Seal Beach, California―Named for the seals that once swam the waters of this quaint seaside community on the northern most border of Orange County, seals don't seem to like it there anymore. They rarely come to visit this seaside city located on the border of Los Angeles County in the Southern California's playground, Orange County. Seal Beach wasn't always so "quaint" as it is today and with its penchant for growth and more revenue, who knows what the future will bring for cute, little Seal Beach.
But for today, Seal Beach residents enjoy the mostly quiet beach location where TV shows will sometimes come to do location shoots. Locals who remember or study Seal Beach history, however, say that it once overshadowed neighbors such as the now booming Huntington Beach with its tourism reach. During the 1920's, Seal Beach was known as the pleasure place.

An art faire, Christmas parade, summer concerts on the green and 4th of July celebrations are a few annual events of special interest. Fishing is permitted from the pier and at the end, Ruby's diner offers sandwiches, salads and forever views.

Visit the Red Car Museum on the old Pacific Electric Right of Way. Car No. 1734 is a rare Pacific Electric tower car built in 1925 which serves as the museum headquarters. It was once a roving machine shop sent out to troubleshoot problems along the 40-mile Pacific Electric LA-Newport Line. A center tower was used for repairs and maintenance on the overhead lines. It operated for almost 50 years until 1950. The museum displays photographs of early Seal Beach, sea shells and Indian artifacts collected locally. It also has reference library of local history with detailed regional maps. Open the second and fourth Saturdays from Noon to 3 p.m., the museum provides the most comprehensive look into the history of Seal Beach. Donations are accepted. Call: (562) 683-1874.
Location: Electric Avenue near Main St., next to Mary Wilson Library.