Ultimate Travel Guide to Long Beach

1. Introduction

Located in Southern California along the Pacific coast, Long Beach is a vibrant city known for its bustling waterfront, rich maritime history, and cultural diversity. Positioned just 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, it boasts a unique blend of urban energy and scenic ocean views. Historically, Long Beach grew as a major port and shipbuilding center, with the iconic Queen Mary ocean liner serving as a floating museum and hotel today.

A lesser-known fact about Long Beach is its extensive network of canals inspired by Venice, Italy, in the nearby Naples neighborhood. Additionally, Long Beach is home to one of the world’s largest art deco performing arts centers, the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, reflecting its commitment to arts and culture. Whether you’re interested in maritime history, beachfront relaxation, or urban activities, Long Beach has a diverse array of things to do.

2. Where to Stay

Hotel Maya – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel: A luxury waterfront resort that offers stunning bay views and a tranquil garden setting, ideal for travelers looking for comfort near the port area. https://www.hotelmaya.com
The Westin Long Beach: Located in the heart of downtown, this upscale hotel features modern amenities and easy access to the convention center, perfect for business and leisure travelers alike. https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/lgbwi-the-westin-long-beach
Renaissance Long Beach Hotel: A luxury hotel in the downtown waterfront district offering stylish rooms and proximity to Shoreline Village and the aquarium, great for families and couples. https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/lgbbr-renaissance-long-beach-hotel
Staybridge Suites Long Beach: An affordable but high-quality option with spacious suites and kitchenettes, located near Cal State Long Beach, ideal for extended stays. https://www.ihg.com/staybridge/hotels/us/en/long-beach/lgbca/hoteldetail
The Varden Hotel: A budget-friendly, modern hotel located downtown with minimalist decor, suitable for solo travelers and business visitors. https://vardenhotel.com
Hollywood Inn Suites Long Beach: Offering affordable, comfortable rooms in a convenient location for visitors interested in exploring the city and surrounding beaches. https://hollywoodinnsuites.com/long-beach
Naples Beach Inn: A boutique beachfront inn located in the charming Naples neighborhood, providing a cozy and authentic coastal atmosphere for couples and small groups. https://naplesbeachinn.com
Spring Street Inn: This boutique bed and breakfast is in downtown Long Beach, featuring historic charm with modern amenities and close proximity to local eateries and shops. https://springstreetinn.com
The Queen Mary: Stay aboard the legendary ocean liner-turned-hotel docked in Long Beach Harbor for a unique experience blending history with luxury accommodations. https://www.queenmary.com
Hotel Royal: A small boutique hotel near the waterfront with contemporary design, perfect for travelers seeking local flair and easy beach access. https://hotelroyallb.com

3. Where to Eat and Drink

Michael’s on Naples: Contemporary American cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood in an elegant setting, celebrated for its inventive dishes and waterfront views. https://michaelsonnaples.com
Boathouse on the Bay: A beachfront restaurant specializing in seafood and American fare with casual, welcoming vibes and excellent bayfront dining experiences. https://www.boathouseonthebay.com
Open Sesame: Serving authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes, this local favorite is renowned for its fresh ingredients and warm atmosphere. https://opensesamethai.com
The Attic: Popular for Southern-inspired comfort food including brick chicken and homemade pastas, set in a relaxed, yet stylish environment downtown. https://theatticlbs.com
Parkers’ Lighthouse: A Michelin-recognized seafood restaurant located on the waterfront at Shoreline Village, known for its sustainable seafood and upscale setting. https://parkerslighthouse.com/location/long-beach/
Belmont Brewing Company: Casual brewery with a strong local following offering craft beers and classic pub food, perfect for an informal evening out. https://belmontbrewing.com
Seabirds Kitchen: A fully vegan cafe acclaimed for creative plant-based dishes, bright interiors, and community-driven ethos. https://seabirdskitchen.com
Long Beach Bar + Grill: Offering hearty American cuisine and a lively atmosphere, a spot for casual dining and nightlife near the waterfront. https://longbeachbarandgrill.com
The Blind Donkey: Known for craft cocktails and an extensive whiskey selection, this intimate bar is great for a relaxed evening and socializing. https://blinddonkeyco.com/long-beach
Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles: A beloved chain famous for its Southern soul food delicacy, blending crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles. https://roscoeschickenandwaffles.com

4. Best Time to Visit

Long Beach enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate year-round, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, somewhat wetter winters. Visiting in spring and fall offers comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer is ideal for beach and outdoor activities. Winters are mild but can bring occasional rainfall.

Month	Avg High (°F)	Avg Low (°F)	Rainfall (inches)	Seasonal Notes
January	66	48	2.2	Cool and cloudy, occasional rain
February	66	49	2.3	Mild, some rain showers
March	67	50	1.5	Drying out, spring begins
April	69	53	0.7	Warm and sunny
May	70	56	0.3	Pleasant, low humidity
June	73	59	0.0	Beginning of summer, foggy mornings
July	76	63	0.0	Warm, sunny, ideal for beaches
August	77	64	0.0	Peak summer season
September	77	63	0.1	Warm, less fog
October	74	58	0.4	Comfortable, beginning of fall
November	70	53	0.8	Cooling down, occasional showers
December	67	49	1.4	Cool and wet

Best months for sightseeing: April to June and September to November
Best months for budget travel: January to March, owing to fewer tourists and lower hotel rates
Best months for festivals: May to October, when most major local festivals are held

5. Top 10 Must-See Attractions

The Queen Mary: A historic ocean liner docked permanently in Long Beach Harbor, offering museum tours, dining, and overnight stays aboard a legendary ship. Its art deco design and rich maritime history are captivating. https://www.queenmary.com
Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific: One of the largest aquariums in the United States, featuring marine life native to the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can learn about ocean conservation and see interactive exhibits. https://www.aquariumofpacific.org
Naples Canals: Inspired by Venice, these scenic canals in the Naples neighborhood offer picturesque walking and boating opportunities surrounded by charming homes and palm trees. https://www.visitlongbeach.com/neighborhoods/naples/
Shoreline Village: A lively waterfront shopping, dining, and entertainment area with colorful shops, restaurants, and seaside views ideal for families and tourists. https://shorelinevillage.com
El Dorado Nature Center: A peaceful 105-acre urban park featuring hiking trails, lakes, and wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and families looking for a quiet retreat. https://www.longbeach.gov/park/nature-centers/el-dorado-nature-center/
Rancho Los Cerritos: A historic adobe home museum showcasing Southern California’s rancho era with guided tours and period gardens, offering cultural insight. https://rancholoscerritos.org
Long Beach Museum of Art: Located on a bluff overlooking the ocean, this museum features contemporary and modern art exhibitions with a focus on California artists. https://www.lbma.org
Bluff Park: A scenic bluff along the coast with walking paths, picnic areas, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Queen Mary. https://www.longbeach.gov/park/nature-centers/bluff-park/
Lincoln Park: A historic park featuring a golf course, tennis courts, and a carousel, offering recreational facilities along with a glimpse into local community life. https://www.longbeach.gov/park/parks/lincoln-park/
Villa Riviera: An iconic 1929 French Gothic Tudor-style high-rise building, symbolizing Long Beach’s architectural heritage and visible from many parts of the city. https://www.villarivieralongbeach.com

6. 5 Most Popular Local Festivals and Events

Long Beach Grand Prix (April): A nationally recognized IndyCar race held on the streets of Long Beach, drawing motorsports fans and showcasing the city’s energy. https://www.longbeachgrandprix.com
Long Beach Jazz Festival (September): This renowned festival celebrates jazz music with performances by top artists, held outdoors in a festive atmosphere. https://longbeachjazzfestival.com
Festival de la Palabra (October): A literary festival celebrating Latino writers and culture with readings, panels, and workshops promoting literacy and heritage. https://www.visitlongbeach.com/events/festival-de-la-palabra/
Long Beach Pride (May): One of the West Coast’s largest LGBTQ+ pride celebrations, featuring a parade, live entertainment, and community events. https://longbeachpride.com
Art Walk Long Beach (Monthly, second Saturday): A monthly event where galleries and art spaces open their doors to the public, showcasing the local art scene through exhibitions and live performances. https://artwalklongbeach.com

7. Top 5 Neighborhoods to Explore

Downtown Long Beach: The city’s bustling heart with a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, cultural venues, and nightlife. Highlights include the Long Beach Convention Center, eclectic restaurants, and vibrant bars.
Naples: A charming, upscale waterfront area featuring winding canals, luxury homes, and boutique shops, ideal for leisurely strolls and romantic evenings.
Bixby Knolls: Known for its vintage shops, local eateries, and community parks, this neighborhood presents a small-town feel within the larger city framework.
Belmont Shore: A lively beachfront neighborhood with a thriving commercial street, fun bars, and water sports opportunities, perfect for a beach day and social gatherings.
East Village Arts District: A creative hub featuring galleries, street art, and local artisans, this neighborhood showcases Long Beach’s contemporary cultural pulse.

8. Top 10 Most Googled Questions About Long Beach

What are the best things to do in Long Beach?: Visit the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, Naples Canals, Shoreline Village, and enjoy the beaches, museums, and vibrant downtown nightlife for a well-rounded experience.
What is the best time to visit Long Beach?: The best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when weather is mild and crowds are manageable.
What are the top beaches in Long Beach?: Popular beaches include Junipero Beach, Belmont Shore Beach, and Alamitos Beach, all featuring sandy shores, water sports, and scenic views.
Are there any family-friendly activities in Long Beach?: Yes, family-friendly options include the Aquarium of the Pacific, El Dorado Nature Center, Shoreline Village, and the Museum of Latin American Art.
How do I get around Long Beach?: Long Beach is accessible by car, bike, public transit via Long Beach Transit buses, and the Metro Blue Line from downtown LA.
What are the best hotels in Long Beach?: Top hotels include Hotel Maya, The Westin Long Beach, Renaissance Long Beach Hotel, and unique stays like The Queen Mary.
Is Long Beach safe for tourists?: Long Beach is generally safe, particularly in popular tourist areas; standard precautions should be taken as in any urban environment.
What local cuisine should I try in Long Beach?: Try fresh seafood, Mexican-influenced dishes, Southern soul food at Roscoe’s, as well as vegan options at Seabirds Kitchen.
Are pets allowed at beaches in Long Beach?: Some beaches allow dogs on leashes, but others restrict pets during peak seasons; check local regulations for specific beaches.
What festivals happen annually in Long Beach?: Notable events include the Long Beach Grand Prix, Long Beach Jazz Festival, Festival de la Palabra, Long Beach Pride, and Art Walk Long Beach.