Naples Canal Gondola Rides - Gondola ride through a venetian canal
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Naples Canal Gondola Rides

4.8
·563 reviews·Long Beach, United States

Experience Venetian charm with romantic gondola rides through the picturesque canals of Naples Island, Long Beach.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more romantic

CrowdLow
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Naples Canal Gondola Rides - Gondola ride through a venetian canal

Naples Canal Gondola Rides

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more romantic

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Venetian charm with romantic gondola rides through the picturesque canals of Naples Island, Long Beach.

4.8
(563 reviews)

"Our Gondolier, Conner, was awesome! The entire experience was amazing and well worth it!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Times

Weekends and sunset slots fill up fast! Book online or call to secure your spot.

🍷 BYOB: No Corkage Fee!

Bring your favorite wine or champagne. Cozy blankets are usually provided for chilly evenings.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Naples Island Canals

Naples Island Canals

Naples Island, Long Beach

Glide through charming, Venetian-inspired canals lined with beautiful homes. A truly picturesque experience.

Serenading Gondoliers

Serenading Gondoliers

Onboard the gondola

Enjoy a romantic serenade as your gondolier sings Italian songs, adding a magical touch to your ride.

Message in a Bottle

Message in a Bottle

Onboard the gondola

A unique add-on for special occasions like proposals or anniversaries, making your ride extra memorable.

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Planning Your Visit

Book in Advance for Prime Times

Gondola rides are popular, especially for romantic evenings and weekends. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred time slot, avoiding disappointment. Consider weekdays for a more intimate experience.

Bring Your Own Drinks & Snacks

While some packages might offer dining, many visitors bring their own wine, champagne, and snacks. There's no corkage fee, making it a cost-effective way to enhance your romantic cruise. Cozy blankets are often provided!

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more romantic
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset cruises
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday evenings
Why
Festive lights sparkle
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@GondolaGetaway long beach ca 📍 #dateideas #longbeachca #thingstodoinlosangeles
@reesiediaries
166 likes • 1.8K views

🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Times

Weekends and sunset slots fill up fast! Book online or call to secure your spot. TikTok

🍷 BYOB: No Corkage Fee!

Bring your favorite wine or champagne. Cozy blankets are usually provided for chilly evenings. TikTok

Gondola ride through Naples Island Canals in Long Beach, CA. @GondolaGetaway #naplesislandlongbeach #naples #longbeachcalifornia #longbeach #dateideas #gondolaride #gondolatok
@humblenorthmedia
25 likes • 666 views
@GondolaGetaway , Long Beach Ca 📍 Italy came to Long Beach , CA . This was by far one of the most romantic date nights we have ever experienced here in Long Beach, Ca. The Gondolier showed us the history around Naples Island , and surprised us with a song and a message in bottle. This date experience is perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, and even engagements. We were able to bring our own foo...
@reesiediaries
1.2K likes • 47.8K views

🎶 Request a Song!

Many gondoliers are happy to sing. Let them know if you have a special song request! Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

The canals are incredibly photogenic, especially at sunset. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

Dinner is best served on a gondola!!! . . . #gondola #gondolagetaway #longbeach #californiaadventure #romanticgetaway #socallife #gondolier #boatlife #italian #dinnerideas #dinner
@gondolagetaway
81 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Times

Weekends and sunset slots fill up fast! Book online or call to secure your spot. TikTok

🍷 BYOB: No Corkage Fee!

Bring your favorite wine or champagne. Cozy blankets are usually provided for chilly evenings. TikTok

🎶 Request a Song!

Many gondoliers are happy to sing. Let them know if you have a special song request! Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

The canals are incredibly photogenic, especially at sunset. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

🎁 Special Occasion Add-ons

Consider the 'message in a bottle' for proposals or anniversaries. It's a memorable touch. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(563 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about the romantic and picturesque experience of gondola rides through Naples Island. The friendly and talented gondoliers, who often sing and share local history, are a major highlight. Many appreciate the ability to bring their own drinks and snacks, making it a customizable and memorable outing for special occasions.

"Our Gondolier, Conner, was awesome! He sang two different songs in Italian, one at the beginning, (going through 1st canal, 2nd by last canal.) The entire experience was amazing and well worth it! Was peaceful, romantic, and picturesque. Was a great way to celebrate our anniversary. We would definitely do this again!"

Yvette Yvonne Estrada

"I booked this gondola cruise as a surprise birthday gift for my husband, and it turned out to be absolutely amazing!

Our gondolier, Tom Woods, was fantastic—so friendly and engaging. As we glided through the beautiful canals of Naples, he shared fascinating stories and even serenaded us with two songs (including one in Italian!).

I also added the “message in a bottle” with a personalized birthday note for my husband. He was was so surprised, it made the cruise even more memorable.

I highly recommend this unique and unforgettable experience for any special occasion!"

Lisa Rosenthal

"Had the pleasure of experiencing this getaway yesterday with friends. Our gondoliers, think he was Kyle was very informed on the canals and history. Pointed out interesting and historic homes. He grew up here and loves his job and singing. We went with a group and all the gondolas stopped under a bridge to sing, amazing experience! Kyle sang Frank Sinatra. Another gondolier sang Santa Lucia! You can bring food and beverages. Don’t miss this fun day or evening experience! 55 min ride around the islands and canals with entertainment! Great vibe! Thanks gondoliers!"

Kat

What People Like

Romantic atmosphere
Talented gondoliers
Beautiful canals

What People Dislike

Can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Gondola Getaway is located at 5437 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors arrive via ride-sharing services. TikTok

Yes, there is typically parking available in the vicinity of the departure point. It's advisable to arrive a little early to find a spot, especially during peak hours. TikTok

While direct public transport to the exact departure point might be limited, you can take Long Beach Transit buses to get close to the Naples Island area and then walk or take a short ride-share to the gondola launch. TikTok

Naples Island is a charming neighborhood known for its canals. Using GPS or a mapping app will guide you directly to the area where the gondola rides operate. TikTok

The departure point is usually well-marked. Look for signs for Gondola Getaway or the general area of the Naples Canals. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Pricing varies based on the duration of the ride and the type of cruise (e.g., private, group). It's best to check the official Gondola Getaway website or call them for the most up-to-date pricing information. TikTok

Yes, advance booking is highly recommended, especially for popular times like weekends and sunset. You can book online through their website or by calling. TikTok

Gondola Getaway typically operates in the evenings, with hours that can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check their website for current operating hours when planning your visit. TikTok

Absolutely! Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and beverages, including wine and champagne. There is no corkage fee. TikTok

Yes, Gondola Getaway offers various options, including private rides for couples, group rides, and even special packages for proposals and anniversaries. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most gondola rides last approximately 55 minutes, offering ample time to enjoy the canals and the experience. Reddit

Expect a peaceful and romantic journey through the Naples Island canals. Your gondolier will steer, and many offer singing and historical insights. Cozy blankets are provided. TikTok

While specific gondolier requests might not always be guaranteed, the staff is known for being friendly and accommodating. You can mention preferences when booking. Reddit

Yes, families often enjoy the gondola rides. It's a unique and calm experience that children can appreciate. TikTok

This is a special option where a personalized message can be placed in a bottle and presented during the ride, often used for proposals or special celebrations. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset offers the most magical lighting for photos, with golden hues reflecting on the water. Evenings during the holiday season are also stunning with festive lights. TikTok

Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography. Your gondolier might even offer to take photos for you! Reddit

You'll capture beautiful views of the canals, charming waterfront homes, the gondola itself, and romantic moments. TikTok

Yes, especially during the holiday season when the homes are decorated with lights. The reflections on the water create a lovely ambiance. TikTok

A smartphone with a good camera is usually sufficient. If you're serious about photography, a camera with good low-light capabilities would be beneficial for evening rides. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

A gondola ride can be a delightful and unique experience for families. Children often enjoy the novelty of being on a boat steered by a gondolier and the gentle pace of the ride through the canals. It's a calm and scenic way to explore a charming part of Long Beach. TikTok

Consider bringing some kid-friendly snacks and drinks. While the focus is often on romance, the experience is enjoyable for all ages. The gondoliers are generally friendly and can make the ride engaging for younger passengers. It's a great opportunity for some memorable family photos against a picturesque backdrop. TikTok

💖 Couples Seeking Romance

This is the quintessential romantic experience! Glide through the enchanting Naples canals, often with a serenading gondolier, creating an intimate and unforgettable atmosphere. It's perfect for anniversaries, special date nights, or even proposals. TikTok+1

Bring a bottle of your favorite wine or champagne (no corkage fee!) and enjoy the provided cozy blankets as you soak in the beautiful scenery. The 'message in a bottle' add-on is a popular choice for making the occasion even more special. TikTokReddit

🎉 Groups and Celebrations

Gondola rides are not just for couples! They can be a fantastic way to celebrate with friends or family. You can book larger gondolas to accommodate your group, making it a unique shared experience. TikTok

It's an ideal setting for birthday parties, small gatherings, or even a unique way to entertain out-of-town guests. The relaxed pace and beautiful surroundings make for a memorable celebration. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Naples Island

Naples Island in Long Beach is a unique community designed to resemble the Italian city of Venice, complete with a network of picturesque canals. Developed in the early 20th century, the island features charming bridges, waterfront homes, and a distinctly European ambiance. The Gondola Getaway capitalizes on this setting, offering a truly immersive experience that transports visitors from Southern California to the romantic waterways of Italy. The canals themselves are a highlight, offering a tranquil escape from the city bustle and a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely ride. TikTok+1

Visitors often remark on the beauty of the homes lining the canals, many of which are architecturally diverse and beautifully maintained. The gondoliers often share local history and point out interesting features of the island, adding an educational element to the romantic journey. This blend of scenic beauty, historical context, and unique transportation makes Naples Island a standout destination for a memorable outing. Reddit

During the holiday season, Naples Island becomes even more magical as residents decorate their homes with elaborate Christmas lights. A gondola ride during this time offers a spectacular view of the illuminated waterfront, making it a popular choice for festive date nights or family outings. TikTok

Your Gondolier: The Heart of the Experience

The gondolier is more than just a captain; they are the entertainers, storytellers, and navigators of your romantic journey. Many gondoliers at Gondola Getaway are passionate locals who grew up in the area and have a deep appreciation for their role. They are skilled in maneuvering the traditional gondola through the narrow canals and often possess a talent for singing, adding a delightful auditory dimension to the experience. TikTokReddit

Travelers frequently praise the friendliness and engagement of the gondoliers. They share anecdotes about the history of Naples Island, point out notable homes, and are often happy to pose for photos. Some gondoliers even offer to sing specific songs or perform for special occasions, such as proposals or anniversaries. This personal touch significantly enhances the overall enjoyment and memorability of the ride. TikTokReddit

Whether it's a heartfelt serenade under a bridge or a captivating story about the island's past, the gondolier's performance is a key element that transforms a simple boat ride into an unforgettable experience. Their dedication to providing a unique and personal service is consistently highlighted in reviews. Reddit

Planning the Perfect Romantic Occasion

Gondola Getaway is a popular choice for romantic occasions, from anniversaries and birthdays to proposals. The intimate setting of the gondola, combined with the serene canal views and the option for serenades, creates an inherently romantic atmosphere. Many visitors choose to enhance the experience by bringing their own wine or champagne, as there is no corkage fee, and cozy blankets are provided for added comfort. TikTok+1

For those planning a proposal, the 'message in a bottle' add-on is a highly recommended feature that adds a unique and personal touch to the moment. The gondoliers are often accommodating and can help facilitate these special events, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience. The beautiful scenery of Naples Island provides a stunning backdrop for such significant life events. TikTokReddit

Beyond proposals, the gondola rides are perfect for celebrating anniversaries or simply enjoying a unique date night. The combination of the picturesque setting, the personalized service from the gondolier, and the ability to customize the experience with your own refreshments makes it a highly sought-after activity for couples looking to create lasting memories. TikTok

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