Long Beach, California Travel Guide

Discover Long Beach: A perfect blend of urban sophistication and beachside relaxation in Southern California, offering iconic attractions, diverse dining, and stunning waterfront views.

Long Beach, located along the Pacific coast in Southern California, is a vibrant city known for its stunning waterfront and diverse attractions. The city's charm lies in its perfect blend of urban sophistication and beachside relaxation. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking to soak up the sun, Long Beach offers something for everyone. Start your adventure at the iconic Queen Mary, a retired British ocean liner that now functions as a museum and hotel. From there, explore the Aquarium of the Pacific, home to thousands of marine animals and interactive exhibits. For art lovers, the Museum of Latin American Art offers a unique perspective on contemporary Latin American art. Stroll along the bustling Pine Avenue, where you'll find an array of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries. Don't miss the chance to visit Shoreline Village, a charming boardwalk with shops, restaurants, and picturesque views of the marina. For a touch of nature, head to the El Dorado Nature Center, a peaceful retreat with walking trails and wildlife. Long Beach's beach scene is equally impressive, with miles of sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The city's bike-friendly paths make it easy to explore the coastline on two wheels. If you're visiting in the summer, catch the Long Beach Grand Prix or one of the many music and food festivals that the city hosts. With its rich history, cultural diversity, and endless activities, Long Beach is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of Southern California.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Long Beach.

Visit the Queen Mary early in the day to avoid crowds and get the best photo opportunities.
Take advantage of the free shuttle bus service in downtown Long Beach to easily access major attractions.
Rent a bike to explore the city's extensive bike paths and enjoy scenic coastal views.
Check the local event calendar for festivals and special events happening during your stay.
Don't forget to pack sunscreen and a hat, as the Southern California sun can be quite strong.

Neighbourhoods in Long Beach

The Pike

Downtown Long Beach

Naples

Belmont Shore

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Long Beach

Explore Long Beach: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Long Beach

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Best Attractions

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Disneyland Park

Explore Disneyland Park in Anaheim, CA, where enchanting experiences and thrilling adventures await every visitor in a magical setting.

4.6

Knott's Berry Farm

Experience the thrill and charm of Knott's Berry Farm, a premier theme park in California offering rides, entertainment, and delightful cuisine.

4.6

Downtown Disney District

Discover the vibrant shopping and entertainment experience at Downtown Disney District in Anaheim, California, perfect for family fun and memorable souvenirs.

4.6

Crypto.com Arena

Immerse yourself in the excitement of sports and entertainment at Crypto.com Arena, a premier venue in Los Angeles for unforgettable experiences.

4.7

Best landmarks in Long Beach

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Best Landmarks

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Aquarium of the Pacific

Explore the wonders of marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific, where adventure meets education in Long Beach, California.

4.6

The Queen Mary

Explore the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach, a captivating floating hotel and attraction offering rich maritime history, fine dining, and stunning views.

4.4

Shoreline Village

Experience the vibrant charm of Shoreline Village, a waterfront destination in Long Beach with shopping, dining, and family-friendly fun.

4.6

The Pike Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals and a vibrant atmosphere at The Pike Outlets in Long Beach, the ultimate shopping destination along the California coast.

4.4

Best restaurants in Long Beach

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Yard House

Experience vibrant New American cuisine and an extensive beer selection at Yard House in Long Beach's picturesque Shoreline Village.

4.4

Tequila Jack's Restaurant & Cantina

Indulge in authentic Mexican flavors and refreshing cocktails at Tequila Jack's Restaurant & Cantina with stunning waterfront views in Long Beach.

4.4

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Experience coastal charm at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., where delicious seafood meets unforgettable views in Long Beach.

4.2

Parkers' Lighthouse

Discover Parkers' Lighthouse - A Seafood Paradise with Stunning Views in Long Beach

4.5

Best bars in Long Beach

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Yard House

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Yard House in Long Beach, CA, where great food meets an extensive selection of craft beers.

4.4

Saint & Second

Experience a culinary delight at Saint & Second, where New American cuisine meets a lively bar atmosphere in Long Beach, California.

4.6

Joe Jost's

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Joe Jost's, a historic bar and restaurant in Long Beach, California.

4.7

Congregation Brewery & Cocina - Long Beach

Experience the perfect blend of craft beer and delicious cuisine at Congregation Brewery & Cocina in Long Beach, where every meal is a celebration.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Long Beach

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Harvelle's Long Beach

Uncover the vibrant nightlife at Harvelle's Long Beach, where live music and craft cocktails create unforgettable evenings in Downtown.

4.5

los potros nightclub

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Long Beach at Los Potros Nightclub, a top destination for live music and dancing with an affordable price.

4.1

PCH Club

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at PCH Club in Long Beach, California, where great food meets electrifying music in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Que Sera

Discover Que Sera, a vibrant Long Beach bar known for its eclectic music, creative cocktails, and lively themed nights that promise endless fun.

4.2

Best shops in Long Beach

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Citadel Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals and a vibrant shopping experience at Citadel Outlets, California's premier outlet mall featuring top brands and delicious dining.

4.5

The Outlets at Orange

Discover unbeatable deals and a delightful shopping experience at The Outlets at Orange, the ultimate destination for fashion and fun in California.

4.4

Irvine Spectrum Center

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Irvine Spectrum Center, a premier Californian destination for tourists and locals alike.

4.6

South Coast Plaza

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at South Coast Plaza, featuring luxury brands, diverse dining, and vibrant cultural events in Costa Mesa.

4.6

Explore Long Beach on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Long Beach, mapped for you.

Long Beach Essentials

Long Beach is conveniently accessible by multiple modes of transportation. The closest major airport is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), approximately 20 miles away. Long Beach Airport (LGB) also serves domestic flights and is just a short drive from downtown. For international travelers, John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County is another option. Amtrak and regional trains connect Long Beach to major cities, and the city is well-served by major highways such as the I-405 and I-710.
Getting around Long Beach is straightforward, thanks to an extensive public transportation network. The Long Beach Transit offers bus services, including the Passport shuttle that provides free rides around downtown and its key attractions. The Metro Blue Line connects Long Beach to Downtown Los Angeles. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, and the city is bike-friendly with numerous bike lanes and rental services. Car rentals are also a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, including major tourist areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors. Traveler's checks are less commonly used but can be cashed at most banks.
Long Beach is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, particularly in neighborhoods like North Long Beach and parts of Central Long Beach, which have higher crime rates. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and be cautious when using ATMs at night. Always use well-lit streets and prefer busy areas for nighttime outings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Long Beach has numerous hospitals and urgent care facilities, including Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available. The Long Beach Police Department and Fire Department are responsive and can be contacted for any safety concerns.
Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, but be mindful of beach attire when away from the beachfront. Avoid overly revealing clothing in non-beach areas. Religion: Do respect all religious sites and practices. While there are no strict dress codes, modest attire is appreciated. Public Transport: Do be courteous on public transport, and offer your seat to the elderly or disabled. Don't eat or drink on buses and trains. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a simple 'hello.' Handshakes are common, but not mandatory. Eating & Drinking: Do try local food and seafood delicacies. Don't tip less than 15% at restaurants unless service is poor.
To experience Long Beach like a local, visit the farmer's markets for fresh produce and local crafts. Spend time at the Pike Outlets for shopping and entertainment. Join in community events and festivals, such as the Long Beach Grand Prix or the Long Beach Jazz Festival. For a unique experience, take a gondola ride through the Naples canals or explore the hidden gems of the East Village Arts District. Visiting local breweries and coffee shops will also give you a taste of the city's vibrant culture.

When is the best time to visit Long Beach?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Long Beach

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Long Beach. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloWhat's up
  [wats up]
- GoodbyeLater
  [lay-ter]
- YesYeah
  [yeah]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryMy bad
  [my bad]
- How are you?How you doin'?
  [how you doin']
- Fine. And you?Chillin'. You?
  [chil-lin'. you?]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [you speak english?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [i don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [can i check out the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [i'm veg-e-tair-ee-an]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please
  [can i set-tle up, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [i'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [i'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna cop...
  [i wanna cop...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much?]
- That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [that's steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can you hook it up?
  [can you hook it up?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thir-ty]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [even-ing]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [one]
- 2Two
  [two]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [what's the addy?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me?
  [can you show me?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

History of Long Beach

Long Beach was originally inhabited by the Tongva people, who lived along the coast for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The Tongva, also known as the Gabrielino, thrived on the abundant natural resources, establishing thriving communities long before the city we know today emerged.
In 1542, Spanish explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo sailed along the California coast, marking the beginning of European influence in the area. By the late 18th century, Spanish missions and settlements began to take shape. Long Beach was part of the vast Rancho Los Nietos, a Spanish land grant that was later divided into smaller ranchos during the Mexican period.
After the Mexican-American War, California became part of the United States in 1848. The Gold Rush brought an influx of settlers and rapid development. Long Beach began to take on a more structured community form in the late 19th century, with its official incorporation as a city in 1888.
Established in 1911, the Port of Long Beach quickly became one of the busiest ports in the world. Its strategic location and expansive facilities have played a crucial role in the city's economic development, transforming Long Beach into a vital hub for international trade and commerce.
In the early 20th century, the Pacific Electric Railway connected Long Beach to Los Angeles and other Southern California communities. This transportation link spurred growth, making Long Beach a popular seaside resort and residential area, contributing to its rapid urbanization.
During World War II, Long Beach became a significant military hub with the establishment of the Long Beach Naval Shipyard and Naval Station. These facilities not only contributed to the war effort but also attracted a large population of military personnel and their families, further fueling the city's growth.
The discovery of oil in Signal Hill in the 1920s brought an economic boom to Long Beach. The city rapidly expanded as oil companies flocked to the area, creating jobs and fueling further development. This period marked a significant transformation in the city's landscape and economy.
Long Beach has a rich tapestry of cultural diversity, reflected in its neighborhoods, festivals, and cuisine. Waves of immigrants from Latin America, Asia, and the Pacific Islands have shaped the city's cultural landscape, making it one of the most diverse cities in the United States.
In 1967, the RMS Queen Mary, a retired British ocean liner, was permanently docked in Long Beach. The ship has since become a major tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into maritime history and serving as a unique hotel and event venue.
Modern Long Beach is a vibrant city known for its waterfront attractions, thriving arts scene, and robust economy. The city continues to evolve, balancing its rich historical heritage with contemporary urban development, making it a dynamic destination for travelers from around the world.