Long Beach Vacation Rentals

No traveler can resist the tantalizing array of seafood while on vacation. Pier 76 Fish Grill serves exquisite fish from bountiful local waters. Dig into the Lambasting and Lobster Roll that's seasoned with love and hearty chipotle sauce.

If that doesn't hit the spot, then head over to King's Fish House for additional options. Enjoy their upbeat space and beautifully shucked oysters on ice, or Alaskan king crab legs dipped in melted butter sauce - both ready to be devoured by hungry patrons.

Take a break from traditional sightseeing and catch a flick at the Art Theater of Long Beach, which offers an incredibly unique cinematic experience from the heart of 4th Street's shopping and dining district. Dating back to the 1920s, the restored theater serves wine and coffee, and mostly shows lesser-known independent films.

Check out Long Beach's exciting Convention and Entertainment Center. It's open all year round and you are guaranteed to enjoy the variety of different events. Attend conferences, sporting events and trade shows, and even see The Long Beach Symphony play.

Get the kids outside by taking them on a gondola ride around the Naples neighborhood. With Gondola Getaway, you can bring your own picnic and have the gondoliers put your drinks on ice. Soak in the atmosphere of this special neighborhood from the water.

El Dorado Nature Center is also worth a visit. Spend time on the shaded, lush walking trails of this gorgeously endowed park. Peruse the small gift shop offering environmentally themed books and gifts, or the small island that houses the visitor center.

Long Beach is known as a festival city hosting some of the largest sports and cultural events in the United States.

1. The Grand Prix: This IndyCar Series race held in April is the city's largest event. If you plan on attending, book a Long Beach rental home well in advance.

2. Gay Pride Parade Long Beach: Gay Pride, held in May, is one of the largest Pride parades in the United States. Apart from the parade itself, a festival with music and dance performances takes place around Shoreline Drive.

3. Comic Con: Held in September, the Comic Con gathers the best illustrators, writers and artists from the world of comic books.

4. Long Beach Marathon: Each fall the city marathon takes runners through scenic spots, including long stretches of beachfront.

5. Boat Parade: The Christmas Boat Parade held on the 15th of December features colorfully lit and decorated boats.

6. Kite Festival: This week-long kite celebration held in August includes contests, kite fighting, workshops, and a lighted kite show.

7. Long Beach Jazz Festival: Held at the Rainbow Lagoon Park each summer, the festival brings the best jazz musicians and singers to the city.

8. Long Beach Motorcycle Show: Held in November, it includes exhibits by manufacturers, test drives, and fun shows.

1. Aquarium of the Pacific

Displaying more than 11,000 fish species from habitats as diverse as the northern waters and the tropical coral reefs, the Aquarium of the Pacific gives visitors the possibility to touch and feed ray species, frogs, and even sharks.

2. Hotel Queen Mary

You can spend a whole day in this 1936 permanently docked ocean liner-turned-hotel. Start by taking a historic tour of its Art Deco interiors, then enjoy a drink at its sophisticated terrace bar.

3. Naples Island

Separated from the mainland by a narrow canal, and featuring peaceful streets, idyllic canals, and million-dollar yachts, this island is the perfect spot for an evening walk.

4. Catalina Island

Go hiking or sip a coffee at one of the laidback cafés of this beautiful island often described as resembling a Mediterranean paradise.

5. Knott's Berry Farm

Located 20 miles from Long Beach, Knott's Berry Farm is a charming old-fashioned theme park with roller coasters, family rides, and water rides.