Thinking about taking a break and heading to Long Beach, California? There are so many things to do in Long Beach we have created a list of some of the top things to do once you are there.

Imagine my happiness when I walked off the plane and the warmth was like a blanket over my entire body.

Long Beach, CA 90802

Long Beach, CA 90802

Long Beach, CA 90802

Long Beach, CA 90803

Long Beach, CA 90803

Long Beach, CA 90802

Long Beach, CA 90802

It took about 25 minutes to get to our hotel, The Hyatt Centric, from LAX. The Hyatt Centric is located smack dab in the middle of a brand spanking new shopping outlet center. Yay ME!!! The shopping center had many of my favorite stores and they are still adding more.

The Hyatt Centric welcomed us with open arms at our very late arrival. Our room had two double beds and the spacious bathroom had enough room for both of us to have our cosmetics sprawled out. The walk-in shower was perfect to wash away the long plane ride. You also had your choice of a waterfall or hand sprayer and a stool if you needed to put your leg up to shave away the Northeast winter legs. Before heading out, check out the views from the Rooftop 360°, you truly get a panoramic view of Long Beach! If you’re there in warmer weather you will want to plan a day at the pool to relax in a cabana, swim, and of course have a few drinks!

As I said I was invited but when I’m experiencing a property, restaurant, or activity, I never say I’m media because I want them to treat me like everyone else……and I expect to be treated special… I’m worth it! The customer service at Hyatt Centric was spot on and I was always greeted with a smile and everyone was helpful……even when I was exhausted and the man at the desk stopped me before I walked into the mirror with a smile. I’m sure he had a good laugh afterward but he saved me from being mortified by my exhaustion.

Things to Do in Long Beach California

Tour the Legendary Queen Mary

This attraction is for the ship lovers, history lovers, luxury lovers and everyone else!  The Queen Mary departed from Southampton, England on May 27, 1936. She was pure luxury with five dining areas and lounges, two cocktail bars and swimming pools, a grand ballroom, a squash court and even a small hospital. The Queen Mary was for the rich and famous and considered as the only civilized way to travel.

Fun Fact:Legend has it that the board of directors at Cunard had decided to name the ship the Queen Victoria, which would have been in keeping with the tradition of Cunard ships having the “ia” suffix (Mauretania, Aquitania and Berengeria). As per protocol, legend states that the Cunard directors went to ask King George his blessing of the ship’s proposed name saying, “We have decided to name our new ship after England’s greatest Queen,” meaning Queen Victoria, the King’s Grandmother. Upon which the King is reported to have stated, “My wife (Queen Mary) will be delighted that you are naming the ship after her.”

Be sure to plan a dinner at five-star award winning Sir Winston’s. You will receive impeccable service and choices from the gourmet menu which will have your mouth watering. The Chateaubriand and Beef Wellington are a steak lovers dream. The extensive wine list will quench your thirst and you may fall into a daydream with the ambiance and seaside view. They make sure your taste buds will enjoy every ingredient as they serve you an intermezzo “sorbet”.

The Beach

It’s about a twenty five minute walk but a taxi will have you there in just a few minutes. Pack a couple towels, sunscreen, and water in a bag and plan on soaking in the beautiful view and frolicking along the edge of the water. Of course feel free to take a dip. Long Beach is a popular destination for filming movies and TV shows so don’t be surprised if you should stumble across one in the process.

A Romantic Gondola Ride

You may not be in Italy but it doesn’t mean you can’t experience old world charm and a thousand year old tradition on a romantic Venetian gondola ride on Alamitos Bay and around Naples Island. We were greeted at Gondola Getaway by a gondolier who gave us chocolate covered strawberries and a red rose. Once aboard the gondola there was a blanket should we get chilly. Your gondolier (Ours was Andrew) took us along a quiet route between the beautiful houses of Naples Island which lasted about an hour. We had the pleasure of Andrew singing Italian songs as we coasted along the waterway. His voice was so beautiful and one of the songs put tears in my eyes because it was a song my poppy used to sing, Luna Mezzo Mare (aka C’e la Luna).

Fun Tip: Bring a bottle of wine and ask which booking will have the best view of the sunset.

Shoreline Village

SHOP!!! Yes stroll along the pathway from the hotel and discover Shoreline Village. You will find boutiques, food, and of course places to have drinks. This is the perfect spot at lunch time. Find a table outside and enjoy the fresh sea breeze while sipping on your favorite cocktail and devouring lunch. Save room for the funnel cake!

Shop Tip: Fashion is important and we need to be trendy – Make sure to stop by SAGA! Their designs are trendy with great prices. There’s also a great hat store that has a lot of hat history facts along with old hats. Perfect for those who like fun facts to share at random times and of course to buy a new hat.

Tour The Aquarium Of The Pacific

With 50 exhibits that represent the diversity of the Pacific Ocean. It seemed at every turn there was an interactive exhibit. Some favorites were touching the jellies (yes you can touch them) and they always fascinate me when they glow in the dark. I also touched a baby hammerhead shark and stingrays. I got a little silly when I found Nemo and Dory and the sea otters had me cracking up- I wish I could have taken one home!

SGT. Peppers Dueling Pianos

If you love interactive, then you will want to go to Sgt. Peppers Dueling Pianos. The dueling piano players will have you singing, laughing, and clapping along as they play your favorite songs! Want to take a break to chat? No problem, grab your drinks and head to the outside bar.

There’s plenty to do to keep you busy each day but there is also the feeling of going slow so a day relaxing by the pool will fit perfectly. Have any other questions….ask away?

Have you thought of taking a vacation to Long Beach?

Last Tip For Soda Drinkers: If you haven’t had a Mexican Coke, this is a must do! This is not the same Coke you’re used to on the east coast…it’s made with pure sugar cane!