Long Beach, California, is a vibrant southern California coastal city with something for everyone. This city has an international flair—whether you are seeking great food, relaxation, adventure, culture, or natural beauty. Nestled along the Pacific Ocean just 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, Long Beach boasts a unique mix of urban energy and laid-back beach vibes.
I was drawn to Long Beach’s waterfront, expansive sandy beaches, and diverse cultural attractions, from museums to a thriving food and arts scene. But more so, I loved the international dining selection throughout Long Beach.
Read more: Long Beach California- A Coastal Getaway with Wonderful International FlavorDisclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase or booking, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.Travels of Sarah Fay is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to amazon.com and affiliated sites at no cost to you. This was a part of a sponsored trip hosted by Visit LB (Visit Long Beach). All views are my own and honest opinion of my experiences.
Adventure seekers can explore the iconic Queen Mary, go on a whale-watching excursion, or paddleboard. Nature lovers will appreciate the city’s beautiful parks, waterfront walking trails, and Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden. Whether traveling solo, with friends, a romantic getaway, or with family, Long Beach offers a perfect blend of international flavors to make your tongue tingle while providing relaxation and excitement, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all kinds. Long Beach is a great place to experience what this region of California offers.
Brief History of Long Beach, California
Long Beach’s history dates back thousands of years when it was inhabited by the Tongva people. In the late 18th century, Spanish explorers arrived, and the area became part of large Mexican ranchos before joining the United States in 1848. The city flourished in the early 20th century as an oil boomtown and naval base. You still can see some of the oil rigs in some parts of the city and some “hidden” offshore. Today, Long Beach is a thriving metropolis with a population of about 467 thousand people, making it one of the largest cities in California. It’s a modern, diverse city celebrating its history while embracing progress.
Day 1
After traveling from Los Angeles, not far from Disneyland, I arrived in Long Beach for my stay at The Westin Hotel Long Beach by Marriott on Ocean Boulevard. I couldn’t wait to get rested for the next few days. The Westin won the 2024 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award. The hotel’s theme is designed to balance mind, body, and spirit, with its relaxing decor and rooms, for instance with soft, cozy heavenly beds and pillows, rainfall showers and so much more. I loved the onsite restaurant Navy Proof Food & Spirits, the latte at Bluestone Lane Coffee cafe in the morning, and the hotel’s location across from the theatre and nearby oceanfront.
The Westin has a great location because it is across the street from the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center and walkable to The Pike Outlets and Shoreline Village. While I arrived late I decided to check out the Auld Dubliner nearby an Irish bar that literally made me feel like I was back in Dublin, Ireland. After checking out some live music, I decided to rest up at the Westin for my long weekend experiencing as much as I could in Long Beach.
Day 2: Breakfast and a Walk Anyone?
Around 6 am I woke up and took a walk to enjoy the morning sun with a cup of coffee from nearby Rose Park Roasters. The coffee was exactly what I needed. It was time to start exploring the international fare for breakfast. We decided to have crepes for breakfast and went to Creme De La Crepe (www.cremedelacrepe.com) on 1st Street. What a great taste of France here in Long Beach, with the great savory and sweet crepes and wonderful lattes.
They have many great options as well if waffles or eggs are more of your thing. It was a popular place so go early and they have gluten-free options. I tried the Parisienne Crepe with chicken and savory Bechamel sauce with baby greens salad. I was feeling the savory options and they even use the traditional buckwheat crepes that come from the Brittany regions of France. It’s not far from the hotel in the East Village Art District. This tasty breakfast was a great way to get some energy for the next activity, a Surrey Bike ride at Alamitos Beach.
Who loves a great bike ride on the beach?
Well Wheel Fun Rentals at Alamitos Beach is a great place on the ocean and a great way to get some refreshing beach breezes and a little vitamin D. (It’s also a great way to burn some of those breakfast calories.) There is a great beach bike path that goes for miles along the beach. At Wheel Fun you can rent all types of bikes, including a Surrey Bike and electric bikes; I chose the Surrey Bike. I was so lucky to get some sunshine, enjoy time at the beach, and build up my appetite for a marvelous beach-side lunch. Driving by the waterfront, you see families walking, riding, kiting, etc. It was a lovely activity to do with my mom and definitely the perfect way to soak in the California vibes.
Lunch on the Beachfront?
Lunch at the beach was a must and Gaucho Beach was the vibe. The restaurant is located only a stone’s throw from the bike shop off of Shoreline Drive and on the waterfront. This Argentinian-inspired restaurant was so delicious, starting with the various Empanadas, Gaucho Salad, and a must-have Skirt Steak and Fries. Don’t forget the drinks, which included the classy virgin versions of an Espresso Martini and Strawberry Mojito. All this while sitting on the patio overlooking the sunny beach! What a great environment and the staff were very nice. It was the perfect place for lunch. My fun afternoon was still to come. But first I grabbed a coffee at Gaucho Cafe, located next to the restaurant. Next, I planned to view some art and learn more about the great “rancho” past of the area.
Museum of Latin American Art
The next stop was the Museum of Latin American Art. MOLAA is the only museum dedicated solely to modern and contemporary Latin American and Latina art in the USA. It is a great way to see some modern works and I particularly loved the outside art garden with its wonderful sculptures. It has a great mixture of cactuses in the garden as well. This is a great way to spend an hour or two and don’t forget to visit the cute gift shop which is a great way to show your support and find truly authentic Latin American souvenirs from artists. There are some docents and the staff is also very knowledgeable about the exhibits.
Experience the past of Long Beach at Rancho Los Cerritos
You may have heard about the Spanish Rancho period of California history. Well, I wanted to learn more and see a Rancho that is still around, so I went to visit Rancho Los Cerritos, one of two historic ranchos in existence in the Long Beach area. These ranchos were formed by Spanish Land Grants that consisted of thousands of acres. Rancho Los Cerritos is a museum consisting of a historic adobe house with a beautiful garden especially when it blooms in the spring. The museum consists of several rooms decorated in the various periods throughout the estate’s history.
You can visit Rancho Los Cerritos and see the fabulous property, the Visitor Center, and learn more about tours, special events, weddings, and programs they offer. It is also unique since the property now collects rainwater under the new brick parking area that provides most of the garden’s irrigation. It was wonderful visiting the property and learning more about those who inhabited and/or ran the property over the years. I am glad this rancho was preserved since it’s a great piece of history.
The Father of Long Beach
Rancho Los Cerritos was founded in 1834 as a Mexican land grant given to soldier and rancher Manuel Nieto, later expanding under John Temple, who built the historic adobe house in 1844. John Temple, a prominent businessman, transformed the land into a successful cattle ranch, contributing to the region’s economic growth. Jotham Bixby, known as the “Father of Long Beach,” purchased the rancho in 1866, developing it into a major sheep ranch and later playing a key role in shaping the city of Long Beach.
In 1881, Jotham Bixby leased a portion of Rancho Los Cerritos to the Long Beach Land and Water Company, which planned and developed the city of Long Beach, laying the foundation for its growth.
Dinner Anyone?
After the charming day, I couldn’t wait for dinner at Cafe Sevilla. It’s like you walked into Spain. This restaurant provides many tapas, but tonight I chose to have the Journey Through Spain 5-course menu for 2. It was a set price of $109 but you have a wonderful dinner including live music and entertainment.
The red-hot second course of various sausages on a skillet was set on fire in front of my eyes; so delicious and what an experience. The main course I selected was the Salmon Con Chorizo, but the 16-Hour Braised Short Rib was truly mouth-watering too! After an amazing meal I topped it off with some Basque Cheesecake with its orange vanilla flavor. It was delicious. This was just another great international selection offered in Long Beach that truly surprised me! After walking back to the Westin, it was time to get a little shut-eye for my next day’s adventure.
Day 3 Who Loves a Sunday Brunch?
Well today, you may want to put on your tiara, since the first stop is the memorable Royal Sunday Brunch | The Queen Mary. Not only is this a regal opportunity to go on this historic luxury ocean liner, but you get to have Sunday Brunch in its elegant Grand Salon while listening to a fantastic band. It’s not your typical English fare, but an international selection of food from many countries. Just walking on the Queen Mary was awe-inspiring.
The many buffet tables provide breakfast and lunch selections, from eggs, omelets, waffles, and pancakes, to brisket prime rib, ham, sushi, fruits, salads, and vegetables. There was so much to choose from. Then was an endless amount of desserts and the never-ending Mimosas for those that drink. The coffee was excellent too! The staff was amazing, always stopping by to see what you may need or fill your glass.
Queen Mary’s Royal Sunday Brunch was a great experience and we met folks that stayed on the ship overnight, some from a nearby cruise boat, and one sweet lady was there celebrating her 95th birthday with her family. This historic Grand Salon is so unique and a great place for a Sunday brunch. The Royal Sunday Brunch is a truly wonderful, timeless experience.
Take A Tour Of The Queen Mary
Wait, I couldn’t just leave the Queen Mary without seeing more of this historic Icon of Long Beach. I just had to take the marvelous Queen Mary Glory Days Tour, this was an awesome 1 hour guided tour to learn more about the ship’s fantastic past and see some of its gorgeous art deco design. It’s truly unique and there are various tours outlined on their website page Guided Tours; including a ghost tour for those that are goulish about ghosts. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable about the ship’s past and present and was a great guide. I am so glad I got to see this iconic landmark. If you love history and cruises, this is one to visit.
Mediterranean Lunchtime in Long Beach
Well after our walk around the wonderful ocean liner, I took a ride on this sunny day and then started to think about a unique lunch. And, this lunch was set at Open Sesame, an authentic Lebanese/Mediterranean restaurant that has been family-owned for over 25 years and is located on 2nd Street in Long Beach’s Belmont Shore neighborhood.
Open Sesame’s lunch was wonderful, you could sit inside or outside and loved the decor. We ordered some amazing food including the first course Grilled Halloumi Cheese with Watermelon followed by Kefta and so many savory dishes. Last, was Open Sesame’s iconic dessert Baklava Crumble which contains creamy ice cream that sticks together with a tasty and unique texture, covered in crumbled baklava. It was great to try their tasty Lebanese cuisine.
After leaving the restaurant, we took a walk since there are some unique boutiques and cafes on 2nd Street. I just had to have a latte at Aroma Di Roma as I strolled through the boutiques. What a great afternoon, but more was yet to come.
Explore The Canals Of Naples Island
Next I went for a lovely Venetian gondola ride with Gondola Getaway through the canals of Naples Island. It is located in the Belmont Shores neighborhood off 2nd Street. On a sunny day it is a calm way to adventure on the water through the canals of Naples Island. Gondola Getaway is perfect for a mother daughter, or something to do with your partner. It was such a special way to enjoy a piece of Italy in Long Beach in an original Venetian gondola.
It is perfect to enjoy a picnic or some cooler beverages, while taking in some impressive waterfront homes.
Wander through the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
I then drove to Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden to take a stroll through this meditative zen garden, with various small miniature temples, a bridge, and a large koi fish pond. It was a great way to relax before our final dinner during my international food tour through Long Beach. Just check the times and you may need a reservation for this garden since it is located near the university and they do have special events (like weddings, etc.). But it was a peaceful and relaxing setting as well as picture perfect to make your own postcard.
Eat at a Michelin Guide Restaurant in Long Beach, Ca
After a long day, grab some Thai food that will transport you straight to Thailand at Chiang Rai another popular spot for dinner in Long Beach. What a fantastic casual Thai restaurant. It is cutely decorated and be warned, they don’t take reservations, it is first-come first-served. It was so tasty and they had all degrees of hot, spicy food (or you can get it non-spicy upon request). I tried the Pad Thai with Chicken (and contains cashews). Then I tried the classic north Thai dish called Khao Soi, which contains egg noodles with curry sauce and you can choose your protein (I had ribeye steak). I found the medium spice level to be a bit too hot for me. But to cool off from the heat, I had the cool and tasty Coconut Ice Cream dessert.
After this delectable meal, it was time to return to the Westin and pre-pack for the final day and final excursion before leaving Long Beach.
Day 4
The perfect way to begin the day at The Westin is breakfast at Navy Proof Food & Spirits in the hotel. If you want something sweet and yummy try the Churro French Toast. Of course, before heading out for our final excursion, I had another latte with a hint of cinnamon at Bluestone Lane Coffee in the lobby before venturing out to an activity everyone should do during the gray whale migration- whale watching!
Whale Watching With Harbor Breeze Cruises
If you love wildlife and want to see the whales off the coast of California, Long Beach is the perfect place to take a whale watch excursion. I went whale watching with Harbor Breeze Cruises in Long Beach and had a whale of a time! We saw whales, and two different types of dolphins.
Harbor Breeze can’t promise a sighting, but the water between Long Beach and Catalina Island is deep and attracts the whales that migrate up and down the West Coast. We saw hundreds of dolphins and then several gray whales, what a sight! After seeing various whales spout air/mist through their blowhole, the final two whales did show their tails as they dove deep. It was so awesome and we were lucky to have such sunny weather for this 2+ hour tour. This was icing on the cake for my trip to Long Beach.
Wrapping Up My Delightful International Tour of Long Beach
Long Beach is more than just a coastal getaway— it’s a vibrant, international experience filled with ocean breezes, rich history, and diverse culture. From savory exquisite international cuisine, exploring historic landmarks like the Queen Mary, and embarking on thrilling whale-watching excursions, every moment in Long Beach offers something special.
Long Beach’s culinary scene is a true highlight, taking you on a journey around the world—whether it’s French crepes, Argentinian empanadas, Spanish tapas, Lebanese delights, Thai flavors, or a Royal Sunday Brunch fit for a Queen. The international flavors of Long Beach show a unique global experience along with the wonderful charm of the ocean front. Long Beach is a must visit destination from relaxing in a gondola or whale watching, or taking in the serene Japanese garden or other fascinating museums, it’s clear why Long Beach is a global gem. Stay longer than a day trip from Los Angeles, because this is by far one of the most international areas in Southern California and fun to explore.
As always, Enjoy the Journey!
PS: There is so much more to do, like visit the Aquarium of the Pacific next to the Harbor Beach Cruises (especially if you have kids) or Long Beach Museum of Art that looks over the Pacific Ocean and the beach off Ocean Boulevard, but time ran out but gives more reasons to return to this wonderful city!
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February 16, 2025
