Long Beach, Harbor city in Los Angeles County, California, US
Long Beach is a harbor city in Los Angeles County, California, spreading along more than 11 miles of Pacific coastline with residential neighborhoods, industrial zones, and waterfront parks. The urban layout connects commercial ports with public beaches, downtown streets, and inland districts that reach toward rolling hills.
The area grew from cattle ranches and farmland through the late 1800s, officially becoming a city in 1897 as seaside resorts began drawing visitors. Oil discoveries in the 1920s transformed the economy, and shipbuilding during the Second World War expanded the harbor into a major commercial center.
Local markets and neighborhood festivals bring together communities from the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, and Latin America throughout the year. The waterfront promenade becomes a gathering space where families gather to walk, fish, and watch the sunset over the harbor.
The downtown area and waterfront are easy to explore on foot or by bicycle, with bike lanes running along the coast and through several neighborhoods. Public transit connects most districts, and parking is available near beaches and main attractions for those arriving by car.
The city hosts one of the largest Cambodian communities outside Southeast Asia, centered around a neighborhood where temples, markets, and restaurants reflect daily life and traditions. This area grew after refugees arrived in the late 1970s and early 1980s, creating a visible presence that continues today.
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