Long Beach in California is some where I know quite well having stayed there many times with work. It’s not the most exciting place and far from the glitz and glamour of the LA you see on TV. However, I always try and make the most of my time away and Long Beach is no exception. So here’s my guide on how to experience the best of Long Beach California in one day.
The Queen Mary
Probably the most famous attraction here is the iconic ocean liner, Queen Mary. Brought here to her final resting place in 1967. It’s now a hotel and conference venue but you can still visit her and have a look around or join a guided tour. It’s a fascinating look into a long gone era.
Shoreline Village & Aquatic Park
An easy stroll from the downtown area is the Shoreline Village with its wide selection of shops and restaurants. A few favourites of mine are Tequila Jacks, and the Yard House – always a good happy hour – and for a more upmarket dining experience, the Lighthouse.
My favourite time here is in the morning when there’s not so many people around. It’s nice to get a coffee, take a seat and watch the world go by. It can also be fun in the evening when it’s busier, to find a bar, sit with a cocktail or a beer and watch the sunset.
If being on the water’s your thing then you won’t be disappointed. There’s several boat trips that run from this area offering sightseeing and whale watching. You can also catch the ferry to Catalina Island.
Aquatic Park is the area that surrounds the village. Take some time to explore, there’s some great views of the Queen Mary and the Long Beach skyline. Walk up to the lighthouse, visit the Aquarium of the Pacific or take a look at the US Navy Memorial.
Long Beach Shoreline Marina
Let’s carry on walking, there’s still plenty to see. Following the path head away from the Shoreline Village and Aquatic Park and into the Shoreline Marina. It’s home to dozens of yachts of all shapes and sizes. Take in the views as you walk and you’ll soon be at Alamitos Beach.
Alamitos Beach
Alamitos Beach is huge and very popular at the weekends. There are lifeguard stations and other facilities all along the beach. If you need refreshments then a great little place is Gaucho Beach. This bar / restaurant sits right on the beach and offers stunning views and pretty good food and drinks.
If you continue walking along the boardwalk you’ll eventually end up at Belmont Pier and the seaside town of Belmont Shore with it’s coffee shops, restaurants and boutique stores. It’s around three miles from Alamitos Beach.
Pike Outlets
If you’ve still got some energy left, how about some shopping? The Pike Outlets is an outdoor shopping and entertainment complex. It’s not huge but there are some decent shops and restaurants and a really good cinema.
You’ll find some big brands here like Nike, Levi, H&M, Gap and Guess. Trust me when I tell you that there are bargains to be had. Food wise you’ve got the usual American chain restaurants including California Pizza Kitchen, Outback and Bubba Gump. There’s enough here to keep you busy for a good few hours.
So there you have it. My guide on how to experience the best of Long Beach, California in one day. I hope you’ve enjoyed it.