Welcome to our guide on the best date ideas in Long Beach, CA, where we compile the top things to do in Long Beach for couples, whether you’re looking for something romantic, adventurous, or completely fresh.
Since most of my family lives in Long Beach, we spend a ton of time here. And we’ve been exploring this great city to learn all about the most epic Long Beach date ideas.
If you’re on the hunt for exciting things to do in Long Beach for couples, you’ve hit the jackpot.
We’ve already given you some incredible fun things to do in Orange County nearby, and, of course, have tons of content on LA, including the ultimate Los Angeles bucket list, and LA 5-Day Itinerary.
But now it’s time to hone in on the LBC, baby!
Before You Go
- Book Your Flight: Read our guide on how to score the cheapest flights
- Start Packing: Review our carry-on packing list, and posts on travel cameras & comfy travel clothes
- Prepare for the Airport: what to know about traveling through airport security
- Arrange a Car Rental: Secure your car rental here
Contents
- Date Ideas in Long Beach
- 1. Naples Canal gondola ride
- 2. Aquarium of the Pacific
- 3. Shoreline Village Boardwalk
- 4. Whale Watching
- 5. Catch a show by the Long Beach Entertainment Center
- 6. Queen Mary
- 7. Take a harbor cruise
- 8. Wine Tasting
- 9. Dine at waterfront restaurants in Alamitos Bay
- 10. Ocean view sunset picnic at Bluff Park
- 11. Rent a Jetski
- 12. Take a cooking class together
- 13. Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
- 14. Day trip to nearby Catalina Island
- 15. Live music at Gaslamp
- 16. Brunch at a charming café in Belmont Shore
- 17. Afternoon Tea
- 18. Take a scenic drive along Ocean Boulevard
- 19. Art Walk in the East Village Arts District
- 20. Go paddleboarding or kayaking in Alamitos Bay
- 21. Attend a comedy show at the Laugh Factory
- 22. Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens
- Things to Do in Long Beach for Couples: Final Words
- Like this post?
- You Might Also Appreciate…
- Which is your favorite of these date ideas in Long Beach?
Date Ideas in Long Beach
Whether you’re a local in search of fresh inspiration or a visiting couple ready to dive into the city’s charm, get ready to unlock all the good feels with these date night ideas in Long Beach.
📖 Like the feel of a nice ol-fashioned paperback guide? Here’s one for more date ideas in Long Beach.
Let’s get on with it, lovers.
Here are the best darn date ideas in Long Beach:
1. Naples Canal gondola ride
Naples Canal gondola rides are on the top of this list of date ideas in Long Beach for good reason. It’s a bucket list item for couples in the area!
Love on the Spectrum‘s beloved couple Abbey and David even posted the above shot from the Naples Canal in Long Beach on their Instagram.
The Naples Canal is gorgeous and transports Californians to Venice, Italy (without ever having to get on a plane).
Taking a sunset gondola ride through the picturesque canals of Naples Island is easily one of the top romantic things to do in Long Beach.
Drift along the tranquil waterways aboard a traditional Venetian gondola while sipping champagne and enjoying the stunning sunset views along the Naples canal. Sounds perfect!
2. Aquarium of the Pacific
Seeing the colorful marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the top Long Beach date ideas for people who love animals.
The Aquarium of the Pacific is actually Southern California’s largest aquarium, home to more than 12,000 species.
Explore diverse marine habitats hand in hand, marveling at colorful fish, graceful sea turtles, and mesmerizing jellyfish for one of the most unique things to do in Long Beach for couples.
With interactive exhibits, behind-the-scenes tours, and captivating shows, there’s plenty to see to create lasting memories with your boo.
3. Shoreline Village Boardwalk
Hop over to Shoreline Village with your significant other for a day of fun for one of the most versatile date ideas in Long Beach.
There are so many romantic things to do in Long Beach at Shoreline Village.
Activities include riding one of their unique 4-wheel bikes, browsing the eclectic mix of shops and boutiques, checking out the carousel or relaxing by the fountains in one of the scenic outdoor spaces.
You can also catch some live music, take a harbor cruise, or play miniature golf at Pelican Pier Pavilion.
After enjoying some activities, you can dine at one of the Shoreline Village waterfront romantic restaurants in Long Beach, CA.
🍽️ Parkers’ Lighthouse: seafood and steakhouse with stunning ocean views and a two-story wine cellar
4. Whale Watching
Head to nearby Newport Beach to experience a whale watching excursion, one of our suggested things to do in Orange County.
Just off the coast, a whale watching excursion gives you the chance to spot majestic whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, making one of the best date ideas in Long Beach.
If you get seasick easily, bring these affordable motion sickness wristbands, or invest in an electrode stimulator nausea wristband.
5. Catch a show by the Long Beach Entertainment Center
With a diverse lineup of shows, from Broadway musicals to concerts and the symphony, the Long Beach Entertainment Center provides one of the best date night ideas in Long Beach.
The Terrace Theater is a key part of the Long Beach Performing Arts Center. From plays to concerts and comedy gigs, there’s always something cool happening there.
It’s no wonder a visit to the Long Beach Performing Arts Center is considered one of the most romantic things to do in Long Beach!
Check out the full Long Beach Entertainment Center calendar here.
Local tip: you can find discounted tickets for these events here on Groupon Long Beach, such as this musical at the Terrace Theater.
6. Queen Mary
Step aboard the iconic Queen Mary for a unique blend of history, entertainment, and romance, making a visit to this legendary ocean liner one of the best Long Beach date ideas.
Explore the ship’s storied past with guided tours of its elegant cabins, grand ballrooms, and historic decks, or indulge in a romantic dinner at one of the onboard restaurants, complete with breathtaking views of the harbor.
For an epic romantic staycation, consider booking a stay in one of the Queen Mary’s luxurious staterooms or suites, chock full of old-world charm and modern amenities.
No matter what you decide on, the Queen Mary offers a bunch of romantic things to do in Long Beach.
7. Take a harbor cruise
Experience a two-hour chauffeured cruise on the nearby Newport Harbor with a knowledgeable captain highlighting main channels and historic landmarks.
Cruises operate from 10 a.m. until sunset, offering ample opportunities for passengers to enjoy scenic views from the protected deck.
Guests are welcome to bring their own refreshments onboard!
With options for sunset cruises, a harbor cruise offers the perfect setting for a memorable romantic date night in Long Beach.
8. Wine Tasting
Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local wineries or wine bars.
Many wineries in the area offer wine tasting flights, where you can sample a variety of wines produced onsite while learning about the winemaking process.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for things to do in Long Beach for couples, wine tasting at a local winery is sure to impress your date.
9. Dine at waterfront restaurants in Alamitos Bay
Have a romantic dinner at one of the waterfront romantic restaurants in Long Beach, CA in Alamitos Bay.
🍽️ The Boathouse on the Bay: waterfront upscale dining serving premium steaks & seafood
🥢 Tantalum Restaurant: chic ambiance and water views, creative dishes with Asian and Pacific influences
READ MORE | Dopest places to eat in LA
10. Ocean view sunset picnic at Bluff Park
We love a good picnic, and have raved about it on our list of Romantic Staycation Ideas.
And Bluff Park along the sandy beach in Long Beach, CA, sure is a gorgeous place to have a romantic picnic!
Nestled atop the bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Bluff Park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, making it the perfect setting for memorable romantic dates in Long Beach.
Spread out a blanket, pack up a picnic spread in this picnic backpack or a more traditional picnic basket, cozy up and soak in the vibrant hues of the setting sun painting the sky.
Bluff Park’s peaceful ambiance and stunning vistas create an unforgettable backdrop for romantic dates in Long Beach.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the memories!
11. Rent a Jetski
Looking for an exhilarating date idea in Long Beach? Why not rent a jet ski and hit the waves together?
Feel the thrill of speeding across the Long Beach ocean for 1 or 2 hours on a Sea Doo that can fit 2 people.
I personally love jet skiing because it’s such a fun and way to make memories and add a little excitement to your Long Beach date ideas.
12. Take a cooking class together
Take a cooking class together and learn to make a new dish is one of the fun date ideas in Long Beach for foodies.
🍣 Take a sushi-making class (so you could learn to make sushi at home)
🍝 or even a pasta-making class!
You and your partner can bond over learning new cooking techniques, exploring different cuisines, and creating delicious dishes together.
Not only is it a fun and interactive date idea, but you also get to enjoy the fruits of your labor by sharing a romantic meal afterward. Plus, you’ll take home new culinary skills and recipes to recreate together in the future.
It’s a hands-on experience that combines food, fun, and quality time spent together—sounds like some perfect date night ideas in Long Beach to me!
13. Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
Visit the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden for a peaceful stroll among a koi pond, a cute little waterfall and a tea house.
Entrance is free, making this one of the best free things to do in Long Beach for couples, but reservations are required.
Tucked away on the campus of California State University, Long Beach, this hidden gem offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
14. Day trip to nearby Catalina Island
Looking for romantic things to do in Long Beach for couples? Take a day trip to nearby Catalina Island for snorkeling, hiking, or relaxing on the beach.
Taking a trip to Catalina also happens to be on our LA Bucket List.
Just a short ferry ride away (discounted ferry tickets here), Catalina offers a perfect escape from the mainland hustle.
Explore quaint shops and cafes in the charming town of Avalon, take in the beauty of picturesque beaches, or take a scenic hike to enjoy panoramic views of the island’s rugged coastline.
For a truly memorable experience, consider booking an underwater Catalina island tour or renting a golf cart to explore by land.
You can also indulge in a romantic seaside lunch or dinner at one of Catalina’s waterfront restaurants, or pack a picnic and enjoy a scenic meal with ocean views.
15. Live music at Gaslamp
Catch some live music at the Gaslamp Restaurant for one of the best things to do in Long Beach at night.
This vibrant spot in downtown Long Beach is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse lineup of events.
Gaslamp regularly hosts live music performances by local bands and touring artists. You’ll find a wide range of genres from rock and blues to jazz and hip-hop, making it one of the top date ideas in Long Beach.
Plus they serve food and drinks (menu here), so you can enjoy a bite to eat or sip on your favorite cocktail while taking in the music.
16. Brunch at a charming café in Belmont Shore
Have a cozy brunch at a charming café in Belmont Shore to enjoy the vibe of the beach in Long Beach, CA.
🍽️ The Attic: Southern-inspired cuisine served in 1920s Craftsman-style house with a laid-back vibe
🍳 Saint & Second: sophisticated weekend brunch menu serving classic dishes with a modern twist
17. Afternoon Tea
Looking for elegant and charming date ideas in Long Beach?
Enjoy a romantic afternoon tea with your partner in or near Long Beach. Indulge in delightful pastries, sandwiches and teas, perfect for a cozy date idea in Long Beach.
Keep an eye out for rare Afternoon Tea events at the amazing Victorian Bembridge House.
🧚 Dream Come True Tea Room: whimsical setting with enchanting decor (not just for kids!) for afternoon tea
☕ Chado Tea Room: Located near Long Beach, offering a sophisticated setting for afternoon tea
18. Take a scenic drive along Ocean Boulevard
Take a scenic drive along Ocean Boulevard with stops at scenic viewpoints along the beach in Long Beach, CA.
As you cruise along this iconic stretch of road, take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, sandy beaches, and palm-lined streets, as well as the Queen Mary. But drive safely, or you just might be in need of my brother-in-law’s services as a Long Beach personal injury lawyer 😂 (for real though, he’s a darn good lawyer)!
Make sure to stop at viewpoints along the way, such as Bluff Park and Junipero Beach, where you can pause to admire the panoramic vistas and snap some romantic selfies together. Don’t forget adding the right travel hashtags when you upload them!
If you like beautiful drives, you will also love our amazing guide to scenic drives in and near LA.
19. Art Walk in the East Village Arts District
Explore the shops and art galleries in the East Village Arts District for one of the most creative date ideas in Long Beach.
You’ll find eye-catching murals, art museums, independent shops, and casual eats.
You can also look out for the Art Walk in the East Village Arts District event, with live music performances, street performances, and food trucks joining in to promote the local arts scene.
20. Go paddleboarding or kayaking in Alamitos Bay
Explore Alamitos Bay on a paddleboarding or kayaking date in Long Beach.
Glide along the calm waters together, taking in the scenic views of waterfront homes for one of the top date ideas in Long Beach.
21. Attend a comedy show at the Laugh Factory
We absolutely love attending comedy shows for date night, and think they’re truly one of the best things to do in Long Beach at night.
The Laugh Factory in Long Beach is the perfect spot to get some giggles in with your partner.
Remember, the closer you sit to the stage, the more likely you are to get called out by a comedian (personally, we love it!).
READ NEXT | Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?
22. Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens
Looking for romantic things to do in Long Beach? Visit the Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens for a glimpse into California’s past.
This charming estate offers a peaceful escape from the city. It has beautifully landscaped gardens and historic buildings dating back to the 19th century.
Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and explore the historic adobe ranch house. It’s the perfect spot for some date ideas in Long Beach to remember.
Things to Do in Long Beach for Couples: Final Words
That’s all folks! We hope these date ideas in Long Beach have sparked inspiration for some fun and fresh excursions for y’all.
From scenic sunsets to new thrills, this bodacious city truly offers endless opportunities to make some magical experiences together doing all of the most fun-tastic and romantic things to do in Long Beach for couples.
Looking for more in the LA area? Check out the best places to eat in LA, and the top scenic drives in the LA area. Also, learn why we think LA is worth it.
Want to stay in the loop with more travel tips and recommendations? Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube for daily doses of wanderlust.
And don’t forget to subscribe to our email newsletter for exclusive content and future travel guides.
Until next time, happy dating and safe exploring!
Benny & Renny
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Which is your favorite of these date ideas in Long Beach?
Let us know in a comment below!
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