If you're looking for a great vacation destination, you couldn't pick a better place than Long Beach, CA with its comfortable year round temperatures, close proximity to downtown Los Angeles, and convenient airport located right in Long Beach.

Year Round Vacation Ideas in Long Beach, CA

A fun family place to visit would be the Aquarium of the Pacific at 100 Aquarium Way. Long Beach is home to one of the largest aquariums in the country with more than 12,000 marine animals, exotic species of jellyfish, interactive exhibits, a shark lagoon, and behind the scene tours. Educational and entertaining. Call for hours 562-590-3100.

See more about the historic Queen Mary, docked in Long Beach. Tours, hotel accommodations, fine dining, banquets, and special events happening year round.

Looking for something different? Great raves from many vacationers who tried the gondola trip through the canals of Naples in Long Beach, CA. Said to be beautiful year round but especially in December as you pass the homes brightly decorated for the holidays. You may get a singing gondolier to add to your pleasurable ride or one who will narrate interesting facts along the way. Baskets of bread, cheese, and salami are provided. You supply your own choice of drink. Most agree this is a trip worth taking time and time again. Located at 5437 E. Ocean Blvd. or call for information 562-433-9595.

How about trying the Grand Romance Riverboat for a romantic paddlewheel candlelight dinner cruise? Or maybe you'd prefer a sightseeing luncheon cruise or a mystery dinner theater cruise. The Grand Romance has it all. Come aboard this authentic Riverboat with its 2 story Grand Ballroom, elegant marble dance floor, turn of the century mahogany bar, and large seating capacity for its weekly mystery murders. Located at Rainbow Harbor, 200 Aquarium Way. Call for more information 562-628-1600.

More Fun Things To Do in Long Beach, CA

With so many fun and exciting things going on, you'll find it's always a great time to visit.

• Take a helicopter or boat ride to Catalina Island, spotting dolphins and whales along the way.
• Bring the family to the El Dorado Nature Center at 7550 East Spring Street for a study of nature, do a little hiking, enjoy the campfire grounds activities, museum, and the serenity of the lakes. Certain activities require registration, call ahead for times 562-570-1745.
• Take a drive along Pacific Coast Highway just to check out the fantastic scenery.
• The Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach April 15 - 17, 2011 A very popular event with over 200,000 visitors expected.
• The Bayou Festival at the Rainbow Lagoon in June. Enjoyed by many for the authentic Louisiana music, dancing, creole food, arts and crafts available for purchase.
• The Catalina Ski Race, from Long Beach Harbor to Catalina Island and back, is held in July. Water skiers from around the world turn out for this annual event, popular since 1948.
• Dragon Boat Festival in July.
• See what's going on Labor Day Weekend in Long Beach.
• Naples Island Christmas Boat Parade, usually the second Saturday in December.

Need more suggestions? Contact the Long Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at 562-436-3645.