Coolest Long Beach CA Day Trips

Coolest Long Beach Day Trips

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Here are our 3 favorite Long Beach CA day trips.

Coolest Long Beach CA Day Trips

A 50-miles round trip to Manhattan Beach

If you decide to head west from downtown Long Beach CA, you will find yourself on a picturesque road that will take you through several different places before reaching the upscale community of Manhattan Beach. For such a short distance, you can enjoy a great variety of views. First, you will drive through the combined ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles and then the scenic coastal road around the Palos Verdes Peninsula will take you to the port town of San Pedro. While driving, you will pass two span bridges that will allow you enjoy a view of tankers, cruise ships,and long-shore equipment. Once in San Pedro, you will be driving along palm-lined streets. The town offers two main attractions – the Friendship Park, dedicated to the peaceful relationship between the USA and South Korea, where you can see military barracks, sea defenses, and a Coast Guard Watch Facility. If you are traveling with your children, you can stop at the kid-friendly Point Fermin Park. Then, you continue your drive along the picturesque California coastline that resembles the Italian Amalfi Coast.

The peninsula is famous for its whale-watching and fishing spots, while the Rolling Hills Estates are home to many movie stars and other famous people.

Your next stop is the beautiful town of Redondo. It’s a great place for lunch here since the place is famous for one of the most delicious and freshest seafood on the West Coast.

Take the coastal road that will lead you to the town of Hermosa, known for its surfing beaches and finally to Manhattan Beach. Once you have finished admiring the beauty of the beach, you can take Interstate 405, the San Diego Freeway, and reach Long Beach Airport in less than 30 minutes. During rush hour, be prepared for an hour and a half drive.

A Wine-tasting trip to Temecula

If you are a wine lover, then a day trip to Temecula is the best getaway for you. Only an hour and a half drive from Long Beach CA takes you to this beautiful historic place. There are more than 30 wineries, which you can visit on your own or take a guided tour. Some of the attractions include grape stomping. You can also visit the old town and the Temecula Valley Museum or get into a hot air balloon to experience the view from the skies.

Enjoy the Dutch atmosphere of Solvang

If you want to experience a different atmosphere, then this 2-hour drive to Solvang is the perfect choice. The town was founded by the Danish and bears the Dutch atmosphere, despite the fact that there aren’t many Danes living there. What you will find, however, are wooden windmills, breweries and pancake cottages. There is even a replica of Copenhagen’s Round Tower, along with Christmas shops, Hans Christian Andersen’s Little Mermaid trinkets, and Danish bakeries. The Elverhol Museum is a must-see for history lovers and for those who love adventures. OstrichLand, known as the Jurassic Park for ostriches, is located just on the outskirts of the town.

Have you tried these Long Beach CA day trips? Let us know your experience in the comments!

Getting Around in Long Beach CA | Transport Options

Getting around in Long Beach CA

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Long Beach is the sixth largest city in California and is well organized. It’s relatively easy to get around.

Whether you live in Long Beach CA, are moving here or simply coming for a visit, it is good to know what options you have for getting around the city.

Getting Around in Long Beach CA

Public transport in Long Beach CA

Long Beach CA offers excellent public transport options and there is even a free service for those who are staying Downtown and want to visit some of the attractions: You can use:

  • Long Beach Transit Passport bus – a free service that takes you to several attractions Downtown. The Passport C line goes to the Queen Mary. Passport A goes to Los Alamitos Bay and Passport D goes to Cal State, starting from Catalina Terminal. Note that once the bus leaves Downtown, the service is paid  90 cents per ride.
  • The Pine Line shuttle also operates for free from Long Beach Plaza to Shoreline Village
  • Long Beach Transit offers a ride for $1.25 or a daily pass for $2.50
  • The Metro Blue Line train is yet another option for $1.75

During the summer months, you can enjoy water rides. Just note that the daily pass is not valid for them:

  • Aqualink with $5.00 for one-way trips to or from Alamitos Bay Landing
  • Aquabus charges $1.00 each time you board

There are no discounts for the water taxis and only kids under 2 ride for free.

Uber services in Long Beach CA

As elsewhere in the country, Uber services in Long Beach are very dependable and comfortable. All you need to do is determine the size of your group and the luggage you have and thus select the best option that suits you. You can choose between:

  • UberLUX– luxury service for 4 people. The initial fee is $20, the fee per minute is $0.60, the fee per mile is $5.06 and cancellation fee is $10. There is no service fee.
  • UberSUV– high-end SUVs that seat 6. The initial fee is $15, the fee per minute is $0.55, the fee per mile is $4.31 and cancellation fee is $10. There is no service fee.
  • UberBLACK– high-end cars for 4 people. The initial fee is $8, the fee per minute is $0.45, the fee per mile is $3.61 and cancellation fee is $10. There is no service fee.
  • UberSELECT– excellent cars at good rates that seat 4 people. The initial fee is $5, the fee per minute is $0.40, the fee per mile is $2.41 and cancellation fee is $10. The service fee is $2.35.
  • UberXL– suitable for groups of up to 6 people. The initial fee is $1, the fee per minute is $0.30, the fee per mile is $1.61, and cancellation fee is $5. The service fee is $2.35.
  • WAV – seats four people. There is no initial fee, the fee per minute is $0.15, the fee per mile is $0.96, and cancellation fee is $5. The service fee is $2.10.
  • UberASSISST– same service as UberX with additional assistance for 4 people. There is no initial fee, the fee per minute is $0.15, the fee per mile is $0.96, and cancellation fee is $5. The service fee is $2.10.
  • UberX – everyday rides at great prices, for 4 people. There is no initial fee, the fee per minute is $0.15, the fee per mile is $0.96, and cancellation fee is $5. The service fee is $2.10. The same service is also available in Spanish as UberEspanol.

You can request Uber to pick you up at Long Beach Airport as well and get you to your final destination at a very affordable price.

Cab services in Long Beach CA

Cab services in Long Beach CA are most often used by those traveling to and from the airport. There are several companies that you can choose from and the rates to popular destinations are as follows:

The fares between the companies may differ and the final amount can also depend on the traffic. The initial fare is around $3.00 and there is a 15% tip included in the final price. There is one other option – to get a taxi for a flat fare.

  • Low-Cost Taxi offers a flat fare service of $100, which also includes any stops if you need to go to a shop or you want to see something (as long as you don’t take too long). There is an option to get this as a deal for $89 using a voucher.

There are various shuttle and limo options as well, depending on the type of service you need.

No matter which of the options you will choose, you can be sure that your travel around Long Beach CA will be safe and pleasant.

Fantastic Long Beach Hotels to Stay In

Fantastic Long Beach Hotels to Stay In

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Long Beach is a wonderful coastal city in Greater Los Angeles area, California. It is a great place for a vacation and has tons of activities to offer. Tourists in Long Beach CA can visit the Aquarium of the Pacific and enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour, dine at Sir Winston restaurant aboard Queen Mary or visit many of the street festivals throughout the year to celebrate local culture, music, food, and art.

Fantastic Long Beach Hotels to Stay In

We’ve lined up a list of fantastic hotels you can stay at when visiting Long Beach.

Oceanfront hotels

No doubt, the most fantastic hotels are those on the oceanfront. Here are the highest-rated ones.

This urban jewel is voted number one in Long Beach CA and there is a reason for that. The 3-star hotel combines style and affordability and has quite a history. Guests can choose between different types of rooms and award-winning complimentary guest services such as wine tasting. The continental breakfast that awaits you every morning and the fast internet connection are not a luxury but an everyday convenience.

Fitness lovers can continue with their regular workout even during the vacation by taking advantage of the discounted rates at Long Beach Gold’s Gym, which partnered with Varden hotel for guest convenience.

This fantastic hotel is one of the best waterfront getaways in California. It successfully combines the vibes of Latin America with the style of Southern California and offers its guests an unforgettable experience. Hotel Maya sits amidst 400 palm trees on 11 acres. It offers a fantastic view of Long Beach harbor and is only 30 minutes away from LAX. You will enjoy the large renovated rooms full of amenities.

One of the distinctive features of the hotel is the excellent setting of a seaside resort in an urban environment successfully combining indoor and outdoor architecture.

There is a lot to say about this Marriott Lifestyle Hotel as it has it all – from a heated rooftop pool, plush bedding and a full-service business center. The Renaissance Long Beach Hotel has two attractive features – it is completely smoke-free and it is pet-friendly, which makes it one of the most preferred hotels by guests. The hotel has 374 rooms, spacious work desks and free fast Wi-Fi for those who are in Long Beach for business.

The hotel offers Italian cuisine in its restaurant, state-of-the-art fitness center, and a hot tub. It is easy to see why tourists love it so much.

Romantic Hotels in Long Beach CA

If you are planning a romantic getaway in Long Beach, choose a romantic hotel to stay in.

The Queen Mary

This 3-star boat hotel has been ranked the 9th best hotel in all of Long Beach CA by TripAdvisor. In addition to that, it is the third most popular romantic hotel for couples. Whether you are newlyweds or are celebrating your 20th anniversary together, the amenities offered will mesmerize you. You will be able to dine in one of the top 100 most romantic restaurants hosted by Queen Mary – Sir Winston. The liner offers attractions and a one-of-a-kind experience that you cannot find elsewhere. Each room is unique and by staying in it you can see what transatlantic travel felt like back in the 40s or 50s. You can enjoy different attractions, spa, shops and the marvelous panoramic view. Check for the special packages offered that feature trips to Hollywood and many more.

January is the cheapest time to stay in Long Beach, while October is the most expensive. So, if you want to book a room during the busy season, choose one of the hotels above.

weekend getaway long beach ca

5 Unusual Weekend Getaways in Long Beach CA

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Long Beach is a coastal California city, which is becoming more popular among tourists for its interesting attractions and mild weather. Its proximity to LA is also a plus and makes it a great option for a weekend getaway. No matter if you are a visitor in Long Beach CA or you live there, there are several ways to spend the weekend in the city, from walking in the parks to a family day on the beach. However, there are a few unusual getaways, that you need to consider if you are staying in Long Beach for the weekend. Here are five of the best weekend getaways that you can choose from:

Weekend Getaways in Long Beach CA

A Gondola Ride at the Canals of Naples Island

A Gondola Ride at the Canals of Naples Island

If you are looking for a romantic way to spend the weekend, think about sunset, gondolas, and serenades. Venice, Italy is the city usually associated with this type of experience; however, Long Beach, California offers a serene gondola ride that will make you feel you are hundreds of miles away from the hectic city. The cruise is offered from mid-day to midnight. One of the best times, however, is around sunset. It is perfect for those who are considering a marriage proposal. Rumor has it that the acceptance rate is almost 100%. On top of that, most of the gondoliers sing, but make sure to request for one in advance. The Gondola ride is fun for kids and teenagers as well, so you can make this a lovely family trip for an unforgettable weekend getaway. You can also bring snacks and drinks on board. A cruise with a gondola is especially popular during the holidays, so if you are planning one, make sure to book it in advance!

An Art Weekend

Long Beach CA is the East Village Arts District

If you love art, then spend the weekend surrounded by it. Give your friends or family a lovely gift in the form of an art walk getaway for the weekend. The best place for this kind of experience in Long Beach CA is the East Village Arts District. Here you can enjoy galleries, free events, and a true art walk. In addition to that, every first Friday of the month there is a First Fridays street fair. It is an event running from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm, held at Atlantic Avenue from Bixby Road to San Antonio Dr. The aim of the fair is to support local artists and musicians. As part of your art weekend, you can also visit the Museum of Latin American Art, which allows you to enjoy contemporary art reflecting the culture of Latin America. It is worth visiting, especially given the fact that the museum has been open since 1945. So, if you are an art lover, here is your best weekend getaway in Long Beach!

A Day at the Aquarium

A Day at the Aquarium Long Beach CA

Spending even a few hours in the serene environment of sea life can help you relax and recharge after a busy week. Long Beach CA can offer you this experience at the Aquarium of the Pacific, which is considered the best in California. It is also the largest in Southern California and presents species from the north American Shore of the Pacific and the tropical South Pacific. It is fun both for kids and adults, as it offers a lot of interactive exhibits and the option to touch some of the animals. But if you want a truly unique and unusual experience, we recommend behind-the-scenes tour. It is intended for a small group of up to 10 people and offers a sneak peek into the everyday operations of the facilities. The tour takes you to places that are normally closed for the public and you can even feed the fish from the top of the Tropical Reef. The tour is perfect for anyone, kids of 7 years and up inclusive, who loves sea life and biology.

Waterfront Walk in Shoreline Village

Waterfront Walk in Shoreline Village

Would you like to visit a village within the restless Long Beach CA? If you are thrilled about going to a quieter place while enjoying the beautiful view of Rainbow Harbor, then Shoreline Village is the best place for your weekend getaway. The place features live entertainment, casual and fine places to eat and a lot of activities for the children with a carousel and special kids’ fun zone. The panoramic view of the sunset is surely not to be missed. If you want a more interesting way of exploring Shoreline village, you can hire a surrey bike and enjoy the ride with your family or friends.

Spend the Weekend at a Hotel

Spend the Weekend at a Hotel

If you are a resident of Long Beach CA, we have quite an unusual idea for your weekend. Go to a hotel in your own city. There are million options where to stay depending on your budget. Allow yourself a luxury weekend at a fancy hotel, where you will feel pampered and can relax after a busy week. Get away from the routine without having to travel. This is a perfect option for families as well – most hotels offer additional attractions for kids – like playgrounds or pool parties and other fun stuff. Some of the businesses allow pets as well, so check that in advance if you are a pet owner. You should know that Long Beach was voted one of the most dog-friendly cities in the USA according to Dog Fancy magazine. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your suitcases and discover your hometown in a different way – like a tourist!

family-friendly cities in Southern California

Top 5 family-friendly cities in Southern California

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Southern California is a heavenly place and it’s no surprise why so many people come here to enjoy the beautiful weather, the ocean-side views, the sightseeing, and the local cuisine. But it is more than just a fine vacation place. It is also a perfect place to raise your family. If you are thinking of moving to Southern California for good and you wonder which city would be the best for your family, we have the answer.

Top 5 family-friendly cities in Southern California

What are the criteria for choosing a good place to raise a family?

People have different needs and desires, which means one place might seem good for some and not preferable for others. The main points most people take into consideration when choosing are:

  • Housing costs. Probably the first thing one would be looking at is the cost of housing in California. There are indeed places in Southern California where housing can be affordable for families.
  • Education. Any parent wants the best for their children and education is at the top of the list. Receiving a good education would come from the kindergarten and school the kid attends, (since for college the child can decide to move as far as the other side of the country or even go abroad).
  • Commute time. Transportation can be a hustle when living in a crowded area. No one likes spending hours in traffic on the way to work or taking the kids to school.
  • Surroundings and entertainment.This might not seem as an important factor in the beginning but if you don’t consider it you will start regretting it very soon. How you spend your free time is what makes the difference between having an exciting life and having a boring life. When choosing a place to spend the rest of your days, always think about the places you can go and the things you can do to have fun.

Top 5 family-friendly cities in Southern California

  1. Rancho Santa Margarita

Rancho Santa Margarita is located in Orange County -between Los Angeles and San Diego. It is home to almost 50,000 people. The city is mainly composed of planned residential neighborhoods. There are, however, many places to work, shop and dine. This smaller city prides itself on being beautiful and safe. There are plenty of parks for hiking or simply walking the dog. Compared to some of the other cities on this list, housing is more expensive; however, it is balanced out by local salary rate which is also higher.

  1. Poway

One of the best location for exploring the beaches along the coast as well as hiking trails. There are tons of parks for biking, hiking, and playing. The city is for families who enjoy spending time outdoors. The adults won’t have to worry about how early they would need to wake up and get going to work so that they are not late due to traffic. Homes are indeed more expensive, but the price tag is well worth it.

  1. Moorpark

Moorpark is considered to be one of the safest places to live-in as it has the lowest crime rates in Ventura County. This family-oriented city hosts a lot of small-town events such as the annual Apricot Festival and Country Days. It also has highly ranked schools. It is located close to the Happy Camp Canyon Park – the perfect place for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

  1. Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach’s homes are among the priciest in the region. The School District ranks third overall in the state. The parents have the choice of enrolling their children either in public or private schools. In addition to the area’s stunning surroundings, The Manhattan Beach community values family. The experience will not disappoint.

  1. Long Beach

Long Beach CA, located in Los Angeles County is another destination favored by many outdoors-loving families. The options for activities do not end with the world’s biggest ocean at your finger tips. There are plenty of parks in and around the city that are perfect for biking, horse riding, and dog walking. The schools in the area are among the highest ranking for the district. The prices of the homes in this area do not differ much from the other places on this list.

With so many great looking cities in Southern California, it might be hard to decide which one you’d want to call “home”. Moving to a new place is a huge step. Carefully analyze the advantages and disadvantages of every city. Consider the needs and preferences of every family member, pets included. And once you settle in your new home – enjoy it!