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The Golden Shore Marine Biological Reserve is in the heart of downtown Long Beac h. Less than two centuries ago, this area was surrounded by wetlands fed by the ocean and the Los Angeles River. By the early 1900s, the Port's creation altered landscape. Dredged and drained, the wetlands of Long Beach were reduced to remnants. The Reserve  was created in 1997 on land that was once ocean and later a boat launch ramp. Nowadays, it helps replace habitat lost to development at Rainbow Harbor. While it is only a fraction of Long Beach's original wetland , it offers a home for wildlife. This protected natural zone is a great spot for bird-watching. You might see: egrets, herons,  cormorants,  ducks, pelicans and a variety of shorebirds. This is an easy walk on level paved ground. The LA River Bike Path goes right around the perimeter of the park.

Shoreline Village  is a family friendly destination in  Long Beach (California) . This place is located on the waterfront within walking distance of Downtown . Styled after a quaint Cape Cod fishing village , Shoreline Village is a shopping, dining and entertainment center. There is also an arcade, perfect for bringing kids to. The Village has spectacular views of the  Queen Mary , the city buildings and the  Shoreline Aquatic Park . The Shoreline Village offers several events during the year.