Long Beach, CA

Travel Guide

A large cruise ship docked at a port with a dry docked ship in the foreground.
A wooden boardwalk by the water with benches, a lighthouse, and a pier with boats.
A marina with boats, a lighthouse, and a cityscape with buildings and mountains in the background.
A coastal cityscape with a marina, a circular park, and a prominent tower.
A large cruise ship at night with its lights reflecting on the water.

Take a trip to explore Long Beach's neighborhoods, cultural venues, shopping spots, and natural attractions waiting to be discovered.

Long Beach is an ideal destination for family and entertainment travelers. You can visit the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center for various events, explore the Long Beach Museum of Art for a taste of culture, and relax at Bixby Park, which offers green space for outdoor activities. For shopping, Shoreline Village, 4th Street Retro Row, and The Pike Outlets provide a range of retail options. If you're looking for natural features, nearby attractions include San Gabriel Valley, Griffith Park, and Catalina Island, all known for outdoor tourism.

Spend some time exploring the different neighborhoods of Long Beach. Downtown Long Beach is known for family and entertainment experiences, featuring places like Marina Green Park and International City Theatre. Nearby, Waterfront also offers attractions such as Shoreline Aquatic Park. Alamitos Beach is another area worth visiting, known for its outdoor spaces, including Bixby Dog Park. Each neighborhood has its own character, making it easy to discover diverse experiences.

The best time to visit Long Beach is from July to September when the weather is warm, mostly dry, and often sunny. While demand stays fairly steady throughout the year, you may find it busier in April and June to July, with a quieter atmosphere from October to December. This seasonal pattern can help you plan your trip to enjoy both the sights and a more relaxed environment.

Where to stay in Long Beach

Find the best Long Beach areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Long Beach
Learn more about Long Beach
The Long Beach Performing Arts Center with a water feature in front.

Downtown Long Beach

4th Street Retro Row and Los Angeles River are top sights in Downtown Long Beach, and you should be sure to explore the stunning beaches. Hop aboard the metro at 1st Street Station or Pacific Avenue Station to see more sights in the area.

A turquoise storefront with a large mural of a sailboat on water. A bicycle is parked in front.

Belmont Shore

You'll enjoy the beaches and restaurants in Belmont Shore. You might want to make time for a stop at Rosie's Dog Beach or Long Beach Waterfront.

A waterfront with colorful buildings, a pier, and a rocky shoreline.

Waterfront

While visiting Waterfront, you might make a stop by sights like The Pike Outlets and Aquarium of the Pacific.

A theater with a marquee advertising a show.

East Village

While you're in East Village, take in top sights like 4th Street Retro Row or DiPiazza's, and hop on the metro to see more the city at 5th Street Station or 1st Street Station.

A lifeguard tower, beachgoers, and a distant ship on the water.

Alamitos Beach

While visiting Alamitos Beach, you might make a stop by sights like 4th Street Retro Row and Marina Green Park.

The Queen Mary

The Queen Mary

3 out of 5
1126 Queens Hwy Long Beach CA
$157 nightly
The price is $179 total per night from Nov 22 to Nov 23
$179 total
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Long Beach. Enjoy 2 restaurants, 3 bars/lounges, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff in our ...
9/10 Wonderful! (5,034 reviews)
"Drain did not drain well but everything was good"

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2026

The Queen Mary
Fairmont Breakers Long Beach

Fairmont Breakers Long Beach

5 out of 5
210 E Ocean Blvd Long Beach CA
$220 nightly
The price is $256 total per night from Nov 23 to Nov 24
$256 total
Nov 23 - Nov 24
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Long Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and 5 restaurants. Popular attractions Long Beach Cruise Terminal and World ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (822 reviews)
"Fairmont Breakers for the Win! This was my first staycation, we live in Long Beach, and I could not have been happier being here. The Fairmont is a Long Beach landmark and I have wanted to stay here since it opened. Wow! did it live up to the reputation. From the moment I checked in (thank you Terrance!) ..."

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Fairmont Breakers Long Beach
Hilton Long Beach Hotel

Hilton Long Beach Hotel

4 out of 5
701 West Ocean Blvd Long Beach CA
$116 nightly
The price is $135 total per night from Dec 6 to Dec 7
$135 total
Dec 6 - Dec 7
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Long Beach. Enjoy 2 restaurants, breakfast (surcharge), and a free area shuttle. Our guests praise the helpful ...
Hilton Long Beach Hotel
See all 1,007 properties in Long Beach
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Historic Broadlind Hotel at Long Beach Convention Center

The Historic Broadlind Hotel at Long Beach Convention Center

3 out of 5
149 Linden Avenue Long Beach CA
Book a stay at this historic aparthotel in Long Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Long Beach Cruise Terminal ...
7.6/10 Good! (971 reviews)
"I stayed at this hotel on Halloween for what was supposed to be a relaxing two-night stay. I had a few friends over, and we were simply catching up because we hadn’t seen each other in a while. We weren’t being loud, causing problems, or disturbing anyone. There appeared to be a bar downstairs in ..."

Reviewed on Nov 5, 2026

The Historic Broadlind Hotel at Long Beach Convention Center
L@@K 2 minute walk to the BEACH and the party street called 2nd Street!

L@@K 2 minute walk to the BEACH and the party street called 2nd Street!

Long Beach CA
Stay at this apartment in Long Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, an in-room coffeemaker, and housekeeping. Popular attractions Long Beach Cruise Terminal and RMS Queen ...
L@@K 2 minute walk to the BEACH and the party street called 2nd Street!
Ocean-Front Beach Studio Apartment On the Sand, kitchenette, Great wi-fi

Ocean-Front Beach Studio Apartment On the Sand, kitchenette, Great wi-fi

Long Beach CA
Book a stay at this beach apartment in Long Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and patios. Popular attractions Long Beach Cruise Terminal and RMS Queen ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (116 reviews)
"What a beautiful space! I wish I would have booked more days here. Kim, the host was absolutely delightful! Her communication with us before and during our stay was wonderful. If you're looking for a relaxing, beautiful and all around wonderful space to stay in Long Beach this is it!"

Reviewed on Nov 5, 2026

Ocean-Front Beach Studio Apartment On the Sand, kitchenette, Great wi-fi
See all properties in Long Beach
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Long Beach attractions

A modern building with large glass windows and colorful flags.

Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center

8.8/10 (1,221 reviews)
Whether you’re attending a conference or an exciting concert or theater event, you’ll find this all-in-one entertainment complex along the water the perfect setting.
See properties

Things to do

Disneyland® Park

Disneyland® Resort Tickets

$166
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Disneyland® Resort Tickets
Los Angeles: Natural History Museum of LA Entry Ticket

Los Angeles: Natural History Museum of LA Entry Ticket

$18
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Los Angeles: Natural History Museum of LA Entry Ticket
Swan Pedal Boat under the Los Angeles skyline

Swan Boat Rental in Echo Park

$13
per adult
Swan Boat Rental in Echo Park
Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Celebrity Homes Open Air Van Tour

Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Celebrity Homes Open Air Van Tour

$18
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Celebrity Homes Open Air Van Tour
Los Angeles Bubble Planet Museum Ticket

Los Angeles Bubble Planet Immersive Interactive Experience

$32
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Los Angeles Bubble Planet Immersive Interactive Experience
Echo Park Lake: Swan Pedal Boat Rental

Echo Park Lake: Swan Pedal Boat Rental

$13
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Echo Park Lake: Swan Pedal Boat Rental
See all activities in Long Beach

Frequently asked questions

Is Long Beach worth visiting?
Long Beach is worth visiting for its standout attractions like the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and the historic RMS Queen Mary. Travelers can also enjoy diverse dining, with options ranging from Latin American to Asian cuisine, and explore distinct areas such as the lively Waterfront and Eastside neighborhoods.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Long Beach?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Long Beach depend on what you want to see:

  • Waterfront features major entertainment venues like The Terrace Theater and the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center.
  • Eastside is known for its nightlife and performing arts, with places like Alex's Bar and Long Beach Playhouse.
  • Alamitos Beach offers green spaces at Bixby Park and access to "The Pacific."
  • Belmont Shore is ideal for beach activities, including City Beach and Rosie's Dog Beach, along the Long Beach Waterfront.
  • Downtown Long Beach provides dining and entertainment options, such as Hamburger Mary's and the Edison Theatre.

What is Long Beach known for?
Long Beach is known for the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, the historic RMS Queen Mary, and Shoreline Village. Travelers can explore its distinct neighborhoods like Waterfront and Eastside, and discover a rich Latin American food culture.
What is a good itinerary length for Long Beach?
A good itinerary length for Long Beach is two to three days to explore key highlights like the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, RMS Queen Mary, and Shoreline Village. For an extended stay of four to five days, you can delve deeper into neighborhoods like Waterfront, Eastside, and Alamitos Beach, and try activities such as axe throwing or kitesurfing. See Long Beach Activities.
How do you get around Long Beach?
Long Beach offers metro and bus services for travelers, with key stops like Downtown Long Beach Station and Pacific Coast Highway Station connecting many areas. Rental cars are available in neighborhoods such as Downtown Long Beach, Eastside, and North Long Beach for wider exploration. Rideshare services also provide an easy way to get around.
What are the top things to do in and around Long Beach?
Long Beach offers a mix of waterfront attractions, unique experiences, and educational sites for travelers:


How do I plan a trip to Long Beach?
To plan your trip to Long Beach, search for places to stay in areas like Waterfront or Alamitos Beach. Book flights and activities, such as axe throwing or kitesurfing lessons, in advance. Explore attractions like the RMS Queen Mary and Shoreline Village. You can use the bus and metro to get around, or rent a car for more flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Long Beach?
In Long Beach you can find Thai cuisine, with popular dishes like Pad Thai, green curry, and Tom Yum soup. Travelers also have many other options, including Latin American fare like Mexican tacos and South American dishes, various Asian cuisines such as Japanese and Vietnamese, and North American choices like Cajun Creole and Southern soul food.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Long Beach?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Long Beach by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Long Beach with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Long Beach trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Long Beach?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Long Beach can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Long Beach trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Long Beach trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Long Beach trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Long Beach trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Long Beach?
If it's your first trip to Long Beach, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Long Beach hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Long Beach hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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