Centrally located in the heart of Southern California, Long Beach is bordered by 5.5 miles of clean sandy beaches. Originally named “Wilmore City,” Long Beach received a name change in 1888 due to the long, wide beaches it is currently known for. The city itself is the fifth largest city in California and is the most ethnically diverse large city in the United States. The Port of Long Beach, which serves shipping between the US and the Pacific Rim, is the second busiest seaport in the United States.

Access the beach and all it has to offer at Downtown’s Marina Green Park or Bluff Park or at the Belmont Shore/Alamitos Bay area. You can walk, bike or blade along the paved path that parallels the length of the beach. Enjoy local water sports such as swimming, sailing, kayaking or jet skiing.

The Aquarium of the Pacific is great for young and old, and for those looking for romantic getaway, Catalina Island is just a boat ride away. The Queen Mary is a popular Long Beach attraction. This historic ship, docked in the Long Beach Harbor since 1967, is available for tours and some believe it is haunted!

The Long Beach Museum of Art, the Museum of Latin American Art and the Long Beach Performing Arts Center are sure to entertain and enlighten. Whether you are looking for fun in the sun or a cultural journey, Long Beach has it all.