Best photo spots in Long Beach

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 12/1/2024

Nestled amidst the hustle and bustle of Southern California, Long Beach offers a treasure trove of picturesque scenery. With its dramatic waterfronts, lush parks, and historical landmarks, this diverse city sets a perfect canvas for both, professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. This post will escort you through some of the most photogenic spots in Long Beach — Queen Mary's majestic beauty, the tranquil Long Beach Waterfront, the quaint charm of Shoreline Village, the serene grandeur of Bluff Park, and the vibrant colors of The Rainbow Harbor Esplanade. Grab your cameras, for you are about to dive into a visual feast that captures the heart and soul of Long Beach.

  • Historic ocean liner
    The RMS Queen Mary, now a hotel and attraction, docked in Long Beach, California.
    Queen Mary

    Ahoy there, history buffs and sea lovers! Prepare to dive into the fascinating world of Queen Mary. This iconic ship, permanently docked in the beautiful harbor of Long Beach, California, is a true seaside marvel with a dash of old Hollywood glamour. Launched in 1936, Queen Mary played a pivotal role as both a luxurious transatlantic liner and a WW2 transport ship. Now, it serves as a stunning floating hotel and museum, teeming with captivating stories and vintage charm. So, hop aboard and let this majestic vessel steer you back in time!

  • Aerial beach view
    A bird's-eye view of Long Beach waterfront, showcasing the sparkling blue waters, sandy shore lined with colorful umbrellas, and adjacent urban landscape.
    Long Beach Waterfront

    Welcome to the Long Beach Waterfront, a spectacular gem nestled in the heart of Long Beach, USA. This bustling marine playground is more than just a scenic delight; it's a marvelous quilt of vibrant culture, exciting entertainment, and fascinating history. With panoramic ocean views, a stunning lighthouse standing like a sentinel of past times, and a dizzying array of restaurants that offer everything from gourmet seafood to sizzling street food, the Long Beach Waterfront paints a colorful canvas of incredible seaside living. Dive into this fervor; let's unravel the best-kept secrets and stories of this splendid locale together. Buckle up! It's going to be a dazzling ride.

  • Shoreline Village Marina
    A view of colorful buildings at Shoreline Village with moored boats in the foreground, reflecting the vibrant maritime culture of Long Beach.
    Shoreline Village

    Nestled in the heart of Long Beach, Shoreline Village is a vibrant and bustling oceanfront shopping center that never fails to charm its visitors. A captivating fusion of unique retailers, impressive eateries, and classic arcade games, it offers a laid-back Southern California vibe with breathtaking views of the marina and city skyline. Whether you're hankering for some saltwater taffy, keen to shop for handmade crafts, or simply eager to soak in the stunning sunset over the Long Beach harbor, Shoreline Village guarantees a memorable day out for all.

  • Oceanfront park scene
    A serene view of Bluff Park in Long Beach, showcasing its lush green lawns, tall palm trees, and a vast blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds.
    Bluff Park

    Perched high above the electric energy of Long Beach, you'll discover the serene oasis that is Bluff Park. This charming slice of greenery offers breath-taking views of the roaring Pacific ocean, and whispers tales of the city's vibrant history beneath towering palms. Its manicured lawns are an open invitation to picnickers, while winding paths beckon strollers and joggers to embrace nature's beauty. With an enchanting lighthouse standing guard and the scent of the sea lingering in the air, Bluff Park promises a delightful escape from the urban sprawl. In every leaf, sunset, and wave crashing below, there's a story waiting to be told. Ready for an adventure? Trust me, Bluff Park isn't just bluffing about a park; it's the real deal!

  • Marina at sunset
    The tranquil waters of Rainbow Harbor Esplanade, bathed in the warm hues of sunset, with moored boats and palm trees lining the promenade.
    The Rainbow Harbor Esplanade

    The Rainbow Harbor Esplanade in Long Beach, California, is more than just a stretch of sidewalk by the sea. It's a vibrant pulsating hub where colors, sounds, and experiences converge. Buzzing with activity amidst a stunning backdrop of docked yachts and the gleaming Pacific Ocean, it's a spot that never fails to captivate. Whether you're fancying a leisurely stroll, relishing a feast of succulent seafood or quenching your thirst for local history - Rainbow Harbor Esplanade is the place to be. It's the heartbeat of Long Beach, swathed in a fabric of stories, laughter, and the electrifying energy of the city. Trust me, you wouldn't want to miss this for the world!


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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