Los Angeles, CA Cruise Port Guide
Welcome to Southern California's premier coastal gateway, where sunshine, entertainment, and ocean breezes meet. Major cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line regularly utilize the bustling harbors serving the region. Cruise passengers are drawn to this vibrant hub for its proximity to iconic film studios, world-renowned beaches, and legendary cultural landmarks. Whether starting a Mexican Riviera voyage or exploring the West Coast, travelers find endless excitement here.
For more information on Los Angeles, visit our sister site Amazing Atlas to read the Los Angeles City Guide
In This Guide
- Key Los Angeles Port Information
- • Top Attractions & Excursions
- • Nearby Cities & Attractions
- • Port Location
- • Local Currency
- • Safety Considerations
- • Weather & Climate
- • Getting Around
- • Shopping
- Shore Excursions & Tours
- Visiting Los Angeles Cruise Deals
- Upcoming Cruises to Los Angeles Cruise Deals
- Ships in Port Schedule
- Other Cruise Ports in CA
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Monthly Pricing
Key Los Angeles Port Information
Top Attractions & Excursions
Stroll along the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and catch a view of the iconic Hollywood Sign, located approximately 45 to 60 minutes north of the terminals.
Explore high-end glamour in Beverly Hills with a walk down Rodeo Drive, which sits about 45 minutes from the port by car.
Film enthusiasts can take a shore excursion to Universal Studios Hollywood or the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood to experience behind-the-scenes movie magic, both reachable within an hour's drive under typical traffic conditions.
Last updated on October 23, 2026
Nearby Cities & Attractions
Located directly across the bay, Long Beach offers the historic ocean liner Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific, situated just 15 minutes from the San Pedro docks.
The lively coastal community of Santa Monica and neighboring Venice Beach feature famous piers, boardwalks, and wide sandy shores roughly 30 miles northwest of the port.
For family fun, Anaheim—home to the Disneyland Resort—is located approximately 30 miles east of the cruise facilities and can be reached in under an hour.
Last updated on October 23, 2026
Port Location
The main cruise terminals at San Pedro and Long Beach sit approximately 25 miles south of Downtown. Because ships dock directly alongside deep-water piers, tendering is not required for passengers arriving at these terminals.
The immediate port area features convenient parking, visitor centers, and local waterfront attractions like the Battleship USS Iowa. However, due to the spread-out layout of the region, ground transportation is required to visit downtown districts, beach cities, or Hollywood.
Last updated on October 23, 2026
Local Currency
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Foreign currencies such as Euros or Canadian dollars are not accepted for everyday transactions.
Credit and debit cards are universally accepted across shops, restaurants, transportation services, and major attractions throughout the region.
ATMs are readily available inside cruise terminal buildings, banks, convenience stores, and shopping centers across the city.
Last updated on October 23, 2026
Safety Considerations
The cruise port areas and primary tourist districts are generally safe for cruise visitors during daytime hours. As with any major metropolitan area, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings and keep personal belongings secure.
In busy sightseeing spots like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, stay alert to pickpockets and ignore street vendors offering unsolicited items or photos.
Exploring independently via rideshares or organized excursions is popular and convenient, though visitors should avoid walking through unfamiliar non-tourist neighborhoods after dark.
Last updated on October 23, 2026
Weather & Climate
Southern California enjoys a Mediterranean climate with comfortable, sunny weather throughout the cruise season. Summer and early autumn bring warm temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C).
Rainfall is rare between May and October, though coastal areas can experience cool morning fog, often referred to as marine layer, that clears by afternoon.
Passengers should pack lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen, along with a light jacket or sweater for cooler evening ocean breezes.
Last updated on October 23, 2026
Getting Around
Because major attractions are located 25 to 30 miles from the harbor, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis, are the most convenient choices for port visitors.
Public transit options include the Metro rail system, though reaching destination highlights like Hollywood via public bus and train involves transfers and extended travel times.
Many cruisers opt for organized cruise line transfers or hop-on hop-off bus tours to navigate the regional freeway system without the hassle of driving.
Last updated on October 23, 2026
Shopping
World-class luxury shopping is found along Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, featuring flagship designer boutiques and high-end fashion houses.
For a open-air retail and entertainment experience, visitors often head to The Grove Los Angeles or the adjacent historic Los Angeles Original Farmers Market.
Retail prices in stores are fixed, and local sales tax is added at checkout; duty-free shopping is primarily available to international travelers departing from airports.
Last updated on October 23, 2026
Shore Excursions & Tours
Hollywood Sign 2.5-Hour Tour with Comedians and Their Dogs
Join the award-winning Hollywood Sign tour led by real comedians and trail-loving dogs for epic sunset views and the best golden-hour photos. This top-rated, unique hike goes to the top and behind the sign and is the only one with.
The Escape Game at Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance
The Escape Game Torrance offers six original, family-friendly adventures like Cosmic Crisis and Timeliner for eight players, plus the 12-player Playground, across multiple rooms. These one-of-a-kind premium experiences invite you to follow cl.
The Escape Game LA: Epic 60-Minute Adventures in Century City
The Escape Game LA is located at Westfield Century City near shopping and dining, recommending Tocoya Modern Mexican, Eataly, Ramen Nagi, and Wushiland boba. The location features 4 on.
Hollywood Movie and TV Location Tour with Film Insider
Insider Leo Quinones shares stories from his 20-year career hosting a syndicated radio show, red-carpet premieres, and reporting backstage for TV Guide and E! Oscars coverage. No other Hollywood tour gives you the opportun.
Hollywood Sign Express Tour with Comedians and Their Dogs
This 75-minute express Hollywood Sign tour is the only one led by real comedians and their dogs, offering insider stories and two epic photo spots. You’ll bond with the pups and capture shots of the skyline on a tour that is fast, fun, and .
The History and Architecture of Downtown Los Angeles
Guide Chris, a media veteran from KTLA, Spectrum News1, and NHK Japan, guarantees himself as your guide on this non-scripted, three-hour walking tour. Following his other 5-star experiences like the Sunset Strip True Crime tour, you will dive de.
Luxury full day Los Angeles Tour – Private SUV Experience
This convenient and time-effective private tour is the best way to see the City of Angeles, its landmarks, and the Hollywood Sign without the hassle of driving, parking, or planning. Your family will receive the best service, so bring your camera .
Best in LA: Private, Full-Day, Guided Sightseeing Tour
This #1 guest-rated private tour company for 15 years offers exclusive hotel pick-up and visits iconic sights like Rodeo Dr., Santa Monica, Venice, and Hollywood. Providing everything from soft drinks to phone chargers, they offer the best view of the Hollywood Sign.
Los Angeles Full Day Private Tour
This full-day tour explores Griffith Park, the beach, and busy Hollywood to provide a better understanding of the history and entertainment capital of the world.
Santa Monica Sweet Treats Food Tour: Donuts, Churros, and More
Starting at the iconic Randy’s Donuts, famous for its giant donut and appearances in TV, movies, and music videos, this tour celebrates Southern California donuts and beachfront fun. After trying classics at this institution, you will move through Santa Monica.
Sunset Strip True Crime and Ghost Stories Tour
This walking tour deep-dives into Sunset Boulevard's true crime and ghost stories, featuring slashers, specters, and gangsters like Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel. You will explore the deadly history of the Strip and see where they "took care ".
Private Tour of Los Angeles in a SUV with Experienced Guide
Enjoy a private day in Los Angeles with an energetic guide in an EV SUV seating seven, passing celebrity mansions in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood. You will see the Hollywood sign and find your favorite stars on the Walk of Fame as your dreams come true.
Manson Family Tour LA: Dark History in a Funeral Limousine
Grave Line Tours invites you to explore LA's world-class attractions and mysterious past on an unforgettable journey into the chilling world of Charles Manson and his followers. This exclusive Manson Family Tour is one of the city's most popular experiences, so book early to secure your date.
Los Angeles Half Day Private Tour
This five-hour tour is perfect for discovering the highlights and famous landmarks of Los Angeles while having a great time.
Downtown Los Angeles Bike Tour
Starting and ending at Grand Central Market, this essential E-Bike tour covers Downtown sites like the Broadway theaters, Lakers' home at Crypto.com Arena, Little Tokyo, and Walt Disney Concert Ha. You will see City Hall and The Broad Museum before returning in time for lunch.
Private City Tour of Los Angeles, Hollywood and Beverly Hills
This popular immersive multimedia tour for first-time and returning visitors uses film clips, theme songs, photos, and sound effects on a flat-screen TV to bring Hollywood stories to life. See downtown LA
Private Half-Day City Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills
On this 4-hour private tour, you’ll feel like a star visiting the Walk of Fame, Dolby Theater, Chinese Theater, and Rodeo Drive. You will also see where celebrities shop and get amazing photos at the best Hollywood Sign viewpoint.
Private Surf Lesson in Venice Beach
Private surfing lessons provide personalized one-on-one instruction from certified coaches for all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner catching your first wave or an experienced surfer refining skills, you will receive tailored feedback to improve your technique and confidence.
Death Becomes Her: Los Angeles Funeral Limo True Crime Tour
This dark history tour explores true crime and scandals at haunted hotels, downtown lots, Sunset Boulevard, and Beverly Hills estates to reveal the city’s sinister tragedies. You will see the city beyond its sunny attractions and visit “all the wrong homes at the right t”.
West LA Sweet Treats Food Tour: Delicious Donuts & LA Culture
Explore West Hollywood's rich donut history starting at fōnuts for healthy baked donuts before strolling to Television City, home to CBS. You will also visit a second stop known for fresh artisan donuts with weekly rotating flavors, offering somethin.
Visiting Los Angeles Cruise Deals
Upcoming Cruises to Los Angeles Cruise Deals
Ships in Port Schedule
Showing 3 ships in port and 5 ships in the area
Ships in Port Today (Saturday, October 24)
Discovery Princess
Embarkation Day
Carnival Panorama
Embarkation Day
Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady
Embarkation DayOther Cruise Ports in CA
Frequently Asked Questions about Los Angeles
Last updated on June 13, 2025
❓ What is the best way to get from the cruise terminal to the main attractions?
The cruise port in San Pedro is 20 miles from downtown LA. Uber/Lyft to Hollywood takes 30-45 minutes, or use the Silver Line bus to connect to LA Metro.
❓ What are the must-see attractions and landmarks?
Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, Getty Center, and Santa Monica Pier are iconic. The Queen Mary in Long Beach is just 10 minutes from the port.
❓ What local foods or restaurants should I try near the port?
San Pedro Fish Market offers fresh seafood with harbor views. For authentic LA, try In-N-Out Burger or Mexican street tacos in downtown San Pedro.
❓ What is the local currency and what is the exchange rate?
The local currency is United States Dollar (USD). ATMs are available at the cruise terminal and throughout Los Angeles.
❓ What is the typical weather and what should I pack?
LA enjoys year-round mild weather with temperatures 60s-80s°F. Pack layers as mornings can be cool with marine layer fog, especially near the port.
❓ Are there good beaches nearby, and how do I get to them?
Cabrillo Beach is walking distance from the port. Manhattan, Hermosa, and Redondo beaches are 20-30 minutes by car along the coast.
❓ What are the best shore excursion options?
Popular tours include Hollywood/Beverly Hills, Universal Studios, Getty Center, or beach cities. Many opt for self-guided exploration using rideshares.
❓ What shopping opportunities are available?
Ports O'Call Village near the terminal has been renovated with shops and dining. For serious shopping, head to The Grove, Rodeo Drive, or nearby Del Amo Fashion Center.
❓ What other interesting places are within a reasonable distance to visit?
Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific (15 minutes), Griffith Observatory (45 minutes), or Disneyland in Anaheim (45 minutes) are all feasible pre/post-cruise visits.
❓ What's a surprising or interesting fact about Los Angeles?
The Port of Los Angeles is the busiest container port in North America, and the nearby Vincent Thomas Bridge is the fourth-longest suspension bridge in California.
Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Los Angeles
Cruises visiting Los Angeles during the peak months of winter and summer are significantly more expensive than the the low season of fall. On average cruises visiting Los Angeles are extremely affordable compared to other itineraries. Take a look at the chart below for the average cost per day by month.
