Why Go to Long Beach, CA
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Long Beach is where Southern California slows down. Just about 30 minutes south of Los Angeles, this coastal city trades freeway traffic for a relaxed lifestyle of biking along the shore, dining outdoors, lounging on the sand and browsing art galleries and farmers markets.
Each neighborhood has its own flavor. Downtown offers an urban waterfront with restaurants and entertainment, while the East Village Arts District is creative and casual, and Belmont Shore is a laid-back beach neighborhood with shops and cafes. Tour the historic Queen Mary ocean liner, now a hotel and attraction, and visit the excellent Aquarium of the Pacific. Take a gondola ride through the canals of Naples, and catch the ferry to Catalina Island for a day trip. Disneyland is also an easy drive away.
Long Beach is one of the West Coast's busiest cruise ports, with sailings to Mexico and beyond. Whether you want a beach rental or a waterfront resort, I'll plan your stay, and I can arrange a pre-cruise night and transfers to the ship.
BEST FOR
Families, cruise travelers, art lovers and coastal explorers
BEST MONTHS
April–October
EXPLORE
Downtown and the waterfront include Shoreline Village and the aquarium; Belmont Shore offers shops and restaurants; Naples Island features canals and residential streets.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Long Beach, CA
North America › West Coast › USA › California
Oceanfront culture, maritime history and Southern California energy
Urban & Culture
Boating
Aquarium
Beach
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Plan the Queen Mary and Aquarium as separate major stops rather than rushing both.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Reserve entry ahead for busy weekends.
Aquarium of the Pacific
Explore Pacific marine environments and conservation exhibits at the Rainbow Harbor aquarium.
Check current tour access and shipboard accessibility.
The Queen Mary
Tour the historic ocean liner permanently moored in Long Beach Harbor.
Pair with a harbor walk near sunset.
Shoreline Village
Stroll waterfront shops and dining beside Rainbow Harbor.
Check trail hours and keep to designated routes.
El Dorado Nature Center
Walk trails through restored habitats and lakes in east Long Beach.
Respect homes and private docks.
Naples Canals
Discover picturesque waterways and pedestrian bridges in a residential neighborhood.
A restored historic luxury hotel in downtown Long Beach near the waterfront and entertainment venues.
Fairmont Breakers Long Beach
Downtown Long Beach
Hotel Tags
A full-service waterfront hotel convenient for the aquarium, convention center and harbor walks.
Hyatt Regency Long Beach
Rainbow Harbor
Hotel Tags
A waterfront property across the harbor from downtown, known for views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Hotel Maya – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
Queensway Bay
Hotel Tags
A centrally located upscale hotel convenient for the performing arts center and convention facilities.
The Westin Long Beach
Downtown Long Beach
Hotel Tags
A modern downtown hotel near restaurants, transit and Long Beach’s waterfront attractions.
Marriott Long Beach Downtown
Downtown Long Beach
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Long Beach, CA
High 73°F · Low 51°F · Rain 1 in
Mild fall weather and fewer crowds make November great for harbor cruises.
Spring through fall is generally pleasant, although coastal clouds and breezes occur year-round.
Best Times to Visit Long Beach, CA
WHEN TO GO
06
Rental Cars and Parking
A car is useful for coastal outings, but downtown and attraction lots may charge fees. Allow time for Los Angeles-area congestion.
05
Catalina Ferries
Catalina passenger ferries leave from designated terminals and require booked sailings. Verify baggage and parking.
04
Waterfront Walking
The convention center, Shoreline Village and aquarium area are walkable in sections, though marina distances add up.
03
Local Buses
Long Beach Transit serves city corridors. Check published routes and transfers for harbor or university destinations.
02
Metro A Line
The Los Angeles Metro A Line provides rail links between Long Beach and other parts of the region. Check station and route travel times.
01
Long Beach Airport
Long Beach Airport is close to many city destinations; LAX and Orange County airports are additional, more distant options.
Downtown is served by local transit and Metro light rail; rideshares and buses help connect beaches and farther neighborhoods.
Getting Around Long Beach, CA
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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