Top Day Trips From Long Beach, CA

Long Beach is one of those cities where you can do almost anything in. Looking to hit up the water in search of some awesome waves or just to relax at? Check out some of the best beaches in town. In the mood to explore one of Orange County’s coolest, most eclectic line of shops and restaurants? There’s always Retro Row. For those weekends where you want to just walk around and visit some exotic sea life, The Aquarium of the Pacific is your best bet. 

While there is much to do in Long Beach, there are many surrounding cities that offer plenty of cool attractions and places to go have fun whether it be for family fun, or a couple’s date night. We encourage the exploration of all of what Orange County has to offer.

Continue reading for our list of the five best day trips from Long Beach.

1. VISIT DISNEYLAND

Long Beach is the perfect jumping-off point for a day trip to nearby Disneyland in Anaheim, CA. We’re pretty happy here in Long Beach, but there’s no denying that Disneyland is the “happiest place on earth” located just 25 miles south of Long Beach. If you have kids or are just a big kid yourself, Walt Disney Land is a can’t miss entertainment destination for anyone visiting the area. 

For those who have not been to Disneyland before, a good rule of thumb is to wear comfortable shoes and get there early to enjoy everything the park has to offer. Grab yourself a Dole Whip, a turkey leg, a churro, Mickey beignets, a fully loaded candy apple that’ll make a sweet tooth’s dream a reality, or anything they have to offer. You’ll find these amazing snacks and much more all throughout the park.

Address: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802

Ticket Prices: Varies

Time From Long Beach: 30-minute drive

2. VISIT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD

Universal Studios is another world-famous entertainment theme park located in the heart of the movie industry in Los Angeles. There’s something to enjoy for everyone in the family with attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World, The famous Studio Tour, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, and plenty more. Best of all, there are plenty of late-night food and drink options in the park after a tiring day of walking around the park. 

Much like Disneyland, Universal Studios offers plenty of excitement but with their own unique spin on things. They regularly update attractions and rides so you can expect to see some of your favorite modern movies integrated somewhere into the park.

Grab yourself a Butterbeer (in Hogsmeade), a giant glazed donut with sprinkles from The Big Pink, or of course the large and in charge turkey leg. You’ll never go hungry here.

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

Tickets: Purchase Here

Time From Long Beach: 40-minute drive

3. SURF AT HUNTINGTON BEACH

Huntington Beach isn’t called Surf City U.S.A. for nothing. This famous surf spot in Orange County hosts the annual U.S. Open of Surfing, which just so happens to be the world’s largest surf event. Just a 15-minute drive from Long Beach there’s no excuse not to learn how to surf in the Golden State. There are plenty of lessons and surf camps to choose from year-round! 

HB also has a plethora of restaurants, bars, and cool shops to enjoy. Don’t forget about Pacific City, Huntington’s premier beachfront mall equipped with establishments including Portola Coffee Lab, Bear Flag Fish Co, Lemonade, and Burnt Crumbs. These are just a few places you can go to quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger.

Address: Main Street & Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA, 92648

Time From Long Beach: 20-minute drive

4. TAKE A STROLL ON THE HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME

Feel like a star as you stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame and experience this famous Los Angeles tourist attraction. Something you might not know about this iconic attraction is that there’s a time capsule located on the walk that was placed there during the 50th anniversary in 2010. Prepare to brace the crowds and grab a bite to eat at one of the many nearby restaurants.

Los Angeles is right in Long Beach’s backyard. Besides the traffic, there’s hardly an excuse not to visit the City of Angels. LA is perfect for a day trip as there is so much to see.

Check out a city guide and see what more there is to explore when finished up taking in the sights at the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Address: Hollywood Blvd at Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Time From Long Beach: 40-minute drive

5. CATCH A CONCERT AT THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL

There’s no better place to catch a live music act than the famous open-air Hollywood Bowl. Located in North Hollywood, The Bowl has played host to some of the most famous musical artists in modern history. Some of the most famous performances include Tony Bennet, Bob Dylan, The Beach Boys, Jimi Hendrix, Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, and plenty more. Click here to buy tickets and access a full list of performances.  

Address: 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068

Time From Long Beach: 50-minute drive

Looking for convenient hotel accommodations in Long Beach for exploring all that Southern California has to offer? Hotel Current is conveniently located just minutes away from all the action of downtown, the airport, and of course plenty of day-trip spots. If you’re looking for even more things to do in the LBC, check out our attractions page. Book your local stay with Hotel CURRENT today!