Long Beach Summer Bucket List

While the summer days winding down (sorry, kids), you still have time to add a few last-minute Long Beach adventures to your summer bucket list. Whether you're craving another taste of the local food scene, a splash of ocean excitement or just a little more family fun, these must-dos will end your summer on a high note. Check them out. Better: Go do them! NOW!

GO ROUND AND ROUND

Family vacations hinge on keeping the kids happy. Well, one spectacular, short stretch of Long Beach waterfront features a Ferris Wheel, two carousels, an arcade and the largest aquarium in Southern California. The 90-foot high Ferris Wheel in front of The Pike Outlets (95 S Pine Ave), has 20 gondolas with amazing views of the harbor. Next to it is the Herschel Spillman Carousel, built in 1920. Across the street in Shoreline Village there’s another carousel as well as tons of fun arcade games at Pelican Pier Pavillion. From there it's a very short walk to the amazing Aquarium of the Pacific. Take that, kids!

GET WET

It would be unfortunate to come to Long Beach–a city with more than five miles of sandy beaches–and not dive into some ocean activities. Cruise the canals of Naples on a stand-up paddleboard, on a romantic gondola ride, or as captain of your own electric Duffy boat. Jet Ski to Catalina, kite surf at Granada Beach–one of the nation’s best spots. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Long Beach offers so many ways to make a splash.

Ocean Sports in Long Beach

HAVE A SLICE

Certainly one of the most exciting aspects of a very exciting Long Beach food scene is a kind of local pizza renaissance. Local pizzerias offer everything from artisanal Neapolitan to hearty Chicago deep dish, vegan, sourdough and Thai Curry and a lot more. Local pizza artisans continue to put their inventive spin on the world’s favorite comfort food. Try some and you’ll taste that Long Beach pizza definitely delivers.

Cuisine Scene: Pizza

CATALINA DREAMIN’

Catalina Island combines turquoise waters and Riviera-like charm along with lots of hiking, camping and general relaxation. What’s not to love? And getting there is easy with Catalina Express, which has been transporting visitors for more than 40 years aboard its fleet of high-speed vessels. It’s an easy 22-mile voyage to a perfect getaway offering romance, natural beauty and adventure.

Visit Catalina Island from Long Beach

LBC Beach Guide Learn More

Great Picnic Spots in Long Beach Learn More

Ice Cream Creations in Long Beach Learn More

Long Beach Day Resorts Learn More

Beach Cafes in Long Beach Learn More

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.