Located in southern California, Long Beach is a destination to visit with its quick access to the beach and plenty to do. Connections and transport have greatly improved with the new Gerald Desmond bridge, making it easier to host residents and visitors alike.
Here are some of the best things to see and do in Long Beach:
Downtown Waterfront
To see and visit some of the main attractions in Long Beach, head to the Downtown Waterfront. Here you will find the Aquarium, Rainbow Lagoon Park, and plenty of shops and restaurants.
Hit the Beaches
With the beaches so accessible, spending some time on the sand and by the water is an absolute must in Long Beach. There is over a 3-mile stretch of public beach access, so there are plenty of spots to choose from. For a beautiful view from above, head to Bluff Park, and to simply relax and enjoy all there is, head to one of the most popular beaches here, Junipero Cherry Beach. Others to name are Alamitos Beach and Peninsula Beach.
Cambodia Town
Cambodia Town is a diverse area that attracts people from all backgrounds. There are many shops and restaurants here owned by Cambodian people, and it’s an incredible experience to be here, chat with others, and experience the culture.
Visit the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
Located at the CSU campus, the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a beautiful and peaceful spot to spend some time at in Long Beach. It is a fairly large Japanese garden, stretching over an acre.
Naples
For a beautifully Italian-inspired neighborhood, head to Naples. This is a must see while you are here, with its beautiful homes, canals, and bridges. It can transport you to Italy, all from a single and beautiful neighborhood here in Long Beach. You can enjoy a walk along the canals, bring a coffee and book or picnic, and even go for a gondola ride.
Bluff Park
Bluff Park is a beautiful spot along the shoreline where you can go for a free yoga class, take in the views of the water, and walk along with beautiful homes on the other side. It is a gorgeous neighborhood that will show you some of the best of Long Beach and is certainly worth a visit.
Queen Mary
The Queen Mary is an ocean liner that is now permanently located along the oceanside of Long Beach. You can explore the ship and even stay in it if it sparks your curiosity. It is certainly a unique experience to stay at a luxury liner.
While there is so much to see and do in Long Beach, it is also worth a trip out to Catalina Island if you have the time during your visit! It is just an hours’ ferry trip away and it is a destination to visit in the Long Beach area. This little island is known for its wildlife and you can even rent a golf cart to explore the area, Botanical Gardens, and stop off for a meal with a view.
Hanna Johnson is a free-spirited world traveler currently based in Italy. She loves nature and the environment. When she’s not behind her computer working on a new editorial project, you will probably find her browsing museums or in a local café.
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