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Waterfront Development

The Long Beach Department of Economic Development & Opportunity collaborates with other City departments and strategic partners to provide a fun, safe, and memorable experience for everyone enjoying Long Beach’s iconic waterfront. Whether you’re visiting on vacation or are a local seeking great views, food, and drinks, we strive to ensure the waterfront has the entertainment and amenities you seek. This is achieved through thoughtful planning, proactive asset management, and close coordination with lessees, event organizers, and venue operators.

The Downtown waterfront is a vibrant destination, offering countless opportunities for leisure and entertainment. This prime location is home to major concerts, events, hotels, family-friendly activities, and a variety of restaurants and bars. To maintain its dynamic appeal, the EDO manages key leases and contracts, ensuring the waterfront remains an entertainment hub.

Attractions

 
  • Long Beach Amphitheater

    The City of Long Beach has selected Legends Global to operate and manage the City’s first-ever amphitheater — the biggest waterfront amphitheater in Los Angeles County.

    About the Venue
    This exciting new venue will transform Long Beach’s entertainment landscape, hosting a robust lineup of major concerts and events each year, along with community celebrations and private gatherings.

    The signature waterfront amphitheater will feature:

    • Grandstand, floor and box seating options
    • Pit and VIP sections
    • Food and beverage concessions
    • Shuttle and dedicated rideshare amenities for easy transportation

    The amphitheater is expected to open its doors in 2026. It is tentatively scheduled to go to the City’s Planning Commission for approval before the end of the 2025 calendar year.

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    Frequently Asked Questions
    Visit our FAQ section for answers to commonly asked questions about the project.

  • The Queen Mary Ship and Hotel

    The Queen Mary features a rich maritime history, authentic Art Deco décor, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Long Beach city skyline. One her maiden voyage in 1936 she was considered the grandest ocean liner ever built, now the Queen Mary has been part of the Long Beach shoreline since December 9, 1967. History buffs and visitors of all ages can explore the ship’s museum, tours, exhibits, and special events. The City of Long Beach contracts with Evolution Hospitality to maintain and operate the Queen Mary hotel and special events.

    Queen Mary

    For more information or for reservations, visit the Queen Mary website.

  • Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center

    The award-winning Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center (LBCEC) is a premiere City asset, offering over 400,000 square feet of versatile meeting, event, and exhibit space. Perfect for conventions, trade shows, and special events, the LBCEC features 34 meeting rooms, a grand ballroom, exhibit halls, an arena, and two theatres. Owned by the City of Long Beach, the LBCEC is operated, maintained, and programmed by ASM Global. To attract major conferences and boost tourism, the City partners with Visit Long Beach to promote the facility and drive hotel stays.

    Convention Center

    For more information, visit the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center website.

  • Aquarium of the Pacific

    The Aquarium of the Pacific is a premier attraction in Long Beach, showcasing the wonders of the Pacific Ocean through engaging exhibits, interactive experiences, and diverse marine life. As one of the largest aquariums in the nation, it offers family-friendly activities, educational programs, and special events, making it a cornerstone of Long Beach’s vibrant waterfront. The City of Long Beach manages a long-term ground lease with the Aquarium of the Pacific.

    Aquarium of the Pacific

    For more information, visit the Aquarium of the Pacific website

  • Carnival Cruise Line

    Carnival Cruise offers an incredible opportunity to vacation and sail to destinations such as Baja Mexico, the Mexican Riviera, and Hawaii. Carnival Cruise operates three ships as a part of its Long Beach fleet: Carnival Firenze, Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Radiance. The City of Long Beach has a long-term lease with Carnival for them to own and operate the Long Beach Cruise Terminal.

    Carnival Cruise Line

    For more information, visit the Carnival Cruise Line website.  

  • Shoreline Village

    Shoreline Village features a variety of waterfront restaurants and shops, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll along the scenic shoreline. The City of Long Beach manages a long-term lease with Shoreline Village Enterprises own, operate, and maintain the Shoreline Village Shopping Center.

    Shoreline Village

    For more information, visit the Shoreline Village website.  

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