San Pedro (Los Angeles), CA - Cruise Port
Embarkation Guide!
Sailing out of the Los Angeles San Pedro port? This guide has all the essential details to make your experience smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re heading to Mexico or Hawaii, planning your trip from this massive city can be daunting, but we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about getting there, staying there, and boarding your ship.
Los Angeles is sprawling, covering over 500 square miles, with attractions scattered in every direction. Disneyland, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills—the possibilities are endless, but so are the logistical hurdles. Public transport? Let’s just say it’s still a work in progress and not ideal for tourists. You’ll need a car to get around. However, keep in mind that LA traffic is notoriously unpredictable, often worse than you’d expect. Plan plenty of extra time when traveling to your destination.
The good news is that the World Cruise Center in San Pedro, about an hour south of downtown LA, is convenient and easy to navigate. It’s located right off the 110 freeway and is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it a great base for your cruise. If you’re looking for more reasons to love this port, check out highlights like its proximity to attractions and local conveniences.
Getting to the Port
By Car
If you’re driving, finding parking before boarding is your main concern. More on that below
By Air
Flying in? San Pedro is accessible from six airports. Here’s a breakdown:
Long Beach Airport (LGB): Closest to the port at just 20 miles (30 minutes). It’s small, rarely crowded, and easy to navigate.
LAX (Los Angeles International Airport): Also 20 miles (30 minutes) according to maps, but traffic makes it a different story. Budget extra time to deal with gridlock both inside and outside the airport. Flights here tend to be cheaper and more abundant, but patience is required for navigating the LAX-it lot for rideshares. A helpful tip: arrange pickup at departures (upper level) to avoid congestion at arrivals.
John Wayne Airport (SNA): Located 40 miles (1 hour) south of the port, this is a great option if you’re planning a pre-cruise visit to Disneyland, just 14 miles away.
Ontario Airport (ONT): About 60 miles (1.5 hours) from the port. It’s a clean, efficient airport, ideal if you’re visiting Palm Springs before your cruise.
San Bernardino Airport (SBD): At 80 miles (almost 2 hours), this is the farthest option. Use it only if you find a great deal, as getting to the port will take time and money.
Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR): Located 40 miles (1 hour) north, Burbank is best if you plan to explore Hollywood or Universal Studios before your trip. Traffic on the 405 freeway can make this a challenging option.
Where to Stay
If you’re planning to stay overnight before your cruise, San Pedro has some excellent options:
Crowne Plaza Los Angeles Harbor Hotel
Highlights: Closest to the port (20-minute walk). Offers cruise packages including parking, shuttle service, and breakfast. Nearby, you’ll find restaurants like Green Onion Mexican and Hoja’s tea and coffee cafe, as well as car rental offices (Enterprise and Hertz).
Highlights: Budget-friendly option. Offers $10/day cruise parking and a free shuttle to the port (note: no return shuttle). Includes complimentary continental breakfast.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Pedro
Highlights: Located 2.5 miles (5 minutes) south of the port in a quiet, picturesque area by the Cabrillo Marina. Offers cruise packages with parking and a shuttle to the World Cruise Center. Limited dining options nearby.
By Train
If you’re arriving by train, you’ll land at LA Union Station, 25 miles (30-45 minutes) from the port. While Union Station is a transportation hub, we recommend taking an Uber or taxi directly to the port for the most efficient experience.
Parking and Boarding
Parking at the Port
The World Cruise Center offers a large parking lot with long-term rates of $20/day. Entry and exit are managed via the same credit card, so keep it handy. Spaces are first-come, first-served, so arriving early is a good idea. If the main lot is full, an alternative lot just north of Berth 93 offers covered parking, free shuttles, and smooth sidewalks—a great backup option.
Boarding the Ship
The port features two main terminals, Berth 92 and Berth 93. Here’s what to expect:
Berth 92: Features a large tent connected to a smaller terminal building. Despite its temporary feel, the boarding process is efficient, with clean bathrooms and plenty of seating.
Berth 93: A larger terminal complex (famous as the backdrop for The Love Boat). The boarding experience is smooth, with lots of seating and clean facilities, though it’s more spread out.
Both terminals have friendly staff, porter services, and designated areas for Uber and taxi drop-offs. A tip: drop your bags off with porters before parking to save yourself from lugging them across the lot.
Final Thoughts
Sailing out of Los Angeles San Pedro port can be an exciting start to your cruise adventure. With a little planning—choosing the right airport, booking the best hotel, and arriving early for parking—you can make your trip smooth and stress-free. San Pedro’s convenience, combined with its friendly staff and efficient terminals, ensures a pleasant experience from start to finish. Happy cruising!
