Introduction
I’ll never forget the first time I visited Long Beach with my family—our car rolled into the harbor‑front just as the sun began to dip, the salty breeze carried laughter from nearby restaurants, and my kids pointed toward a massive ship docked nearby with wide eyes. It felt like we were on the edge of a playground that stretched from the ocean to the pier to the city. Over the next couple of days, we discovered that Long Beach isn’t just “by the sea”—it’s a treasure trove of family‑friendly fun, from aquariums to bike trails, historic ships to simple beach time. If you’re planning a family trip, here are 12 excellent things to do with family in Long Beach—everything we tried, loved, and would go back to.
12 Things To Do With Family in Long Beach, CA (2026)
1. Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific
One of our first stops was the Aquarium of the Pacific in Rainbow Harbor. This major attraction houses thousands of sea creatures and interactive exhibits.
Why it works for families: My kids were fascinated by the touch‑tank zones, the penguins, and the jellyfish displays. We spent well over a couple of hours here and still didn’t see everything.
Tip: Go early to beat the crowds, and set aside time—this is a full half‑day adventure.
See Also: 12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Hershey, PA
2. Ride the Shoreline/Harbor bike & pedestrian path
After the aquarium, we strapped on helmets and rented bikes (or surreys) and headed along the paved path by the water. A perfect mix of motion and scenery.
According to local guides, this path is “a scenic 3.1‑mile bike path with… wide concrete trail” ideal for families.
Why we loved it: We could let the kids ride ahead, stop for an ice cream, dip toes in the sand, take a breath of ocean air.
Tip: Bring or rent helmets, set a relaxed pace, and plan a couple of stops (playground, snack cart) so younger children stay engaged.
3. Stroll around Shoreline Village
Right next to the harbor and aquarium you’ll find Shoreline Village—a charming waterfront area with shops, restaurants, a carousel, and harbor views.
One blog describes it as a must‑visit spot: “Kids will enjoy checking out the toy stores and candy shops… while adults can browse through the boutiques.”
Why it works: We found a relaxed pace here after activity—browsing, grabbing snacks, and letting younger ones pick something small.
Tip: Good for lunch or early dinner; pick spots with harbor views and outdoor seating.
4. Take a Harbor Cruise or Whale Watching Tour
If your family enjoys being on the water, consider a harbor cruise or whale‑watching tour departing from Long Beach.
Why we enjoyed this: Being out on the water gives you a different perspective—kids spotted sea lions, and I got to relax while someone else ‘drove.’
Tip: Choose a shorter-length tour if young kids are involved (naps/schedules matter), and bring layers in case of a breeze.
5. Visit the Historic Ship RMS Queen Mary
This nearly century‑old ocean liner, docked in Long Beach, is part museum, part adventure. Visiting gives families an opportunity to explore a floating piece of history.
Why it works: My older kids loved climbing across the decks, imagining what it was like back in the day, while younger ones sat on the benches watching ships and seagulls.
Tip: Consider the time of day—late afternoon tends to have good light; some parts involve stairs so family with strollers or mobility issues might need to plan.
6. Beach Time at Mothers’ Beach or Alamitos Bay
No family trip to a coastal city is complete without some beach time—and in Long Beach, places like Mothers’ Beach or the sandy areas of Alamitos Bay are especially kid-friendly.
Why we loved it: Building sandcastles, floating in gentle water, collecting shells—that slower, relaxed hour or two helped balance out more structured outings.
Tip: Bring beach toys, umbrella, and shade; earlier in the day is cooler and less crowded.
7. Explore Naples Island by Gondola or Kayak
Here’s a unique family experience: the canals of Naples Island provide a calm, scenic water outing by gondola or kayak.
Why it works: We paddled slowly—the parents could relax, the kids were mesmerized by homes, water reflections and the novelty of the ride.
Tip: Choose a calm time (often early morning or late afternoon) and check rental availability ahead.
8. Check out the Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier
A classic stroll out over the water: the pier offers fishing stations, sunset views and the sense of being out ‘on the water’ while still solidly in the city.
Why we enjoyed it: We timed it for sunset, got hot chocolate and let the kids watch anglers and the waves below.
Tip: Bring layers for the breeze, and check for bait/fishing supplies if older kids are interested.
9. Visit Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch & Gardens
For a slower, more educational stop, this historic ranch features gardens, barns with animals, open space and tours that families can enjoy together.
Why it worked for us: After more active mornings, this was a great afternoon stop—kids fed goats, watched roosters, and we walked among citrus trees.
Tip: Check for scheduled tours or activities (especially animal‑related) and bring water/sunscreen for walking.
10. Ride Surreys or Pedal‑Karts at Shoreline/Harbor Area
Another way to get moving and have fun: many rental outlets near the harbor will provide surreys, pedal karts, and quad bikes—something the whole family can enjoy together.
Why we liked it: It was less about speed and more about smiles—riding together, laughing at the breeze, and stopping for ice cream.
Tip: Make sure younger kids are safe (helmets if possible), and pick a rental spot with hourly rates to match your stamina.
11. Visit the El Dorado Nature Center
For a nature break within the city, this center offers trails, lakes, bird‑watching, and a more tranquil family outing.
Why it worked for us: We packed a small snack, walked slowly, and let the kids shrink into discovery mode (frogs, birds, reeds). It was refreshing after busier stops.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, bring insect repellent, and allow time for wandering.
12. Spend an Evening at The Pike Outlets/Downtown Harbor Fun
Wrap up your day by heading into the downtown area by the harbor. The Pike Outlets offer shopping, kid‑friendly rides (ferris wheel or carousel) and snacks.
Why we enjoyed it: Evening lights, a relaxed pace, shopping for a small souvenir and grabbing dinner nearby.
Tip: Plan for some downtime here—no rush, just let the kids pick something small and enjoy the waterfront vibe.
Final Thoughts
Our family trip to Long Beach turned out to be one of those rare travel experiences where everyone found something they loved. The youngest built sandcastles, the teenager had their “cool” moment biking the harbor path, and the adults savored ocean views over coffee. Everything felt accessible, fun, and just right.
A few take‑aways from our trip:
- Start with a big “wow” stop: The Aquarium set the tone.
- Balance activity + chill: Bike path or surrey ride, then beach or nature center.
- Choose flexible schedule: Kids tired? Swap to beach or nature stop.
- Pick waterfront dinners: The harbor and downtown offer great family‑friendly restaurants with views.
- Expect weather changes: Even in SoCal, layers are useful—especially near the water or pier.
- Parking & transport: Some areas (like downtown harbor) are busy—arrive early or use parking apps.
- Mix indoor/outdoor: Weather or energy levels vary—having indoor options (like the Aquarium) was key.
If I had to pick a favorite snapshot moment, it was watching my kids bike the harbor path at dusk, the lighthouse in view, boats gently bobbing, ice‑cream cones in hand, and thinking, “We’re exactly where we needed to be.” That sense of togetherness—and discovery—makes Long Beach a standout.
So gather your family, pack some snacks, pick your sunblock and helmet, and head to Long Beach. May your trip bring laughter, sunshine, sand between your toes—and memories that last. Happy exploring!