Home to one of the world’s largest shipping ports, Long Beach has a temperate, year-round climate that makes it the ideal destination for vacationers with a fervor for nautical activities. The city lies on the outskirts of the Greater Los Angeles Area. This “maritime center of the world” offers the perfect escape for travelers on a budget.
If you’re looking for more of an international vibe, stay at the renowned Hilton Long Beach and Executive Meeting Center. This hotel’s locale is near a variety of trendy restaurants and a thriving nightlife scene, but there are plenty of other things to see and do in Long Beach. Read on for more details.
All Aboard … to Your Guest Room!
The RMS Queen Mary is a historical floating hotel timepiece. It’s also the place to be in Long Beach Harbor. A splendid representation of the past, the Art Deco-designed Cunard Liner was known as the fastest sailing ship in the world and was also an integral form of transportation for troops during World War II. Bigger than the Titanic, the ship has been updated to accommodate every type of guest: those who fancy personal time will enjoy the on-site salon, spa services, and fitness center, while history aficionados can view Princess Diana memorabilia and purchase artwork or other collectible items from one of the ship’s boutiques.
If you want to travel back in time but still have access to your social network accounts, you’ll appreciate the Wi-Fi connectivity onboard. One of the best independent hotels in Long Beach, The Queen Mary has amenities and services galore housed in a unique space.
Fishin’ Around
Are you in the mood for impressive architecture at one of the best maritime attractions in the United States? The Aquarium of the Pacific is an ideal site for kids and others who wish to be “schooled” among the fish. The aquarium is one of the largest of its kind in the country, and is conveniently located near the bustling and vibrant Belmont Shore community. Enjoy shopping, dining, and other activities near, on, or out of the water in this charming beach side area. It’s definitely a destination to add to your sightseeing list.
Back to Shore
At “The Shore,” take in the ocean breeze while sailing, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding, or enjoy some California wine and casual dining in the area’s hip restaurant scene. Book a stay at one of the area’s affordable hotels that boasts views of the Henry Ford Bridge attraction, a national landmark featured in the television series, Dexter. Catch the Passport, a free bus, to travel between all the local attractions and downtown Long Beach.
The Belmont Car Show, the biggest one-day car show on the West Coast, happens in September. To avoid the crowds, consider a fun experience away from the strip to admire the architecture and theater life with a local tour of historic Hollywood Boulevard.
Have you been to any cool places or hotels in Long Beach? Add your thoughts and tips in the comments section below.
Bio: Monica Wolyniec, a writer for Hipmunk, is a late twenty-something toting her smart devices and DSLR camera between New York and Spain. When she’s not freelance translating, blogging, or brushing up on her yoga, this #YTTAmbassador loves to travel, check out new tech, and catch up on lifestyle and wellness chat. Read about all this and more on her blog, My Flair Code.
