Gondola Rides in Long Beach

When it's impossible to escape to Italy for Valentine's Day or for your anniversary, there's always the gondola rides in Long Beach, CA. It's in the Naples community, which is a mile long of canals and is said to be in one of the most peaceful places in Southern California. There are different sizes of gondolas, depending on if it's for a couple or a crew, holding up to 14 people. 

The gondoliers all have their own personalities, but wear striped blue shirts, just like in Italy, with little red scarves tied around their necks. There's even a few gondoliers who are Italian and will sing different love songs, or the traditional "Happy Birthday." 

The prices depend on the amount of people in each gondola, about $20/person for large parties with different types of gondola rides offered, like the Sunset Ride.

If you're concerned about safety or the rowing skills of your personal gondolier, there's no need to worry since the gondola crew in Naples is trained and is the only crew in America who participates in the annual rowing and boating competition in Italy. 

The gondola ride stays romantic and interesting with the age-old tradition of kissing your date under each bridge that you pass beneath. Remember to bring something to keep warm with as it gets cold, even during the day. Plenty of restaurants also line the water, perfect to dine at after the ride.

Many businesses offer Valentine's Day packages from the 12th-14th, and even offer rides for weddings to escort the guests from the ceremony to the reception with the gondolas.

Katie Cervantes

Live OC Magazine

www.LIVEOCMAG.com