Things To Do in Long Beach with Kids
Family-friendly activities, attractions, and ideas for a memorable Long Beach trip with kids
Long Beach is a fun, walkable Southern California destination that’s surprisingly kid-friendly. From marine life and waterfront walks to interactive parks and classic seaside activities, there’s something for every age.
This guide highlights the best things to do in Long Beach with kids, organized by type of activity to make planning your trip easy and stress-free.
If you're planning a full weekend getaway, be sure to check out our 2-Day Long Beach Itinerary with Kids, where we map out the perfect family-friendly schedule including the aquarium, parks, beaches, and great places to eat.
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Family Favorites & Waterfront Fun
Aquarium of the Pacific
One of Long Beach’s most beloved attractions, the Aquarium of the Pacific introduces kids to sea otters, sharks, colorful fish, touch pools, and interactive exhibits. It’s entertaining, educational, and perfect for kids of all ages.
Tips: Arrive early on weekends to beat crowds. Allow 2–3 hours to explore.
Shoreline Village
Stroll along the colorful boardwalk at Shoreline Village for seaside views, casual dining, and boutique shops. Grab an ice cream, sit on the bench overlooking the water, and watch boats bobbing in the harbor.
Kid pro tip: Watch the street performers and grab lunch with a view of the Queen Mary docked nearby.
Swan Boats at Rainbow Lagoon Park
For a classic, budget-friendly activity, take the kids on the swan boats at Rainbow Lagoon Park. It’s simple (and adorable!), let’s kids “steer” their own boat, and is an easy way to enjoy the waterfront without long walks.
Best for: Toddlers and early elementary kids.
Shoreline Pedal Boats
For a fun activity on the water, rent a colorful pedal boat in Rainbow Harbor. Kids love steering the boats while parents enjoy the harbor views of the lighthouse and skyline.
Tip: Best in the late afternoon when the harbor is calmer.
Belmont Shore & 2nd Street
A lively beachside neighborhood filled with restaurants, ice cream shops, toy stores, and casual cafes. Families love strolling down 2nd Street before heading to the nearby beach or renting bikes along the shore.
Kid tip: Grab ice cream and walk down to the beach access points just a few blocks away.
Outdoor Adventures & Parks
El Dorado Park
A large, family-friendly park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and a serene lake. Kids can rent kayaks or pedal boats, or just run around the open spaces. Great for a relaxed afternoon after walking the waterfront.
Junipero Beach Playground
Located right along the beach path, this colorful playground is perfect for kids who need a break from sightseeing. The playground sits next to grassy picnic areas and beach access.
Parent tip: Great stop after biking the shoreline path.
Long Beach Bike Path
Rent bikes or bring scooters and ride along the scenic Long Beach waterfront path. The paved path runs along the beach with beautiful ocean views and plenty of places to stop and play in the sand.
Best for: Kids who want to scooter or bike along the coast.
Naples Island Gondola Rides
For a unique Long Beach experience, take a gondola ride through the scenic Naples Island canals. Inspired by Venice, the neighborhood features charming bridges, waterfront homes, and peaceful waterways that make for a relaxing boat ride.
Best for: older kids or a memorable family outing.
Family tip: Evening rides are especially beautiful when the canal homes light up along the water.
Long Beach has several beaches that are great for walking, biking, and relaxed beach days with kids. While the water is typically calmer than many Southern California beaches, families love the wide shoreline, playgrounds, and scenic waterfront path.
Best Beaches in Long Beach for Families
Alamitos Beach
One of the most accessible beaches in Long Beach, Alamitos Beach is perfect for families who want a quick stop by the ocean. The wide sandy shoreline is great for sand play, and the nearby bike path makes it easy to combine a beach visit with a walk or scooter ride.
Family tip: Grab takeout from nearby restaurants and enjoy a sunset picnic.
Junipero Beach
Located along the scenic waterfront path, Junipero Beach is a favorite for active families. The nearby playground and grassy picnic areas make it a great stop for kids who want to run around before heading to the sand.
Best for: Playground breaks, beach walks, and scooter rides along the shoreline path.
Belmont Shore Beach
This beach sits near the lively Belmont Shore neighborhood and is a great place to combine beach time with restaurants and shops on 2nd Street. Families often visit after grabbing ice cream or dinner nearby.
Kid tip: Rent bikes or scooters and ride along the beachfront path.
Family-Friendly Museums
The Queen Mary
Docked in Long Beach Harbor, the historic Queen Mary is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. This retired ocean liner sailed across the Atlantic for decades and now operates as a floating museum where visitors can explore the ship’s fascinating history.
Highlights families enjoy:
• Walking the outdoor decks with harbor views
• Seeing the massive engine room
• Interactive history exhibits
• Seasonal events and tours
You can explore the ship on your own or take a guided tour to learn more about its role during World War II and its years carrying passengers across the Atlantic.
The Queen Mary is located right next to Shoreline Village and the Aquarium of the Pacific, making it easy to combine several attractions in one day.
Best for: older kids who enjoy history, big ships, or exploring unique places.
Family tip: Plan to spend about 1–2 hours exploring the ship, and combine your visit with a walk along the nearby waterfront.
Long Beach Boat Tours & Whale Watching for Families
For a different view of the harbor and skyline, consider a family cruise — some offer narration and kid-friendly commentary.
Long Beach Harbor 45-Minute Boat Tour
If you want an easy way to see the Long Beach waterfront without a lot of walking, the Long Beach Harbor boat tour is a great option for families. This relaxed cruise takes you around the harbor where you’ll see the Long Beach skyline, the historic Queen Mary, colorful waterfront neighborhoods, and busy shipping ports.
Kids love being out on the water and spotting sea lions, boats, and cargo ships along the way. The tour is short enough to hold younger kids’ attention but still gives you a fun view of the city from the water.
Best for: families with younger kids or anyone looking for a quick activity between other stops.
Whale Watching from Long Beach
For a more adventurous experience, whale watching tours from Long Beach head out into the Pacific Ocean to search for whales, dolphins, and other marine life. Depending on the season, you may spot gray whales, blue whales, humpbacks, or large pods of dolphins swimming alongside the boat.
Guides usually provide narration about the animals and local marine ecosystems, which makes the experience both exciting and educational for kids.
Best for: older kids who enjoy boat rides and wildlife spotting.
Hidden Gems in Long Beach
Long Beach has a few quieter spots that many visitors miss. These hidden gems offer a chance to slow down, explore beautiful scenery, and experience a different side of the city away from the busiest waterfront attractions.
Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
Located on the campus of Cal State Long Beach, the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a peaceful hidden gem that families often overlook. The beautifully landscaped garden features koi ponds, wooden bridges, stone lanterns, and winding walking paths surrounded by traditional Japanese plants.
Kids enjoy spotting the colorful koi fish swimming in the ponds and exploring the quiet garden paths. It’s a great place to slow down for a bit after visiting some of Long Beach’s busier attractions.
The garden sits on the California State University Long Beach campus and offers one of the most tranquil spots in the city.
Best for: a calm nature break or a short scenic walk with kids.
Family tip: Bring quarters or fish food from the gift shop so kids can feed the koi in the pond.
Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site
Rancho Los Cerritos is a peaceful historic ranch tucked away in Long Beach that many visitors never discover. The restored adobe home dates back to the 1800s and offers a glimpse into early California ranch life.
Families can explore the beautiful gardens, walk the shaded paths, and learn about the history of the area through exhibits inside the historic house.
Best for: a quiet history stop and a relaxing walk through the gardens.
Family tip: The gardens are especially beautiful in spring when flowers are blooming.
Bluff Park & Long Beach Bluff Walk
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Bluff Park is one of Long Beach’s most scenic spots. A paved path runs along the bluff with sweeping ocean views, grassy areas for picnics, and plenty of space for kids to run around.
It’s a great place for a sunset walk or a break after visiting Belmont Shore.
Best for: ocean views, picnics, and letting kids burn off some energy.
Family tip: Bring scooters or bikes — the path is perfect for little riders.
Looking for even more activities? You can explore additional Long Beach tours, harbor cruises, and family-friendly experiences here.
Where to Eat in Long Beach with Kids
After exploring the aquarium, beaches, and waterfront attractions, Long Beach has plenty of relaxed restaurants that work well for families. Here are a few easy favorites near many of the city’s top attractions.
• Shake Shack (Shoreline Village) – A quick and reliable stop for burgers, fries, and milkshakes near the Aquarium of the Pacific. Great for a casual meal between activities.
• Parkers’ Lighthouse – A waterfront seafood restaurant with beautiful harbor views and kid-friendly menu options. A fun place for families to enjoy dinner after a day exploring the shoreline.
• Belmont Brewing Company – Located near Belmont Shore Beach, this relaxed restaurant offers burgers, sandwiches, and patio seating just steps from the sand.
• Handel’s Ice Cream (Belmont Shore) – A local favorite for dessert with tons of ice cream flavors. Grab a cone and walk along lively 2nd Street.
Many of these restaurants are located near the waterfront, making it easy to combine a meal with visits to Shoreline Village, the Aquarium of the Pacific, or Belmont Shore.
Tips for Visiting Long Beach with Kids
Go early: Popular spots like the aquarium fill up quickly later in the day.
Pack layers: Waterfront breezes can be cool even on sunny days.
Bring stroller comfort: Walkable areas are great, but beaches and some parks have uneven ground.
Plan meals around downtime: Kids do better with predictable snack/meal breaks.
Related Guides
Need help with where to stay? Check out our family-friendly hotels in Long Beach
Planning your days? Start with our 2-day Long Beach itinerary with kids
Not sure what to bring? See our Long Beach packing list for families
Final Thoughts
Long Beach is a surprisingly rich destination for families — clean, walkable, and packed with activities that are both fun and memorable. From exploring the Aquarium of the Pacific and strolling through Shoreline Village, to relaxing in scenic parks or heading out on a harbor cruise, there’s no shortage of ways to spend a great day with kids.
Whether your family loves animals, outdoor adventures, history, or simply grabbing ice cream along the waterfront, Long Beach delivers an easygoing coastal experience that works for kids of all ages.
If you’re planning a longer visit, check out our 2-Day Long Beach Itinerary with Kids where we map out the perfect family weekend — including the aquarium, beaches, parks, and the best spots to eat and explore.
Looking for places to stay? See our guide to the best family-friendly hotels in Long Beach.