Long Beach is the perfect place for a coastal California getaway. With plenty of activities and attractions, the city is popular for its unique mix of urban atmosphere and beach town feel. From a world-class aquarium to the historic Queen Mary floating museum/hotel, there is no shortage of fun things to do. Long Beach also hosts several special events throughout the year like the annual Grand Prix and Long Beach Lesbian & Gay Pride.
The city is located on the southeastern edge of Los Angeles County and borders Orange County. Like many large cities, it is made up of industrial areas, struggling neighborhoods and quiet middle-class communities. Housing prices are higher than the national average, and so are utility expenses and transportation costs. To afford living in Long Beach, single adults need to make at least $20 an hour.
For those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown, head to the Long Beach waterfront where you will find vast swathes of golden sand and some of the best people-watching in Southern California. One of the most popular activities is to travel the entire length of the beach on the Shoreline Pedestrian Bike Path, which features separate lanes for pedestrians and bikers. You can also walk along the Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier or take in a breathtaking view of Catalina Island.
With a strong Mexican influence in the city, you’ll also want to visit the dozens of taquerias and taco trucks spread out across the area. Try Lola’s Mexican Cuisine or Los Compadres for some authentic dishes like mole and chile rellenos. The city also has a number of bars where you can enjoy a drink with friends, including The Blind Donkey and The Prospector.Long Beach has a great variety of shopping options, ranging from upscale stores to local boutiques. One of the most popular is The Pike Outlets, which has a wide selection of restaurants ranging from fast-food to sit-down dining.
It is also home to a movie theater, Ferris wheel and carousel, making it a popular spot for date nights.In addition to the waterfront attractions, Long Beach has a handful of parks and nature reserves where you can enjoy some fresh air and sunshine. El Dorado Regional Park is one of the largest parks in the area and offers fishing lakes, picnic areas and bike trails. You can also check out Bluff Park for views of the ocean and the Catalina Islands on clear days.For a more cultural experience, head to the Art Theatre of Long Beach.
This former 1920s theater showcases a variety of independent films and also has a bar with a menu of artisan food and beverages.Another highlight is the 17,000-square-foot space known as The Hangar, a dynamic hub filled with all things local. This converted airport hangar features pop-up shops and artisan food vendors, as well as a cocktail lounge called ReMix Kitchen that serves up unique blends of Italian, Filipino and French cuisines.