Beach Adventure: A Long Weekend in Long Beach

Experience love in full bloom in Long Beach.

22 April 2023

A romantic trip to Long Beach, United States promises to be nothing short of an unforgettable experience. Take a stroll along the scenic waterfront, indulge in some delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants, and catch a show at the historic Carpenter Performing Arts Center. Long Beach offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Beach, Booze and Brunch

  • Check-in at The Westin Long Beach, where the rooms have sweeping views of the Pacific ocean.
  • Start the day with a boozy brunch at The Attic, known for their innovative cocktails served in Mason jars and classic Southern-inspired dishes.
  • After brunch, soak in the sun at Alamitos Beach, where you can rent beach cruisers and paddle boards.
  • Stroll down Pine Avenue, a vibrant street lined with shops, cafes, and street art.
  • Drink and dine at The Blind Donkey, a whiskey bar offering over 200 kinds of whiskey and gastropub fare.
Day 2

Art, History, and Nightlife

  • Explore the Long Beach Museum of Art, where you can immerse yourself in rotating contemporary art exhibits and breathtaking views of the coastline.
  • Visit the historic Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner-turned-museum that offers ghost tours, fine dining and stunning views of the harbor.
  • Get your groove on at Harvelle's, a legendary jazz club that has hosted jazz greats like Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday.
  • Hungry? Head to Beachwood BBQ & Brewing for some of the best craft beer and smoked meats in town.
Day 3

Aquarium, Attractions, and Authentic Eats

  • Dive into the marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific, home to over 12,000 animals and interactive exhibits.
  • Get an adrenaline rush at the Belmont Park amusement park, with rides like the historic wooden roller coaster, the Giant Dipper.
  • Take a break and grab authentic tacos at Taqueria El Mexicano, a humble family-owned eatery that's been serving up delicious Mexican food for over 30 years.
  • Catch a movie at The Art Theatre, a historic cinema that screens indie films, documentaries, and classics.
  • Enjoy a nightcap at The Pacific, The Westin Long Beach's rooftop bar with incredible ocean views.
Day 4

Adventure, Art and Farewell

  • Start the day with a hike at El Dorado Nature Center, where 100 acres of wetlands and woodlands await you.
  • Visit the Long Beach Museum of Art's companion gallery, the Claire Falkenstein Museum, located in an artist's studio and showcasing her intricate sculptures and lesser-known paintings.
  • Refuel at Restauration, a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on sustainability and delicious food.
  • Before saying goodbye to Long Beach, experience the aerial thrill of a biplane ride with Biplane Rides Over Long Beach.

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.

More travel plans

Sunny Adventures in Long Beach: A 3-Day Guide

A trip to Long Beach, United States on a limited budget would involve staying in affordable accommodations such as budget hotels or hostels. Exploring the city's free attractions such as the Long Beach Museum of Art and the Shoreline Aquatic Park, would be a great way to experience the destination without spending too much money. One could also take part in low-cost activities such as visiting the famous Long Beach pier or hiking the nearby Signal Hill.

Beach Bliss: The Ultimate Family Day Trip to Long Beach

A family-friendly trip to Long Beach, United States promises both relaxation and adventure. Enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches and take a leisurely stroll on the iconic boardwalk, as your children build sandcastles or fly kites. Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific for an educational and fun experience, and explore the vibrant downtown area with its shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Long Beach on a Budget: 2 Days of Adventure.

Visiting Long Beach on a budget is achievable with some smart planning. Explore the beaches, museums, and cultural festivals, all free or low-cost. Try local street food and stay in affordable accommodations at motels or Airbnb options for an affordable yet memorable vacation.

Long Beach: A 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

A trip to Long Beach, United States for a limited budget can still be enjoyable. Visit sights such as the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Queen Mary, and the Long Beach Museum of Art, all of which offer free admission on select days. Stay in affordable accommodations such as hostels or budget hotels and explore the local cuisine at inexpensive restaurants and food trucks.