Why visit Long Beach
Long Beach offers a genuine coastal escape without leaving LA County. You can tour the historic Queen Mary, get face-to-face with sharks and sea otters at the Aquarium of the Pacific, bike the beach path, and explore vibrant districts full of murals, breweries, and independent restaurants. The annual Grand Prix turns downtown into a racetrack, the East Village Arts District buzzes with galleries, and the waterfront delivers sunset views over the harbor.
Long Beach grew from a turn-of-the-century seaside resort into a major industrial center after oil was discovered on Signal Hill in the 1920s and the U.S. Navy established a strong presence here. The Port of Long Beach, alongside neighboring Los Angeles, became one of the busiest container ports in the world, shaping the city's economy and skyline. Over recent decades the city has reinvested in its downtown, waterfront, and arts scene, while neighborhoods like Cambodia Town reflect waves of immigration that make Long Beach one of the most diverse cities in America.
Top Attractions
- Aquarium of the Pacific
One of the country's largest aquariums, showcasing Pacific Ocean marine life with touch tanks, sharks, and sea otters.
- Queen Mary
A historic retired ocean liner permanently docked in the harbor, offering tours, dining, and events.
- The Pike Outlets & waterfront
A shopping and entertainment district along the harbor, near the convention center and marina.
- Naples Island & Belmont Shore
Charming canal-lined neighborhoods and a walkable shopping street, ideal for gondola rides and beach strolls.
- East Village Arts District
A downtown enclave of galleries, murals, cafes, and independent shops.
- Shoreline Aquatic Park
A waterfront park with lighthouse views, marina paths, and skyline photo angles.
A Suggested Day
- 1Begin the morning at the Aquarium of the Pacific.
- 2Walk the waterfront and shoreline path with harbor views.
- 3Lunch at the Pike or along the marina.
- 4Tour the Queen Mary or explore the East Village Arts District.
- 5Head to Belmont Shore for Second Street shopping and the beach.
- 6End with dinner and a sunset stroll near Naples Island.
Where to Eat
- Cambodia Town eateriesCambodian
Long Beach has the largest Cambodian community in the U.S.; the Cambodia Town corridor along Anaheim Street is the place for authentic Khmer food.
- Belmont Shore restaurants on Second StreetVaried
A walkable strip packed with casual eateries, seafood, and cafes near the beach.
- Local craft breweries and gastropubsAmerican
Long Beach has a robust craft beer scene with taprooms and brewpubs across downtown and the arts district.
- Waterfront seafood spotsSeafood
Harbor-adjacent restaurants serve fresh seafood with marina and skyline views.
Where to Stay
- Mid-rangeHotel Maya, a DoubleTree by Hilton
A waterfront resort-style hotel with skyline views across the harbor.
- BoutiqueThe Queen Mary Hotel
Stay aboard the historic ocean liner in restored staterooms; confirm current operating status before booking.
- Mid-rangeDowntown Long Beach business hotels
Several reliable mid-range and upscale chains cluster near the convention center and waterfront.
Best Photo Spots
- 📸 The Queen Mary against the downtown skyline
- 📸 Lighthouse and marina at Shoreline Aquatic Park
- 📸 Naples Island canals and bridges
- 📸 Murals throughout the East Village Arts District
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Top Attractions Near Long Beach
MuseumsAquarium of the Pacific
The Aquarium of the Pacific is Long Beach's premier marine attraction, home to thousands of animals representing the diverse habitats of the Pacific Ocean. Interactive touch pools, a shark lagoon, and conservation-focused exhibits make it a top family destination.
LandmarksThe Queen Mary
The Queen Mary is a retired ocean liner permanently docked in Long Beach, now serving as a hotel, museum, and event venue. Its Art Deco interiors and storied past make it one of Southern California's most distinctive landmarks.
Food & Dining Nearby
Long Beach FAQ
Can I get to Long Beach from downtown LA by train?
Yes. The Metro A Line runs from downtown Los Angeles to downtown Long Beach, making a car-free day trip easy.
Is the Queen Mary open to visitors?
The Queen Mary has reopened for tours, dining, and overnight stays, but offerings change; check the official website for current hours and availability.
What makes Long Beach culturally unique?
Long Beach is one of the most diverse cities in the U.S. and home to the largest Cambodian community in the country, centered in Cambodia Town.
Map of Long Beach
Long Beach and the top attractions in and around it.
Map pins are approximate and for visitor planning only — they may not mark the exact entrance or parking. Please check official directions before visiting.
Places shown on this map (6)
- Long Beach — Neighborhood
- The Queen Mary — Landmarks
- Aquarium of the Pacific — Museums
- Shoreline Village — Shopping
- Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden — Gardens
- San Pedro — Neighborhood
