Night before cruise - Birthday Dinner/Fun things

Question

We are going on a cruise that leaves from Long Beach. The night before our cruise, my son turns 19 and we'd like to do something fun to celebrate. We'll be staying at the Residence Inn that is near the cruiseport (and we will have a car).

Are there any fun restaurants that we should check out? Or other activities to do at night that is near that area? Thanks!

Answer

Celebrating a 19th birthday in Long Beach the night before a cruise can be a lot of fun! Since you'll be staying near the cruise port at the Residence Inn and have a car, you have several dining and activity options that are convenient and enjoyable for a young adult and family.

For restaurants with a fun or lively atmosphere, consider:

Parkers’ Lighthouse: Located near Shoreline Village, it offers great seafood, a harbor view, and a celebratory vibe.
BO-beau Kitchen + Roof Tap: A rooftop restaurant with casual American fare, cocktails (for adults), and a fun view of downtown Long Beach.
Tequila Jack’s: A festive Mexican restaurant near the waterfront with vibrant decor and hearty dishes.
Belmont Brewing Company: A relaxed spot with craft beers, comfort food, and games like ping pong or cornhole; great if your son enjoys a casual, social atmosphere.

For evening activities beyond dinner:

Shoreline Village: Walk around the waterfront shops, grab ice cream, and enjoy the festive lights along the harbor.
Harbor Cruise or Lighthouse Visit: Some evening harbor cruises are available, offering city and port views; the Queen Mary is also nearby and has historic exhibits and occasional evening events.
Escape Room or Arcade: Long Beach has some escape room experiences and gaming centers which can be fun for a family celebration.
Observation Deck / Waterfront Stroll: End the night with a walk along the waterfront or around Rainbow Harbor for great photo opportunities and a relaxing vibe before the cruise.

If your son enjoys a lively atmosphere, plan for dinner around Shoreline Village or downtown Long Beach, followed by a short walk or fun activity nearby. The proximity to the cruise port makes it easy to return to the hotel without worrying about long drives before your cruise departure.