Beach’s museums are as eclectic as it is. The city’s art exhibit spaces take you back in time to view the beginnings of modern aviation; illustrate the cultural roots and growth of the beach city, and bring you face-to-face with the contemporary art scene. Below we have highlighted some of the more popular museums to visit. Please use the links to the left for your hotel and car rental needs.
Museums
The Autry
The Autry is devoted to preserving and interpreting the rich history and traditions of the American West. With one of the most comprehensive collections of western history and art, its seven permanent galleries and special exhibitions offer material gathered from the many cultures and events that have shaped the legacy of this vast region. Phone: (323) 667-2000
The Long Beach Museum of Art
The Long Beach Museum of Art is located on a magnificent bluff site overlooking Long Beach Harbor and the Pacific Ocean. The campus includes the historic Elizabeth Milbank Anderson house and carriage house (built in 1912), a new pavilion with two floors of expansive gallery space for changing exhibitions, and oceanfront gardens. The historic buildings are home to administrative offices, the Museum Store, and Museum Café. The Museum, established in 1950, is an accredited institution operated by the Long Beach Museum of Art Foundation. The Museum’s permanent collection is made up of about 5000 paintings, drawings, sculptures, works on paper, and decorative arts (furnishings and accessories). Particular strengths of the collection lie in the past 300 years of American decorative arts, early 20th-century European art, California Modernism, and contemporary art, including approximately 3000 artists’ videos. In addition to changing exhibitions, the Museum offers extensive educational programs for children and adults. Over the next three years, approximately 50,000 children from the Long Beach Unified School District will participate in programs at the Museum. Phone: (310) 548-7777
Museum of Latin American Art
The only museum in the Western United States to exclusively feature contemporary art from Latin America. Gift store, VIVA (a Latin American Cuisine restaurant), and a neighboring Oceanic Art Museum. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Phone: (562) 437-1689
Rancho Los Cerritos
Rancho Los Cerritos evolved from a cattle ranch to a sheep ranch to a private home before becoming a City museum in 1955. The current 4.7-acre site, a National and State Historic Landmark, includes an 1844 two-story Monterey-Colonial adobe and historic gardens, houses a California History Research Library, and hosts many educational programs for families and youth. You are encouraged to visit. The Rancho is closed on Monday, Tuesday, and all City holidays. Phone: (562) 570-1755
Final Word
Long Beach is a great place to visit for those who are looking for a mix of nature and city living. Between the beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and endless outdoor activities, this Southern California town has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an escape from your everyday life or a fun-filled vacation, Long Beach is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.