Going ashore: come to the coast for seaside adventures, shopping, dining, nightclubbing and more

Pool & Spa News, Feb 28, 2005 by Eve Gordon

Long Beach natives often gush about their California town as the perfect blend of a modern city with small-town friendliness. And, truly, it seems to have something to offer everyone who visits.

Whether you prefer chain stores or unique boutiques, ethnic food or California cuisine, lively nightlife or the sun-drenched outdoors, you can find what you like within a few blocks of wherever you are staying in Long Beach. While some of the venues are priced for expense accounts, many are reasonable, and you probably don't need that tie or those heels in this beach town.

ATTRACTIONS

The two main areas of interest are downtown, which includes Shoreline Village and The Pike, and Belmont Shore. Each area comprises only about a dozen blocks, and they're linked by the free Passport Shuttle. You could visit the world-famous Queen Mary, hop on the brightly colored minibus and take in the aquatic life at the Aquarium of the Pacific, and head downtown to your hotel--all on the same free shuttle.

If you've spent the day at the aptly named Long Beach, strolled past the magnificent ocean view at Bluff Park to Belmont Pier and gone fishing (which you can do even without a license), you may be feeling guilty about not spending any money yet. (After all, you are a tourist, aren't you?) If that's the case, you can jump into a water taxi: the Aquabus links sites in Rainbow Harbor, while the Aqualink connects Alamitos Bay to Belmont Shore ... for just $2.

If you have some extra time to enjoy the area, you might consider a day trip to Catalina Island or nearby Disneyland. For those who prefer staying in town, it's easy to rent a bike and traverse the 5-mile-long oceanfront bicycle path. Or charter a sailboat for the day, take a luxurious gondola ride through the canals in the Naples region or set sail on a clean electric boat--it's even easier to operate than a bicycle--and explore the bay.

You can get more information about Long Beach's attractions and upcoming events at www.visitlongbeach.com, or just Google "Long Beach" and start exploring before you get here.

DINING

After the WPSS exhibits have closed for the day, unwind at one of the numerous dining options located nearby.

Pine Avenue offers many favorites. The Pike at Rainbow Harbor complex provides some familiar faces, such as Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., California Pizza Kitchen, Gladstone's and P.F. Chang's. Closer to the water, Shoreline Village offers an eclectic mix of eateries, from pizzerias to cantinas. Belmont Shore, a short drive away, also offers some fun choices. Here are more highlights:

555 East

Dining at the "Best Steakhouse in California" (according to the Beef Council), you might be surprised at how terrific their salmon is! Choose something appropriate from the award-winning wine list, and flip a coin between surf and turf. 555 E. Ocean Blvd.; (562) 437-0626; www.kingsseafood.com $$$

Belmont Brewing Co.

Try the "taster set" of five brews for only $4. Catch the spectacular view on the outdoor patio, and choose a delicious dinner (seafood, steak, vegetarian and more) from the large menu. 25-39th Place; (562) 433-3891; www.belmontbrewing.com $$

King's Fish House

This restaurant just might have the best fish in town. Try six different oysters on a platter of a dozen--for under $20. They make the sauces for the (always fresh) fish right at the table, and everything is prepared simply, but well. 100 W. Broadway; (562) 432-7463 $$

Lucille's Smokehouse

This is the place for barbecue in Long Beach, and all the other Southern-fried fixings. Take a vacation from your diet and enjoy the sinfully delicious buttermilk biscuits, too. 4828 E. Second St.; (562) 434-7427; www.lucillesbbq.com $-$$

Open Sesame Mediterranean Grill

Locals are willing to let you discover this favorite Lebanese restaurant. Beef, chicken or veggie plates are available in a spacious and relaxed dining room. 5215 E. Second St.; (562) 621-1698 $$

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery

This gathering spot is an easy walk from the convention center, and offers reasonably priced and tasty hickory burgers, ribs, chicken and steak. Their signature beers are brewed on site, and have won numerous awards. 1 Pine Ave.; (562) 308-2255; www.rockbottom.com $$

Shenandoah Cafe

Zagat recommends this restaurant for its American regional menu. Recipes from the heartland with an emphasis on Cajun and Southwestern dishes abound. Baskets of hot apple fritters and garden veggies are brought to your table. Reservations are advised. 4722 E. Second St.; (562) 434-3469; www.shenandoahcafe.com $$$

Smooth's Sports Grille

Formerly known and loved as Mum's, the owners of this hot spot changed the name, added lots of big-screen TVs and kept most of the popular menu. The fine chef stayed on, creating a menu that includes classy versions of traditional bar fare, such as chili using filet mignon. 144 Pine Ave.; (562) 437-7700; www.smoothssportsgrille.com $$$

The Yard House

This waterfront restaurant gets its name from the 36-inch-high glass containers designed for handing stagecoach drivers their beers. Even with a horse and carriage nowhere in sight, you can try one of those to wash down your seafood, steak, burger or salad. 401 Shoreline Dr.; (562) 628-0455; www.yardhouse.com $$