Long days and sweltering temperatures can only mean a heatwave is around the corner. But alas, this doesn’t mean you have to sulk around while drenched in sweat. With this in mind, Long Beach has plenty of water-based activities so you can keep calm and, more importantly, keep cool. From jet skis to water bikes, there’s more than one way to soak in Long Beach’s waterfront views.
Rent a Boat With Anchors Away
Located behind the Marina Pacifica Shopping Center, Anchors Away Boat Rentals allows you and up to nine other guests to rent a Duffy boat in Alamitos Bay. If you’re unfamiliar with a Duffy boat, it can best be described as a small electrical boat. Invite a group of friends and sit back to take in the crisp ocean breeze. Rentals last two hours, and if you’re a Barbie girl living in a Barbie world, there are pink duffy boats available. Prices range from $250 to $350. For more information and to make a reservation, go to their website.
You can find Anchors Away at 6274 E Pacific Coast Highway Dock. Free parking is available.
Jet Ski to Catalina
If riveting adventures are your thing, then you’ll love Jet Ski 2 Catalina. As the name suggests, this involves taking a jet ski from Long Beach to the stunning island. Guests can expect a fun-filled two-hour ride through the chilly Pacific Ocean and three hours of free time on the island before making the trek back to Long Beach. Day trip prices start at $399. If you want to stay more than one day, overnight packages are also available. For more information or to make a reservation, head to their website.
Jet Ski 2 Catalina departs from 700 Queensway Drive.
Scuba dive in Catalina
Whether you Jet Ski to Catalina or take the Catalina Express from Long Beach, we know it can be overwhelming to find something to do on the island. However, If you’re looking for a unique experience, opt for a scuba tour with Catalina Scuba. For $105, you’ll get a two-hour scuba lesson and beat the heat, all while exploring underneath the sea. Not interested? Catalina Scuba also offers a $50 snorkeling tour. For more information and to book a tour, go to their website.
Catalina Scuba is located in Avalon at 1 Casino Way.
Kayak With Kayaks on the Water
Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind workout? Try kayaking through Alamitos Bay and Naples with Kayaks On the Water. At $12 an hour, this is an affordable activity you can do solo or with family and friends. As you kayak, you’ll see beautiful homes and perhaps come into contact with sea creatures such as moon jellies. There is only one stipulation; to rent a kayak, you must know how to swim. For more information and to make a reservation, check out their website.
Kayaks On the Water is located at 5411 East Ocean Blvd.
Ride a Waterbike in Alamitos Bay
If kayaking isn’t for you, we have another suggestion; try Long Beach Waterbikes! This is another way to explore the beauty of Alamitos Bay, and it’s as easy as riding a regular bike. Moreover, you can do this during the day or wait until temperatures ease out in the evening for a picturesque sunset or night ride. Rentals last one hour and cost $30. For more information or to make a reservation, head to their website. If you work up an appetite during your ride, check one of the many restaurants nearby, such as Ballast Point or The Crab Pot.
Long Beach Waterbikes can be found at 164 N. Marina Dr. Parking is free.
Go Whale Watching
Whale sightings in Long Beach are the norm. However, if you want to get up close and personal, hop on a boat and feel the cool salty breeze in your hair with SoCal Whale Watching. The boat accommodates six guests, and the tour lasts 2.5 hours. Besides whales, you can expect to see dolphins and more. Prices are $75 for children and $88 for adults. For more information, head to their website.
SoCal Whale Watching departs from Pierpoint Landing at 200 Aquarium Way. Guests can park at 99 Aquarium Way.
Rent a Swan Boat
Swan boats may be quirky, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t a blast. At Wheel Fun Rentals, you can rent a swan boat for $12 an hour and have a relaxing trip around Rainbow Lagoon. Take your family, friends, or that special someone to join you. Whoever it is, you and them will no doubt have a swell time paddling through the glimmering water. The top of each boat is covered for added protection against the sun and heat. However, if you prefer, night rides are also available. For more information, check out their website.
Swan Boat Rentals is located in Rainbow Lagoon at Shoreline Drive at Pine Avenue
Go Parasailing
Thrill seekers, this one is for you! If you want to make an unforgettable memory, go parasailing with California Parasail. This activity includes majestic views of Long Beach paired with a dose of adrenaline. In other words, you’ll feel like you’re flying. This adventure costs $95, and no prior parasailing experience is needed. For more information and to make a reservation, check out their website.
You can find California Parasail in Shoreline Village at 423 Shoreline Village Drive.
Ride a Gondola
If a trip to Venice, Italy, isn’t in the cards for you, no problem. Head to Naples in Long Beach instead and hop on a gondola with Gondola Getaway. The gondola traverses the Naples canals and Alamitos Bay. However, there are different cruises to pick from, including a classic gondola cruise or a pizza cruise. Rides last 50 minutes, and prices start at $120. Oh, and don’t forget to grab an Italian meal from a nearby restaurant, such as Michael’s on Naples. For more information and to book a gondola, head to their website.
Gondola Getaway can be found at 5437 E Ocean Blvd.