Craving a slice of Venice on the water? Gondola Getaway floats you through Long Beach’s serene harbor—gliding past lush trees and quiet waterfront views. Sip a cocktail as the gondolier hums Italian folk tunes. In that moment, time slows, the world quiets… and you’re suddenly in a dreamy European canal town.

Everything you need to know about Gondola Getaway
The Westin Long Beach is a top choice, just a 5-minute drive from Gondola Getaway. It offers family-friendly rooms, an indoor pool, and complimentary shuttle service. Located in the heart of the waterfront district, it provides easy access to the boardwalk, sightseeing boat docks, and evening light shows. Rooms feature modern design with Pacific Ocean views in select units, making it perfect for families seeking comfort and convenience.
Located in the Long Beach Waterfront District, Gondola Getaway offers excellent connectivity. Take the free community shuttle bus, rent an electric scooter (e.g., Lime), or stroll along the scenic boardwalk to reach the Santa Ana Bridge, Long Beach Museum of Art, Olympic Harbor, and the U.S. Naval Museum. The adjacent tourist dock also allows direct access to boat tours, including sunset cruises and trips to the Palos Verdes Bay, making it ideal for exploring the coastal charm efficiently.
Beyond the gondola ride, visitors can enjoy sunset catamaran cruises and guided jet ski tours. Some boats offer gourmet dinner buffets with live music under the stars, showcasing Long Beach’s skyline and harbor lights. Additionally, floating dock rentals are popular for private evening cruises, providing a serene, intimate experience on the water. All activities are located within the waterfront district, easily accessible on foot.
Yes! The Long Beach Pier Lighthouse and Rainbow Arch are must-visit photo spots, especially at golden hour when sunlight reflects off the water and buildings. The colorful public art wall and sculpture installations around the waterfront attract photographers. The gondola boarding platform itself is a striking architectural feature, offering stunning backdrops of sea and sky—perfect for both portrait and panoramic shots.
Start with a morning visit to the Long Beach Museum of Art and the waterfront farmers market, then lunch at Waterfront Restaurant for fresh seafood. In the afternoon, take the gondola ride for a romantic vibe and relax at a seaside café. End the day at the pier viewing deck for sunset and city lights, followed by a nighttime harbor cruise. The entire itinerary is walkable or reachable via short transit, offering a comfortable and vibrant full-day experience.
The gondolas feature fully transparent glass bottoms, offering 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and Long Beach harbor. Each cabin includes wireless audio systems playing soft jazz, enhancing the romantic atmosphere. The 10-minute ride crosses key waterfront landmarks with multiple viewing stops, allowing passengers to hop on and off freely. This blend of technology and natural beauty makes it one of Long Beach’s most innovative and iconic tourist attractions.
Near Gondola Getaway in Long Beach, Marriott's Marina Hotel Long Beach is a top choice, offering ocean-view rooms and easy access to the Long Beach Waterfront Promenade. Guests enjoy walking directly to scenic marinas and vibrant waterfront dining spots. The hotel features an indoor pool, free parking, and proximity to Long Beach Airport (LGB)—just a 15-minute drive—making it ideal for travelers exploring Los Angeles or San Diego. Its prime location ensures seamless access to both coastal charm and urban amenities.
Near Gondola Getaway, visitors can enjoy a range of water-based adventures, including renting paddleboards or tandem pedal boats for a peaceful glide along the Long Beach Marina waters. Guided sightseeing cruises offer insights into the harbor’s ecology and skyline views, with opportunities to spot dolphins and sea birds. Some vessels even host dinner cruises with live music and gourmet meals—perfect for couples or family getaways. All activities include safety gear and trained staff, ensuring a secure and memorable experience on the water.
It takes about 15 minutes on foot from Gondola Getaway to Downtown Long Beach, passing through lush waterfront pathways with ocean views and street art. For faster travel, electric scooters or Long Beach Bus service reach downtown in just 8 minutes. The city center features boutique shops, local eateries, and landmarks like the Long Beach Convention Center. Ride-sharing apps such as Lyft and Uber are readily available at the marina, offering a 10-minute ride to downtown—ideal for quick trips or evening exploration.
Yes, Gondola Getaway is surrounded by family-friendly attractions, including the Long Beach Children's Museum and beachside parks with playgrounds, sand pits, and interactive exhibits. The nearby splash fountain plaza offers summer water play areas perfect for kids. The Long Beach Seaside Bike Path connects to multiple community parks, ideal for family bike rides. Weekly events like family markets and outdoor movie nights combine fun and learning, creating memorable bonding moments. All facilities feature ADA-compliant access, ensuring inclusivity and safety for all ages.
Absolutely. Staying near Gondola Getaway provides excellent access to major California attractions. It’s just 35 minutes by car to Downtown Los Angeles, making visits to Hollywood, Disneyland, or Santa Monica Beach effortless. A 1-hour drive leads to San Diego, ideal for day trips. Long Beach Airport (LGB) is minutes away, offering numerous domestic flights. Nearby access to I-405 and State Route 5 allows efficient travel by car or public transit to other Southern California cities and natural landmarks, making this area a prime base for exploring the entire state.
Near Gondola Getaway, enjoy vibrant nighttime experiences such as the Long Beach Waterfront Night Market, featuring local food stalls, artisan vendors, and glowing decor. The marina light show begins nightly at 7 PM, transforming boats and docks into a dynamic canvas of color and motion. Music lovers can visit the Long Beach Jazz Club for live improvisational performances. Some hotels also offer evening dock tours and stargazing events, blending natural beauty with cultural flair—perfect for a memorable night out.
See what other travelers say about Gondola Getaway

Staying at the Hilton Long Beach Hotel was an absolute delight. The staff went above and beyond to make our visit memorable—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. The room was spacious, clean, and beautifully decorated with a modern touch. I loved the view from the window, especially during sunset. Location-wise, it’s perfect for exploring downtown Long Beach and nearby attractions. Everything is within walking distance or a short ride away. The amenities are top-notch, from the pool area to the fitness center. Overall, this hotel offers exceptional value and service. Would highly recommend to anyone visiting the area.

Staying at Hyatt Regency Long Beach was an absolute delight, especially for the fireworks display. The view from the hotel is unbeatable—right in the perfect spot to enjoy the entire show with no obstructions. It’s incredibly convenient, just a short ride from downtown, and the overall experience offered great value. The ambiance is peaceful, making it ideal for both relaxation and special occasions. I’d definitely come back again.

Staying at the Marriott Long Beach Downtown was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. The check-in process was seamless and efficient—no delays, no stress. The front desk staff were genuinely friendly and welcoming, making our arrival feel warm and personal. The hotel feels brand new, with modern furnishings and spotless facilities throughout. Every detail reflects care and attention, creating a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this is a top-tier choice in downtown Long Beach. Highly recommend it!

I rarely write reviews, but I felt compelled to respond to all the negative feedback that made me nervous about my stay. To be honest, the place was spotlessly clean—just a few minor cosmetic updates needed, like fresh paint and new blankets due to previous burn marks, but everything had been thoroughly washed and sanitized. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helped with a super quick check-out process—no delays at all. Heads up: there’s a $100 refundable deposit, but you’ll get it back when you leave. Honestly, I’ve stayed in worse places for more money, so this is definitely a great value. If you’re looking for a clean, hassle-free stay in Long Beach with excellent service, this is a solid choice. I’d stay here again without hesitation.

The Hyatt Centric the Pike Long Beach offers a fantastic experience with its clean and well-maintained environment. Daily housekeeping ensures everything stays fresh and tidy, which is always a plus. The bathroom is fully equipped with all essentials—except for toothbrushes, which are standard—but otherwise, it's thoughtfully stocked. The only minor drawback is that the air conditioning unit makes a bit of noise when running, but it’s hardly noticeable during sleep. Overall, the hotel delivers excellent value, comfort, and convenience. Highly recommend for travelers looking for a reliable, stylish stay in Long Beach.

The check-in process was seamless—received all the necessary details via email ahead of time, and everything was straightforward. Upon arrival, I was pleasantly surprised to find the fridge stocked with water, chocolate, and ice, plus coffee and wine waiting on the counter. It felt like a warm welcome from the start. Parking was a bit confusing at first, but a quick glance at the binder on the dining table cleared it up. All amenities were present and accounted for, including a washer and dryer—though we didn’t end up using them. The neighborhood is charming, quiet, and feels safe. The only minor issue was the ceiling fan in the second bedroom—it’s slightly unbalanced, making a noticeable noise when running, which made it hard to sleep with. But honestly, that’s just a tiny detail in an otherwise fantastic stay. The location is great, the space is airy and well-maintained, and the value is excellent. I’d absolutely recommend this rental to anyone visiting Long Beach.

Our stay at Pine Ave Inn was extremely disappointing from the very beginning. We didn’t feel comfortable at any point during our visit. When we arrived for check-in, we waited nearly 20 minutes with no staff appearing to assist us. While waiting, I walked around the property trying to find someone for help, and what I saw wasn’t reassuring—dirty mattresses with visible stains, grimy floors in the rooms, and overall poor maintenance. Three rooms had their doors wide open, which only added to the uneasy feeling. The lack of cleanliness and professionalism made us feel unsafe. We decided not to proceed with checking in and left to book another motel nearby. This experience was far below expectations, especially considering the price. I wouldn’t recommend this place to anyone looking for a clean, safe, and welcoming stay.

Staying at Sunshine Motel was a pleasant surprise! The room was spotlessly clean, with fresh linens and a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. I was especially happy to find consistent hot water in the shower—perfect after a long day of driving or exploring Long Beach. The location is super convenient, just a short walk from downtown attractions and local restaurants. No frills, but everything works well and feels genuinely welcoming. For travelers looking for a no-fuss, reliable place to stay with excellent value, this motel is a top pick. Would definitely come back.

I booked a room at Hotel Salina for my dad and his wife to stay a few days while visiting their son in Long Beach. The location was perfect—easy access, quiet neighborhood, and just a short walk from local spots. The room itself was clean, spacious, and had a very comfortable bed with all the essentials: good lighting, working AC, plenty of outlets, and a nice-sized bathroom. My dad had to leave early due to a flight change and forgot to collect his incidental deposit back. I was actually worried about it, but the hotel manager called me personally to let me know what happened. Even better, they processed a refund through Venmo and sent it directly to me so I could pass it on to my dad. That kind of honesty and proactive service is rare these days—it really stood out. I’ve stayed at many hotels before, but this level of care and transparency is unforgettable. If you're in the area, especially for family visits or a quick getaway, I highly recommend Hotel Salina. It’s not just a place to sleep; it feels like home.

We were so grateful for the early check-in option—our music festival ended late, and having a place to rest before our trip was a lifesaver. The room had just been recently renovated, and it showed: everything was spotless, fresh, and well-maintained. The mattress was an absolute highlight—so comfortable that I actually asked the front desk if they sold them! It’s not every day you find a hotel bed that makes you want to take it home. The location is great too, just a short walk from downtown Long Beach, and super convenient if you’re exploring by foot or public transit. This stay exceeded expectations, and I’d definitely book again without hesitation.

My stay at Royal Inn Motel Long Beach was pleasantly quiet and comfortable. The rooms were spotless and well-maintained, with a clean, fresh feel that made the experience really relaxing. I appreciated the peaceful atmosphere—no noise from the street or neighboring units, which made for a great night's sleep. The front desk staff were welcoming and helpful, making check-in and check-out smooth and stress-free. Location-wise, it’s convenient for getting around town—just a short walk to local restaurants, shops, and public transit. Overall, this is a solid choice for travelers looking for a clean, quiet, and friendly base in Long Beach. Highly recommend for a hassle-free getaway.

My stay at the Inn at 50 - Long Beach Convention Center was absolutely excellent! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the convention center, with plenty of dining options and local shops nearby. I felt completely safe throughout my visit, which made the whole experience even more relaxing. The staff went above and beyond—they were friendly, professional, and always ready to help. From check-in to checkout, every interaction was smooth and welcoming. The room was clean, well-maintained, and comfortable, with all the essentials you’d need for a stress-free trip. With such great value and a prime spot in Long Beach, I’ll definitely be returning and would highly recommend this place to anyone visiting the area.
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