Top Tips for Exploring Long Beach on a Budget: A Budget Travel Guide

Sunlight Motel is a great place for families, couples, or individuals looking for a clean, safe, and convenient place to stay. The rooms are well-maintained and manicured, with triple beds and televisions. The motel is close to shopping, schools, and work, as well as Trader Joes, a build-your-own pizza place, Crunch gym, and JB Nail Salon, all within walking distance. For a longer walk, there is Starbucks, Vons, Rite Aide, and more in the nearby shopping mall. Unfortunately, customer service is not always up to par, with one guest being charged an extra fifty dollars for having a service dog.

The Aquarium of the Pacific is a must-see for ocean lovers. With interactive displays, informative guides, and plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with sea life, this aquarium is a truly unique experience. Visitors can pet sharks, feel starfish and jellyfish, and even watch scuba divers feed the fish. The Aquarium is located near the Shoreline Village, where you can take a scenic stroll and explore the shops and restaurants. With easy parking and discounts available, its an affordable and unforgettable experience.

The Queen Mary offers a unique opportunity to stay on a 100 year old cruise ship with a storied past. From paranormal tours to historic tours, there are plenty of activities to do and explore. Guests can enjoy meals in the restaurant or grab a coffee in the Starbucks. The art deco bar is a great place to relax and take in the atmosphere. With its convenient location for pre or post cruise stays, The Queen Mary is an unforgettable experience.

The Long Beach Museum of Art is a great place to visit for a day out. Located on the bluffs overlooking the beach and ocean, the museum offers a stunning view and a tranquil atmosphere. Inside, the museum features a wide range of artwork from modern to traditional, as well as larger-scale works. There is also an outdoor area with a beautiful lawn, perfect for weddings and private events. The museum also has a restaurant and bar, where you can enjoy brunch and drinks while taking in the view. Plus, there is free parking for guests and discounted entry on Fridays. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Claires restaurant with its patio overlooking Juniper beach.

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a stunning and peaceful spot to visit in Long Beach, California. It is free to visit, but you must make a reservation online. The garden is home to a beautiful Koi pond, bonsai collection, and many other lush shrubs and flowers. There is a water fountain near the entrance and a restroom in the back. You can also feed the fishes for free! There are plenty of shady areas to sit down and relax, and the garden is perfect for a solo visit or with loved ones. Additionally, there are yoga classes offered for $15 on Wednesdays and Fridays. Parking is $6 for an hour. This is an experience that should not be missed!

El Dorado Nature Center is a hidden gem in Long Beach, located close to the freeway. It is a great place to escape to the forest, any time of year, with beautiful trails, plenty of shade, and a pond in the middle. You can choose from three different trails – 1/4 mile, 1 mile, and 2 miles – and you will be rewarded with a show from the wildlife, including birds, turtles, and furry creatures. The parking lot can get full, but there is a annual parking pass available. The atmosphere is friendly, and it is a great place to enjoy the serenity and beauty of nature.

ShoreLine Aquatic Park in Long Beach, California is a wonderful place to spend your morning. With its picturesque views, iconic attractions, and plenty of activities, its the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. You can scooter down to the boardwalk and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, then take a stroll to the lighthouse, the Queen Mary, and the Rusty Submarine. With its well-maintained and designed open area, its the perfect place to escape to the ocean without having to venture far. Theres also plenty of shopping and food nearby, making it the perfect spot for families, couples, and anyone looking to take a break and enjoy the sights.

The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) is a small museum with a big impact. Visitors can explore modern and abstract Latin American art in a respectful and reverent atmosphere. The lobby and gift shop are inviting and the sculpture garden is a highlight, with a variety of pieces and room to add more. The friendly staff are always on hand to answer questions and provide more information. Although the exhibit may be limited, visitors will be sure to leave feeling inspired and wanting to learn more.

The Lion Lighthouse is a picturesque and tranquil escape, boasting stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. The historic landmark is perfect for a peaceful getaway, with its well-maintained grounds providing a serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Downtown Long Beach and the Queen Mary, as well as take part in special events such as Love Long Beach Fest and fireworks. The lighthouse is also ideal for picnics, rides, and reading, with its open space and cool breeze. A must-visit destination for anyone seeking a unique and memorable experience.

Rainbow Lagoon Park is a peaceful escape located in Long Beach, California. It is a great spot to spend time with family and friends, offering plenty of parking and swan boats for a unique experience. The park is clean and well-maintained, with stunning views of the hotel, mural, and Grand Prix. There is also a variety of nearby restaurants, shops, and a mall. The park hosts events such as beer and taco festivals with music, making it a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for a date night or a family outing, Rainbow Lagoon Park is an enjoyable spot to relax and take in the beauty of nature.

El Dorado East Regional Park is a stunning green oasis in the heart of the city. With a fee-based admission for vehicles, the park offers plenty of space for larger groups, as well as amenities and upkeep that make it a great destination for families. Visitors can explore playgrounds, playing fields, an archery range, mini lakes, mini trains, and mini trails, as well as access to the long San Gabriel River Bike Trail. The Nature Center across Spring Street offers further respite and relaxation. Nature lovers can take advantage of the meandering sidewalks and dirt trails that gain elevation, and spot a variety of flora and fauna, as well as a drinking fountain with an attached low fountain for pets. With its shaded trails, picnic spots, and refreshing breeze, El Dorado East Regional Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some quality time with nature.

Eat Fantastic – Long Beach is a great spot for a delicious meal. With a large menu to choose from, theres something for everyone. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. The food is fresh and cooked to perfection, with the French fries being the real star. Plus, their prices are on par with other specialty burger joints. Enjoy your meal with a beer or milkshake, and get there early before a movie at the AMC theater. Eat Fantastic – Long Beach is the perfect spot for a tasty and affordable meal.

Hole Mole is a unique restaurant that combines the best of Texas barbecue and Mexican cuisine. The brisket tacos are the star of the show, with their incredibly crunchy toasted buns and amazing smoked chilies. The restaurant also offers a variety of other tacos, including pulled pork, fish, and potato variants, as well as traditional Mexican side dishes like refried beans and Spanish rice. Their queso dip is also a must-try appetizer. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Hole Mole is the perfect spot for an unforgettable meal.

Tasty Food To Go – Thai & Lao is a family-owned restaurant offering an authentic Thai and Lao cuisine experience. With large portions, fresh ingredients, and delicious flavors, customers can enjoy a truly unique and flavorful meal. The staff is warm and friendly, and always ready to make suggestions for what items to try next. The menu features classic dishes like Pad See Ew and Pad Thai, as well as specialty dishes like Mango Sticky Rice. Customers have raved about the perfect taste and texture of the Tofu Pad Thai, and the rich deep flavor of the Mango Sticky Rice. With great service, good food, and a nice family atmosphere, Tasty Food To Go – Thai & Lao is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings for Thai and Lao cuisine.

The Local Spot in Long Beach is a hidden gem with great food and even better service. Staff are attentive, friendly, and helpful, and the menu has something to suit everyone, from the Hungry Platter to the Vegetarian Scramble. The house fries are made in-house and come with fresh green onions, and the bacon is delightfully crunchy. The restaurant is small but the staff are efficient and friendly. The food is worth the wait and makes a great spot for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. The burrito is huge and packed with flavour, and the green sauce is an eye-opening treat. All in all, The Local Spot is a great place to eat with excellent food and service.

Hungry Horse Drive-In is a hidden gem that offers great food and prices. From the Farm Burger to the 3 Stick Special, everything is delicious. The Chicken and Beef Combo Plate is a great deal, and the Shrimp Fried Rice and Skewers are must-tries. The atmosphere is a classic, walk-up window drive-in, and the experience of discovering it and trying the food is unforgettable.

The Stache Bar is a great spot for late night eats and drinks. They offer delicious cocktails, burgers, and wings, all at an affordable price. The atmosphere is welcoming and friendly, with a great music selection and a knowledgeable bartender. They even accept dogs, so bring your pup along too! On Sunday nights, they feature a dope karaoke DJ who can find your favorite songs, even if theres only a lyric video. Whether youre looking for a fun night out or a watch party, The Stache Bar is the place to be!

The Stave Bar is an upscale, classy, and sassy bar located in Long Beach. It offers a great selection of craft beers, including their popular Whiskey Wednesdays, where all whiskey drinks are half off. The atmosphere is inviting and vibrant, creating a great energy for customers to enjoy. The bar also often invites tamale vendors, offering delicious tamales at a competitive price. For those looking for a unique experience, The Stave Bar is the perfect spot.

R Bar is a fun and lively sports bar with something for everyone. It has a hipster look and features TVs for sports, a digital jukebox, and a shuffleboard. The bar staff are welcoming and friendly, and the menu offers a wide range of options from avo toast to chicken wings, as well as a keto-friendly menu. The drinks selection is also great and Lex, the bartender, is an excellent host who is accommodating and provides wonderful cocktails with a smile. Despite reports of racist comments and belittling customers for wearing masks, the overall atmosphere is warm and happy.

The Good Bar is a great spot for a night out in Long Beach. It has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with a young vibe. The bar has lots of decks and a pool table, and a DJ spinning funky tunes. You can enjoy a selection of craft beers and vegan options on the menu. The staff are knowledgeable and the prices are cheap. Theres also a cute patio area to hang out in. The locals are respectful and the events they host are entertaining. This is the perfect place for a night out with friends.

Alexs Bar is a legendary venue in SoCal that offers an amazing atmosphere for alternative music. It features both indoor and outdoor spaces, with great air conditioning inside, and plenty of decor to admire. The bar staff are A-1 and the venue is always hosting events like ASK FOUNDATION raffles and keenramps to help raise money for a new skate park on the west side. On top of all this, they have great live music performances, and karaoke nights with an outdated sign-up system. Alexs Bar is a great place to be and its still going strong post-COVID.

YUAN Massage & Spa is a must-visit destination for those looking for a relaxing and therapeutic massage experience. The staff members are friendly, professional, and courteous, providing guests with a warm welcome. The place is spotless and sanitized, ensuring guests feel safe and secure. The deep tissue massage with hot stones is a must-try and the masseuses are highly skilled and experienced. Prices are affordable and the massage therapists are willing to go the extra mile to ensure guests are satisfied. Guests can expect an amazing pain relief and value for their money. The atmosphere is relaxing and quiet, ensuring guests can truly relax and enjoy the experience.

G-Medical Massage Spa, LLC is a special place that offers a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere for massage therapy. Customers have praised the highly trained massage therapists, such as Ashley, Xavier and Queennie, for their expertise and personalized care. Customers have also enjoyed the addition of scalp massages, foot scrubs, aromatherapy, and other amenities. The spa is also known for its thoughtful and caring staff, who have taken the time to send get well cards to customers who have tested positive for Covid. Lexlia is especially praised for her TMJ massages, which are tailored to the individuals needs and leave customers feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

LeBua Thai Massage & Spa – Studebaker Rd is a great place to get a massage. The atmosphere is visually pleasing, with a pleasant scent, a comfortable and clean massage bed, and soothing music playing during the massage. The masseuses are professional, experienced, and friendly, and can tailor the massage to your needs. Prices are very reasonable, and cash payments are only $40 for an hour! Customers have reported feeling amazing after their massage, with many opting for same day appointments. In particular, Pam and Tanya have been praised for their deep tissue massages. With its great atmosphere and experienced masseuses, LeBua Thai Massage & Spa – Studebaker Rd is a great place to relax and rejuvenate.

Mystic Massage & Wellness Center is a top-notch massage therapy and wellness center in the Long Beach area. Offering flexible appointment times and highly experienced and knowledgeable staff, Mystic Massage & Wellness Center is the perfect place to go for relief from stiffness, soreness, and tightness. With a focus on human anatomy and wellness techniques, their massage therapists provide thoughtful techniques for stretching and working on range of motion. Customers have experienced incredible sleep after working with the therapists, and have found relief from chronic whiplash and sciatic nerve pain. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, Mystic Massage & Wellness Center is highly recommended for anyone seeking relief.

Thai Massage Therapy is a great place to relax and unwind. Their massage services are top-notch, providing a combination of Thai and Swedish massage techniques for maximum relief. The staff are friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is calming and peaceful. Prices are competitive, and customers can pay for as much time as they need. The massage therapists are highly skilled, and take the time to ensure that customers are comfortable and relaxed throughout the massage. The front desk staff is also accommodating, and will work with customers to ensure they get the best experience possible.