Ultimate Guide: 25+ Best Things To Do In Long Beach, CA For Every Traveler
Wondering what makes Long Beach, CA such a standout destination in Southern California? It’s more than just a name on a map; it’s a vibrant, multifaceted city where urban energy meets coastal relaxation. From historic ocean liners and world-class museums to thriving culinary scenes and sun-drenched beaches, the list of things to do in Long Beach, CA is surprisingly diverse. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or a family seeking fun, this guide will unlock the very best this dynamic port city has to offer. Forget the generic tourist traps—we’re diving deep into the local favorites and iconic sights that define the Long Beach experience.
This comprehensive guide is structured to take you on a journey through the city’s distinct neighborhoods and attractions. We’ll start with the breathtaking waterfront, move through cultural heartlands, explore green spaces, and then dive into the food, festivals, and nightlife that give Long Beach its unique soul. By the end, you’ll have a curated itinerary that feels both authentic and unforgettable, proving that Long Beach is a destination worthy of its own spotlight.
Waterfront Wonders: Iconic Ships and Ocean Adventures
The heartbeat of Long Beach is undoubtedly its spectacular waterfront. This isn't just a beach; it's a working port transformed into a premier recreational playground. The views of the Pacific, coupled with the majestic sight of massive cruise ships and cargo vessels, create a scenery you won't find elsewhere in SoCal.
The Queen Mary: A Floating Hotel and Historic Landmark
No visit is complete without stepping aboard the RMS Queen Mary, a legendary Art Deco ocean liner permanently docked in Long Beach. More than just a museum, it's a fully operational hotel, attraction, and event space. You can take a self-guided tour to admire the grand staterooms, the original engine room, and the ship's elegant public spaces. For the brave, the Queen Mary Ghost Tours are infamous, leveraging the ship's reported paranormal activity. Pro tip: Book a "First Class" tour for access to restricted areas like the bridge and the officer's quarters. With over 1,000 rooms, staying overnight is an immersive trip back in time. The ship also hosts seasonal events, from New Year's Eve galas to Halloween horror mazes, ensuring there's always a reason to return.
Aquarium of the Pacific: Dive into Marine Life
Right next to the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a top-tier family attraction and a conservation leader. Home to over 11,000 animals from the Pacific Ocean, its exhibits are brilliantly designed. Walk through a 100,000-gallon tropical reef habitat in the Tropical Pacific Gallery or come face-to-face with giant sea bass and leopard sharks in the Southern California/Baja Gallery. The June Keyes Penguin Habitat and the Lorikeet Forest are always crowd-pleasers. Don't miss the Northern Pacific Gallery featuring stunning jellyfish and a giant Pacific octopus. The aquarium is deeply involved in breeding programs for endangered species like the California sea lion. Check their schedule for feeding times and animal encounters—it’s worth planning your visit around these interactive shows.
Shoreline Village & Pike Outlets: Shopping with a View
For a more leisurely waterfront experience, head to Shoreline Village. This charming collection of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants is built on stilts over the water. It’s the perfect place for a casual stroll, souvenir shopping, or enjoying a meal with panoramic harbor views. Just a short walk away, the Pike Outlets offers brand-name shopping in an open-air setting with a historic carnival vibe, featuring a restored 1905 carousel and the iconic Ferris wheel. The area buzzes with activity, especially during weekend markets and live music performances.
Port of Long Beach & Catalina Express
While primarily a commercial port, the Port of Long Beach offers unique viewing opportunities. The Port of Long Beach Public Boat Tour (seasonal) provides a fascinating look at one of the world's busiest ports, explaining the logistics of global trade. For island getaways, the Catalina Express terminal in Downtown Long Beach is your gateway to Catalina Island. Multiple daily high-speed ferries whisk you away to Avalon or Two Harbors in about an hour, making it an effortless day trip or weekend escape.
Cultural Gems: Art, History, and Science
Long Beach’s cultural scene is rich, diverse, and often surprisingly profound. It punches well above its weight for a city of its size.
Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA)
The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) is the only museum in the western United States dedicated exclusively to modern and contemporary Latin American art. Housed in a former roller skating rink, its industrial architecture provides a stunning backdrop for vibrant paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. The museum rotates major exhibitions from artists across Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Its peaceful sculpture garden is a hidden oasis. MOLAA also hosts fantastic cultural festivals, film screenings, and educational workshops that bring the community together. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in global art narratives.
Long Beach Museum of Art (LBMA)
Perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean, the Long Beach Museum of Art (LBMA) occupies a beautiful 1911 estate. Its collection focuses on American decorative arts, early 20th-century California art, and contemporary works. The museum is particularly known for its strong holdings in California Modernism and ceramics. The on-site Claire’s at the Museum café offers one of the most picturesque dining terraces in the city—perfect for a post-museum lunch with an ocean view.
Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
Tucked within the campus of California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a serene 1.3-acre sanctuary. Modeled after the traditional gardens of Kyoto, it features koi ponds, a tea house, a bamboo grove, and meticulously pruned pines. It’s a place for quiet contemplation, photography, and seasonal beauty—from cherry blossoms in spring to fiery maples in fall. The garden hosts traditional tea ceremonies and cultural events, offering a tranquil escape from the urban hustle.
Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum (PIEAM)
A smaller but incredibly unique museum, the Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum (PIEAM) celebrates the arts and cultures of the Pacific Islands. Its collection includes textiles, carvings, tattoos, and contemporary works from Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia. The museum tells important stories of migration, identity, and tradition, providing a crucial perspective often missing from larger institutions. It’s a hidden gem that offers a deep, educational dive into a vast and diverse region.
The Long Beach Performing Arts Center
For lovers of theater, music, and dance, the Long Beach Performing Arts Center is the cultural epicenter. It comprises the Terrace Theater and the Beverly O’Neill Theater, hosting a full season of Broadway tours, symphony concerts, ballets, and local productions. The center is also home to the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra and several resident theater companies. Check their calendar—seeing a show here is a fantastic way to experience the city’s sophisticated artistic side.
Outdoor Oases: Parks, Beaches, and Bike Paths
Long Beach is famously flat and bike-friendly, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Its parks and beaches offer both active recreation and peaceful relaxation.
Belmont Shore & Naples: Neighborhood Beaches
While Long Beach City Beach (the main stretch by the Queen Mary) is great for a quick dip, locals flock to Belmont Shore. This 2.5-mile stretch has a lively, community feel with volleyball nets, bike rentals, and the famous Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier. Just east of Belmont Shore lies Naples, a picturesque neighborhood of canals and islands modeled after Venice, Italy. Strolling or kayaking through its calm waterways feels worlds away from the city bustle. The Naples Island Canals are especially magical during the holiday season when homeowners decorate their waterfront properties with elaborate lights.
El Dorado Regional Park: A Massive Urban Playground
Spanning over 650 acres, El Dorado Regional Park is Long Beach’s answer to Central Park. It’s a massive complex featuring two lakes (with pedal boat and kayak rentals), multiple golf courses, an archery range, bike trails, and vast meadows for picnicking and sports. The El Dorado Nature Center within the park is a 105-acre natural preserve with walking trails, ponds, and abundant wildlife—a fantastic spot for birdwatching. This park is ideal for a full-day family outing or a serene morning jog.
The Long Beach Bike Path: A Coastal Cruise
The Long Beach Bike Path (also part of the Shoreline Pedestrian/Bike Path) is a 3.1-mile paved trail that runs along the ocean from downtown to Belmont Shore. It’s flat, scenic, and well-maintained, perfect for biking, jogging, or a leisurely walk. Rentals are plentiful along the route. For a longer ride, you can connect to the San Gabriel River Bike Trail, which stretches for miles into Seal Beach and beyond. Cycling here is not just exercise; it's the best way to soak in the coastal atmosphere.
Rancho Los Alamitos: Historic Ranch and Gardens
A National Historic Landmark, Rancho Los Alamitos is one of the oldest ranches in California, dating back to the 1790s. The site includes a beautifully restored adobe ranch house, a rose garden, a citrus grove, and a barn museum. It tells the layered history of the region—from the indigenous Tongva people to Spanish and Mexican rancheros to American settlers. The surrounding Los Cerritos Wetlands offer additional trails and wildlife viewing. It’s a peaceful, educational spot that connects you to the land’s deep past.
Bluff Park and the Bluffs
For the most stunning, unobstructed ocean views in the city, head to Bluff Park. This narrow, grassy strip atop a 40-foot cliff runs parallel to Ocean Boulevard. It’s a favorite spot for sunset watchers, photographers, and anyone wanting to feel the ocean breeze. The adjacent Bluff Heights neighborhood is full of charming, historic homes. Walking along the bluffs, especially at golden hour, is a quintessential Long Beach moment.
Downtown Long Beach: The Urban Core Alive with Energy
Downtown Long Beach has undergone a remarkable renaissance, transforming into a hub of entertainment, dining, and culture centered around the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center and the Long Beach Arena.
The Pike and Pine Avenue Entertainment District
The area around The Pike and Pine Avenue is the nightlife and dining nucleus. Pine Avenue is lined with historic buildings housing trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, and breweries. The Pike itself is an outdoor shopping and entertainment complex with a movie theater, game arcade, and numerous eateries. This district comes alive after dark and on weekends, with a diverse crowd enjoying everything from rooftop bars to live music venues.
East Village Arts District
Just east of downtown, the East Village Arts District is the city's creative heartbeat. Once a neglected area, it's now a vibrant enclave of art galleries, studios, theaters, and independent cafes. First Friday art walks draw huge crowds, showcasing local talent. The Museum of Latin American Art and the Long Beach Playhouse anchor this district. The vibe is eclectic, bohemian, and constantly evolving—perfect for discovering emerging artists and unique handmade goods.
The Promenade and Rainbow Harbor
The Long Beach Promenade is a pedestrian-friendly walkway along the waterfront, connecting the Queen Mary, the Aquarium, and Shoreline Village. It’s always buzzing with tourists, street performers, and locals. At its heart is Rainbow Harbor, a marina filled with colorful boats and lined with restaurants offering fresh seafood. Taking a harbor cruise from here is a classic activity, providing beautiful skyline views and a lesson in the city’s maritime history.
Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center
This sprawling complex hosts everything from the Grand Prix of Long Beach (a major IndyCar race that transforms downtown streets into a racetrack every April) to comic cons, boat shows, and major concerts. Even if there’s no event, its architecture and the adjacent Terrace Plaza with its fountains are worth a look. The convention center is a major economic engine and a symbol of the city’s ability to host world-class events.
Culinary Journey: From Waterfront Seafood to Global Flavors
Long Beach’s food scene is a delicious reflection of its diverse population and coastal location. It’s a foodie paradise where you can find exceptional Mexican, Cambodian, Vietnamese, Filipino, Italian, and of course, fresh seafood, often at surprisingly affordable prices.
Seafood Shacks and Waterfront Dining
For the quintessential Long Beach seafood experience, head to Harbor House or The Lobster Trap for garlicky crab and clam chowder in a paper basket. The Boathouse on the Bay offers a more upscale waterfront dining experience with fresh catches and stunning views of Naples. Don’t miss the Long Beach Fish Company for fish tacos and a casual, local vibe. The key is to eat where the fishermen and dockworkers eat—the quality is always top-notch.
Cambodian Town: A National Culinary Destination
Long Beach is home to the largest Cambodian community outside of Southeast Asia, and Cambodian Town (centered on Anaheim Street) is a national culinary destination. Here you’ll find authentic amok (steamed fish curry), num pang (Cambodian sandwiches), and incredible barbecued meats. Restaurants like Phnom Penh Noodle Shack and Kohrup are legendary. This isn't just a meal; it's a cultural immersion. The annual Cambodia Town Parade and Festival is a must for food lovers.
Downtown and East Village Restaurants
Downtown and the East Village are packed with innovative eateries. Lena’s is a local institution for upscale Italian, while The Sky Room offers classic cocktails and ocean views from the historic Breakers Hotel. For a modern American meal in a beautiful setting, The Gumboot is a top choice. The craft beer scene is also booming, with brewpubs like Liberty Brewing Co. and Long Beach Beer Lab leading the charge.
Farmer's Markets and Food Halls
The Long Beach Certified Farmers' Market (Fridays in downtown) is one of the best in the county, offering organic produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods. For a curated food hall experience, The Hangar at the Long Beach Airport (a short drive from downtown) features local vendors and restaurants in a cool, aviation-themed space. It’s a great spot to sample a variety of Long Beach’s culinary talents in one visit.
Festivals and Events: The City’s Celebratory Spirit
Long Beach knows how to throw a party. Its annual calendar is packed with events that draw regional and national attention, celebrating everything from cars and music to culture and film.
The Grand Prix of Long Beach
The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is the city's signature event. Every April, the downtown streets are transformed into a challenging temporary racetrack for IndyCar Series cars. The four-day festival includes concerts, an exotic car show, family activities, and a massive vendor village. Even if you’re not a racing fan, the electric atmosphere, the smell of burnt rubber, and the roar of engines on the city streets are an unforgettable experience. It’s a massive economic driver and a point of immense civic pride.
Long Beach Pride & the Long Beach Lesbian & Gay Pride Festival
One of the largest and longest-running Pride festivals in the nation, Long Beach Pride (typically in May) is a spectacular, inclusive celebration. The parade winds through downtown, and the festival in Rainbow Harbor features multiple stages with top musical acts, hundreds of vendor booths, and a joyful, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a powerful testament to the city’s diverse and welcoming community.
Long Beach Jazz Festival
Held over Labor Day weekend in Alamitos Bay, the Long Beach Jazz Festival is one of the premier jazz events on the West Coast. Set against a beautiful waterfront backdrop, it features a stellar lineup of renowned and emerging jazz artists across multiple stages. Bring a blanket, a picnic, and soak in the smooth sounds with the sun setting over the water. It’s a sophisticated, relaxing way to end the summer.
Other Notable Annual Events
- Long Beach International Film Festival: Showcases independent films from around the world.
- Aloha Festivals: Celebrates Hawaiian and Polynesian culture with music, dance, and food.
- Christmas Boat Parade: A beloved holiday tradition where elaborately decorated boats sail through the canals of Naples and the harbor.
- Long Beach Marathon: Draws runners from across the globe with its scenic course along the waterfront.
Scenic Tours and Excursions: See the City from New Angles
Beyond walking, there are fantastic ways to see Long Beach from the water or with a knowledgeable guide.
Harbor Cruises
Several companies offer harbor cruises that are both scenic and educational. You’ll glide past the Queen Mary, the Port of Long Beach, the container terminals (where you can see caches of imported goods), and the stunning downtown skyline. Day cruises, sunset cruises, and even dinner cruises are available. It’s the best way to understand the city’s identity as a major global port.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
The calm waters of Naples Canals and Alamitos Bay are ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Rentals are plentiful, and paddling through the serene, house-lined canals of Naples is a uniquely Long Beach experience. For more adventure, head to the Leeway Sailing and Aquatics Center in Alamitos Bay. Early morning paddles offer calm waters and beautiful light.
The Pike’s Historic Carousel and Ferris Wheel
While not a "tour" per se, riding the historic 1905 Looff carousel and the Ferris wheel at The Pike is a fun, nostalgic activity with great views of the harbor. It’s a classic piece of Long Beach history that’s been beautifully restored and remains a centerpiece of the waterfront.
Family-Friendly Fun: Activities for All Ages
Long Beach is exceptionally family-friendly, with a wide array of attractions that will engage kids and adults alike.
Shoreline Village & The Pike
The combination of Shoreline Village (with its toy train that circles the complex) and The Pike (with its arcade, bowling alley, and rides) is a guaranteed hit with children. The open spaces allow kids to run around, and the variety means there’s always something new to discover.
Rancho Los Alamitos & El Dorado Nature Center
Both Rancho Los Alamitos and the El Dorado Nature Center offer open spaces and educational fun. Kids can explore historic buildings, see animals, and run around on the grounds. The Nature Center’s trails are easy and full of wildlife spotting opportunities—bring binoculars!
Long Beach Public Library’s Main Branch & Youth Services
Don’t underestimate the Long Beach Public Library. Its stunning modern main branch downtown has a fantastic youth services department with interactive play areas, regular story times, and special events. It’s a great free, air-conditioned option for a mid-day break.
Beach Days at Belmont Shore
Belmont Shore has a wide, sandy beach perfect for building sandcastles, wading in the gentle waves, and playing beach volleyball. The adjacent Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier is fun for fishing or just walking to the end. The area has a relaxed, neighborhood beach feel compared to the more touristy main beach.
Nightlife & Entertainment: After Dark in Long Beach
When the sun sets, Long Beach’s energy shifts but doesn’t fade. The nightlife scene is as varied as the city itself.
Live Music Venues
- The Alex Theatre: A beautifully restored 1925 movie palace that now hosts concerts, comedy shows, and film screenings.
- Long Beach Arena & Convention Center: Hosts major touring acts and large-scale events.
- Brewery venues: Places like Liberty Brewing Co. and Long Beach Beer Lab often have live local music in their taprooms.
- The Coffee Cartel: A popular spot for acoustic sets and smaller indie acts.
Bars and Lounges
From the historic The Sky Room with its ocean views and classic cocktails to the edgy, speakeasy-style The V Room in the East Village, there’s a bar for every mood. Pine Avenue is lined with cocktail bars and wine lounges. For a truly local experience, find a dive bar like The Pike Bar & Grill that’s been serving the community for decades.
Comedy and Theater
- The Long Beach Playhouse: One of the oldest community theaters in the US, offering solid productions of classics and new works.
- The Idiot Box: A small, quirky comedy theater hosting improv and sketch shows.
- The Beverly O’Neill Theater: Part of the Performing Arts Center, hosts larger touring comedy acts and plays.
Day Trips & Nearby Attractions: Expanding Your Horizon
Long Beach’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring greater Southern California.
Catalina Island (via Catalina Express)
As mentioned, the Catalina Express ferry makes day trips to Avalon or Two Harbors incredibly easy. Explore the island’s charming streets, snorkel in the clear waters, hike the Hermit’s Gulch trail, or take the Avalon Trolley. It feels like a world away, yet it’s only an hour from the downtown terminal.
Disneyland & Knott’s Berry Farm
Both Disneyland Resort and Knott’s Berry Farm are about a 20-30 minute drive north. Long Beach offers significantly more affordable hotel options than Anaheim, making it a smart, quieter place to stay while visiting the theme parks. The commute is straightforward via the 22 and 5 freeways.
Huntington Beach & Newport Beach
A short drive south leads to Huntington Beach ("Surf City USA") for iconic pier and surf culture, and Newport Beach for upscale shopping, the Balboa Peninsula, and the Newport Beach Whale Watch (seasonal). The coastal drive along PCH between these cities is beautiful.
The Getty Villa & Malibu
For art and history lovers, the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades (about a 30-45 minute drive) houses magnificent ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan artifacts in a stunning replica of a Roman villa. Combine it with a drive up the coast to Malibu for breathtaking beaches and celebrity spotting.
Seal Beach & San Clemente
For a quieter, old-school California beach town experience, head to Seal Beach (10 minutes away) with its classic pier and laid-back Main Street. Further south, San Clemente offers a beautiful state beach, the San Clemente Pier, and the historic Casa Romantica cultural center.
Conclusion: Why Long Beach Captivates
Long Beach, CA, defies simple categorization. It is a city of compelling contrasts: a massive global port with intimate neighborhood canals, a bustling urban core with serene Japanese gardens, and a historic ocean liner next to a modern aquarium. The sheer variety of things to do in Long Beach, CA ensures that no two visits need be alike. Whether you spend your days exploring maritime history, immersing yourself in world-class art, biking along endless waterfront paths, or feasting on Cambodian street food, you’ll find a city that is genuinely authentic and passionately alive.
This guide has merely scratched the surface of what makes Long Beach special. The true magic often lies in wandering: discovering a hidden mural in the East Village, striking up a conversation in a local coffee shop, or finding a quiet spot on the bluffs to watch the sunset paint the Pacific in hues of orange and purple. So, pack your curiosity and your walking shoes. Come to Long Beach not just to see the sights, but to feel the unique rhythm of a Southern California city that has proudly forged its own identity—one that is rich in history, vibrant in culture, and endlessly inviting. Your adventure in this multifaceted coastal gem awaits.
