| With the Christmas shopping season in full swing, it's | | | | however, is a selection of unique shopping districts |
| a great time to rethink your usual Southern California | | | | that contain predominantly independent retailers. If |
| shopping spots. Whether you live in So Cal or are | | | | you're the type who's in search of truly special gifts, |
| just visiting, you're likely to be familiar with some of | | | | rather than a grey sweater from Macy's, Long Beach |
| the holiday season's most popular shopping | | | | is worth exploring. |
| destinations: South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island in | | | | Long Beach Shopping Districts |
| Orange County and the Beverly Center and the | | | | The following are some of the primary shopping |
| Citadel Outlets in L.A. | | | | areas of Long Beach. |
| But why not try something different this year? With | | | | Belmont Shore. The Shore is a casual, local hangout |
| a little imagination, and some guidance, you can | | | | featuring a mix of brand-name retailers and |
| sidestep the crowds and find distinctive, personal | | | | independents. With more than 200 businesses within |
| gifts for your friends and family. | | | | less than one mile, the Shore is Long Beach's most |
| Here's where Long Beach comes in. Home to the | | | | concentrated shopping area. Gift ideas include |
| Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific and the | | | | premium cigars, jewelry, designer clothing, pet |
| Carnival Cruise terminal, Long Beach isn't normally | | | | accessories and gifts for lovers. Be sure to leave |
| thought of as a shopping destination. It is true that | | | | time for lunch or dinner, as the dining is as plentiful as |
| Long Beach does not have an indoor mall within city | | | | the shopping. |
| limits. What the urban waterfront city does have, | | | | |