Top 8 Seaside Attractions In Long Beach, California

Mary Pettas

Long Beach is a sea haven not too far from Los Angeles proper. While this harbor and its neighbor, San Pedro Harbor, are both gigantic ports that house enormous cruise ships and are centers for shipping, the docks, the surrounding attractions and the town are all quaint and colorful. There’s plenty to explore along this oceanside gem.

1. Shoreline Village

Shoreline Village

The Dockside has lots of cute little colorful shops with souvenirs and trinkets. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, including Yard House and an Irish pub called Shenanigans where visitors can dine outside on the docks.

401-435 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach, CA, USA

Flickr @NeilKremer

2. Queen Mary

Hotel

Queen Mary

This massive historic ocean liner that retired in the 1960s after operating for over 30 years includes a hotel, shops, and many restaurants. One of their dining establishments offers a Sunday brunch that is served in the original first class dining room of the ship and attempts to recreate the extravagant cuisine of the times. Walk around on the massive decks afterwards to digest and take in the sea air.

1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA, USA, +1 (877) 342-0738

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=Lpits5YQ8T8

3. Aquarium of the Pacific

Aquarium, Museum

Aquarium of the Pacific

The best aquatic center in Southern California, this aquarium is sure to please both families and adults. The exhibits are all interactive, and while the museum itself is on the smaller side, they offer many guided events to make the experience worthwhile.

100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA, USA, +1 (562) 590-3100

5. San Pedro (The Sunken City)

San Pedro (The Sunken City)

The Atlantis-like site is actually a formerly luxurious neighborhood that fell hundreds of feet into a canyon during an earthquake. Now, it draws hikers from all over who trek down into the steep abyss and mark it with graffiti. It’s an amazing sight, but beware of passing trespassing signs — authorities will issue tickets.

Shepard St, Los Angeles, CA, USA

© TDLucas5000/Flickr

6. The Pike at Rainbow Harbor

Amusement Park, Movie Theater, Park, Theater

The Pike at Rainbow Harbor

This historic amusement park turned city center is modern and attractive to residents and tourists alike. It’s right along the waterfront and features luxury stores, a movie theater, The Laugh Factory, and an arcade.

95 S Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA, USA, +1 (877) 225-5337

7. Museum of Latin American Art

Museum

This museum is free the first weekend of every month for Bank of America cardholders and features work from Frida Kahlo and Dia de los Muertos. They also hold cultural events and offer beautiful outside grounds with a sculpture garden.

8. Belmont Shore

Belmont Shore

There are tons of great bars in Long Beach to choose from, from sports bars to whiskey bars with craft cocktails. Sip this ridiculously overloaded signature bloody Mary by the sea at The Attic.

3441 E Broadway, Long Beach, CA, USA, +1 (562) 433-0153

Image courtesy of The Attic

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