Things To Do
in Long Beach

Long Beach, located in California, is a vibrant coastal city with a rich maritime history. It is known for its bustling waterfront, beautiful sandy beaches, and picturesque marinas. The city offers a diverse cultural scene with various museums, art galleries, and historic sites to explore.

Long Beach also hosts popular events such as the Long Beach Grand Prix and the Long Beach Bayou Festival.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
  • Coffee: $3 - $7
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.75 - $3.00
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Long Beach
morning
:

Start your day with a breakfast at a local café, enjoying some fresh pastries and coffee. Then, stroll along the shore and take in the beautiful beach views.

afternoon
:

Head over to the Aquarium of the Pacific to explore marine life and learn about ocean conservation. Afterward, grab lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant.

evening
:

Take a sunset cruise around the harbor for stunning views of the skyline. Finish off the day with a delightful dinner at a waterfront eatery.

day 2
Beach and Relaxation
morning
:

Relax on the soft sands of Long Beach, soaking up the sun and perhaps taking a dip in the ocean. Consider renting a beach chair and umbrellas for ultimate comfort.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside restaurant, then take a walk along the bike path for fresh ocean air. Renting a bike can make for a fun and active afternoon.

evening
:

As the day winds down, grab a cozy spot on the beach for a beach bonfire. This is a great way to end the day with friends or family.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful waterfront and beaches
  • Diverse cultural scene with various events and festivals
  • Strong economy with job opportunities in various sectors
  • Access to public transportation, including Metro and Long Beach Transit
  • Rich history and numerous attractions, including museums and theaters
  • High cost of living compared to other areas in California
  • Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours
  • Safety concerns in certain neighborhoods
  • Limited affordable housing options
  • Air quality issues due to nearby industrial areas

Best Activities in Long Beach

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Visit the Long Beach Waterfront

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, explore the shops and restaurants, or take a harbor tour.

Relax at the Beach

Long Beach offers beautiful beaches where you can relax, sunbathe, or engage in water activities such as swimming and beach volleyball.

Explore El Dorado Nature Center

This nature preserve offers walking trails, birdwatching, and beautiful scenery, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tours

Uncover the best of Long Beach with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Long Beach

Visit one of these nice places.

The Queen Mary

A historic ocean liner offering great views of the Long Beach coastline and city skyline

Shoreline Village

A charming shopping and dining area with beautiful views of the marina and waterfront

The Pike Outlets

A retail and entertainment center with scenic views of the waterfront and downtown Long Beach

Food in Long Beach

Long Beach, known for its diverse culture, offers a delightful culinary scene with a fusion of flavors from various cuisines. From fresh seafood to innovative plant-based dishes, the city's food and drink options cater to a wide range of preferences.

Long Beach Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish Tacos

A local favorite, fish tacos feature crispy grilled fish topped with cabbage, salsa, and creamy sauce, served in a warm tortilla. Don't miss the renowned fish tacos at Rosie's Dog Beach Food Truck.

Must-Try!

Poke Bowl

A Hawaiian-inspired dish, poke bowls consist of fresh diced fish, rice, and a variety of toppings like avocado, seaweed, and sesame seeds. Head to Umeke Market for top-notch poke bowls.

Long Beach Burrito

This oversized burrito is stuffed with flavorful fillings like carne asada, rice, beans, and a choice of salsas. Check out Hole Mole for an authentic Long Beach burrito experience.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Long Beach better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Long Beach Antique Market

Experience a blend of food, art, and culture at this monthly market, offering a wide array of street food including gourmet hot dogs, artisanal ice cream, and fusion tacos.

Cambodian Town Street Market

Embark on a culinary adventure in the heart of Cambodian Town, where you can indulge in a plethora of authentic Cambodian street food such as num pang sandwiches and nom banh chok noodles.

4th Street Retro Row

Explore this vibrant neighborhood for its eclectic food trucks serving up a diverse range of cuisines, from Korean-Mexican fusion to vegan comfort food.

Weather

The climate in this coastal city is classified as a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average daytime temperatures in the winter months typically range from the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 13-22°C), while summer temperatures often reach the 80s Fahrenheit (around 27-32°C). Rainfall is mostly concentrated in the winter months, with very little precipitation during the summer. The area benefits from a marine influence, which helps moderate temperature extremes and contributes to generally pleasant weather year-round. Coastal fog can occur in the summer, especially in the mornings, often clearing by midday. Wind patterns, particularly from the Pacific Ocean, also play a significant role in shaping the local climate, providing breezes that can help cool temperatures in the hotter months. Overall, the climate is conducive to outdoor activities and contributes to the region's popularity as a destination for residents and visitors alike.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Long Beach, it is important to respect other people's personal space and avoid standing too close or making physical contact without permission.

Be mindful of diversity

Long Beach is a diverse city with a rich tapestry of cultures, so it's important to be open-minded and respectful of different backgrounds and traditions.

Use courteous language

Using polite and courteous language, such as 'please' and 'thank you', is highly valued in Long Beach and contributes to positive interactions with others.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Long Beach with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this coastal city can vary depending on specific neighborhoods and circumstances. Generally, it has both urban and suburban areas, which influence crime rates and safety perceptions. Violent crime and property crime have been concerns, though trends can fluctuate from year to year. Local law enforcement and community programs actively work to enhance safety through neighborhood watch initiatives and outreach programs aimed at fostering community engagement. The presence of law enforcement can be visible in certain areas, particularly in more tourist-heavy or densely populated neighborhoods. As in any city, residents and visitors are advised to take standard precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and securing belongings, especially in busy public spaces. Additionally, local organizations and community events often promote safety awareness and provide resources to improve overall community well-being. Regular updates from city officials and law enforcement can help residents stay informed about safety issues and initiatives. Overall, while there are areas that may pose safety challenges, many residents enjoy a sense of community and actively contribute to maintaining a safe environment.

Tipping in Long Beach

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice in Long Beach, United States, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing, taxi rides, and hotel stays.

Payment

Payment in Long Beach, United States, is typically done using credit/debit cards or cash. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely used. Cash is accepted almost everywhere, but not all businesses may accept large bills or have the ability to provide change for larger denominations.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Long Beach.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and less crowded beaches make spring a great time to visit Long Beach.

Summer

Warm weather, busy beaches, and various outdoor activities for tourists to enjoy in the summer season at Long Beach.

Fall

Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall foliage make Long Beach a charming destination in the fall.

Winter

Mild winter weather, holiday events, and fewer tourists make Long Beach an appealing destination in the winter season.

Long Beach at Night

Nightlife in Long Beach offers a diverse array of options catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The city's vibrant scene is anchored by a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Downtown Long Beach is particularly lively, featuring numerous trendy spots where you can enjoy everything from craft cocktails to live music. The Pike Outlets area is another popular destination, home to bars and breweries that attract both locals and visitors alike. For a more laid-back evening, the waterfront venues offer stunning views of the marina and serve as the perfect backdrop for a relaxed night out. Belmont Shore, known for its 2nd Street, offers a plethora of options with an eclectic mix of casual pubs, upscale lounges, and beachside bars. East Village Arts District provides a more artsy and bohemian vibe, where you can enjoy coffee shops that turn into vibrant music venues after sunset. Live music venues and comedy clubs are also plentiful, adding to the rich tapestry of Long Beach's nightlife. Special events and festivals frequently light up the calendar, ensuring there's always something new and exciting happening after dark. Whether you prefer dancing the night away or enjoying a quiet drink by the beach, Long Beach's nightlife has something for everyone.

Hiking in Long Beach

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

El Morro Canyon

Located in Crystal Cove State Park, this canyon offers picturesque views and a moderate trail that winds through coastal sage scrub and native plants.

Huntington Beach Central Park

A large park with a variety of trails and open areas, perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural surroundings. The park features a nature center and is home to diverse wildlife.

San Juan Loop Trail

This loop trail in the San Juan Capistrano area offers scenic views and a nice challenge for hikers, suitable for various skill levels.

Griffith Park

Located in Los Angeles, this vast urban park offers multiple hiking trails, including the popular Griffith Observatory trail with breathtaking views of the city.

Malibu Creek State Park

Known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, Malibu Creek State Park provides various trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Long Beach through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Long Beach by plane.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

The primary airport serving Los Angeles, located approximately 22 miles northwest of Long Beach.

John Wayne Airport (SNA)

Located in Santa Ana, about 35 miles southeast of Long Beach, it serves Orange County.

Ontario International Airport (ONT)

Located approximately 40 miles east of Long Beach, it serves the Inland Empire region.

Bob Hope Airport (BUR)

Also known as Hollywood Burbank Airport, located about 25 miles north of Long Beach.

Long Beach Airport (LGB)

The local airport serving Long Beach, offering flights primarily within the United States.

Walkability

Walkability in this coastal city is characterized by its vibrant neighborhoods, access to public spaces, and a mix of urban amenities. The layout includes well-defined sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly streets, and numerous crosswalks, making it relatively easy for residents and visitors to navigate on foot. Areas such as Downtown, Belmont Shore, and the waterfront are particularly conducive to walking, featuring a range of shops, restaurants, and parks within close proximity. The city is also home to several bike lanes and routes that encourage alternative forms of transportation, further enhancing the walkable experience. Access to public transit options, including buses and the Metrolink train service, complements the walkable environment, allowing individuals to easily connect to broader regional destinations. The city's community efforts, including events like Open Streets initiatives, promote active transportation and foster a sense of communal engagement. Overall, while challenges remain in certain areas, many neighborhoods in the city provide a walkable atmosphere that supports an active lifestyle and access to urban amenities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic or Latino

The largest demographic group in Long Beach, representing a significant portion of the population.

Non-Hispanic White

The second-largest demographic group, consisting primarily of individuals identifying as Caucasian.

Black or African American

A notable demographic group that contributes to the cultural diversity of Long Beach.

Asian

This group includes a variety of ethnicities, such as Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Vietnamese.

Other Races

This category includes individuals who identify as Native American, Pacific Islander, or any other race not specified.

Two or More Races

Individuals who identify as belonging to more than one racial category.

The Soul of Long Beach

Discover the essence of Long Beach through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a widely popular sport in Long Beach, played in various leagues and schools, attracting both youth and adult players.

Beach Volleyball

With its coastal location, Long Beach is known for its beach volleyball courts, drawing recreational players and organized tournaments.

Surfing

Surfing is a popular activity along Long Beach's shore, known for its waves and surf culture, appealing to both locals and visitors.

Basketball

Basketball is a common sport played in Long Beach, with numerous parks and gyms offering courts for community play and leagues.

Football

Football, particularly at the high school and semi-professional levels, has a strong following in the Long Beach area, with several teams and competitions.

Swimming

Swimming is popular in Long Beach, both as a competitive sport and a recreational activity, with access to pools and the ocean.

Traffic

Traffic in Long Beach can be quite busy due to its proximity to major freeways and its role as a significant urban center in Southern California. The city’s roadways often experience congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours in the mornings and evenings when residents travel to and from work. Major thoroughfares such as Pacific Coast Highway, Lakewood Boulevard, and the 710 and 405 freeways contribute to the traffic flow, connecting Long Beach to nearby cities like Los Angeles and Carson. The Port of Long Beach, one of the busiest ports in the world, also adds to the traffic, especially during the arrival and departure of large cargo trucks. Public transportation options are available, including public buses and the Metro Blue Line, which offers a way to navigate the area while alleviating some congestion on the roads. However, many residents still rely on their cars, leading to increased traffic density. Parking can be another challenge, especially in busy commercial areas and near the waterfront. Overall, while Long Beach offers various transit options, traffic issues are common in a city with such a vibrant economy and population.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Long Beach.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many eateries in Long Beach offer an extensive selection of vegetarian dishes, from flavorful salads to hearty vegetable-based entrees. Notable options include Portfolio Coffeehouse and Lola's Mexican Cuisine.

Vegan

Vegans can delight in the abundance of options available at places like Steamed, which crafts delectable vegan dumplings, and Ahimsa Vegan Kitchen, known for its diverse plant-based menu.

Gluten-Free

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can savor gluten-free delights at restaurants like Great Mex Grill and Ellie's, where they can relish in gluten-free tacos and decadent desserts sans gluten.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Long Beach with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

In this coastal city, healthcare services are provided through a mix of public and private institutions, specializing in various areas of medical care. The community benefits from a range of hospitals, clinics, and specialty care facilities. Prominent among the healthcare providers is MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, which offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, cancer treatment, and cardiovascular services. Another significant institution is the Long Beach VA Medical Center, which caters specifically to veterans, providing a range of health services including mental health care. Additionally, there are various outpatient clinics and specialized practices that address diverse health needs, from primary care to pediatrics, women's health, and geriatrics. Community health initiatives are also in place, often focusing on preventive care and addressing health disparities in the population. Access to healthcare can vary based on factors such as insurance coverage and socioeconomic status, with local organizations working to improve access and health literacy within the community. Public health initiatives are crucial in promoting wellness and preventive care, especially in addressing issues such as obesity, substance abuse, and mental health concerns. Overall, the healthcare landscape in this area is characterized by a collaborative effort to provide quality medical services to a diverse population, including ongoing efforts to adapt to the changing healthcare needs of the community.

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