Long Beach is a SoCal Gem Packed With Family Fun

Long Beach boasts some of the best family-friendly beaches in SoCal and that includes beaches for furry members of the family, too. Located along four-acres in Belmont Shore, Rosie’s Dog Beach is the only off-leash dog beach in LA County and it hosts special doggie events such as an annual corgi beach party.

For the fit fam looking to stay active while sightseeing, Shoreline Pedestrian Bike Path is a great way to sightsee while exercising. The 3.1-mile path starts at the lighthouse in Shoreline Aquatic Park and then hugs the ocean for much of the ride. Rent a bike from the city’s bike share program or a surrey for the whole family from Wheel Fun Rentals.

You don’t need to book a flight to the UK for a slice of British history. Peek into the lives of the Royal Family right in Southern California. The historic Queen Mary, once a luxury ocean liner built for King George V is now docked in Long Beach and open for tours. Guests can step back in time and explore the 90-year-old Art Deco stunner, from the grand ballrooms to King Edward VIII’s suite. The best part? You can actually stay on the ship. The staterooms have been renovated and brought into the 21st century with modern conveniences while still retaining historic charm.

One of the most popular aquariums in the country, the Aquarium of the Pacific features more than 11,000 animals and more than 50 exhibits celebrating marine life in the Pacific Ocean. For something really special, book the aquarium’s behind the scenes tour to see what it takes to run an aquarium, from water filtration to raising baby sea urchins. You can even feed fish behind the scenes at the Tropical Reef exhibit. The tour is open to children seven and older as long as they are accompanied by an adult.