Tiffany Brothers

If you are looking to spend some time outdoors and on the beach but would rather steer away from the crowds and all that goes with it, opt to visit Alamitos Bay Marina. This area is quite beautiful, but it is nicely positioned away from all of the tourist attractions and resorts, which makes it a kind of hidden treasure for outdoor lovers. The views are absolutely amazing and the weather is agreeable nearly every day.

When your workweek has been no laughing matter, forget about it all by making plans to spend the evening at Long Beach's Laugh Factory. This popular comedy club features an impressive mix of veteran performers along with an equally interesting batch of fresh faces. Some of the comedians who have taken to the spotlight here include Mario Joyner, Kevin Nealon, and Adam Carolla, just to name a few. Reservations are recommended. Also, don't forget to to check the website for news on upcoming entertainment.

Art is born out of both inspiration and reflection. A specific geographic area can inspire the creation of some truly amazing art as well as reflect the attitudes and feelings of a particular point in time. Nowhere is that more obvious than at Long Beach's Museum of Latin American Art. These works seem to come alive with both a dimensionality and a spiciness that gives them a personality all their own. The facility was founded in 1996 and holds the distinction of being the only museum of its kind in the United States.

If you are bringing the whole family out for a day of fun in the California sun, then the appropriately-named Mother's Beach is the most obvious choice. This recently-renovated beach park offers plenty of amenities and attractions that will please the whole family. There's a little whale at the center of the kiddie splash pad, rocks to climb, swings to swing on, and of course, lots of sand! A swimming area for adults and older kids is roped off from the area designated for toddlers and kiddies to enjoy.