h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

There's lotsa fun things to do in Long Beach. Well, okay, not a whole lot, but some notable ones along the coast line.

Go to the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific. It's right down Shoreline Drive, near the Marina. There are many rather nifty animals there, including two species of sea turtles, seals, sea lions, a huge walk through tropical tank, a really big octopus that hides a lot, many different birds, and a pool where you can pet rays.

Also stop by Shoreline Village. It's right across from the Convention Center (that has a horrible Wyland painting of whales). There are lots of little shops, most too expensive to do anything in but look, and a really neat candy store. You'll also find some restaurants.


Further up the street, on Ocean Blvd, is a nice walk overlooking the harbor. On sunny weekends (just about every weekend), you'll see lots of sailboats, and sometimes a big tanker. There's one area where a bunch of people fly gliders along the cliff, and that's interesting to watch.

Further along is 2nd street, which is EXTREMELY busy at night, but is totally the place to be. Lots of people are there, walking around, and it has terrific ambience. You'll find many places to eat and shop.

The actual beach in Long Beach isn't really that great. Well, it's good for families with little children. But if you want waves, go further south to Huntington Beach.