Long Beach: A Beachin' 3-Day Adventure for the Whole Family
Get ready to make unforgettable memories in family-friendly Long Beach!
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Long Beach in the United States offers an ideal family-friendly destination with its beautiful beaches, numerous outdoor activities, and a vibrant waterfront. Families can enjoy a day at the popular Aquarium of the Pacific, explore the historic Queen Mary ship, or have fun at the colorful carnival rides in the famous Shoreline Village. With its warm weather, welcoming community, and diverse range of attractions, Long Beach guarantees a memorable and enjoyable trip for the whole family.
Travel plan
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- Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at The Breakfast Bar, where pancakes come dressed in glitter and bacon wears feather boas.
- Lounge on the sandy shores of Belmont Shore Beach, perfect for building sandcastles or challenging your cousin to a sand-sculpting contest.
- Pay a visit to the historic Queen Mary, a majestic ocean liner-turned-hotel that will transport you back in time with its glamorous Art Deco interiors.
- Explore the Aquarium of the Pacific, where you can make friends with sea creatures, pet sharks (yes, we said sharks), and feel like a marine biologist for a day.
- Wrap up the day with a feast at charming Beachwood BBQ, where melt-in-your-mouth ribs and cold craft beers are served with a side of good vibes.
- Begin the day with a delightful breakfast at The Attic, a local gem offering Southern-inspired dishes like mouthwatering shrimp and grits.
- Get your adrenaline pumping by renting kayaks or stand-up paddleboards at the Alamitos Bay Marina, gliding through calm waters and waving at curious sea lions.
- Explore the fascinating Museum of Latin American Art, showcasing thought-provoking contemporary artworks from across the Americas.
- Take a scenic harbor cruise with Harbor Breeze Cruises, where you might spot playful dolphins, majestic whales, or even a pirate ship (okay, maybe not the pirate ship).
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at Bo-Beau Kitchen + Roof Tap, savoring their signature moules-frites and enjoying panoramic views from their rooftop bar.
- Fuel up with a scrumptious breakfast at The Potholder Cafe, known for their heavenly pancakes that seem to defy gravity.
- Immerse yourself in the thriving local art scene at the dynamic Long Beach Museum of Art, housed in a historic Elizabethan-style mansion with stunning ocean views.
- Discover the eclectic flavors of Cambodia Town by dining at Sophy's Fine Thai & Cambodian Cuisine, where fragrant curries and tangy lemongrass soup await.
- Embark on a craft beer adventure at Ballast Point Brewing Company, sampling their award-winning brews and learning the art of beer-making from their passionate brewers.
- End your Long Beach escapade on a high note with a sunset stroll along the scenic Shoreline Village, savoring the vibrant atmosphere and treating yourself to some hand-spun cotton candy as you bid farewell to this coastal paradise.
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How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Long Beach by plane is to fly into Long Beach Airport (LGB). Several major airlines such as Delta, JetBlue, and Southwest offer direct flights to LGB from major cities across the United States.
Car
The best way to get to Long Beach by car is to take a major highway such as Interstate 405 or Interstate 710. Both highways lead directly to Long Beach and offer easy access to the city's attractions and amenities.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no train station in Long Beach. However, travelers can take Amtrak to nearby cities such as Los Angeles or Anaheim, and then transfer to a bus or taxi to get to Long Beach.
Boat
Travelers can take a ferry to Long Beach from nearby Catalina Island. The Catalina Express operates daily ferries from Avalon and Two Harbors to Long Beach Marina. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Bus
A convenient way to get to Long Beach by bus is to take a Greyhound bus to the Long Beach Transit Center. Several major bus lines, including Greyhound and Megabus, operate daily buses to the Transit Center from major cities across the United States.