Long Beach Bliss: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure
Long Beach: Where adventure awaits for the whole family!
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Long Beach, located in the beautiful state of California, offers a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its picturesque beaches stretching along the coast, there are numerous opportunities for sun-soaked fun, including sandcastle building, surfing lessons, and beach volleyball. Additionally, families can enjoy exploring the iconic Aquarium of the Pacific, taking boat tours to spot whales and dolphins, or even visiting the legendary Queen Mary ship-turned-hotel, making Long Beach an ideal vacation spot for the whole family.
Travel plan
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- Check into Hotel Maya, a vibrant oasis by the waterfront.
- Stroll along the whimsical Rainbow Harbor and say hi to the resident seals.
- Feed your hunger at Shoreline Village, a charming collection of eateries overlooking the marina.
- Embark on a lighthearted family adventure aboard the Aquarium of the Pacific's legendary Shark Lagoon Nights.
- Unwind with a soothing gondola cruise through the enchanting canals of Naples Island.
- After a scrumptious breakfast at The Breakfast Bar, hit the waves with a surf lesson on Junipero Beach.
- Dive into aquatic wonders at the Pacific Museum of Dance, where graceful jellyfish gently twirl to ethereal melodies.
- Enjoy a picnic amidst vibrant flowers in the blooming Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens.
- Discover the hidden treasures of the Long Beach Antique Market, where nostalgia whispers in every vintage trinket.
- Savor a delectable seafood feast at King's Fish House, delighting your taste buds with the flavors of the sea.
- Immerse yourself in the captivating exhibitions at the Long Beach Museum of Art, where creativity flows like a rainbow river.
- Wander through the colorful murals of the East Village Arts District, transforming streets into whimsical galleries.
- Explore the eclectic collections at the Museum of Latin American Art, where imagination and cultural heritage intertwine.
- Indulge in a gastronomic adventure at The Attic—their signature Mac 'n' Cheetos will dance on your tongue!
- Witness the dynamic performances at the historic Art Theatre, where creativity takes center stage under the twinkling lights.
- Brace yourself for an exhilarating day at the Belmont Park, where captivating rides set your adrenaline on fire.
- Unleash your inner detective at Puzzle Workshop, solving mind-bending puzzles that challenge even the sharpest minds.
- Let your imagination run wild as you explore the majestic Queen Mary—where stories from the past whisper through the halls.
- Sip on exotic flavors at The Blind Donkey, where their mixologists create liquid magic in every cocktail.
- Satiate your hunger with adventurous fusion cuisine at Seoulmate, blending Korean and Mexican flavors to perfection.
- Start your day with a serene morning beach yoga session, feeling the gentle breeze kiss your sleepy cheeks.
- Embark on a picturesque harbor cruise, bidding adieu to the sparkling coastal beauty that stole your heart.
- Relish a tasty Mexican brunch at Lola's Mexican Cuisine, where lively fiesta colors ignite your appetite.
- Shop for quirky souvenirs at Retro Row, uncovering vintage treasures and hidden gems along the vibrant street.
- Capture one last sunset at Bluff Park, etching the breathtaking Long Beach skyline into your memory.
- And with that, Long Beach whispers goodbye, promising to leave enchanted footprints in your soul, until you return someday.
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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.