Long Beach is LA County's second largest town and home to a perfect wide stretch of white sand beach - making it ideal for families.
In a nutshell
If you tire of making sandcastles there is plenty to entertain you away from the ocean. Long Beach is home to the excellent Aquarium of the Pacific where you can come nose-to-nose with a shark or two (through the glass of course!), or enjoy a tour around the legendary Queen Mary, which is permanently moored here.
If shopping is a priority, you won't be disappointed. There are plenty of choices ranging from Shoreline Village to Pike at Rainbow Harbor and centrally located Pine Avenue!
Long Beach is also a jumping-off point for day trips to the unspoiled Catalina Island - where you can hire golf carts and explore the main town of Avalon with its pretty pier.
Eats & drinks
In Long Beach, Shoreline Village is home to Parker's Lighthouse, while Pine Avenue is lined with cafés and restaurants and Pike at Rainbow Harbor has several upmarket chains.
Getting there
The centre of Long Beach is fairly compact and everything you need is within walking distance, from the beach to shops and restaurants!