Long Beach is a relatively large city located in Southern California, on the Pacific Coast of the US. It is positioned just 20 minutes south of downtown Los Angeles, giving it a close proximity to attractions such as Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood and Catalina Island.

The city is also home to the Port of Long Beach, which is one of the world's largest shipping ports. Extremely popular with tourists from across the globe, it is where action begins and the fun never stops.

Its spectacular seaside locale and dynamic culture ultimately make it Southern California's waterfront Playground. With so much to see and do it will be tough deciding where to start, so here are a few hints:

1. Aquarium of the Pacific

Take a journey of discovery through the world's largest ocean when you visit the Aquarium of the Pacific. Easily Long Beach's most valuable attraction, this aquarium is home to more than 12,500 animals that come from many of the world's oceans.

Embark on an underwater adventure of the predators of the ocean as you marvel at the amazing sharks that dominate the aquarium. If this seems a little too scary for you, why not take a voyage on the wildlife and whale cruise, which will take you to the other monsters of the deep.

While at the aquarium you should also pay a visit to the Animal Vision 3-D spectacular extravaganza that will have you and the kids exclaiming in amazement. Your entire experience at the aquarium will be one that you can treasure and take with you on the rest of your exploration of Long Beach.

2. Museum of Latin American Art

If you have a passion for Latin American Art, or you simply wish to browse some of the country's finest masterpieces, drop in at the Museum of Latin American Art for a cultural experience to die for. This museum is the only museum in the western US to exclusively feature art of this kind, and its location in the East Village Arts District makes it even more special.

The museum is home to significant permanent collections, dynamic exhibitions and related cultural and educational programs. Popular exhibits include A Bridge to the Americas, Sculpture Garden, Spotlight and Of Rage and Redemption: Art of Oswaldo Guayasamin.

This is unique cultural experience that will delight you and open your mind andheart to the wonder of Latin American art.

3. Shoreline Village

All those shopaholics out there are going to fall in love with Shoreline Village, as it is home to a massive collection of quirky shops, souvenir stores and restaurants. This boardwalk will take you right along the water's edge, providing a constant reminder of the seaside atmosphere here. While strolling along you will come across a carousel and fun zone for the kids, live entertainment, beautiful views of the city and dynamic sunsets.

Although it will be tempting, be sure not to spend all your money because you are going to need them for all the other adventures you will have here.

4. Rancho Los Alamitos

This historic site was part of a massive Spanish land grant in 1784 and today serves as a living history museum. The structure itself is comprised of 6 agricultural buildings, a working blacksmith shop, magnificent gardens and a rambling abode ranch that was built in 1800.

This is lovely place to spend a relaxing afternoon, as the atmosphere here is laid back and pleasant. It is also a great place to learn about some of the rich local history, giving you an interesting insight into Long Beach's past.

5. American Museum of Straw Art

The mission of the American Museum of Straw Art is to foster an understanding of the straw arts in all of its complexities, through various exhibitions of cultural significance, folklore, history and technique.

The museum is most popular for its showcasing of straw hats and bonnets, Swiss Straw Lace, woven straw elements, straw applique and the coiled straw technique. The gift shop is also popular because it sells some rare merchandise that can be found nowhere else.

As you can see, Long Beach offers more than just a beach lifestyle. Although this is a pleasant element of the city, it is nice to experience a cultural diversity that is surprising and delightful at the same time. This is definitely the place for your next Californian holiday.

Christine Barton