Long Beach CA

Long Beach, CA – A vibrant coastal city where urban energy meets laid-back beach vibes. From its scenic waterfront to the lively downtown, Long Beach offers a little bit of everything—stunning marinas, cultural hotspots, and a thriving food scene. Whether you're exploring the Queen Mary, strolling along Shoreline Village, or relaxing on the beach, this Southern California gem is the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation.

• Population: ~456,000
• Weather: Mild and sunny year-round (50-80°F); cool ocean breezes, warm summers, and minimal rain.
• Places To Visit: The Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, Shoreline Village, El Dorado Nature Center, Belmont Shore.
• Top Activities: Biking along the beach path, whale watching, exploring museums, kayaking in Naples Canals, enjoying local breweries.
• Famous Food: Fresh seafood at Pier 76, burgers from Louis Burgers, tacos from Hole Mole, and ice cream from Long Beach Creamery.

Long Beach, CA, is a bustling coastal city known for its thriving industries, including healthcare, education, logistics, and technology. With a major port, strong tourism sector, and growing business environment, Long Beach offers a wide range of job opportunities.

Long Beach, California, is an awesome spot for students looking to relax after hitting the books. From beaches and parks to amazing eateries and nightlife, there's always something fun waiting for you here.

Belmont Shore & 2nd Street – This lively neighborhood offers cool coffee shops, unique boutiques, and plenty of affordable eats. It's perfect for hanging out with friends, strolling around, and people-watching.

Rosie's Dog Beach – Even if you don't have a dog, you'll love chilling here. It's one of the friendliest beaches in town, great for playing volleyball, enjoying the sun, or just watching adorable pups have fun.

The Pike Outlets – If you're looking for some retail therapy or want to catch a movie, The Pike has you covered. With shopping, dining, a cinema, and carousel rides, this outdoor area has a relaxed, cheerful vibe.

Shoreline Village – Right along the waterfront, Shoreline Village is perfect for grabbing a quick bite, renting bikes, or just hanging out and enjoying ocean views. Don't miss out on ice cream or funnel cake while you're there.

Long Beach Exchange (LBX) – Trendy, vibrant, and always bustling, LBX is home to innovative restaurants, food halls, outdoor areas, and shopping. It's an awesome place to meet friends or study with a refreshing change of scenery.

El Dorado Park – Friendly, spacious, and relaxing, this park is ideal for hanging out, walking trails, or hosting a casual picnic. Take advantage of grassy areas to unwind or play your favorite outdoor games.

Retro Row (4th Street) – Known for unique thrift stores, vintage shops, cozy cafés, and indie bookstores, Retro Row offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for students. Look out for movie nights at the historic Art Theatre.

Long Beach has plenty of chill spots that students love. Whether you're hanging out with friends, exploring alone, or just needing a study break, this city helps you unwind.

Long Beach, CA, is home to some of the best public and private colleges and universities in Southern California, offering top-tier education in fields such as engineering, business, healthcare, and the arts.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Long Beach

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) – One of the largest and most respected public universities in California, CSULB is known for its strong programs in engineering, business, the arts, and healthcare.

Long Beach City College (LBCC) – A well-regarded community college that provides a range of academic and vocational programs, including nursing, automotive technology, and business administration.

Los Angeles Harbor College – Located near Long Beach, this community college offers associate degrees and certificates in various fields, including STEM, liberal arts, and workforce training programs.

Cerritos College – A top-tier community college serving students in the Long Beach area, offering popular programs in healthcare, business, and technology.

El Camino College – A well-established public junior college providing quality education in fields like computer science, engineering, and nursing.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Long Beach

Pacific Coast University, School of Law – A specialized private law school offering affordable legal education designed for working professionals.

DeVry University – Long Beach – A private institution known for its career-focused programs in business, technology, and healthcare.

National University – Long Beach – A well-respected private, nonprofit university offering flexible programs in education, business, and technology for working adults.

Columbia College Hollywood (Long Beach Campus) – A private college specializing in film, television, and digital media, providing hands-on education for aspiring filmmakers and media professionals.

Trident University International – An online-based private university headquartered in the Long Beach area, offering degrees in business, health sciences, and leadership for adult learners and military personnel.

Long Beach, CA, offers some of the best high schools, providing students with strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities.

Top Public High Schools in Long Beach

• California Academy of Mathematics and Science (CAMS) – A top-rated STEM-focused school with rigorous college prep courses.
• Long Beach Polytechnic High School – Known for its strong athletics, academic programs, and distinguished alumni.
• Millikan High School – Offers specialized academies, including QUEST and COMPASS, to help students focus on specific career fields.
• Wilson High School – A well-rounded school with AP courses, arts programs, and strong athletics.
• Lakewood High School – Known for its strong academic support programs and extracurricular opportunities.

Top Private High Schools in Long Beach

• St. Anthony High School – A college preparatory Catholic school with a strong academic program.
• Mayfair High School – Offers a small, supportive learning environment and college prep courses.
• Pacific Baptist School – Known for its faith-based curriculum and strong moral foundation.
• Valley Christian High School – Provides a challenging academic curriculum within a Christian environment.
• Lakewood Christian Schools – Emphasizes academic achievement, leadership, and faith-based learning.

Long Beach, California, does not have major professional sports teams like neighboring Los Angeles, but it does have a strong sports culture with minor league teams and college athletics.

⚾ Baseball – Long Beach State Dirtbags (NCAA)

• Long Beach State Dirtbags – The baseball team from California State University, Long Beach is one of the most well-respected college programs in the country. Known for producing MLB talent like Evan Longoria, Troy Tulowitzki, and Jered Weaver, the Dirtbags have built a reputation for excellence.

🏀 Basketball – Long Beach State Beach (NCAA)

• Long Beach State Beach – The men’s and women’s basketball teams from Long Beach State compete in the NCAA’s Big West Conference. The men’s team has made multiple appearances in the NCAA tournament, earning recognition for its competitive play.

🏈 Football – Former Long Beach State 49ers (NCAA)

• Long Beach State 49ers Football – The college had a football program that was discontinued after the 1991 season. Although no longer active, the team produced notable players like Terrell Davis, a Pro Football Hall of Famer.

⚽ Soccer – Long Beach State Beach (NCAA)

• Long Beach State Beach Women’s Soccer – The women’s soccer team has been highly competitive, making multiple NCAA tournament appearances and consistently ranking among the top programs in the Big West Conference.

🏒 Hockey – Long Beach Shredders (USPHL)

• Long Beach Shredders – This team competes in the United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL), a junior hockey league that helps develop players for collegiate and professional careers.

🏁 Motorsports – Long Beach Grand Prix (IndyCar)

• Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach – While not a team, Long Beach is home to one of the most famous street races in North America. This annual event features IndyCar Series teams and has attracted legendary drivers like Mario Andretti and Alex Zanardi.

🏐 Volleyball – Long Beach State Beach (NCAA)

• Long Beach State Men's Volleyball – One of the top college volleyball programs in the nation, Long Beach State has won multiple NCAA championships and has produced numerous professional and Olympic players.

Although Long Beach does not have a major professional team, its strong collegiate and minor league sports scene makes it an exciting city for sports fans.

Long Beach, CA, is a vibrant coastal city with a rich history, exciting attractions, and a unique culture. From its maritime legacy to its famous landmarks, here are some fun facts about Long Beach:

1. Home to the Queen Mary – The RMS Queen Mary, a historic luxury ocean liner, is permanently docked in Long Beach and is rumored to be haunted.
2. Aquarium of the Pacific – This world-class aquarium has over 12,000 animals and welcomes more than 1.5 million visitors each year.
3. The First Tesla Dealership – Long Beach was home to one of the first-ever Tesla dealerships, helping launch the electric car revolution.
4. Largest Mural in the World – The city once had the world's largest mural, "Planet Ocean," which covered the Long Beach Arena and was 116,000 square feet.
5. Naples in California – Long Beach has its own version of Venice, featuring beautiful canals in the Naples neighborhood where you can enjoy gondola rides.
6. Popular Filming Location – The city has been featured in famous movies and TV shows, including Transformers, Gone in 60 Seconds, and C.S.I.
7. World’s Skinniest House – Long Beach is home to the narrowest house in the U.S., measuring just 10 feet wide.
8. Pacific Coast Highway Runs Through – The famous Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), one of the most scenic routes in the country, passes through Long Beach.
9. Largest Port in the U.S. – The Port of Long Beach is one of the busiest ports in the world, handling millions of cargo containers every year.
10. Floating Lighthouse – Unlike traditional lighthouses, the Lions Lighthouse for Sight is a symbolic structure meant to raise awareness for the blind community.