Wondering where to go to catch a great view of the fireworks on the Fourth of July? Check out our list of the coolest, and in some cases most unusual, ways to take in the festivities.

1. Queen Mary
126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA
877-342-0742
Price: $39.95 per person

You can't beat hot dogs, an ocean view and fireworks all in one location. Take in the tranquility of the beach as waves roll in, walking on the pier and observing fishermen in action. To top it off, shops, restaurants and even playgrounds nearby are perfect places to keep the entire family entertained and in good spirits before the explosive fireworks show takes place. All of this is free if you find an open space in Long Beach. However, if you like, board the Queen Mary with advanced reservations for hotel rooms and dining July 4.

2. 4th of July BBQ at the Aquarium of the Pacific
320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, CA
562-590-3100
Price: Aquarium Admission is $14.95 for everyone after 5 pm. Regular admission is $25.95 Adult, $14.95 child 3-11, $22.95 seniors, Aquarium plus dinner $37 Adult, $32 Child. Advance reservations required for dinner.

Don't want to celebrate on a ship? Well what's better than watching fireworks with your favorite sea creatures? Enjoy the Aquarium at night and get a fish-eye view of the Queen Mary fireworks. Combo tickets include admission to the aquarium plus an Independence Day B-B-Q buffet with home-style grilled entrees and decadent deserts.

3. Mr. and Mrs. Muscle Beach
1800 Ocean Front Walk at 18th Avenue, Venice Beach, CA
Price: $80

This his-and-hers body-building contest on Venice's famed "Muscle Beach" is the quintessential SoCal-style celebration of what it means to be a Californian American -- that is tanned, toned and ready to show it all off. For only $80, you too can enter the contest and show off your own personal American glory.

4. Malibu Fireworks
The Malibu Coast
Price: Free

As far as big to-dos in Malibu go, 4th of July ranks right up there with Oscar week. Residents of the star-studded neighborhood celebrate with huge private industry type parties that culminate with firework displays set off from barges off the coast of some of the 'Bu's most famous beach front residences. (Think Geffen and Katzenberg). If you haven't gotten your invite, you can still get in on the party. A Malibu City Hall official recommends posting up on the PCH to take in these "private" fireworks "that really benefit us all."

5. Americafest 2012: 86th Annual 4th of July Celebration at the Rose Bowl Stadium
1001 Rose Bowl Sr., Pasadena, CA
626-577-3101
Price: $13/free for children 7 years old and younger

The Rose Bowl, famous for the largest fireworks show in southern California, is once again one of the best places for families to celebrate the holiday. This all-day event is sure to keep little ones busy with thrilling demonstrations of stunts and outdoor activities. Families will love the assortment of snacks and meals to choose from at the food court. In addition, there will be live music and performances by some of the best talent in the city. Its great location, one of the area's biggest fireworks shows and loads of excitement make the Rose Bowl a favorite spot to watch fireworks every year.