Enjoy the ocean breezes when you get on board the Catalina Express as you escape to Catalina Island. All of the boats that depart from Long Beach, Dana Point or San Pedro are the most advanced watercraft available and are all part of an impressive fleet of high-speed vessels. The Catalina Express has proudly transported over one million passengers a year and offers year round service with up to 30 departures daily, so there is no excuse for missing any of the fun that the Pacific Ocean offers.
When you visit the Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum, you will be astounded at the various works of art and exhibits that all go to tell the story of how the various cultures in this part of the world overlap. In fact, it is the mission of this exceptional facility to incorporate the diversity of the different cultures of the Pacific islands, with a special focus on Micronesia, to offer a compelling and panoramic view of what each of these groups contributes to the region's history and way of life.
As long as there are stars in the California night sky, the Griffith Observatory throws a star party every night. The venue offers these free get-togethers with a little help from the Los Angeles Astronomical Society. Also with the facility is the Samuel Oschin Planetarium; this planetarium gets in on the fun by offering $7 tickets to three exciting shows that spotlight the wonders of the universe, of the sea, and of the ocean. The observatory is also the home of the new Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon presentation theater, so there is much to do here between the time you are peering heavenward.
Hit the right romantic notes with your date when you plan an evening at the Long Beach Opera. Founded in 1979, this opera is the oldest opera company in the greater Los Angeles area. The group maintains a highly active performance schedule and maintains a repertory of over 70 operas that range in styles from Baroque to works from the twenty-first century. Check the website for specific performance and ticket information.