It will be no surprise to any visitor that Long Beach does, in fact, have a lovely long beach - but not so many know that it is a bustling commercial, industrial and cultural centre too.
The Long Beach seaside
Facing south on the Pacific waterfront, Long Beach offers a great climate to enjoy the sun, surf and sand. You’ll be able to explore almost six miles of palm-fringed promenade and boardwalk by bike, blade or foot. Along this stretch there are waterfront cafes, restaurants and tree-lined yacht marinas. Discover a vast range of watersport facilities along the seafront too, with everything from kayaks to water jetpacks available.
Take a break from the sun by popping into the acclaimed Aquarium of the Pacific, which houses more than 11,000 aquatic animals, ranging from sharks to penguins.
All aboard the attractions
In Long Beach harbour you’ll have to chance to step aboard the legendary Cunard liner, the Queen Mary. Take a tour or eat a meal on what was once historic luxury ocean liner from the golden age of cruising. You can even spend the night in one of the original First Class Staterooms.
Nearby you can explore a very different type of nautical environment: the American battleship Iowa that served in World War II, the Korean War, and Cold War. Take a tour of this iconic warship to experience a sailor’s view of life on one of the last of the great gunships.
Enjoy the culture
You’ll have a great chance for a worthwhile dose of fine culture in Long Beach. You can browse the art collection at Long Beach Museum of Art, which is housed in a historic mansion high above the sea. It now features an acclaimed café too, and the view across the city and ocean isn’t bad either.
For quirkier galleries, shops and eateries head to the eclectic East Village Arts District or enjoy a classical musical masterpiece at the waterside Long Beach Performing Arts Center, which is home to the city’s symphony orchestra, opera and theater.
Further afield
From Long Beach’s port you can take the popular one-hour boat trip across the ocean to the protected waters of Catalina Island. It’s perfect for crystal-clear snorkelling and swimming, or stepping ashore for hiking, eating, shopping, and amazing ocean views.
Back on land, within an hour’s drive of Long Beach you can explore some of southern California’s major attractions, including Universal Studios and Disneyland, Hollywood Boulevard and Rodeo Drive.
