Long Beach, California, USA

Discover Long Beach, California: The Gateway to SoCal Cruising

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning waterfront, bustling ports, and rich cultural scene. Visiting Long Beach on a cruise is a fantastic way to experience the beauty and laid-back lifestyle of Southern California. Fun fact: Long Beach is home to the historic Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner turned hotel and museum that provides a glimpse into the golden age of cruising!

Activities and Attractions in Long Beach, California

As your cruise ship docks in Long Beach, you’ll find a plethora of exciting activities and sights to explore. Here’s what you can do during your visit:

• Visit the Queen Mary: Step aboard this iconic ship for a self-guided tour or consider a ghost tour to delve into its fascinating history and haunted tales!
• Explore the Aquarium of the Pacific: This state-of-the-art aquarium features a diverse collection of marine life from the Pacific Ocean. It's a great family-friendly option, with exhibits and interactive touch pools that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
• Stroll along the Long Beach Waterfront: Enjoy the scenic shoreline, with options for dining, shopping, and leisure activities. Don’t miss the beautiful beach areas and the picturesque Shoreline Village offering vibrant restaurants and shops.
• Take a boat tour: Experience the city from the water with a boat tour to spot sea lions, dolphins, and beautiful coastal landscapes. Some tours even travel around the nearby islands like Catalina!
• Relax in El Dorado Park: If you’re seeking some greenery, El Dorado Park features bike paths, picnic areas, and a serene lake. It’s perfect for a peaceful escape from the city noise!

Nearby Harbours to Explore

When cruising to Long Beach, you may have the chance to visit these nearby beautiful harbours:

• Ensenada, Mexico: Famed for its coastal beauty, Ensenada offers wine tasting in the nearby Valle de Guadalupe, along with delightful seafood dining experiences along the waterfront.
• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico: Known for its stunning beaches and rock formations, Cabo is perfect for sunbathing, water sports, and relaxing at beach clubs. Don't forget to take a boat tour to see El Arco, Cabo's famous rock arch.
• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: A popular resort city known for its charming old town, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches. Explore the Malecón boardwalk for shopping, dining, and cultural performances.
• Honolulu, Hawaii, USA: The gateway to paradise, Honolulu features stunning beaches, the historic Pearl Harbor, and the iconic Diamond Head volcano, which offers hiking and breathtaking views of the island.
• Huatulco, Mexico: This coastal town is blessed with beautiful bays and beaches. Spend your time swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the pristine sands of Tangolunda Bay.

Regions Commonly Visited on Cruises to Long Beach

Cruises that depart from or visit Long Beach often explore vibrant and diverse regions:

• USA West Coast: Home to stunning coastal cities like San Francisco and Seattle, the West Coast is perfect for experiencing diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.
• Central America: This region offers beautiful beaches, rich history, and lush rainforests, with countries like Costa Rica and Nicaragua providing adventure and relaxation opportunities.
• Hawaii: A tropical paradise, Hawaii boasts breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and incredible hospitality, perfect for those wanting to experience island life and adventure.
• South America: Experience vibrant cultures, natural beauty, and world-famous sites across countries like Brazil and Argentina, known for their rich heritage and distinct culinary delights.
• North America: An eclectic region featuring a blend of cultures, spectacular landscapes, and urban experiences across iconic cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Long Beach Itineraries

• Carnival Cruise Lines: With a fleet size of 27, Carnival offers a fun-packed cruising experience. Carnival Radiance and Carnival Firenze frequently visit Long Beach, known for their vibrant onboard activities and entertainment options, with departures typically from Long Beach.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6, Seabourn focuses on luxury and enriching experiences. Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Quest often include Long Beach in their itineraries, offering premium service and gourmet dining, departing mainly from Long Beach or Papeete, Tahiti.

The Best Times to Visit Long Beach, California

• Spring (March, April, May): Pleasant temperatures range from 12°C to 22°C, making an ideal time for outdoor activities, blooming flowers, and local festivals.
• Summer (June, July, August): Warm temperatures between 18°C and 28°C characterise the summer, drawing visitors to the beach and seaside activities, festivals, and events in the city.
• Autumn (September, October, November): With temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C, autumn offers cooler yet comfortable weather, perfect for enjoying local attractions and laid-back beach days without the summer crowds.
• Winter (December, January, February): Winter months see temperatures between 10°C and 18°C. While colder, the season offers festive events and an opportunity to explore the city’s indoor attractions comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions about Long Beach, California, USA

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

The average cost for a one-week cruise visiting Long Beach generally ranges from $1,200 for standard cruises to around $5,500 for luxury options. A two-week cruise may vary from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on selected amenities and cruise lines.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Dining costs can differ widely. Casual meals typically range from $10 to $25, while fine dining experiences may start around $40. Many cruise lines also provide meal packages for easy budgeting.

What are some of the dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Long Beach offers a variety of dining options from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Explore local cuisine at waterfront restaurants and check out shopping areas like the Pike Outlets for retail therapy!

What are transportation options?

Long Beach has a convenient public transport system, including buses and the Long Beach Transit service. Taxis and rideshare options are readily available to navigate the city.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or local markets.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Long Beach is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to remain vigilant about your surroundings, secure your belongings, and avoid less populated areas at night.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The primary language spoken is English, but you may encounter a variety of languages due to the city’s diversity. Being polite and friendly goes a long way in engaging with locals!