Long Beach Day Trip Top 10 Things to Do Attractions

Long Beach, California, was once renowned for its maritime legacy in both civilian and military sectors. However, it has transformed into a vibrant hub of art, culture, and gastronomy, set against a luxurious oceanfront ambiance.

Long Beach boasts a moderate climate that makes it a perfect destination year-round. There is never a dull moment for visitors as various indoor and outdoor activities are suitable for all ages, day or night.

1. Rainbow Harbor

Rainbow Harbor is Long Beach’s entertainment hub, providing a diverse range of activities, all within a short walking distance. The Shoreline Village boardwalk offers a delightful pathway that showcases sea-going vessels, including massive excursion boats and commercial fishing vessels. You can take a leisurely afternoon stroll and stop to savor a delicious lunch at one of the various restaurants with spacious outdoor patios that offer scenic waterfront views.

2. Shoreline Village

The Village is a kid-friendly environment, too – guests will find the Pelican Pier Carousel and Arcade, with its vast candy shop, a great place to occupy the little ones. You can also purchase tickets for harbor cruises, whale-watching excursions, deep-sea fishing trips, and dinner cruises, sign up for sailing lessons, or rent personal watercraft. Website.

3. The Pike Outlets Long Beach

The Pike Outlets is a mix of retail and outlet stores, a Cinemark Theatre, and several restaurants. Ride on the Ferris Wheel and enjoy the Long Beach Harbor and skyline views. There is also a classic wood carousel built-in 1920 adjacent to the Ferris Wheel. The roof of the current carousel building is a close match to the original 1902 Pike Amusement Park carousel and is about the only reminder of the old Long Beach Pike. A pedestrian bridge from Rainbow Harbor to the Pike Outlets. 95 S Pine Ave

4. Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific houses a vast collection of ocean animals and showcases unique habitats and exhibits. Visitors of all ages can enjoy a half-day exploring the brightly lit hallways filled with captivating sea creatures. Among the highlights is the Shark Lagoon, which boasts over 150 sharks. Other exhibits include displays on the Southern California/Baja, Northern Pacific, and Tropical Pacific regions.

5. Harbor Breeze Cruises

Rainbow Harbor is the base of operations for Harbor Breeze Cruises, which offers a range of tours that include whale-watching expeditions and a picturesque 45-minute harbor tour. The harbor tour is particularly suitable for those visiting for the first time, as it provides a close-up view of the renowned Queen Mary. You’ll pass by various port facilities and observe container ships worldwide along the way. You may even glimpse California Sea Lions playing in the harbor waters if you’re lucky.

6. RMS Queen Mary

On the other side of the harbor, towering above the ocean stands the RMS Queen Mary – a luxurious passenger liner with a rich history. Launched in 1934, it completed over 1,000 Atlantic crossings between the US and Europe. During World War II, it served as a troop transport ship named “Gray Ghost.” Visitors can tour the boat after its retirement in 1967, and even book overnight stays.

7. Belmont Shore

If you have some spare time after exploring Rainbow Harbor and its surroundings, consider visiting the nearby Belmont Shore. Located just 3.5 miles south on East Second Street, Belmont Shores is a district in Long Beach that offers a unique mix of gourmet restaurants, trendy clothing stores, and vibrant nightlife. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy a relaxing dinner and unwind after a hectic day.

8. Naples Canals Long Beach

If you travel for a mile on Second Street and cross the bridge, you will arrive at Naples, one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Long Beach. Modeled after the Italian city with the same name, the Naples Canals offer a glimpse of the old world, complete with exclusive gondola rides. Additionally, visitors can walk along a scenic path, admiring some of the region’s most stunning homes, each with private docks. The stroll lasts 40 minutes and is ideal for a romantic evening with a loved one.

9. Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden

The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is delightful on Long Beach State’s campus. Although the garden may be small, its beauty more than compensates for it. The park, which spans a little over an acre, is highlighted by a pond adorned with water lilies. It is located on Earl Warren Drive in Long Beach, California.

10. El Dorado Regional Park

The 100-acre El Dorado Park offers residents and visitors a place to enjoy nature. The park is divided into two sections. El Dorado Park West features softball and soccer fields and a golf course. El Dorado Park East features a fishing lake, archery range, El Dorado Nature Center, and a fun little miniature train that runs on weekends. 7550 E. Spring Street. Website.

As you can see, Long Beach has plenty to offer. Long Beach, California, is about an hour’s drive southwest of downtown Los Angeles and enjoys easy access from all over Southern California.

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