Port of Long Beach Cruise Guide

Solid business hotel on the World Trade Center campus — nothing flashy but everything works

Why we picked it: Reliable Hilton quality in downtown Long Beach. Walking distance to Pine Avenue restaurants and nightlife. Convention center is next door. Good option if you're earning Hilton points or want something dependable without surprises.

Pro tip: The location on Ocean Blvd is walkable to the best of downtown Long Beach. No cruise-specific packages, but parking is reasonable and the terminal is a cheap rideshare away. The lobby bar is decent for a nightcap.

Parking: Self-parking available at the hotel. No long-term cruise parking.

All-suite hotel with kitchens and a Stay, Park & Sail package. The family cruise hotel in Long Beach.

Why we picked it: Suites with full kitchens mean you can make breakfast, store snacks, and spread out with the kids. Ask about their Stay, Park & Sail package when booking. Hot breakfast every morning. Outdoor pool for burning off kid energy before boarding.

Pro tip: Ask about the Stay, Park & Sail package through Marriott's site when you book. The suites are genuinely roomy — pull-out sofas in the living area mean you don't need a second room. Stock the kitchen with road trip snacks from the nearby Vons.

Parking: Ask about their Stay, Park & Sail package when booking.

Long Beach's original Park & Cruise hotel, with a free shuttle, extended parking and a pool the kids will love.

Why we picked it: Long Beach's original Park & Cruise hotel. Per the hotel's own site: one night's stay, free parking for up to 7 nights while you cruise, and a shuttle to the cruise terminal. Outdoor pool and hot tub, free continental breakfast.

Pro tip: Book the Park & Cruise package directly through the hotel's website — it isn't sold through the room-booking button below. Confirm shuttle times when you check in. The pool and hot tub are a nice bonus the night before.

Parking: Park & Cruise: 1 night's stay + free parking for up to 7 nights + terminal shuttle, booked directly with the hotel.

Per covelongbeach.com, checked 2026-08-09

Heated pool, fire pits and Queen Mary views at a waterfront resort. The fun option for families.

Why we picked it: The pool area is spectacular for kids — heated pool, lounge chairs, and fire pits with views of the Queen Mary. Latin-inspired design makes it feel like a resort. Fuego restaurant on-site means you don't have to schlep kids to dinner. Closest hotel to the cruise terminal. Now independently operated after a 2026 renovation and rebrand from its former Hilton affiliation.

Pro tip: Ask about welcome amenities for kids at check-in. The fire pits are mesmerizing for little ones at sunset. Ask about connecting rooms if you need extra space. The waterfront location means kids can watch boats and the Queen Mary from the grounds.

Parking: Self-parking available. Ask about cruise parking packages for families.

Budget-friendly airport hotel with free breakfast and parking — practical choice for early flights in

Why we picked it: Great value for families flying into Long Beach Airport — close to LGB, free hot breakfast, free parking, and clean rooms. Nothing fancy but everything a family needs for one night. The savings compared to downtown hotels can fund a nice dinner out.

Pro tip: Book this if you're flying into LGB the night before. Free breakfast saves you a restaurant stop in the morning. There's no cruise parking package, but one rideshare covers the whole family to the terminal. The pool is small and still enough to cool off.

Parking: Free self-parking for guests. No extended cruise parking.

Modern waterfront hotel with a rooftop pool, steps from the Aquarium and family-friendly restaurants.

Why we picked it: Location is perfect for families — you can walk to the Aquarium of the Pacific, Shoreline Village, and The Pike Outlets from the front door. The rooftop pool is a hit with kids. Modern rooms with enough space for a family of four. Restaurant and shops right downstairs.

Pro tip: Spend the afternoon at the Aquarium (it's literally across the street), let the kids swim at the rooftop pool, then walk to Shoreline Village for dinner. You won't need a car all day, and the cruise terminal is a short rideshare hop.

Parking: Self-parking in Pike Outlets garage. No long-term cruise parking.

Dependable Marriott with a pool and easy access to family activities. The safe bet for one night.

Why we picked it: Marriott reliability in a downtown location close to restaurants and activities. Outdoor pool, fitness center, and the Bistro for quick meals. Walkable to Pine Avenue dining. Rooms are clean and comfortable for a family of four.

Pro tip: Good central location if you want to explore downtown Long Beach the evening before. The pool is heated. Ask about cribs and rollaway beds when you book. Quick and easy rideshare to the port in the morning.

Parking: Self-parking available. Ask about extended parking for cruise guests.

Tokyo-born ramen chain on 2nd Street, doing plant-based broths and rich tonkotsu that kids slurp up.

What to order: The original tonkotsu ramen is rich and satisfying. The spicy tantanmen is a hit with adventurous eaters. Chicken karaage (Japanese fried chicken) is a safe bet for picky kids. The plant-based broth options are genuinely excellent.

Kids: Kids love the noodles. Portions are customizable. Staff is patient with young diners. No dedicated kids menu but smaller bowls available on request.

Pro tip: Ramen is a fantastic pre-cruise meal for families: warm, filling, and kids love slurping noodles. The plant-based broth base makes it work for a wide range of dietary needs, and service is quick enough that you won't linger.

Parking: Street parking on 2nd Street. It can be tight on weekends, so arrive early or park a block south.

A Zagat-rated Italian institution in a grand early-1900s bank building, white tablecloths and zero pretension.

What to order: House-made pastas are the star, and the osso buco deserves more attention than it gets. The wine list is an award winner. Go for the prix fixe lunch if you want the experience without the dinner price tag.

Pro tip: This is Long Beach's special-occasion spot. If you're celebrating an anniversary or just want to start the cruise feeling fancy, book a table here. Lunch is the better move for cruisers — you'll eat well and still make boarding.

Parking: Street parking or nearby city garages on Pine Avenue. Valet available for dinner service.

Mezze platters and kebabs in a gorgeous East Village courtyard.

What to order: Start with the hummus flight and fattoush salad. The lamb kebab plate is outstanding. Ask for a table in the outdoor courtyard, all twinkle lights and greenery and a chill that feels a world away from LA.

Pro tip: Great option for a lighter pre-cruise meal. The portions are generous enough to share, so order a few small plates and split everything. The courtyard is one of the prettiest outdoor dining spots in Long Beach.

Parking: Street parking in the East Village Arts District. Metered spots on 1st Street and side streets.

Long Beach's beloved brunch destination, where craft cocktails meet creative American comfort food.

What to order: The deep-fried deviled eggs are a cult favorite. Brunch cocktails are taken seriously here — the Bloody Mary bar is legendary. The biscuits and gravy are the kind of thing you'll think about on the ship.

Pro tip: Weekend brunch draws a wait, so arrive early or put your name in and walk around the neighborhood. The cocktail program is no joke, so pace yourself if you're boarding later.

Parking: Street parking on Broadway and the surrounding blocks.

Polynesian-inspired tiki bar and kitchen in a lush tropical setting — inventive cocktails and shareable plates

What to order: The tiki cocktails are the main event — elaborate rum drinks served in ceramic vessels. For food, the Korean fried chicken and pupu platter are crowd favorites. The crab rangoon dip is addictive.

Pro tip: This place has serious ambiance: thatched ceilings, bamboo walls and moody lighting that make you feel like you're already on vacation. The cocktails are strong, so pace yourself before boarding.

Parking: Street parking on Anaheim Street and the surrounding blocks.

Harbor views, cocktails and SoCal glamour from the rooftop of a restored 1926 hotel — dinner only, plus Sunday tea.

Closed Mon

What to order: The cocktail menu is the headliner — classic drinks with a California twist. Food leans upscale seasonal. There's no brunch, but Sunday afternoon tea (11am-3pm) is the alternative to evening dining. Go at sunset for the full experience.

Pro tip: Dinner runs Tuesday-Saturday, 5-10pm — closed Sunday dinner and all day Monday. Even if you don't eat here, walk through the lobby — the 1920s architecture is jaw-dropping. Reservations essential.

Parking: Valet parking at the Fairmont Breakers. Self-parking in the hotel garage also available.

Long Beach seafood institution since '93 — fresh oysters, seasonal catches, and a lively bar

What to order: Start at the oyster bar for its rotating selection of fresh varieties. The grilled fish plates with seasonal sides are consistently excellent. Don't skip the clam chowder.

Pro tip: This place has been a Pine Avenue anchor for over 30 years for a reason. Come hungry — portions are generous. Lunch is a better value than dinner and just as good. The bar area has a fun, casual energy.

Parking: Pine Avenue garage or metered street parking on Pine and Broadway.

Baby back ribs and cozy booths at a Long Beach BBQ favorite that has been going since 1980.

What to order: Baby back ribs are the reason this place exists — fall-off-the-bone good. The tri-tip is slow-roasted and excellent. The combo plates let everyone try a bit of everything. Mac and cheese side is a kid magnet.

Kids: Dedicated kids menu with smaller ribs, chicken, and hot dogs. Booths accommodate car seats easily.

Pro tip: The cozy booth seating makes it great for families with squirmy kids. Portions are enormous — consider splitting a combo plate between two kids. Been a Long Beach favorite for over 40 years.

Parking: Free parking lot right at the restaurant. Easy in and out.

Old-school Italian since 1954, one of the first pizza joints in California, and it still delivers.

What to order: Order a made-from-scratch pizza, which is simple, unpretentious and genuinely good. The house salad with their signature dressing is a local legend. Pastas are classic Italian-American comfort.

Kids: Kids love the pizza. Pasta portions can be split easily. Family-owned vibe means the staff is great with little ones.

Pro tip: This is a Long Beach institution — the kind of place where families have been eating for three generations. No frills, just solid food. The 2nd Street location means you can walk off lunch browsing the shops afterward.

Parking: Small parking lot at the restaurant. Street parking on 2nd Street in Naples.

Tacos, tostadas and a colorful room, casual and right on the water at Shoreline Village.

What to order: The fish tacos are the star. Quesadillas are big and cheesy — perfect for kids. The tequila-glazed baby back ribs are surprisingly good if the adults want something more substantial.

Kids: Kids menu with quesadillas, chicken strips, and bean-and-cheese burritos. Crayons provided.

Pro tip: Outdoor seating overlooking the harbor keeps kids entertained while you eat. The bright, festive decor makes it feel like vacation already started. Quick service — you won't be waiting long.

Parking: Shoreline Village lot with validation. Additional metered parking along Shoreline Drive.

Latin-inspired waterfront restaurant with skyline views, right next to the cruise terminal.

What to order: Come for weekend brunch, served 10 AM-4 PM Friday through Sunday. The menu is built around handcrafted cocktails and shared small plates, with the guacamole and Ropa Vieja as the signatures.

Pro tip: This is the closest quality restaurant to the cruise terminal — you can practically see your ship from the patio. Perfect if you're staying at The Maya the night before. The views of the Queen Mary and downtown skyline are unbeatable.

Parking: Free parking at The Maya. Easy in and out.

Waterfront Irish pub at Shoreline Village serving burgers and fish and chips, with harbor views the kids will love.

What to order: Fish and chips are generous and crispy. The burgers are solid. The loaded nachos are big enough to share. Kids can watch boats come and go from the waterfront patio.

Kids: Kids menu available with the usual favorites — chicken tenders, grilled cheese, mac and cheese. High chairs available.

Pro tip: After lunch, walk the kids through Shoreline Village — there's a carousel, an arcade, and candy shops. It's basically a built-in activity after your meal.

Parking: Shoreline Village has a parking lot, and some restaurants validate. Metered spots along the boardwalk.

Reliable Asian-American chain near the waterfront — lettuce wraps, noodles, and something for every picky eater

What to order: The Chang's Chicken Lettuce Wraps are the crowd-pleaser. The lo mein and fried rice keep kids happy. The Mongolian Beef is a reliable favorite. Gluten-free menu available.

Kids: Kids menu with chicken, noodles, and rice options. Crayons and activity sheets. High chairs available.

Pro tip: This is the no-drama choice when you have multiple kids with different tastes. The menu is huge and covers enough ground that even the pickiest eater finds something. Walking distance to Shoreline Village and the Aquarium if you want to combine lunch with an activity.

Parking: Street parking on Pine Avenue or city garage nearby. Easy access from The Pike Outlets area.

Movie-themed seafood chain on the waterfront. Kids eat it up, literally and figuratively.

What to order: The shrimp dishes are the obvious play — coconut shrimp, shrimp scampi, and the sampler platter. Fish and chips are reliable. The movie trivia cards on every table keep kids busy between courses.

Kids: Kids menu with shrimp, chicken, and mac and cheese. Interactive trivia games at every table keep kids entertained.

Pro tip: Yes, it's a chain. But kids love the Forrest Gump theme, the trivia games, and flipping the license plate signs. The waterfront location with harbor views genuinely makes it more fun than most suburban locations.

Parking: Shoreline Village lot or Pike Outlets parking, both with validation for diners.

Themed escape rooms downtown, running Pirates of Tortuga, Haunted Manor and Wizard Trials for groups.

Best for: Teens who love puzzles, group bonding, competitive families

Pro tip: The Wizard Trials room is the most popular with teens, Harry Potter vibes without the trademark. Book online in advance, since time slots can fill up. Groups of 4-6 work best. The Pine Avenue location is easy to find.

Rent bikes at Shoreline Village and cruise the flat, scenic waterfront path down to Belmont Shore.

Best for: Active teens, anyone who wants fresh air before a week on a ship

Pro tip: The Long Beach bike path is one of the best in SoCal — flat, wide, and gorgeous. Rent from one of the shops near Shoreline Village and ride east along the beach toward Belmont Shore. It's about 3 miles one way with ocean views the entire route. Electric bikes available if your teen wants to go farther.

The only off-leash dog beach in LA County. You don't need a dog of your own to be entertained.

Best for: Dog lovers, teens who need to burn energy, beach time

Pro tip: Dozens of dogs running, swimming, and playing fetch make this the most entertaining free activity in Long Beach. Even without a dog, it's a blast to watch. The beach itself is wide and clean. Bring a towel — you might get splashed.

A classic carousel, candy shops and a waterfront boardwalk, all at toddler speed.

Best for: Toddlers and preschoolers, families who want a mellow morning

Pro tip: The carousel is the centerpiece — painted horses, bells, the whole nine yards. After that, walk the boardwalk and count the boats. There are candy stores, ice cream shops, and usually a guy making balloon animals on weekends. Low-key and zero stress. The arcade has old-school games plus newer stuff. Grab ice cream and walk the boardwalk — there are telescopes for harbor views and usually street performers on weekends. Low-key and fun without eating up your whole morning. Walk the boardwalk from Parkers' Lighthouse all the way around to the harbor entrance. The views of the city skyline, the Queen Mary, and your cruise ship in the distance are great for photos. Multiple restaurants and ice cream shops line the path. The AquaBus water taxi runs from here over to the Queen Mary area for pocket change.

Tiny waterfront park with ducks, fountains and a grassy lawn. Ideal for burning off toddler energy.

Best for: Families with toddlers who need to run around before being confined to a ship

Pro tip: This little park sits between the convention center and Shoreline Village. The ducks and fountains keep little ones entertained. It's flat, safe, and enclosed enough that you're not chasing kids toward traffic. Combine with a Shoreline Village walk for a full morning.

Koi ponds, waterfalls and footbridges in a tranquil Japanese garden that lands surprisingly well with kids.

Closed Mon & Tue

Best for: Families who want a calm, beautiful experience without crowds

Pro tip: Located on the Cal State Long Beach campus. The koi fish are the star attraction for kids, swarming whenever people approach. Footbridges, waterfalls and a tea house make it feel like stepping into another world. Paths are stroller-accessible. Check the garden's open days before you drive over.

Sail out of Rainbow Harbor looking for blue whales, grays and dolphins in the channel.

Best for: Nature lovers, anyone who wants to be on the water before being on a ship

Pro tip: Gray whale season runs December through April — perfect timing for winter cruisers. Blue whales show up in summer. The boats depart from Shoreline Village and take you out past the breakwater. Morning trips tend to have calmer seas. Bring layers — it's always cooler on the water.

The only museum in the US dedicated solely to Latin American art, tucked into Long Beach's East Village and easy to miss.

Closed Mon & Tue

Best for: Art lovers, culture seekers, couples

Pro tip: The outdoor sculpture garden is and free to visit even without museum admission. The East Village Arts District surrounding the museum has murals, galleries, and coffee shops worth exploring. Free admission on the first Sunday of each month makes this an easy add-on.

An oceanfront art museum in a 1912 estate, where the views and the setting outshine the galleries.

Closed Mon, Tue & Wed

Best for: Art enthusiasts, couples, architecture fans

Pro tip: The museum itself is a converted Craftsman estate on a bluff overlooking the ocean. The on-site Claire's restaurant has one of the best ocean-view patios in Long Beach. Even if you skip the galleries, the grounds alone are worth the visit.

California's largest aquarium, with sea otters, penguins, touch pools and a million things to point at.

Best for: Toddlers through elementary age, families who want an easy half-day activity

Pro tip: The shark touch pool and tide pool tanks are where kids lose their minds. The Lorikeet Forest lets kids hand-feed brightly colored birds — bring a camera. Stroller-friendly throughout. There's a cafe inside so you don't have to leave for lunch. Go early before the school groups arrive. The shark lagoon touch pool is the highlight for most teens — you can actually pet a shark. The Pacific Visions immersive theater is wild. Lorikeet Forest lets you hand-feed colorful birds. Budget 2-3 hours minimum — there's a lot to see.

Sheltered beach with no waves and shallow water — basically a giant toddler pool with sand

Best for: Families with toddlers and young swimmers who want beach time without waves

Pro tip: This beach is inside the Alamitos Bay marina, so the water is calm, shallow and warm. No waves, no rip currents, and parents can actually relax. There's a playground adjacent and public restrooms. Pack a towel and sunscreen, rinse off, and head to the port. It can get busy on weekends.

Open-air waterfront shopping center with chain stores and restaurants. Good for killing an hour near the port.

Best for: Shoppers, anyone who needs last-minute cruise supplies

Pro tip: Not the most exciting shopping, but it's close to the port and has everything from Nike to H&M. There's a Restoration Hardware and a few decent restaurants. The Ferris wheel nearby is a fun quick stop. Good backup plan if the weather turns.

A quick ride on the waterfront Ferris wheel at The Pike, with panoramic harbor and skyline views.

Best for: Quick activity, photo ops, anyone with 30 minutes to kill

Pro tip: It's small but the views from the top are solid — you can see the Queen Mary, your cruise ship, and the Long Beach skyline. Great for photos. Located right at The Pike Outlets so you can combine it with shopping.

Walk the outer decks of a legendary 1930s ocean liner that kids will read as a pirate ship.

Best for: Kids who love boats, ships, and anything that floats

Pro tip: Little kids don't need the full tour — just walking the decks and looking at the massive anchor, funnels, and lifeboats is thrilling for them. The ship is enormous and they'll feel like explorers. It's right next to the cruise terminal so timing is easy. The Haunted Encounters tour is the one teens want — it covers the ship's reportedly haunted spots including the first-class swimming pool and engine room. The Queen Mary has been featured on multiple paranormal TV shows. Even skeptical teens will be entertained. You're literally walking past this ship on the way to board your Carnival cruise. The Glory Days tour covers the ship's WWII history and art deco interiors. Even if you skip the paid tour, walk the outer decks for free views of the harbor and your cruise ship. The Observation Bar inside is worth a cocktail.

Skate shops, vintage stores and boba tea on every corner of Long Beach's coolest shopping strip.

Best for: Shopping-obsessed teens, boba addicts, anyone who wants a chill SoCal vibe

Pro tip: 2nd Street has a totally different energy from the touristy waterfront — this is where actual Long Beach teens hang out. Polly's Gourmet Coffee for a caffeine stop, plus plenty of vintage and surf shops to browse. The beach is one block south if you want to dip your toes. 2nd Street is Long Beach's Main Street — about a mile of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Start at PCH and walk east. Polly's Gourmet Coffee is a local institution. The beach is one block south if you want sand between your toes before a week at sea.

A pocket-change water taxi across the harbor, and a mini boat ride that feels enormous to little kids.

Best for: Boat-obsessed kids, families who want a quick unique experience

Pro tip: The AquaBus shuttles between Shoreline Village, the Aquarium and the Queen Mary on a short loop. For pocket change, your kid gets a boat ride across the harbor with views of everything. It is the cheapest fun in Long Beach. Check the current schedule before you build your morning around it.