Waterfront
Long Beach Waterfront: A Coastal Gem
Long Beach Waterfront
Explore Long Beach Waterfront: Attractions, dining, and scenic views await at this vibrant Pacific Ocean destination. Discover iconic landmarks and family fun!
The Long Beach Waterfront is a vibrant destination offering a mix of attractions, dining, and recreational activities. From the Aquarium of the Pacific to Shoreline Village, it's a hub of entertainment with scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Queen Mary.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Waterfront
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Long Beach, Waterfront, California, US
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Getting There
Walking
From downtown Long Beach, the waterfront is easily accessible on foot. Head south towards Ocean Boulevard and follow the signs for Shoreline Village, Rainbow Harbor, or the Aquarium of the Pacific. The area is designed for pedestrians, with wide sidewalks and scenic views along the way.
Public Transport
Long Beach Transit provides several bus routes that stop near the waterfront attractions. From various points in Long Beach, take a bus to a stop along Ocean Boulevard or near the Long Beach Convention Center. From there, it's a short walk to the waterfront. A one-way fare is typically $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Long Beach. Request a ride to popular destinations such as the Aquarium of the Pacific (100 Aquarium Way) or Shoreline Village (401-435 Shoreline Village Drive). A short trip from downtown Long Beach to the waterfront typically costs between $8 and $15.
Driving
If driving, approach the waterfront via Shoreline Drive or Ocean Boulevard. Several parking lots and garages are available near the main attractions. Parking rates vary, with daily maximums around $25. Consider parking at the Pike Parking Garage for easy access to multiple attractions. Note that parking can be limited during peak seasons and events.
Local tips
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Take a stroll along the Rainbow Harbor Esplanade for views of luxury yachts and various watercraft.
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Visit Shoreline Village for unique shops, restaurants, and family activities.
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Check out the Aquarium of the Pacific to explore marine life from the Pacific Ocean.
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Consider a whale watching tour from Rainbow Harbor for a chance to see gray whales or blue whales.
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Explore the waterfront by renting a bike and using the scenic beachfront bike path.
Discover more about Waterfront
The Long Beach Waterfront is a dynamic area that blends maritime history with modern attractions. Once inhabited by the Tongva people, the area transformed over time from a stretch of sandy beach into a bustling port and entertainment hub. The city was officially incorporated in 1897 and later became a popular seaside resort.
Today, the waterfront features attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific, home to over 11,000 aquatic animals, and Shoreline Village, offering unique shops and restaurants. Rainbow Harbor provides boat tours and watercraft rentals, while the permanently docked RMS Queen Mary offers a glimpse into maritime history.
The area south of Ocean Boulevard, including Shoreline Village and the Aquarium, was created by landfill during the latter half of the 20th century. The waterfront continues to evolve, offering diverse experiences from whale watching tours to waterfront dining with colorful sunset views.
A brief summary to Waterfront
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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