Long Beach is the southernmost stop in Los Angeles County before reaching Orange County. It is a culturally diverse city of around a half million people and a thriving tourist destination, featuring the Long Beach Aquarium and the Queen Mary. Cruises leave from Long Beach, and you can sail to Catalina Island on the local Catalina Express. Air and water quality has suffered in Long Beach due to the port, but Belmont Shores offers a cleaner beach experience along with a hip shopping street and quaint seaside homes.