Things to do in  Long Beach

One of Long Beach’s top attractions, the Aquarium of the Pacific is home to thousands of aquatic animals that reflect the diverse marine life of the Pacific Ocean. Species on display range from seahorses and starfish to turtles, sea otters, sharks, and even a giant Pacific octopus. The nonprofit organization is the largest aquarium in Southern California, and its more than 100 exhibits shed light on the conservation efforts of the Pacific’s crucial ocean habitats.

Once the flagship of the Cunard White Star Line, the elegant ocean liner RMS Queen Mary sailed between England's Southampton, France's Cherbourg, and New York City from 1936 to 1967. Now permanently moored in the city of Long Beach, California, the Queen Mary has since been transformed into a floating hotel, restaurant, special events venue, and one of the area's key tourist attractions.

Once considered the world’s greatest naval ship thanks to its powerful weaponry, heavy armor, and advanced fire control systems, the USS Iowa served the U.S. Navy during World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War. Today it’s docked in Los Angeles Harbor in San Pedro, California.

Rainbow Harbor is home to a variety of recreational and entertainment activities along the Long Beach waterfront. From Rainbow Marina to Shoreline Village, visitors are spoiled with shops, restaurants, boat tours, an esplanade, and an aquarium—all with views of the water.

The Long Beach Cruise Terminal is one of two major cruise terminals in the greater Los Angeles area, and it is located close to many attractions. Owned and operated by Carnival Corporation, more than 300 cruises a year set sail from Long Beach Cruise Terminal for destinations along the Mexican Riviera and Hawaii.

Made up of three islands in Alamitos Bay, the Italian-inspired neighborhood of Naples is one of Long Beach’s most charming. Attractive homes line narrow canals that provide opportunities for water activities such as kayaking and gondola rides. The largest bay island is bisected by 2nd Street, the main drag home to restaurants and shops.

Long Beach’s Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) is the self-proclaimed only museum in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American art. Through its paintings, photographs, sculptures, video projects, and other pieces, the museum aims to help the public understand and appreciate works by Latin American artists.

The continental United States’ only museum dedicated to the Pacific Islands, the Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum showcases the diverse cultures that have left their marks on Long Beach and Southern California. Covering communities across Micronesia, Melanesia, and Polynesia, the museum (PIEAM) has an impressively eclectic collection—and an impressive following—since its opening in 2010.