Theres Always A Cruise
Carnivals terminal in LongBeach alone sees over 300 cruises departing each year. That means when you justcount the Carnival cruises theres a new one leaving nearly every day of theyear.
Fitting a cruise into yourvacation schedule can be challenging. You may not be able to take your vacationat any time you want, and other, less busy ports may not have a cruise that youcan take. Long Beach is almost guaranteed to, though.
Long Beach Cruise Terminal
Carnivals biggest West CoastCruise terminal has recently undergone a major renovation. Since its been oneof the busiest cruise terminals in the country for a while now, it makes sensethat Carnival would be pouring money into expansion projects.
The expansion includedremodeling and redecorating the interior of the iconic geodesic dome, which wasoriginally built as a museum facility for Howard Hughes plane, the SpruceGoose.
While it may seem odd tochoose a cruise port based on how nice the terminal is- after all, youre onlyin the terminal when you board the ship and when you leave the ship-experienced cruisers know that a good terminal can really make a difference.Its your first experience on the cruise and it sets the tone for everythingthat happens afterward.
The Long Beach Terminal is also easy to get to, and both LAX and Long Beach Airport have shuttle services that can take you to the terminal.
Los Angeles Cruises Port Guide
Though it is famous for its starlets and movie studios, Los Angeles extends far beyond Hollywood. This dynamic city is home to gorgeous natural wonders, funky neighborhoods, and excellent cuisine. Experience the glitz of Beverly Hills and its iconic Rodeo Drive. Stroll along the romantic Venice Beach canals. Relive your childhood with a trip to Disneyland. Go shopping in Santa Monica and surfing in Malibu. Hike up Griffith Park and enjoy an unbeatable view of the City of Angels.
Cruises from Los Angeles sail to the Mexican Riviera, where gorgeous beaches, fresh seafood, and natural wonders await. You can also sail along the California coast, where youll stop in beautiful destinations like Catalina Island, San Francisco, and Monterey. Or embark on a journey across the Panama Canal, stopping in tropical ports in Costa Rica, Colombia, and Mexico along the way.
Itineraries
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Complete Guide To Cruising From The Ports Of Los Angeles And Long Beach
While they would never be mistaken with the worlds most popular cruise ports like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles and Long Beach are still heavily trafficked cruise ports.
More than half a million passengers each year sail from the Port of Los Angeles, not even including the Long Beach Cruise Terminal a few miles away that serves Carnival Cruise Lines.
Today, you can have your choice of cruise lines in the area, from Carnival to Princess to Norwegian to Royal Caribbean. Meanwhile, itineraries have expanded beyond simply the well-known Mexican Riviera trips to include coastal California cruises, trips through the Panama Canal, and even cruises to Canada.
Parking At World Cruise Center
Of course, if you live in the area as millions do then you may be interested in simply driving and parking at the port.
The good news is that there is ample parking right at the port. You can park practically at the terminal and walk right in. While the convenience is nice, it does come at a cost. Rates are $20 per day for most vehicles. So over the course of a weeklong cruise, you can expect to spend $140.
For more details on parking, see our Los Angles cruise parking page here.
Want to park cheaper? If you are traveling from farther away and plan to stay at a hotel in the area, then look for a hotel with a park and cruise package. With these deals you can get your hotel and have parking included.
See our list of Los Angles cruise hotels with parking deals.
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Why Carnival Cruises From Long Beach California
The port city of Long Beach is located a short drive from Los Angeles â about an hour away, depending on traffic â and features plenty to see and do.
Long Beach has beautiful beaches, of course, but also has plenty of other exciting adventures to offer. Take a trip to the Aquarium of the Pacific, visit one of Long Beachâs many parks, or try local restaurants and breweries while youâre in town! There is so much to experience before you depart for your cruise. And donât forget, Los Angeles is close by â youâll be able to see the sights of both cities!
Carnivalâs Los Angeles cruises depart from Long Beach, so if you are planning on embarking on an LA Carnival voyage youâll be leaving from Long Beach. Cruise Marketplace can help you find deals and discounts on Carnival cruises from Long Beach, as well as savings for other Carnival cruises and trips from other cruise lines. Contact our experts today to see how we can help you save!
Why do it yourself? Call our personal agents for help. You won’t be disappointed.
World Cruise Center Terminals
The two terminals of World Cruise Center are 18 mi away from LAX , direction South. The first Los Angeles cruise port terminal has two berths 91 and 92. the second one has only one – 93. Two or three larger cruise ships can dock here.
San Pedro Terminal’s address is: “Port of Los Angeles, Berths 91-93, World Cruise Center, San Pedro, CA 90731”.
Parking is USD 15 per day . The facilities in the San Pedro terminal include check-in, cafes, bars, shops, parking area, taxi ranks.
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Outer Harbor Cruise Terminal
In early-October 2019 were announced plans for the construction of a new cruise port terminal in LA . The “Outer Harbor Cruise Terminal” is adjacent to the Cabrillo Way Marina and a boat repair yard. Currently, the building is used as an event space and only occasionally for berthing of cruise liners.
The new cruise port bidder will upgrade and enlarge terminalâs facilities and berths and will manage the dock/wharf and building’s day-to-day operations.
In January 2020 were officially announced port’s plans for two new terminals – Berth 46 and Berth 50. They both will have capacity to handle ships with LOA length 335 m , max draft capacity 5000 passengers. Both facilities are planned as multifunctional – to double as event spaces housing musical concerts, exhibitions, conferences, etc. By this project, both berths will be upgraded with shoreside power capabilities and dedicated parking areas.
Pre And Post Cruise Options From Los Angeles
Long Beach is located in Southern California on the Pacific coast. It is situated about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. Due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, temperatures in Long Beach are moderate throughout the year. A few days spent in the area before or after a cruise that departs from Long Beach is a perfect way to extend a vacation. Relax on one of the beautiful beaches or visit its many fascinating sights.
Queen Mary: This retired ocean liner, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, sailed from 1936 to 1967 for the Cunard Line. She is permanently berthed in Long Beach and is both a hotel and museum. The Behind the Scenes guided tour is both entertaining and informative.
Aquarium of the Pacific: Three areas of the Pacific are recreated the Baja and Southern California region, the Bering Sea and the northern Pacific. There are more than 12,500 sea creatures, and many educational exhibits. Definitely one of the top aquariums in the country.
Long Beach Zeppelin Flights: The next best thing to being in the Goodyear blimp! Float at an altitude of 1,200 feet at 25 mph. The expansive widow panels surround the cabin to allow 360 degree views of the city below.
Knotts Berry Farm: This is Americas first theme park! Great family fun with 165 rides, shows, restaurants and attractions. Five themed areas including Camp Snoopy, home to the PEANUTS gang. You can also purchase fresh and delicious jams and jellies.
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Getting To The Port Of Los Angeles
Southern California is known for its car culture. It shouldnt be a surprise, then, that the most convenient way to get to the cruise ship is to take an Uber/Lyft. These services provide access from all major airports in the area. And you can be picked up anywhere else in the area to get to the ship on your own schedule.
Expect the ride to cost at least $30 for a car from LAX to the cruise port. Higher rates will apply if going a longer distance or during peak times.
Estimated ride times from major points of interest are below:
- Los Angeles International : 30 min
- Long Beach Airport : 25 min
- John Wayne Airport : 45 min
- Downtown: 40 min
You can read more about all your options on getting to the ship and pricing on our Los Angeles cruise transportation page.
Parking At The Long Beach Cruise Terminal
For many people, they dont have to worry about a ride to the port. Roughly 20 million people live in the greater Los Angeles area that includes Long Beach. That means many people are able to simply drive to the cruise ship.
Of course, if you are driving, then you will need a spot to park. The port offers ample parking in a garage thats right next to the terminal. However, that convenience comes at a cost. The port charges $23 per day for parking. Over the course of a weeklong cruise, expect to spend upwards of $160.
For all the details on parking, see our Long Beach cruise parking page here.
There are also hotels in the area that offer cruise parking for guests. Stay a night and you can leave your car while you sail for a reduced cost versus parking at the port. If you plan on staying in a hotel the night before your cruise, this deal can save you a nice chunk of change.
See our list of Long Beach cruise hotels with parking deals.
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View All Cruises From Los Angeles
Los Angeles Port Facilities & Location
Cruises from Los Angeles depart from the Port of Los Angeles World Cruise Center, located south of Los Angeles. The cruise port is roughly a 30-minute drive away from the city center, though travel time fluctuates depending on traffic. Overnight parking and passenger shuttles are available at the terminal.
How To Get From Lax To Long Beach Port For A Cruise
Your full guide on getting from Los Angeles International Airport LAX to Long Beach Port for your cruise vacation. With directions, prices and more.
If youre flying into Los Angeles to take a cruise out of Long Beach, getting from the airport to the cruise terminal can be challenging. Depending on which route you take, the airport is between 22 and 26 miles from the cruise terminal, so you definitely cant walk.
Fortunately, this is LA, and there are plenty of transportation options for you to choose from. Well cover all of the options for you in this article, as well as the different routes that can be taken from LAX to Long Beach Port.
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Things To Do In Los Angeles
Play on the Santa Monica Pier
For a fun-filled day in Los Angeles, head to Santa Monica, a scenic neighborhood that is home to a long pier stretching out into the Pacific Ocean. Stop by Santa Monica Piers carnival, where you can ride the Ferris wheel, try your hand at carnival-style games, and grab a bite to eat. From the piers vantage point, youll be privy to gorgeous views of the ocean and Californias coastline.
Explore Malibu
Escape the hustle and bustle of LA and drive up the coast to the laid-back city of Malibu. Enjoy lunch at the end of the historic Malibu Pier at a farmhouse-style restaurant, then head down to the sand and check out Malibus gorgeous and rugged beaches, known for their light golden sand and rocky formations that jut out into the ocean.
Take a Picture of the Hollywood Sign
A trip to Los Angeles isnt complete until you see the citys famous Hollywood sign. Set high up on a hill overlooking the city, the Hollywood Sign is visible from several vantage points. If youre looking for a way to get closer, go on a shore excursion that includes a nearby photo op, where youll be able to pose in front of the iconic sign.
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Day Baja Mexico Cruise From Long Beach On Carnival Imagination
In late March my husband, son and I sailed on Carnival Imagination for a 3 Day Baja Mexico cruise from Long Beach. This is a great weekend getaway, especially for anyone within easy driving distance of Long Beach, California. We were guests of Carnival Cruise Line and this was our first cruise as a family.
It was a super fun way to spend a weekend and what my husband and I found out, is we truly had a vacation. Because of the teen club, which my son loved, we found we had lots of time to relax and enjoy the cruise to Mexico as adults.
Below youll find some helpful tips for cruising and some of our favorite moments on our 3 Day Baja, Mexico cruise from long beach to Ensenada.
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Getting To The Long Beach Cruise Port
As with the World Cruise Center in San Pedro, your best bet for getting to the port if you need transportation is with an Uber or Lyft. These services are widely available, including offering rides from the major airports.
Prices will vary depending on where you are coming from. For reference, you can expect to spend around $30 for a ride from Los Angeles International to the Long Beach cruise port. Prices will vary based on traffic.
Here are some estimated commute times from certain points:
- Los Angeles International : 40 min
- Long Beach Airport : 20 min
- John Wayne Airport : 35 min
- Downtown: 45 min
You can read more about all your options on getting to the ship and pricing on our Long Beach cruise transportation page.
Top Sights & Attractions To See Before Cruises From Los Angeles
Hollywood Walk of Fame
If you love movies, you cant miss ambling down the Hollywood Walk of Fame before boarding one of our cruises from Los Angeles. There are over 2,600 stars along the 15 blocks of the boulevard, so you can easily spend hours searching for the names of your favorite movie stars. Next to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, youll also find the TCL Chinese Theater, where you can see how your own hands and feet size up to the over 200 handprints of Hollywood stars imprinted in concrete squares.
Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
Griffith Park is the largest state park in California, covering over 4,300 acres. Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and leisurely hikes through the hills. Within the park, there are several attractions to enjoy, including the Los Angeles Zoo, golf courses, and the Griffith Observatory, a perfect place for stargazing and learning more about astronomy.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is one of the citys most popular neighborhoods and a wonderful spot for people watching. Marvel at the skateboarders and street performers in the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Walk hand-in-hand with your sweetheart along the picturesque and quiet canals. Stop for lunch and go boutique shopping on the trendy Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Head to Muscle Beach, an area full of bodybuilders and fitness fans that help the beach live up to its name.
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Debarkation In Long Beach
When it comes to disembarkation your Mexico Cruise from Long Beach you have the choice of carrying your luggage off the ship or having your bags moved by the crew to the port terminal. It really depends on your choice and how many bags you have
If you carry your bags off the ship you need to be able to manage them on your own.
You will need to exit your stateroom by 8:30 am. You can still enjoy breakfast in the buffet dining room for set times. They will call deck numbers over the loudspeaker so you know when you can disembark.
If you have an early flight you will need to find out where you line up to be able to walk off the ship as early as possible. Make sure you have your bags with you if you plan to disembark as early as possible.
You will need your sail and sign card to disembark! Make sure you don’t leave it in your cruise cabin or pack it in your suitcase.
Carnival also offers west coast Mexico Cruises that set sail from San Diego and San Francisco.
Sailing From The Long Beach Cruise Terminal
Los Angeles while far from being the biggest cruise departure port in the country offers two different cruise ports. The Long Beach terminal is a short distance from the Port of Los Angeles . It serves Carnival Cruise Lines, which primarily sails shorter trips to the Mexican Riviera.
Visitors will also recognize the historic Queen Mary, which is docked permanently at the port. As with the Port of Los Angeles, expect it to take about 30 minutes to an hour to get to the cruise port from the LAX airport, depending on traffic. If flying in, Long Beach Airport is much closer, reducing travel time.
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