For blond sandy beaches, historic ships, and a wealth of marine life, look no further than Southern California's Long Beach for your next vacation. This vibrant city is famous as the home of the historic Queen Mary ocean liner and the Aquarium of the Pacific, and is the launch point for trips to Catalina Island. If you book a Long Beach vacation rental close to Downtown, you'll also have the best of the city's bars, restaurants, and museums, on your doorstep. After dark, head down to the hip East Village and sample some good old Californian nightlife.
Once a world-class ocean liner, the Queen Mary has been an iconic sight in Long Beach since she was docked here in 1967. Decked out in all her 1930s finery, the Queen Mary is now a hotel and tourist attraction. There are various guided tours on offer, or really push the boat out (excuse the pun) and book dinner onboard. If you prefer to explore life beneath the ocean, head to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Rainbow Harbor. Come face-to-fin with sharks, penguins, and even otters in this state-of-the-art aquarium.
As the name may suggest, life in Long Beach is centered around the miles and miles of blond sands the city gets its name from. Grab a picnic and settle down for a day on the beach. Or book a dolphin or whale spotting cruise from the harbor and make a day of it. It's also the launching point for boat trips to Catalina Island and Naples Island. In the summer, Long Beach is awash with festivals and events, while in winter, it's all about visiting the city's popular museums and aquarium.
Southern California doesn't do badly in the weather stakes. Famous for its almost-year round sunshine and mild, Mediterranean climate, in the summer, Long Beach sees average temperatures around 70-80 degrees. It's the peak time to visit the city, and the best Long Beach vacation rentals tend to get booked up in advance. Spring and fall are equally pleasant times to visit, although beware of June Gloom, when it can get a little gray. In winter, the skies are still bright, but the temperature drops a little to below 60 degrees, so a light jacket is often needed.
Long Beach may be a large city, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in nature and wildlife. Angeles National Forest - San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is just a short drive away from your Long Beach vacation rental, and has plenty of hiking trails to explore the wonderful forests that blanket the rolling hills. There’s a choice of beaches to choose from along the coast, and Channel Islands National Park is a great place to enjoy scuba diving and other activities. For a touch of Zen, visit the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden.
Fly into Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB), the closest airport, located 4.4 mi (7.1 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could book a flight to Los Angeles Intl. (LAX), which is 17 mi (27.4 km) away.
You can see more of Long Beach by jumping on the metro at Downtown Long Beach Station, Pacific Avenue Station or 1st Street Station.
The heart wants what it wants, and right now that's to get away. It's time to pack your suitcase and take off to one of these top vacation rentals in or near Long Beach:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Long Beach vacation rental for you.
You need only set foot in one of our tiny house vacation rentals in Long Beach to figure out that cool things really do come in small packages. Cleverly designed to make use of every inch of space, these mini wonders promise a big vacation experience:
Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life at one of our weekend getaways in or near Long Beach. Whether you'd like to catch up with friends or spend quality time with the kids, there'll be something to suit your needs. Try these top-rated properties on for size:
Studio apartments are a tough act to follow when it comes to convenience, location and affordability. Get cozy in one of these studio apartments for rent in or near Long Beach and get a taste of the local vibe:
When you're ready to leave your studio apartment and sightsee, there's plenty to keep you occupied around Long Beach. Passionate about culture? Swing by La Plaza de Cultura Y Artes and Theatre West.
Just because you only have a day or two free doesn't mean you have to spend it in a dull hotel room. Get away but still have the home comforts you need at one of these short-term rentals in or around Long Beach:
Nothing says "I love you" quite like a romantic weekend rendezvous. If you're longing to spend a couple of relaxing nights away with your sweetheart, we've got some romantic getaways in and around Long Beach that will sweep you off your feet:
Nothing says "best vacation evvv-er" like staying in a mansion. Treat the family to an unforgettable getaway at one of these mansions for rent in or near Long Beach:
Share your trip and have twice as much fun. Whether you're planning an adventurous escape with buddies for a family get-together, you'll have your choice of large group vacation rentals in and around Long Beach:
A pool is often a necessity when deciding where to spend your vacation, particularly if you're bringing the kids along. Browse these houses with a pool in or near Long Beach and fill your days with frolicking good fun:
Not sure how to pack your bags for your Long Beach break? This impressive destination has a semi-arid climate. During the summer months, you can expect average temperatures of between 65 ºF and 80 ºF. Browse our selection of Long Beach vacation rentals by using the search bar at the top of the page. Simply adjust the filters to get more great ideas about where to stay.
Every get-together with the family should be one to remember. Whether you're organizing a break with the kids or a reunion with the extended family, these large family vacation rentals in or near Long Beach offer a comfy home away from home with ample space for everyone:
If you'd love to sightsee, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions nearby to add to your to-do list. Universal Studios Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier and Hollywood Walk of Fame are fine places to start.