Not shore where to set sail on your next big summer vacay? 🌤️
City Editor Iván here. Long Beach was never truly on my radar until finally visiting it for the first time. Now, all my friends say I can’t stop talking about wanting to go back to this SoCal gem — I guess you can call it pier pressure.
Fish aren’t the only thing there’s to see at the Aquarium of the Pacific.
Photo by SATXtoday team
Why go?
- This beachfront retreat offers a wonderful change of pace from the hustle and bustle of its metro giant of a neighbor.
- One the best times to visit Long Beach is in April to attend the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach . This annual event draws crowds of nearly 170,000 in size, all there to witness one of the largest street races in the country — truly a sight to behold.
- Shhh — I’m about to share with you some not-so-top secret guides that will help you create beautiful memories. Check out the top 10 things to do , where to eat , and how to spend an unforgettable night out .
Take a walk over to The Pike Outlets for some beachfront shopping.
Photo by SATXtoday team
Act like a local
- Food: Start your day off with something off The Breakfast Bar — perhaps eggs benny and a mimosa? You trip is not complete without a nice, cold paleta under the hot California sun at La Michoacana Plus Long Beach .
- Drink: Sip on a classic cocktail while enjoying a star-studded drag show at Hamburger Mary’s . If “low-key” is more your speed, sip on your choice of vino at 4th Street Vine .
- Outdoors: Talk a walk down the newly opened Lincoln Park , the oldest park in the City of Long Beach.
- Learn: We can’t talk about Long Beach without also mentioning all the jaw-dropping exhibits at the Aquarium of the Pacific .
- Listen: Catch a concert aboard the historic Queen Mary at the I love RnB Festival (May 27, 2023).
- Explore: Get lost exploring Long Beach’s historic districts or get in touch with nature at the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden .
There’s no shortage of quaint Spanish cottage stays in Long Beach. | Photo via VRBO
Where to stay
- Vrbo: Casa de las Palmas that’s steps from the sand ($333/night)
- Airbnb: Casita Vista in the neighborhood of Belmont Heights ($130/night)
- Splurge hotel: Hilton Long Beach less than one mile from Long Beach Entertainment District ($415/night)
- Save hotel: Hyatt Regency Long Beach with luxury amenities at a lower price point ($235/night)
Now that you’ve got everything you need to enjoy a few days in Long Beach, all you need to do is plan when you’ll seas the day at your next favorite getaway.