4 DaysUnited States
Long Beach
Your 4-day travel guide
Spring or fall for ideal weather.
Long Beach•4D•All
Long Beach, United States
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:All travelers
Long Beach's Secret Escape: Art, Ships & Canals
Long Beach, California, stands as a dynamic coastal city in Southern California, renowned for its extensive waterfront, rich maritime history, and diverse cultural offerings. Spanning neighborhoods from the historic downtown to charming canals in Naples, it provides visitors with immersive experiences in marine life, iconic ships, and art collections. Key attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Queen Mary, and Battleship IOWA Museum highlight its naval heritage, while museums such as the Museum of Latin American Art and Long Beach Museum of Art showcase global and local creativity. Culinary scenes thrive in areas like Shoreline Village and Belmont Shore, complemented by outdoor pursuits along beaches and harbors. This 4-day itinerary balances exploration with relaxation, focusing on authentic experiences within city limits.
Get Real Local Advice
Ask someone who actually lives in Long Beach
1
Cultural Heritage
Day 1 of your journey
The Queen Mary is a retired ocean liner from the 1930s, now a museum hotel docked in Long Beach Harbor. Visitors tour its grand Art Deco interiors, engine rooms, and exhibition spaces detailing its transatlantic voyages and World War II service. Guided tours reveal ghost stories and restoration efforts. Self-guided options allow pacing through decks and cabins. Open daily from 10 a.m., expect interactive displays and occasional live events. Admission starts at around $35 for adults, covering multiple areas.
The Queen Mary
Why Visit
This floating landmark offers unparalleled insight into 20th-century maritime history, with preserved artifacts and stories unmatched elsewhere in the city. It connects visitors to global travel eras and naval engineering feats, providing educational depth alongside scenic harbor views.
Book a guided haunted tour in the evening for atmospheric lighting and exclusive access to restricted areas. Arrive early to avoid crowds at popular exhibits. Parking is available onsite for a fee.
2
Art and Museums
Day 2 of your journey
3
Culinary Exploration
Day 3 of your journey
4
Local Neighborhoods
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Use Long Beach Transit buses or the free Passport shuttle downtown for efficient city navigation.
Rent bikes along the 5-mile beach path for scenic coastal exploration.
English is predominant; tipping 15-20% at restaurants is standard.
Currency is U.S. dollars; cards widely accepted, but carry cash for small vendors.
Beaches and paths are safe daytime; secure valuables and avoid isolated areas at night.
Parking meters operate 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; apps like PayByPhone simplify payments.
Water bottles and sunscreen essential year-round due to coastal sun exposure.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
Long Beach enjoys mild Mediterranean weather year-round, with average highs from 65°F in winter to 80°F in summer. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer comfortable 70°F days, fewer crowds, and events like the Long Beach Seafood Festival. Summer peaks with tourists and beach activities but can hit 85°F. Winter brings rare rain and whale watching from December to April.
Local Insights & Tips
Long Beach residents embrace a laid-back coastal ethos, blending surfer culture with urban diversity across neighborhoods like Belmont Shore's active vibe and Naples' quiet elegance. Customarily greet with smiles; casual dress prevails. Respect beach cleanups and no-smoking rules on sands. Diverse communities celebrate through festivals; try ethnic eateries in areas like Phnom Penh for Cambodian noodles. Public transit fosters sustainability; walking paths encourage fitness. Locals prioritize ocean conservation, evident in Aquarium programs.