7-Day Long Beach, CA Itinerary on a $3000 Budget

Day 1: Downtown & Waterfront

Long Beach, CA, USA on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Breakfast Bar

Enjoy a hearty American-style breakfast with fresh ingredients, perfect to start your Long Beach day.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Aquarium of the Pacific

Explore marine life exhibits showcasing Pacific Ocean species. A must-visit for families and marine enthusiasts, open 9 am–6 pm.
USD36, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Pier 76 Fish Grill

Taste fresh, affordable seafood with great harbor views. Open daily from 11:30 am.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Harbor Breeze Cruises

Take a 1-hour harbor cruise to see Long Beach Skyline and marine wildlife up close. Cruises run frequently from the waterfront.
USD25, 1h

3:00pm

Shoreline Village

Stroll this seaside village featuring shops, cafes, and galleries. Relax and browse the unique artisan stores.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Attic on Broadway

Enjoy Southern comfort food with a cozy atmosphere. Recommended for their macaroni and cheese and craft cocktails.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Historic & Cultural

Long Beach, CA, USA on June 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rose Park Coffee

Try fresh pastries and excellent coffee in a lively artisan café, perfect to fuel up before museum visits.
USD12, 1h

9:30am

Long Beach Museum of Art

Explore modern and contemporary art within a beautiful oceanfront setting. Open 10 am–5 pm.
USD12, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Beachwood BBQ & Brewing

Indulge in some handcrafted BBQ meats and craft beer in an upbeat, casual environment.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

El Dorado Nature Center

Take a serene walk through natural woodlands, streams and lakes. It is open daily from dawn until dusk.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Downtown Art Walk (First Thursday if applicable) or explore local galleries

Discover local artwork and meet artists. Check calendar for events; otherwise, visit galleries in Bixby Knolls area.
Free to low cost, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nick's on 2nd

Savor American bistro classics in a chic environment. Their salmon and steaks are popular choices.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Beach Day & Shopping

Long Beach, CA, USA on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Claud & Co.

A farm-to-table café with local ingredients offering excellent coffee and breakfast bowls.
USD18, 1h

9:30am

Junipero Beach

Enjoy a relaxing beach morning with sunbathing, swimming, or a gentle walk along the sandy shore.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Stache Bar & Grill

Casual eatery with good burgers and craft beers near downtown Long Beach.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Shopping at Retro Row on 4th Street

Browse vintage boutiques, record shops, and quirky stores that showcase local culture.
Free entry, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Bluff Park

Enjoy ocean views from this scenic inland bluff park—perfect for a peaceful late afternoon walk.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Open Sesame

Delight in authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with generous portions in a casual atmosphere.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 4: Maritime History & Parks

Long Beach, CA, USA on June 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Breakfast Bar & Eatery

Enjoy a classic American breakfast with fresh ingredients and friendly service.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

USS Iowa Battleship Museum

Tour the historic battleship docked in port and learn about its military history. Open 10 am–5 pm.
USD20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Parkers’ Lighthouse

Enjoy fresh seafood with waterfront views in an upscale yet approachable setting.
USD30, 1h

1:30pm

El Dorado East Regional Park

Explore this vast park with trails, lakes, and picnic areas ideal for a peaceful afternoon outdoors.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Sunset walk at Rainbow Harbor

Take in the vibrant sunset views with boats and city lights as your backdrop.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at 555 East American Steakhouse

Treat yourself to quality steak and seafood in a classic ambiance, within budget-friendly pricing.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 5: Day Trip to Catalina Island

Long Beach, CA, USA on July 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast to-go at The Potholder Cafe

Pick up a quick, wholesome breakfast for your day trip to Catalina Island.
USD12, 30m

8:30am

Catalina Express Ferry

Catch the ferry from Long Beach to Catalina Island for a scenic 1-hour ride. Round-trip fare approx $75.
USD75, 1h

10:00am

Explore Avalon, Catalina Island

Wander this charming town with shops, beaches, and aquarium open 9 am–6 pm.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bluewater Grill Avalon

Enjoy fresh seafood with ocean views in this popular Avalon eatery.
USD30, 1h

2:00pm

Descanso Beach Club

Relax at this private beach with available rentals for kayaks and paddleboards.
Free to access; rentals extra, 2h

4:00pm

Return Ferry to Long Beach

Catch afternoon ferry back; expect to arrive by 5:15 pm.
Included in ferry fare, 1h15m

6:30pm

Dinner at Michael’s on Naples Ristorante

Refuel with Italian cuisine featuring fresh ingredients and relaxed ambiance.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 6: Parks & Local Flavors

Long Beach, CA, USA on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Simple Simon’s Bakery & Bistro

Start your day with fresh baked goods and classic breakfast dishes.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site

Tour this preserved 19th-century adobe home and beautiful gardens open 11 am–4 pm, plan for later visit or enjoy grounds at morning.
USD5, 1h

11:00am

Visit El Dorado Park South

Explore more scenic trails and wildlife gardens; ideal for a mellow morning walk.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at La Parilla Mexican Restaurant

Savor authentic Mexican cuisine known for flavorful dishes and good prices.
USD18, 1h

2:00pm

Naples Canals Walk

Enjoy a stroll through this picturesque neighborhood with charming canals and bridges.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Alamitos Beach

Unwind at this popular city beach with nice walkways and picnic spots.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Crab Pot

Enjoy fresh seafood platters and a lively atmosphere for your last dinner in Long Beach.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 7: Leisure & Departure

Long Beach, CA, USA on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Crooked Duck

Casual and tasty comfort breakfast to wrap up your trip in a friendly setting.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Long Beach Antique Market (If first Sunday, otherwise visit local shopping)

Explore antiques and collectibles at this large outdoor market held monthly, or opt for shopping at Second Street and Retro Row.
Free to browse, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Toasty Chicken

Quick and affordable lunch with delicious grilled chicken sandwiches and sides.
USD15, 1h

1:30pm

Pack and relax at Shoreline Park

Spend your final afternoon taking in ocean views and walking trails close to downtown before departure.
Free, 2h
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