Things To Do
in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning waterfront, diverse culture, and bustling arts scene. Home to the iconic Queen Mary and the Long Beach Museum of Art, it offers a blend of historical charm and modern attractions. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, a thriving downtown area, and a variety of outdoor activities.

With its year-round pleasant climate, Long Beach is a great destination for travelers seeking sun, sea, and culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown and the Waterfront
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then head to the Long Beach Museum of Art to view its impressive collection and enjoy ocean views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific to learn about marine life, then stroll along the Long Beach waterfront and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy downtown restaurant before catching a show at the historic Art Theatre or enjoying live music at a local bar.

day 2
Day 2: Beaches and Culture
morning
:

Spend the morning relaxing at Alamitos Beach, where you can sunbathe or swim in the ocean.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a tour of the Queen Mary, exploring its historic rooms and learning about its fascinating history.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and scenic views.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$15
🍔Burger Meal$12
Coffee$4
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$1.75
🏨Hotel Night$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.
  • Diverse culinary scene with many dining options.
  • Rich cultural events and vibrant nightlife.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Tourist areas can become crowded.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other regions.

Places to Visit in Long Beach

Visit one of these nice places.

The Queen Mary

This historic ocean liner offers stunning photo opportunities both inside and out, especially at sunset.

Alamitos Beach

A beautiful beach with picturesque views of the ocean and city skyline, ideal for sunset shots.

Rainbow Harbor

A vibrant harbor area with colorful boats and the iconic lighthouse, perfect for capturing the essence of Long Beach.

Culinary Guide

Food in Long Beach

Long Beach boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural population, offering everything from fresh seafood to authentic international cuisine.

Long Beach Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish Tacos

Crispy fish served in soft tortillas with fresh toppings, a local favorite.

Must-Try!

California Burrito

A large burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and guacamole.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Long Beach Farmers Market

A vibrant market held weekly, featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors.

Food Trucks at the Promenade

A rotating selection of food trucks offering street food from various cuisines.

Climate Guide

Weather

Long Beach enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Temperatures range from the low 50s°F (10°C) in winter to the mid-80s°F (29°C) in summer, with coastal breezes providing relief. Rainfall is minimal, primarily occurring between November and March. The city benefits from plenty of sunshine year-round, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Be Respectful of Public Spaces

Keep public areas clean and dispose of trash properly.

Personal Space

Californians value personal space; maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, especially for social gatherings or appointments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Long Beach is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep valuables out of sight. The city has a visible police presence, and emergency services can be contacted easily. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and health services.

Tipping in Long Beach

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service workers 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay are widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Expect warm weather and busy beaches; perfect for sunbathing, water sports, and outdoor concerts.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds provide a pleasant atmosphere for sightseeing and enjoying local events.

Winter

Mild winters allow for year-round outdoor enjoyment, though occasional rain may occur; holiday events add charm to the city.

Nightlife Guide

Long Beach at Night

Long Beach has a lively nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The downtown area is particularly vibrant, featuring everything from rooftop lounges to beachside bars. Popular spots include the Gaslamp Long Beach for dancing, and the Blue Café for live music. The city also hosts various events such as art walks and food festivals that enhance the nightlife experience.

Hiking in Long Beach

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

El Moro Canyon Trail

Located in nearby Crystal Cove State Park, this trail offers stunning coastal views and a moderate hike suitable for various skill levels.

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

A scenic area with flat trails perfect for bird watching and enjoying nature, providing beautiful coastal views.

Airports

How to reach Long Beach by plane.

Long Beach Airport (LGB)

Located just a few miles from downtown Long Beach, this airport offers domestic flights and is known for its convenient access and shorter wait times.

Getting Around

Walkability

Long Beach is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area and along the waterfront. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and bike lanes are available for cyclists. Public transit options also connect various neighborhoods, enhancing overall walkability.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic and Latino Community

This group represents a significant portion of Long Beach's population, contributing to the city's vibrant culture and culinary scene.

Asian Community

Diverse Asian populations, including Vietnamese and Chinese communities, enhance Long Beach's cultural tapestry and local businesses.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Beach Volleyball

A popular sport along the beaches, with many courts available for casual play and tournaments.

Soccer

Youth and adult leagues are prevalent, and the city hosts various soccer events and tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Long Beach can be heavy, particularly during rush hours on weekdays. Major thoroughfares such as Pacific Coast Highway and Long Beach Boulevard often experience congestion. Public transportation options include buses and the Metro Blue Line, which connects Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles, providing a convenient alternative to driving.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Long Beach.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan menu items to cater to dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Choices

A variety of eateries provide gluten-free options, making dining accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Long Beach has a variety of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, urgent care clinics, and specialty care centers. The city is served by Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and St. Mary Medical Center, both offering emergency services and comprehensive healthcare. Many providers accept a range of insurance plans, and walk-in clinics are available for minor health issues.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide