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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 Golden Sails Hotel in Long Beach was a fantastic experience, especially for business travel. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short ride on the metro to downtown, and there are plenty of dining options right outside the door. My room was clean, well-maintained, and the bed was super comfortable, making it easy to unwind after a long day of meetings. The staff were friendly and even upgraded me to a better room without any extra charge—definitely a nice surprise. With its great value, excellent service, and prime location, this hotel is perfect for professionals traveling for work. I’d absolutely recommend it and will definitely be back on my next trip to Long Beach.
Staying at Beachrunners Inn was an absolute delight. The place felt like a cozy, well-kept home—clean, welcoming, and full of charm. I especially appreciated the free designated parking right behind the property; it made getting around so much easier than dealing with hotel parking hassles. Plus, waking up to a complimentary breakfast was such a nice touch. It’s not just a stay—it’s a relaxed, convenient experience that truly stands out. I’ll definitely be booking here again on my next trip to Long Beach.
I stayed at Hotel Royal in Long Beach and was pleasantly surprised by the spacious rooms—much larger than expected, with a clean and well-maintained feel. The only downside is the lack of an elevator, but since the building isn’t too tall, walking up the stairs wasn’t a big issue. Front desk staff were generally friendly and helpful, though it seemed like different people handled check-in each day, so consistency varied slightly. Still, every interaction remained polite and efficient. Overall, the hotel offers great value for the price, especially given its convenient location. I’d definitely consider returning if I’m back in Long Beach.
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.
The room at Sea Rock Inn was spacious and bright, with two beds that were generously sized—perfect for a comfortable night's sleep. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and made check-in quick and hassle-free. What really stood out was the incredible value for money—this place offers so much more than expected at such a reasonable rate. It’s clear they prioritize guest comfort and satisfaction. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Long Beach.
I absolutely loved my stay at Cabana Inn & Suites in Long Beach! The room came with a fridge and microwave—perfect for storing snacks or heating up meals, which was super convenient. The only minor issue was inconsistent water pressure in the shower, but it didn’t ruin the experience. What really stood out was the free parking right outside the hotel—no stress about finding a spot or paying extra. I would’ve appreciated a bit more toilet paper, but overall, the room quality and price were spot-on. With rates this affordable, I’d definitely come back without hesitation.
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.
The booking process was smooth and efficient, with clear communication and a hassle-free check-in experience. I stayed in a street-facing room, which was surprisingly comfortable despite the outside noise—thanks to good soundproofing and a cozy, character-filled design. The room had just the right mix of modern amenities and vintage charm, making it feel both welcoming and unique. Located in a great spot near downtown Long Beach, it's easy to get around by public transit or on foot. Overall, an excellent stay with high value for money—I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting the area.
The Casa Bonita Apartments offer an excellent value for the price, with a spacious and thoughtfully furnished unit that feels much larger than expected. Everything you’d need is on hand—kitchen essentials, clean linens, and thoughtful touches throughout. The only minor drawback is finding parking, which can be tricky, but once you’re settled, the neighborhood is very walkable. You're within steps of beaches, local cafes, and shops. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to experience Long Beach like a local without overspending. Highly recommend for travelers who appreciate comfort and convenience.
This little motel is absolutely adorable and perfectly located right near the beach in Long Beach. I was pleasantly surprised when they allowed me to check in early just because I asked if they could hold my bags while I explored the area—no hassle at all. Even though I got a smoking room, there was zero lingering odor or stale smoke smell; it was surprisingly fresh and clean. The whole place has a cozy, charming vibe with great attention to detail. It’s such a sweet spot for travelers who want convenience, comfort, and a touch of local charm without breaking the bank. Definitely a hidden gem—would book again in a heartbeat.
Staying at Lumea by the Sea was a delightful experience overall—perfectly located near the beach with a peaceful, serene atmosphere. The room was clean, well-appointed, and had great views. The only downside was the limited parking availability. We had to circle around a few times just to find a spot, which was a bit frustrating, especially after a long day of travel. It would be great if the hotel could expand parking options or offer clearer signage for visitors. Despite that small hiccup, the location, comfort, and value make it a strong recommendation. I’d definitely stay here again.
This 20-day trip across the U.S. had its ups and downs, but this Motel 6 in Long Beach was definitely one of the highlights—especially after a less-than-stellar experience at another hotel catering to Chinese travelers. This place is a straightforward, no-frills motor lodge that delivers on comfort and convenience. The location is super accessible, just a short ride from downtown and near major transit options. Inside the room, you get a fridge, microwave, and basic toiletries—perfect for a quick meal or a little snack. Two spacious 1.5-meter beds made it easy to stretch out and sleep well, even after long days exploring. It’s clean, secure, and offers great value for money. If you’re looking for a reliable, hassle-free base while visiting Long Beach, this is a solid choice. I’d absolutely stay here again.
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