Author: dailycastsocal
Sun, Sand, and Surf: Exploring Long Beach’s Coastal Charm
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and pristine coastal landscapes, Long Beach, California, is a vibrant city known for its stunning seaside views, thriving cultural scene, and diverse culinary offerings. While many visitors flock to its famous attractions, there are hidden gems scattered throughout this coastal paradise that offer a more local experience. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned beachcomber, here are the secrets to unlocking the full charm of Long Beach. 1. The Quiet Shoreline of Naple’s Canals Escape the bustling crowds of the main beaches by venturing into the serene Naple’s Canals. This charming area, inspired by Italy’s famous canals, features picturesque waterways lined with quaint homes and lush gardens. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the paths or rent a kayak for a unique perspective. The tranquility of this neighborhood is a delightful contrast to the lively beachfront. 2. Hidden Beach: A Local’s Secret Just south of Long Beach lies a lesser-known gem known as Hidden Beach. Accessible through a small, unmarked path, this secluded spot is ideal for those seeking a peaceful sunbathing experience or a romantic picnic. The gentle sound of the waves and the absence of crowds make it a perfect retreat. Remember to bring your snacks, as there are no facilities nearby. 3. The Farmers Market at Marine Stadium Every Saturday morning, Marine Stadium transforms into a vibrant Farmers Market that attracts locals more than tourists. Here, you can experience the region’s freshest produce, homemade delicacies, and artisanal products. Engage with local farmers, sample delicious treats, and enjoy live music while soaking in the community atmosphere. It’s a fantastic opportunity to take a slice of Long Beach home with you. 4. Explore the Arts District Long Beach’s Arts District, just a short drive from the waterfront, is a creative hub filled with murals, galleries, and studios. Wander down the streets to discover striking street art and charming craft shops. Don’t miss the Long Beach Museum of Art, which showcases contemporary pieces in an oceanfront setting. The district often hosts art walks and open studios, inviting visitors to interact with local artists and their creations. 5. Taco Beach: Off-the-Beaten-Path Eats While Long Beach has many popular restaurants, it’s worth seeking out “Taco Beach,” a hidden taco truck that serves some of the best authentic Mexican food in the area. Located within walking distance of the beach, this food truck offers a variety of mouthwatering tacos and burritos at affordable prices. Bring your meal to the beach and savor the flavors with a view. 6. Los Cerritos Wetlands For nature lovers, the Los Cerritos Wetlands is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. This expansive ecological reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including migratory birds and native plants. Take a guided tour or hike the trails for a chance to delve into Long Beach’s natural beauty. Birdwatching here is a particularly rewarding experience, especially during the migratory season. 7. The Bluff’s Secret Staircase At Bluff Park, you’ll find a charming staircase leading down to the beach that not everyone knows about. This staircase offers stunning ocean views and takes you directly to the beach from the park above. It’s a lesser-trodden path that provides a beautiful photo opportunity and a peaceful descent to the sandy shores. 8. The Queen Mary’s Ghost Tours While many visit the historic Queen Mary for dining and sightseeing, few know about its haunted history. The ship offers ghost tours that share its spine-chilling tales and paranormal encounters. This unique experience combines history with a bit of suspense, making it an unforgettable addition to your itinerary. Conclusion Long Beach is a coastal gem overflowing with charm, waiting to be uncovered. From hidden beaches and serene canals to bustling markets and artistic districts, the city presents a wealth of experiences beyond the mainstream attractions. By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Long Beach’s local culture and create memories that last a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready to explore—the secrets of Long Beach are waiting for you!
Driving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, California
October 10, 2025 @ 1:00PM Temp: 77°F, 25°C. ☀️ Sunny Drive starts in Culver City to Beverly Hills. source
Flying into San Diego, CA (SAN)
On a recent trip to Las Vegas, NV, we took a layover to San Diego, CA. We’ve never been to California, so we took this opportunity … source
HISTORICAL QUEEN MARY…LONG BEACH CALIFORNIA HARBOR
View of the historical ship The Queen Mary in Long Beach California. source
Newsom’s budget plan banks on strong revenues despite fiscal risks
SACRAMENTO — California and its state-funded programs are entering a phase of intense fiscal unpredictability, primarily influenced by developments in Washington and fluctuations on Wall Street. Governor Gavin Newsom’s budget director cautioned on Friday that the spike in revenues connected to the artificial intelligence surge is being counterbalanced by escalating costs and reductions in federal funding. Consequently, the state is anticipated to face a $3-billion deficit for the upcoming fiscal year, despite the absence of significant new spending proposals. The Newsom administration unveiled its suggested $348.9-billion budget for the fiscal year starting on July 1, officially initiating discussions with the Legislature regarding expenditure priorities and policy objectives. “This budget embodies both optimism and prudence,” Newsom stated. “California’s economy is robust, revenues are exceeding forecasts, and our financial standing remains sound due to years of responsible fiscal oversight — yet we are committed to continuing the momentum without overextending ourselves.” The proposed budget did not allocate funds to replace the significant cuts to Medicaid and other public assistance programs enacted by President Trump and the Republican-controlled Congress, changes anticipated to cause millions of low-income Californians to lose healthcare and other benefits. “If the state fails to act, communities throughout California will deteriorate,” stated Graham Knaus, CEO of the California State Association of Counties. The governor is anticipated to update the proposal in May, utilizing revised revenue forecasts post the income tax filing period, with lawmakers required to finalize a budget by June 15. Newsom’s absence from the budget briefing on Friday was unusual; instead, he appointed California Director of Finance Joe Stephenshaw to answer questions regarding the governor’s financial plan. “Without significant increases in spending, there are also no major reductions or cuts to programs in the budget,” Stephenshaw noted, indicating that the proposal is still evolving. California’s revenue system is particularly volatile, heavily reliant on personal income taxes from high-earning individuals whose capital gains fluctuate dramatically with the stock market. As state budget negotiations commence, many anticipated considerable austerity measures following a warning from the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office in November regarding a looming $18-billion budget deficit. The governor’s office and the Department of Finance often do not align with or utilize the LAO’s estimates. On Friday, the Newsom administration projected a significantly smaller deficit of approximately $3 billion, based on expectations of higher revenue over the next three fiscal years than previously predicted. The discrepancy between the governor’s estimate and the LAO’s projection primarily arises from differing assumptions about risks: the LAO accounted for a potential major stock-market decline. “We do not consider that,” Stephenshaw remarked. Source link
Lyft and Uber drivers protest Waymo robotaxis in California
By HAVEN DALEY, Associated Press SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — On Friday, drivers from Lyft and Uber staged a protest against self-driving Waymo taxis in San Francisco, urging state regulators to enhance oversight of autonomous vehicles due to recent incidents where the cars injured pets and obstructed traffic. Demonstrators held signs during a protest by Uber and Lyft drivers requesting state regulators to remove self-driving taxis from the streets due to safety concerns at the California Public Utilities Commission headquarters on Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Haven Daley) Approximately two dozen drivers and supporters gathered outside the California Public Utilities Commission’s offices, voicing their concerns and calling for safer streets and increased accountability as the commission met to discuss more regulations on autonomous vehicles. A steady flow of Waymo cars passed by the protest, highlighting the increasing presence of these white taxis in San Francisco. “I personally am not opposed to technology; I oppose unfair treatment,” stated Joseph Augusto, a driver for both Uber and Lyft. “We have these companies providing autonomous vehicles that roam the city without being held to the same standards that we are.” The California Public Utilities Commission, responsible for regulating Uber and Lyft, is currently refining and broadening policies surrounding autonomous robotaxis as the industry evolves. The California Gig Workers Union has called for these vehicles to be removed from the streets until safety issues are properly addressed. The state agency has not yet responded to a request for comment, nor has Waymo, which is a subsidiary of Alphabet, Google’s parent company. Waymo’s vehicles recently blocked San Francisco streets during a widespread power outage just days before Christmas, forcing the company to pause service and raising concerns about the cars’ adaptability to real-world driving scenarios. In September, a Waymo made an illegal U-turn in front of a sign specifying that such maneuvers were prohibited, but San Bruno police could not issue a ticket due to the absence of a human driver. In October, a Waymo tragically killed a beloved neighborhood cat named Kit Kat. Augusto remarked that he witnessed Waymos stalled at intersections while pedestrians weaved around them during the power outage on December 20. “Waymos were everywhere, just haphazardly spread across the city without any clear plan,” he added. Source link
Popular bar in Palm Springs set to close; business owners concerned about slow season
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – PS Air Bar, a popular aviation-themed lounge in Palm Springs, is closing after more than six years. The bar was located inside Bouschet, a specialty marketplace for fine wines, which is also closing. In a statement posted to the PS Air Bar website, the owners explained their decision to close: The past year has been one of multiple challenges and unforseen [sic] obstacles for both Bouschet and PSAir, which we have been unable to surmount. After exhausting all avenues for a sale, financial support or a lifeline to no avail, we have made the heartbreaking decision to close the business. The bar is already closed to the general public, but members of the bar’s Fine Wine Society will still be able to pick up their last products this Friday and Saturday (January 9th and 10th), according to the online statement. News Channel 3 reached out to the owners of Bouschet/PS Air, who declined our requests for comment. Other businesses in the area said the closure of the Palm Springs staple was a bad sign, especially amid a slower-than-usual winter. The owner of an antique store next door pointed to fewer Canadians in the valley than usual. Stay with KESQ as we hear more reaction from local business owners and their concern as sustaining business becomes tougher. Source link
California woman accused of causing 2 crashes months apart that killed 3 – The Mercury News
A 24-year-old woman suspected of causing a crash that killed two people in Long Beach over the weekend is also accused of fatally striking a bicyclist in the city’s Alamitos Beach neighborhood in October, authorities said. Ahkeyajahnique Owens, 24, of Long Beach on Wednesday, Jan. 7, pleaded not guilty to one count of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence to an Oct. 6 crash along Fourth Street near Bonito Avenue that left 35-year-old Raul Augustin Gallopa critically injured, according to authorities and court records. Gallopa died at a hospital two weeks later, police said. Gallopa was riding eastbound along Fourth and attempting to make a left turn onto Bonito when he was hit by Owens’ BMW, police said. Owens remained at the scene of the crash. Inmate records show Owens was arrested on Oct. 6 on suspicion of reckless driving after police determined she was speeding and released the next day on her own recognizance. On Sunday, Jan. 4, Owens sped along Sixth Street and ran a red light at Atlantic Avenue in a BMW before slamming into a Nissan sedan and a Kia Soul as they were traveling on Atlantic, police said. The Nissan ended up on its roof. Two passengers — Bobbi Smith, 24 of Buena Park and Gilberto Lopez, 21, of Midway City — were ejected and died at the scene, police said. Two other Nissan occupants were hospitalized, and so was the Kia Soul’s driver. Owens ran away, police said. On Tuesday, Jan. 6, she turned herself in, to Long Beach police, and was booked into jail on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter related to the Oct. 6 crash, police said. Detectives plan to present a separate case for the Sunday crash next week, police said. Owens was being held in jail on $200,000 bail, police said. Source link