Day Out with Dad: Father's Day Fun in Long Beach

Long Beach has so much to offer for Father’s Day, how about we make it a twofer?! Pair hitting the greens with grabbing a bite or cruising calm waters with a waterfront feast—we’ve got some two-part itineraries for the day that’ll make him feel like the legend he is. Go big! Go, Dad!

Credit: City Cruises

GOLF AND GRUB

Golf is great choice for Father’s Day, given the sheer breadth of Long Beach golf courses. How about hitting Skylinks (4800 E Wardlow Rd), a championship 18-hole course that has garnered awards and recognition from local players. Afterward, cross the street to The Hangar at Long Beach Exchange (4069 N Lakewood Blvd). The 17,000-square-foot food hall is home to 14 artisanal vendors serving delicious food and drinks, from a Nashville hot chicken sandwich from Jaybird's and a cold beer at Bottlecraft to tikka masala poutine at The Kroft or healthy Superfood Bowl at Blue Bowl.

COMFORTING

Treat Dad to a relaxing, rejuvenating experience at Firm Hands (3300 E Broadway). Specializing in therapeutic sports as well as comforting massages, their licensed therapists customize each session to address individual needs. With services like deep tissue, trigger point therapy, and stretching, Dad will leave feeling appreciated. Continue that feeling with a short stroll on Broadway to beloved The Attic (3441 Broadway), the charming Southern-style restaurant housed in a 1920s Craftsman bungalow. Known for its inventive twists on classic comfort dishes, The Attic offers favorites like fried chicken and biscuits, gumbo, and their signature "Mac N' Cheetos," surrounded by cozy ambience.

O CAPTAIN! MY CAPTAIN!

Begin the day with your favorite skipper on a relaxing self-guided cruise aboard an electric Duffy boat from London Boat Rentals (186 N Marina Dr). These cozy, enclosed boats accommodate up to 12 passengers and are perfect for exploring Alamitos Bay and the Naples Canals. Feel free to bring your own cooler, or purchase snacks, drinks, and ice cream on site. After docking, head to Boathouse on the Bay (190 N Marina Dr), located just a short walk away. This upscale yet relaxed waterfront restaurant offers stunning views of Alamitos Bay and a popular Father’s Day buffet. Be sure to make your reservation in advance.

CREDIT: London Boat Rentals

DINNER & A SHOW

How about giving Dad a night out with both dinner and theater? Even better–and Dad will love this–it’s one of the best deals in the city. International City Theatre is presenting the romantic comedy “The Angel Next Door” at the Beverly O’Neill (300 E Ocean Blvd) Theater on Father’s Day weekend. The play, by author Paul Slade Smith, has been lauded for capturing the joy, sophistication and wit of early screwball comedies. Enhance the experience with ICT's incredible Dinner Package: for $99 per person, you get a ticket to the theater and will enjoy a three-course prix fixe dinner at local landmark L'Opera Ristorante (101 Pine Ave). This fun and economical gift will let Dad know you really have your act together.

About the Author

Steve Lowery

Steve Lowery is a longtime local. Over the years he has written for the Los Angeles Times, ESPN, and others. If you're looking for the hidden gems of Long Beach, Steve is your go-to.