Not shore where to set sail on your next big summer vacay? 🌤️

City Editor Iván here. Long Beach was never truly on my radar until finally visiting it for the first time. Now, all my friends say I can't stop talking about wanting to go back to this SoCal gem — I guess you can call it pier pressure.

Fish aren't the only thing there's to see at the Aquarium of the Pacific. | Photo by SATXtoday team

Why go?

This beachfront retreat offers a wonderful change of pace from the hustle and bustle of its metro giant of a neighbor.
One the best times to visit Long Beach is in April to attend the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. This annual event draws crowds of nearly 170,000 in size, all there to witness one of the largest street races in the country — truly a sight to behold.
Shhh — I'm about to share with you some not-so-top secret guides that will help you create beautiful memories. Check out the top 10 things to do, where to eat, and how to spend an unforgettable night out.

Take a walk over to The Pike Outlets for some beachfront shopping. | Photo by SATXtoday team

Act like a local

Food: Start your day off with something off The Breakfast Bar — perhaps eggs benny and a mimosa? You trip is not complete without a nice, cold paleta under the hot California sun at La Michoacana Plus Long Beach.
Drink: Sip on a classic cocktail while enjoying a star-studded drag show at Hamburger Mary's. If "low-key" is more your speed, sip on your choice of vino at 4th Street Vine.
Outdoors: Talk a walk down the newly opened Lincoln Park, the oldest park in the City of Long Beach.
Learn: We can't talk about Long Beach without also mentioning all the jaw-dropping exhibits at the Aquarium of the Pacific.
Listen: Catch a concert aboard the historic Queen Mary at the I love RnB Festival (May 27, 2023).
Explore: Get lost exploring Long Beach's historic districts or get in touch with nature at the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden.

There's no shortage of quaint Spanish cottage stays in Long Beach. | Photo via VRBO

Where to stay

Vrbo: Casa de las Palmas that's steps from the sand ($333/night)
Airbnb: Casita Vista in the neighborhood of Belmont Heights ($130/night)
Splurge hotel: Hilton Long Beach less than one mile from Long Beach Entertainment District ($415/night)
Save hotel: Hyatt Regency Long Beach with luxury amenities at a lower price point ($235/night)

Now that you've got everything you need to enjoy a few days in Long Beach, all you need to do is plan when you'll seas the day at your next favorite getaway.