Long Beach is one of the most distinctive cities in Southern California. Known for its waterfront attractions and port operations, it also has a range of lesser-known features that make it stand out in Los Angeles County. As you explore this coastal city, you’ll find pockets of culture, infrastructure, and local history that aren't widely advertised but contribute to its identity.
This brief guide covers the overlooked, unexpected, and hyper-local facts about Long Beach CA that often surprise first-time visitors and long-time residents alike.
It Has Its Own Island Chain—And They're Man-Made
Long Beach has four artificial islands just off the coast, each named after an astronaut who died in service: Grissom, White, Chaffee, and Freeman. Built in the 1960s, these islands were designed to support offshore oil drilling operations but also blend in visually. The islands are masked by decorative concrete structures, palm trees, and sound barriers that make them look like resort destinations.
Each island is owned and operated as part of the Long Beach Unit, an oil production zone that balances commercial use with coastal presentation. They are visible from beaches and waterfront hotels, but access is restricted to authorized personnel. Many people see them but don’t realize they’re active oil platforms disguised as landscaping and architectural features.
Each island is owned and operated as part of the Long Beach Unit, an oil production zone that balances commercial use with coastal presentation. They are visible from beaches and waterfront hotels, but access is restricted to authorized personnel. Many people see them but don’t realize they’re active oil platforms disguised as landscaping and architectural features.
It Has One of the Busiest Ports in the Western Hemisphere
The Port of Long Beach is one of the world's largest and most active shipping ports. It handles millions of containers annually and is a major entry point for goods entering the United States. Though the port is known in the logistics industry, many residents are unaware of its influence on the national economy and Long Beach's infrastructure.
The port operates as a significant employment hub, including specialized container terminals, green port initiatives, and its dedicated rail system. It shares operations with the neighboring Port of Los Angeles but functions independently with its commission and management. Observers can view port activity from shoreline parks or dedicated boat tours offered in the harbor.
The port operates as a significant employment hub, including specialized container terminals, green port initiatives, and its dedicated rail system. It shares operations with the neighboring Port of Los Angeles but functions independently with its commission and management. Observers can view port activity from shoreline parks or dedicated boat tours offered in the harbor.
It Has Its Own Airport—And It’s Not LAX
Long Beach Airport (LGB) is located just northeast of downtown and offers a smaller, more accessible alternative to Los Angeles International Airport. It features domestic service on several major carriers and is known for short wait times, open-air concourses, and a restored 1941 terminal building that preserves its Art Deco design.
The airport is used heavily by local travelers heading to cities like Las Vegas, Oakland, and Seattle. It also supports general aviation and has a large footprint in aerospace and aviation maintenance services. For many residents and business travelers, LGB provides a faster and less crowded option for flying in and out of Southern California.
The airport is used heavily by local travelers heading to cities like Las Vegas, Oakland, and Seattle. It also supports general aviation and has a large footprint in aerospace and aviation maintenance services. For many residents and business travelers, LGB provides a faster and less crowded option for flying in and out of Southern California.
It Has a Naples-Style Canal System
The Naples neighborhood in southeast Long Beach features a series of residential canals modeled after the waterways of Venice, Italy. Built in the early 1900s, this area consists of small islands connected by arched bridges and lined with waterfront homes. Residents use electric boats, kayaks, and paddleboards to navigate the canal system.
Public canal access includes walking paths, benches, and designated launching areas for small watercraft. During December, the area hosts a popular boat parade with decorated vessels and illuminated houses. Many people exploring the city don’t realize that a full canal network exists just a short distance from Belmont Shore.
Public canal access includes walking paths, benches, and designated launching areas for small watercraft. During December, the area hosts a popular boat parade with decorated vessels and illuminated houses. Many people exploring the city don’t realize that a full canal network exists just a short distance from Belmont Shore.
It Has a Distinct ZIP Code Exclusively for a Floating Hotel
The RMS Queen Mary, permanently docked at the Long Beach waterfront, has its own designated ZIP code: 90802-9101. This unique identifier was created because the Queen Mary operates as a self-contained complex with onboard hotel rooms, restaurants, event spaces, and exhibits.
The ship was converted into a floating hotel after retiring from ocean service in 1967.
Although its operations have shifted over the years, the Queen Mary remains a historical centerpiece and tourist destination. The ZIP code is used for mail and business registration tied to the vessel, distinguishing it as one of the few non-land-based addresses in the region.
The ship was converted into a floating hotel after retiring from ocean service in 1967.
Although its operations have shifted over the years, the Queen Mary remains a historical centerpiece and tourist destination. The ZIP code is used for mail and business registration tied to the vessel, distinguishing it as one of the few non-land-based addresses in the region.
It Has an Unofficial “Second Downtown”
While downtown Long Beach centers around Pine Avenue and Ocean Boulevard, the Bixby Knolls district in the northern part of the city functions like a secondary downtown. This area includes independent coffee shops, retail stores, galleries, and regular community events like “First Fridays” that highlight local artists and musicians.
Bixby Knolls has its own business improvement association and branding, creating a distinct identity separate from the central business district. The neighborhood includes vintage storefronts, mid-century architecture, and neighborhood parks. It has become a destination in its own right, especially for residents who live north of Signal Hill or closer to the 405 freeway corridor.
Bixby Knolls has its own business improvement association and branding, creating a distinct identity separate from the central business district. The neighborhood includes vintage storefronts, mid-century architecture, and neighborhood parks. It has become a destination in its own right, especially for residents who live north of Signal Hill or closer to the 405 freeway corridor.
It Was the Original Home of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach
The streets of downtown Long Beach have hosted a major racing event since 1975, originally known as the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. The race circuit uses existing city roads and infrastructure, winding past landmarks like the Convention Center and Aquarium of the Pacific. Today, the event is part of the IndyCar Series and remains one of the longest-running street races in North America.
Each spring, the race transforms downtown into a high-traffic venue with temporary seating, paddocks, and sponsor exhibits. The event brings international attention to Long Beach and has become a tradition for motorsport fans. Many residents are surprised by the scale of the operation and how seamlessly it integrates with the urban layout.
Each spring, the race transforms downtown into a high-traffic venue with temporary seating, paddocks, and sponsor exhibits. The event brings international attention to Long Beach and has become a tradition for motorsport fans. Many residents are surprised by the scale of the operation and how seamlessly it integrates with the urban layout.
It Has a Large Network of Public Murals and Street Art
Long Beach has invested in public art projects through organizations like POW! WOW! Long Beach and the Arts Council for Long Beach. As a result, the city now features dozens of murals across downtown, East Village, and industrial areas. These murals include large-scale works on warehouse walls, parking garages, and commercial buildings.
Some murals are part of temporary exhibitions, while others have become permanent fixtures of their neighborhoods. Visitors can find walking guides and maps that list mural locations, and new projects are added each year. The art spans multiple styles, including abstract, portraiture, and cultural commentary, reflecting the diversity of the local artist community.
Some murals are part of temporary exhibitions, while others have become permanent fixtures of their neighborhoods. Visitors can find walking guides and maps that list mural locations, and new projects are added each year. The art spans multiple styles, including abstract, portraiture, and cultural commentary, reflecting the diversity of the local artist community.
Discover the Charm of Long Beach
Long Beach, CA, is a city brimming with exciting activities and attractions that cater to all interests. From the fascinating marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific to the historical allure of the Queen Mary, there's always something new to explore. Whether you're an art lover or an outdoor enthusiast, Long Beach offers a rich tapestry of experiences that promise to captivate and inspire.
If you're considering making this vibrant city your home, reach out to The Elmer Team. They can guide you through finding the perfect place in Long Beach, CA.
If you're considering making this vibrant city your home, reach out to The Elmer Team. They can guide you through finding the perfect place in Long Beach, CA.
