Long Beach California
A coastal gem in Southern California, Long Beach offers a vibrant mix of attractions, from marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific to historic char...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Long Beach California
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A coastal gem in Southern California, Long Beach offers a vibrant mix of attractions, from marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific to historic charm aboard the Queen Mary.
"By far my favorite spot to catch a sunset. The panoramic view here is absolutely breathtaking."
🚗 Beat Parking Fees
Consider using the Metro Blue Line or Long Beach Transit to avoid expensive parking downtown.
🐠 Aquarium Tickets
Book Aquarium of the Pacific tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aquarium of the Pacific
Shoreline Drive
Dive into a vibrant underwater world with thousands of marine animals. A must-see for all ages!
The Queen Mary
Pier J
Explore this historic ocean liner, a floating hotel and museum offering a glimpse into maritime history.
Belmont Shore & Alamitos Beach
East Ocean Boulevard
Enjoy a lively beach scene with shops, restaurants, and a beautiful stretch of sand perfect for relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Long Beach
Getting Around Long Beach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat Parking Fees
Consider using the Metro Blue Line or Long Beach Transit to avoid expensive parking downtown.
🐠 Aquarium Tickets
Book Aquarium of the Pacific tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money.
🚶♀️ Explore Belmont Shore
Walk or bike along Second Street for a great mix of shopping, dining, and beach access.
🌅 Sunset Views
Head to the beach for stunning sunset views; it's a peaceful way to end the day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat Parking Fees
Consider using the Metro Blue Line or Long Beach Transit to avoid expensive parking downtown.
🐠 Aquarium Tickets
Book Aquarium of the Pacific tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money.
🚶♀️ Explore Belmont Shore
Walk or bike along Second Street for a great mix of shopping, dining, and beach access.
🌅 Sunset Views
Head to the beach for stunning sunset views; it's a peaceful way to end the day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Long Beach for its beautiful beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Queen Mary. The city offers a good mix of relaxation and entertainment, with many enjoying the sunset views and the lively Belmont Shore area. Some find the parking fees a bit high and note that certain areas might be more crowded than others.
"By far my favorite spot to catch a sunset. The panoramic view here is absolutely breathtaking — calm, clear waters and a mesmerizing blend of colors painting the sky.
I just wish the camera could do justice to how stunning it truly looks in person.
It’s also a great place for fishing if that’s something you enjoy. Since the beach isn’t usually crowded, it’s perfect for a peaceful, unwinding evening."
Jagrithi Mandanna
"Nice beach. lots of shells. $20 to get in, which is a little too much for what it has to offer. Nice place to get some video shots and record some ambiance audio. Maybe another beach would be better but not terrible."
Noah Deardorff
"Be aware that there is nesting wildlife outside of the main beach, and that dogs are not allowed in the area. You yourself will need to be careful where you step as there are chicks that may wander onto the path or along the beach, and they can be difficult to see
As you walk down the beach you'll have Long Island Sound to your left and Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge to your right- a salt meadow that is absolutely stunning. The spit of land that you're on is only a few dozen feet across, but extends quite far- with the trail going all the way to Pleasure Beach. I would recommend bringing water if you're intent on making the trek and happen to be less impulsively foolish than I was."
Eric Vinke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive via I-710 S, or take the Metro Blue Line directly from Downtown LA to Long Beach. The Blue Line is a great option to avoid traffic and parking costs.
While a car is convenient, many areas like Downtown and Belmont Shore are walkable. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transport for longer distances.
Long Beach Transit buses and the Metro Blue Line serve many key attractions. For exploring neighborhoods like Belmont Shore, walking or biking is ideal.
Yes, for events like the Grand Prix, consider park and ride lots like Willow Station and taking the Blue Line downtown to save on parking fees.
Long Beach is about a 30-45 minute drive from LAX, depending on traffic. You can also take a shuttle or ride-share service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for the Aquarium of the Pacific vary, but generally range from $30-$40 for adults. Booking online in advance is recommended.
Yes, general admission tickets are required to board and explore the Queen Mary. Special tours and events may have separate ticketing.
Yes, enjoying the beaches like Alamitos Beach and Belmont Beach is free. Strolling along the Shoreline Village and the waterfront also offers free enjoyment.
Operating hours vary by attraction. The Aquarium of the Pacific is typically open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, while the Queen Mary has specific tour times. Always check their official websites.
Look for online deals, package tickets (e.g., Aquarium and Queen Mary), or consider a Go City Pass for potential savings on multiple attractions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Top activities include visiting the Aquarium of the Pacific, exploring the Queen Mary, relaxing at Belmont Shore, and enjoying the vibrant downtown area.
Absolutely! The waterfront, the Queen Mary, and the Aquarium of the Pacific offer fantastic photo opportunities. Sunsets over the ocean are also spectacular.
Yes, Long Beach is very family-friendly with attractions like the Aquarium, the Long Beach Zoo, and plenty of beach space for kids to play.
At the Aquarium of the Pacific, you'll see marine life. Along the coast, you might spot sea lions, dolphins, and various seabirds.
Generally, dogs are not allowed on most public beaches in Long Beach, including Alamitos Beach and Belmont Beach. Always check local signage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Long Beach offers diverse dining, from seafood in Belmont Shore to international cuisine downtown. Many TikTok creators highlight breakfast burritos and waterfront dining.
Belmont Shore and Shoreline Village are known for their seafood restaurants, offering fresh catches with ocean views.
Yes, Long Beach has a growing number of restaurants offering vegan and vegetarian dishes, particularly in the downtown and Belmont Shore areas.
Pine Avenue in Downtown Long Beach is a hub for nightlife, bars, and diverse restaurants. Belmont Shore also offers a lively evening scene.
Absolutely! From food trucks to casual cafes and breweries, Long Beach has plenty of laid-back dining spots, especially along Second Street in Belmont Shore.
📸 📸 Photography
The Aquarium of the Pacific's exhibits, the historic Queen Mary, the colorful boats in the harbor, and the sunset over the ocean are all highly photogenic.
The 'golden hour' before sunset offers beautiful light for beach and cityscape photos. Mornings are great for capturing the calm ocean and fewer crowds.
Drone usage is restricted in many public areas, especially near airports and sensitive wildlife zones. Always check local regulations before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for general sightseeing. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing expansive ocean views and cityscapes.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Queen Mary for personal use, but professional shoots may require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For beach fun, Belmont Shore offers a wide, sandy expanse perfect for building sandcastles and playing in the gentle waves. Pack plenty of sunscreen and snacks, and consider bringing a beach umbrella for shade. Many restaurants in areas like Shoreline Village offer kid-friendly menus.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize public transportation like the Metro Blue Line and Long Beach Transit to avoid costly parking fees, especially when visiting downtown attractions. Look for happy hour deals at restaurants and consider packing your own picnic lunches for beach days. Many of the city's parks also offer great spots for a budget-friendly meal with a view.
couples
Consider a visit to the Queen Mary for a dose of history and unique ambiance, or explore the art and culture at the Long Beach Museum of Art. A leisurely boat tour or a wine tasting experience can also add a special touch to your getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Aquarium of the Pacific
Many visitors recommend dedicating at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the aquarium. Interactive exhibits, such as the touch pools, are a hit with families. The sheer variety of species, from tiny seahorses to large tuna, makes it a captivating experience for all ages.
To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing tickets online in advance to skip lines. Check the daily schedule for feeding demonstrations and animal encounters, which add an extra layer of engagement to your visit.
A Day at Belmont Shore and Alamitos Beach
Redditors often highlight Belmont Shore as a great place to stroll, grab a bite, or enjoy a drink with ocean views. It's a more laid-back alternative to some of the busier beach areas, offering a local feel. The proximity to the water makes it ideal for both active beachgoers and those looking for a leisurely afternoon.
For those looking to stay active, renting a bike and cruising along the beachfront path is a popular choice. The area is also known for its charming bungalows and tree-lined streets, making it a pleasant place to explore on foot.
The Historic Queen Mary
Exploring the ship's grand salons, elegant staterooms, and engine rooms offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of travel. Many visitors are captivated by the ship's art deco design and the stories of its famous passengers. The Queen Mary also hosts various events, exhibitions, and even overnight stays, providing a truly immersive experience.
While the ship is a major attraction, be aware that some areas may be undergoing renovation. It's advisable to check the official Queen Mary website for the latest information on tours, exhibits, and any potential closures before your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit