With Charming Shops, Hip Restaurants and Beautiful Beaches, This City Offers a True Taste of SoCal Living
Located on the outskirts of Los Angeles County, Long Beach is a coastal city that is home to delicious cuisine, exciting nightlife and premium apartments. If you’re looking for a more quiet yet centrally located part of SoCal, Long Beach has everything you need to build your ideal life. Spend your mornings walking along the coast or take the kids to the iconic Aquarium of the Pacific before sitting down for dinner at one of the amazing downtown restaurants. Ready for a change of scenery? Here are the top-12 reasons you should consider making the move to Long Beach!
Aster Apartments
One of the hardest parts about moving to a new city is finding a sense of community. Thankfully, Aster apartments make finding friends and feeling right at home easier than ever. Located downtown, this brand-new apartment community blends modern luxury with cozy living, and even the common areas and lounges have been designed to the nines. The premium location allows you to walk or bike to some of the best bars, restaurants and parks. Aster is also incredibly pet-friendly, ensuring that you won’t have any trouble moving your furry family members in. From a pool and a spa to a co-work lounge, the amenities seem endless, and though you’ll certainly want to explore your new neighborhood, just leaving the rooftop patio will take some serious convincing. There’s nothing like being able to take your morning coffee up to the roof to take in the panoramic views of Orange County and Los Angeles. Whether you’re in need of a studio, one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartment, visit LiveAsterLB.com to apply ASAP!
Long Beach Antique Market
A new home calls for new decor and a new wardrobe! The Long Beach Antique Market takes over each Sunday, hosting an array of talented and creative vendors. From vintage clothing to one-of-a-kind antiques, this flea market is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike. During special events like Mickey and Friends Beach Flea, you’ll also find tasty food trucks, live DJs and more. When it comes to decorating your new space, be sure to check out the beautiful rugs and antique art pieces.
Rose Park Roasters
Start your mornings with a visit to Rose Park Roasters. Open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, this modern and minimalistic cafe is the ideal WFH spot for those looking to get out of the house. Of course, if you’re in a hurry, you can always take your cappuccino on the go. In addition to serving some of the best coffee in Long Beach, Rose Park Roasters also sells tasty pastries like cheddar chive scones and banana bread.
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Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
Take a break from moving burnout with a trip to the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden. These peaceful gardens are located at the Cal State University, Long Beach campus, and reservations are required to visit. Between feeding the koi fish and meditating at the Zen Garden, you are sure to leave feeling more at ease than ever. This is also the perfect place to get your steps in while strolling down the winding pathways or simply read a book while sitting next to the colorful blossoms.
Sushi Nikkei
Worried about leaving behind your favorite sushi spot? Have no fear! Sushi Nikkei will steal your heart and woo your taste buds. From simple nigiri to creative rolls, Sushi Nikkei has something for every die-hard sushi lover. Start off with a hamachi tostada and some grilled scallops before diving into some of the fresh sashimi in Long Beach. Some other can’t-miss dishes include the lava scallops, octopus fire and the OBA roll. Don’t forget to enhance your meal with a bottle of sake.
Liv’s on 2nd
Enjoy oysters and fresh seafood when you dine at Liv’s on 2nd. This elegant and charming eatery is the ultimate place for after-work drinks and dinner, and if you visit on a Monday, raw oysters are half-priced all day. Kick things off with a crisp glass of white wine or champagne before diving into the salmon crudo or crackers and caviar. If you prefer fried fish over fresh seafood, the fish and chips or crispy popcorn shrimp should both be at the top of your list.
Kayak through Naples Canals
Kayaking through the Naples Canals is an iconic outdoor activity in Long Beach. With 6 miles of waterway, adventurers are able to explore unique coves and might even meet some local wildlife. From dolphins to harmless moon jellies, don’t be surprised if you get acquainted with some true locals. Even if you’re a beginner, these calm waters make kayaking much less intimidating, and there is also very little boat traffic to worry about.
Buvons Natural Wine Bar + Shop
Whether you’re stopping in for a glass or picking up a bottle to go, Buvons is the ultimate place for natural vino in Long Beach. This stylish and plant-filled shop boasts shelves upon shelves of natural wine. Cool off with a light and refreshing bottle of orange wine or opt for a chilled red. Those looking to learn more about natural wines can even take a class for $50, which includes a guided tasting and snacks.
Marina Farmers Market
Every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Alamitos Bay Marina parking lot turns into a buzzy market that locals love. Farmers and vendors come together to sell quality produce and goods, ranging from handmade pastas to freshly squeezed juices. Even if you don’t plan on doing a huge haul, simply walking around and seeing what’s available is the ideal Sunday activity. Don’t leave without visiting the Old Town Bakery stand for some fresh bread.
The Exhibition Room
When it comes to cocktails, The Exhibition Room is one of the best in Long Beach. This Prohibition-style speakeasy hosts everything from comedy nights to burlesque shows, and the craft cocktails are out of this world. During the weekends, there is a strict dress code to follow, so be sure to dress to impress. If you’re not sure what to order, keep things fresh and fruity with the passion fruit-forward Pornstar Martini.
Yoga on the Bluff
Get grounded with an outdoor yoga class on the Long Beach bluffs! Yoga on the Bluff classes take place seven days a week from 11 a.m. to noon, making it the perfect activity for a little sunshine and fresh air during your lunch break. Get centered and grounded as you practice in front of breathtaking Pacific Ocean views.
The Hangout
The Hangout is sure to be your new favorite one-stop shop. The spacious and diverse market sells vintage items like vases and candlestick holders, allowing you to put a timeless touch on your new home. There is also an apothecary section of the shop, where you’ll find great-smelling soaps, candles, body washes and more. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the market for a Turkish coffee and a farm-to-table charcuterie board.
Allie Lebos graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2017 with a BA in Communication. While in school she was a staff writer at The Daily Nexus for nearly two years. Since graduating she has written for The Palisades Magazine, as well as Hidden Hills Magazine. Currently living in Santa Monica, Allie loves to indulge in good food, hot yoga, and daily walks along the beach; writing articles on travel, special events, as well as features on local businesses and individuals.
