Not really the place to gaze at glamorous rock stars or rub shoulders with hi-so jetsetters like other beaches in the same state, Long Beach nevertheless offers convenient connections to other popular destinations and an array of top-notch attractions including the Queen Mary. A cozy home to a variety of nationals from all over the world, Long Beach in southern California oozes the vibrancy and excitement of cultural diversity.
LA’s harbor boasts a wondrous aquarium, the famous former cruise liner the Queen Mary and oodles of other marvelous sights that draw worldwide tourists. But this wasn’t always the case, with Long Beach having started out as a seedy hangout for sailors. Nowadays there is a variety of rip-roaring entertainment located right on the waterfront, a good diversion from LA’s more glamorous spots.
Celebrating colorful events all year round, Long Beach is definitely the place to be if you are a festival lover at heart. Expect lots of fun and upbeat tunes at Gay Pride Festival, held at Rainbow Harbor, and enjoy a zesty series of summer events during Long Beach Sea Festival. Sports buffs cannot miss Long Beach Tiathlon, with its combo race of swimming, biking and running along the oceanfront.
Highlights
Aquarium of the Pacific: this large, super-sleek, brand-new aquarium is one of the largest in the country, offering an incredible journey into the Pacific Ocean with a wide range of underwater creatures.
The Queen Mary: this former luxury cruise liner is a fine example of a mid-20th century ship. Walk around to observe well-preserved rooms and exquisite original tropical hardwood floors.
The Long Beach Greenbelt: will blow any nature lover’s mind away with its fantastic selection of California native plants and rich wildlife. There’s also an open space for visitors to wind down at amid the serene atmosphere.
Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden: walking through the beautiful campus of California State University Long Beach, you will see this lovely, spacious Japanese garden with many koi ponds and a traditional teahouse.
Long Beach Museum of Art: a small, hip museum unveiling an impressive selection of 20th century art pieces from Californian artists.
Los Angeles: less than an hour’s drive from Long Beach is the glittering Los Angeles, where you can enjoy drooling over the bold and beautiful and have a blast at one of many surfing beaches.