Los Angeles Cruise Port
Port of Los Angeles World Cruise Center
Los Angeles, United States Port
California UN/LOCODE USLAX Port of call Homeport
Los Angeles Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Region | California |
| UN/LOCODE | USLAX |
| Contact | |
| Address | 100 Swinford St, San Pedro, CA 90731, USA |
| Port phone | +1 310-732-3500 |
| Website | www.portoflosangeles.org |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 34.05223, -118.24368 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
<p>The World Cruise Center at San Pedro sits 40 km (25 miles) south of Downtown Los Angeles, a journey that can take 45 minutes or two hours depending on the shifting moods of the 110 Freeway. This is a destination that punishes the unplanned and rewards those who respect the sheer scale of the Southern California basin. Located in the Harbor area of Southern California, the city is a sprawling mosaic of 88 incorporated municipalities, making it impossible to 'see LA' in a single day. You must choose a singular focus: the coastal charm of the South Bay, the cinematic history of Hollywood, or the cultural density of the urban core. The city is a major ocean cruise port serving as a primary hub for Mexican Riviera and Hawaiian voyages. From the terminal on San Pedro Bay, you are 35 km (22 miles) from the world-class Getty Center and approximately 45 km (28 miles) from the Santa Monica Pier. Keep in mind that most guides underestimate the 'return to ship' window by 60 minutes; a strict 2-hour buffer is recommended if traveling from the Westside or Hollywood. Waterways Cruise clients consistently report that attempts to visit both the beach and the Hollywood Sign in one day result in a stressful, logistics-heavy failure. This destination rewards focused exploration and punishes over-ambition.</p>
Los Angeles — Port Overview
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History
Los Angeles first rose to prominence in 1781 as a small Spanish civilian pueblo, but its destiny as a global maritime hub was forged in 1899 during the 'Free Harbor Fight.' This political battle determined that San Pedro, rather than Santa Monica, would become the city's official deep-water port. By 1907, the Port of Los Angeles was officially founded, eventually becoming the busiest container port in the Western Hemisphere. The completion of the Panama Canal in 1914 accelerated this growth, turning the San Pedro Bay into the primary gateway for Pacific trade. Parallel to this industrial rise, the 1920s saw the explosion of the motion picture industry in Hollywood, roughly 40 kilometers inland. This dual identity—industrial titan and dream factory—shaped the city's physical sprawl. You can still see this tension today in San Pedro, where the 1932 Art Deco architecture of the Cabrillo Beach Bathhouse stands against the backdrop of massive gantry cranes. The city's role in World War II is anchored by the presence of the USS Iowa, which arrived here after serving as a presidential transport. Today, the transition from the industrial pier to the gleaming skyscrapers of the Financial District tells the story of a city that moved from mud-flats to global megacity in just over a century.
The Verdict
The travelers who get the most from a Los Angeles port call are the ones who arrive with a singular plan and the flexibility to adapt to the city’s traffic. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day in the City of Angels.
Things to Do & See in Los Angeles
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Getty Center | Museum | 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049 | +1 310-440-7300 | 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed Mondays) | getty.edu | Free |
| Battleship USS Iowa Museum | Historical Site | 250 S Harbor Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90731 | +1 877-446-9261 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily | pacificbattleship.com | USD $26.95 |
| Griffith Observatory | Landmark | 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 | +1 213-473-0800 | 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Weekdays), 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Weekends) | griffithobservatory.org | Free |
| Santa Monica Pier | Tourist Attraction | 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401 | +1 310-458-8900 | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Daily | santamonicapier.org | Free |
| Hollywood Walk of Fame | Landmark | Hollywood Blvd & Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028 | +1 323-469-8311 | Open 24 hours | walkoffame.com | Free |
The Getty Center · Museum
FreePerched on a ridge in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Getty Center is more than a museum—it is a $1.3 billion travertine statement on the power of art. Designed by Richard Meier, the campus houses a staggering collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. You’ll find J.M.W. Turner’s seascapes and Van Gogh’s 'Irises' housed in pavilions that are flooded with natural light. The hover-tram is efficient, but the scale of the site means significant walking between pavilions should be planned. What most visitors walk past is the Robert Irwin-designed Central Garden, a living sculpture that evolves with the seasons. According to the Getty Trust, the site is designed to be earthquake-proof and fire-resistant, preserving its treasures for centuries. Be aware that the view from the West Pavilion terrace is the finest panorama of Los Angeles, stretching from the San Bernardino Mountains to the Pacific. It is the single most rewarding stop in the city for travelers who appreciate precision, beauty, and quietude away from the urban bustle.
1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049 ·+1 310-440-7300 ·10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed Mondays) ·www.getty.edu
Battleship USS Iowa Museum · Historical Site
USD $26.95Known as the 'Battleship of Presidents,' the USS Iowa is a monumental presence in the San Pedro harbor. This is a 45,000-ton engineering marvel that served in WWII, the Korean War, and the Cold War. As you walk the teak decks, the scale of the 16-inch guns is genuinely arresting. Visitor feedback is consistent: take the self-guided tour with the provided app to fully grasp the technical complexity of naval warfare. You’ll see where sailors slept, where they ate, and the bridge where Admiral Halsey once stood. It is a visceral, metallic experience that contrasts sharply with the glitz of Hollywood. For cruise passengers docked at the World Cruise Center, this is the most efficient use of time, as it requires zero freeway travel. The visit offers a sobering, respectful look at 20th-century history and the sailors who lived it. It is arguably the best-preserved battleship museum in the United States, and the proximity to the cruise terminal makes it an essential visit.
250 S Harbor Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90731 ·+1 877-446-9261 ·10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily ·pacificbattleship.com
Griffith Observatory · Landmark
FreeStanding on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory is LA’s most iconic Art Deco landmark. It offers the classic 'Hollywood Sign' photo opportunity along with a world-class look at the cosmos. The Samuel Oschin Planetarium is one of the finest in the world, though tickets must be purchased on-site and sell out quickly. According to the City of Los Angeles, the observatory has appeared in over 300 films, most notably 'Rebel Without a Cause.' you will find that the most common mistake is attempting to walk up from the Greek Theatre; the incline is punishing and hot. Instead, have your driver drop you at the very top. Inside, the exhibits are tactile and engaging, from a Tesla coil to a massive scale model of the moon. Expect the ultimate sense of place; standing on the terrace, you can see the Pacific Ocean, the skyscrapers of Downtown, and the sprawl of the Valley all at once. It is a majestic, high-altitude perspective on the city that makes the traffic to get there feel worth the effort.
2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 ·+1 213-473-0800 ·12:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Weekdays), 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Weekends) ·griffithobservatory.org
Santa Monica Pier · Tourist Attraction
FreeThe Santa Monica Pier is the emotional heart of the California coastline and the official terminus of Route 66. It is a sensory overload of carnival sounds, salty air, and deep-fried smells. The Pacific Park amusement area features the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, providing a quiet, high-altitude view of the coastline. The walking time from the street to the end of the pier takes about 12 minutes—if you don't stop for the street performers. Walking south toward the Chess Park may lead to a quieter, more authentic beach experience. While it can feel 'touristy,' it is an essential Southern California moment. You are standing at the edge of the continent, watching the Pacific rollers come in. It is an ideal spot for people-watching and soaking in the 'End of the Trail' atmosphere. The Pier delivers that specific, breezy nostalgia that defines the American West Coast. Just be wary of the seagull—they are aggressive and will take food directly from your hand.
200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401 ·+1 310-458-8900 ·6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Daily ·santamonicapier.org
Hollywood Walk of Fame · Landmark
FreeSpanning 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard, the Walk of Fame is a monument to the entertainment industry's legends. Over 2,700 brass stars are embedded in the terrazzo sidewalks. You will likely find the stars of your favorite Golden Age actors near the Chinese Theatre. It is a good idea to start at the Dolby Theatre (home of the Oscars) and walk two blocks in either direction. Any further, and the area becomes increasingly unpolished. Keep in mind that you should never accept a 'free' CD from a street performer or take a photo with a costumed character unless you are prepared to pay $5–$10. What most visitors walk past is the historic Musso & Frank Grill, LA's oldest restaurant, which has served everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Quentin Tarantino. Expect a 'checklist' moment—you've seen the stars and the footprints—but it lacks the elegance of other LA neighborhoods. Go for the history and the TCL Chinese Theatre's forecourt, but do not plan to spend more than 90 minutes here.
Hollywood Blvd & Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028 ·+1 323-469-8311 ·Open 24 hours ·walkoffame.com
Eating & Drinking in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is the culinary laboratory of the United States. Its identity is defined by fusion: the 'Korean Taco' was born here, and the city's Thai and Armenian food scenes are the largest outside their respective homelands. You should prioritize regional specialties like the French Dip sandwich—try it at Philippe the Original near Union Station, where they have been 'double-dipping' since 1908. To drink, look for craft beers from local breweries like Smog City or Angel City, or a classic California Chardonnay. Street food is dominated by the 'Danger Dog'—a bacon-wrapped hot dog sold by vendors on Hollywood Boulevard—though locals actually flock to Grand Central Market for authentic Pupusas or Oysters. One honest note: tourists expect to find 'Hollywood Glamour' in the food, but the best meals in LA are often found in strip malls or historic delis like Langer's, where the #19 Pastrami sandwich is a local religious experience.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Pedro Fish Market (West Harbor) | 1190 Nagoya Way, San Pedro, CA 90731 | +1 310-832-4251 | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Daily | sanpedrofish.com | $30.00–$50.00 per person |
| Musso & Frank Grill | 6667 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028 | +1 323-467-7788 | 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Dinner), 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Lunch Fri-Sun) | mussoandfrank.com | $60.00–$120.00 per person |
| The Varnish | 118 E 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014 | +1 213-265-7089 | 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM Daily | 213hospitality.com | $18.00–$25.00 per drink |
San Pedro Fish Market (West Harbor)
$30.00–$50.00 per personThis is a loud, messy, and glorious San Pedro tradition. You order your seafood by the pound, it's tossed with peppers, onions, and potatoes in a 'secret' spice blend, and served on butcher paper. Feedback consistently indicates the portions are gargantuan. It is currently in a temporary 'pop-up' structure due to port redevelopment, which only adds to its authentic, gritty charm. Wear clothes you don't mind getting a bit of grease on.
1190 Nagoya Way, San Pedro, CA 90731 ·+1 310-832-4251 ·11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Daily
Musso & Frank Grill
$60.00–$120.00 per personEntering Musso & Frank is like stepping into 1919. Red leather booths, waiters in short red coats, and a mahogany bar that has seen it all. If your ship is in port late, this is the only way to experience Hollywood. Order the Sand Dabs—it was the favorite dish of everyone from Fairbanks to Bogart. The martinis are stirred, never shaken, and served with a small 'sidecar' in a carafe on ice. It is civilized, quiet, and profoundly historic.
6667 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028 ·+1 323-467-7788 ·5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Dinner), 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Lunch Fri-Sun)
The Varnish
$18.00–$25.00 per drinkLocated in the back of Cole's (one of the claimants to the French Dip sandwich), The Varnish is the pioneer of LA's craft cocktail revival. There is no signage; you walk through a door in the back of the dining room. It’s intimate, often features a live jazz pianist, and focuses on precise, classic mixology. It’s the perfect place to hide from the Downtown noise.
118 E 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014 ·+1 213-265-7089 ·7:00 PM – 2:00 AM Daily
Getting There & Around
<p>Once you leave the San Pedro terminal, your primary tools for navigation are Uber and Lyft. These rideshare apps are significantly more reliable and cleaner than standard city taxis, and they operate with high density in the harbor area. A trip to Santa Monica will cost approximately $65.00–$85.00 depending on surge pricing. For those heading to the urban core, the Metro J Line (Silver) bus offers an express lane route to Downtown for $2.50, but it requires a 'TAP' card which you can purchase at the San Pedro bus stop. While the city has a growing bike-share program (Metro Bike), avoid cycling between neighborhoods; LA’s infrastructure is disjointed and dangerous for those unfamiliar with local driving habits. A specialist tip: when using rideshare, always check the 'Wait & Save' option if you have 10 minutes to spare; it can save $15.00 on a long haul to Hollywood. Most guides suggest the Metro A Line (formerly Blue Line) from Long Beach, but it is worth knowing that this route currently faces significant delays and security concerns; stick to the freeway-based express buses or private cars.</p>
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Los Angeles
Battleship USS Iowa Museum
9:00 AM (90 min)
A massive piece of living history. Walk the teak decks where FDR once sat. The 'Big Stick' offers a visceral look at WWII naval life. Most visitors miss the presidential bathtub installed specifically for Roosevelt.
- 5-minute taxi or 15-minute walk from World Cruise Center. ($10.00)
- Entry: $26.95 ($26.95)
- The ship is massive and metal; it gets hot. Go early and wear rubber-soled shoes for the steep ladders.
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
11:00 AM (60 min)
Designed by Frank Gehry, this quiet aquarium focuses on Southern California marine life. It is a peaceful antidote to the industrial port. Look for the 'grunion' exhibit, a local biological phenomenon.
- 10-minute taxi from USS Iowa. ($15.00)
- Entry: Suggested donation $7.00 ($7.00)
- Walk out to the adjacent salt marsh to see local herons—most people stay inside the building.
Lunch Recommendation
Bay Cities Italian Deli
This is a local institution. While tourists wait 90 minutes at The Ivy, locals grab the world's best sandwich here and eat it at the beach.
Order: The Godmother (Salami, Mortadella, Cappacola, Ham, Prosciutto), House-made Potato Salad
1517 Lincoln Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Cost: $20.00 per person
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Los Angeles
The Getty Center
8:30 AM (180 min)
A billion-dollar travertine campus on a hill. It houses Van Gogh’s 'Irises' and incredible French decorative arts. The gardens are an artwork themselves. The views of the LA basin are the best in the city.
- 45-minute taxi from San Pedro port via I-405 North. ($75.00)
- Entry: Free (Timed entry required) (Free)
- The Central Garden changes seasonally; walk to the very center of the maze for the best acoustics.
Santa Monica Pier & Beach
12:30 PM (120 min)
The iconic end of Route 66. It is loud, nostalgic, and busy. Walk the boards, see the solar-powered Ferris wheel, and feel the Pacific breeze. Avoid the tourist-trap restaurants on the Pier itself.
- 20-minute taxi from The Getty. ($30.00)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Walk 3 blocks inland to the 3rd Street Promenade if the Pier crowds become overwhelming.
Getting back to the ship
The latest safe departure time from Santa Monica or Hollywood to ensure a return to the World Cruise Center is 2.5 hours before your 'all aboard' time. If your ship departs at 6:00 PM (all aboard 5:30 PM), you must be in your taxi or rideshare by 3:00 PM. The taxi fare will range from $85.00 to $120.00 (~$85.00–$120.00 USD). Public transit is too high-risk for the return leg; do not rely on it. If you are running late, contact the port agent immediately (number found on your daily ship newsletter). The ship will generally not hold for independent travelers unless you are on an official Waterways Cruise guaranteed-return excursion. Those who miss the ship in LA often have to fly to the next port—usually Ensenada or San Francisco—which involves significant cost and potential passport issues.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Los Angeles
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: Year-round; peak season is September to May for Mexican Riviera cruises.
18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F). Low humidity, rare rainfall during summer months, frequent morning coastal fog ('June Gloom').
What to wear: Layers are non-negotiable. The temperature at San Pedro Bay can be 10 degrees cooler than Hollywood. Bring a light windbreaker for the coast and comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes. Southern California is casual; even high-end restaurants in Santa Monica accept 'California Elegant' (nice denim and a blazer). Sun protection is essential even on overcast days due to high UV bounce from the ocean.
Weather risks: Dense morning fog can occasionally delay arrivals at the breakwater. Extreme Santa Ana winds in autumn can lead to dusty conditions and respiratory discomfort.
Spring brings 'May Gray' and 'June Gloom,' where heavy overcast persists until 2:00 PM.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Late Summer (August–September) | High temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) with dry, Santa Ana wind conditions possible. | Heat exhaustion is a real risk at exposed sites like Griffith Observatory or the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Urban 'heat islands' in Downtown LA make walking uncomfortable. | Hollywood Boulevard, Downtown urban core, and the steep walking paths of Griffith Park. | Wear a wide-brimmed hat and use rideshare for 'door-to-door' service rather than walking between attractions. Prioritize indoor museums like the Getty between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM. |
| Winter (December–February) | Mild with occasional heavy rainstorms. Temperatures average 18°C (64°F). | LA's streets become notoriously slick during the first hour of rain due to oil buildup. Exposed coastal paths at San Pedro can be extremely windy. | The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and the hills around the Hollywood Sign, which may experience mudslide closures. | Always have a 'Plan B' indoor activity (like the Academy Museum). Traffic delays double during rain; add an extra 45 minutes to your return-to-ship window. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Los Angeles is remarkably casual but operates on a strict 'hustle' culture. Locals greet each other with a quick nod or a 'How’s it going?' but rarely stop for long pleasantries. In dining, American tipping is mandatory; 18–22% is the standard for sit-down service, and $1 per drink at bars. Splitting dishes is common and rarely causes offense. Photography is a way of life here, but be aware that many high-end boutiques on Rodeo Drive or private galleries in the Arts District prohibit indoor photos without permission. Queueing is generally respected, but at popular taco trucks, it can be a bit of a 'scrum'—just make eye contact with the person taking orders. A common cultural misunderstanding involves the 'unhoused' population; Los Angeles has a significant homelessness crisis, particularly in Hollywood and Downtown. Cruise passengers are often startled by the proximity of extreme wealth and extreme poverty. The best approach is to remain aware of your surroundings, be respectful but firm, and keep walking if you feel uncomfortable. Do not expect the 'movie set' version of the city to be the reality of the streets.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Underestimating the '405' and '110' freeway traffic. |
Trying to see Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills in one 8-hour call. |
Taking the Metro rail from San Pedro to Downtown LA. |
Waiting in the 'timed entry' line at the Getty without a reservation. |
Practical tips
Los Angeles is a card-first economy. Credit cards and Apple Pay are accepted almost everywhere, including taxis and transit kiosks. However, keep $40 in small denominations ($1, $5, $10) for tipping tour guides, valets, or buying from street vendors who may have 'broken' card machines. Tipping is non-negotiable in the US: 20% for restaurants and 15% for taxi drivers. Five useful phrases: 'Where is the rideshare pickup?' 'How long is the wait?' 'Is there a restroom for customers?' 'Can we take the Express Lane?' and 'Which way to the Pier?' The most common scam is the 'CD Scam' in Hollywood—do not take anything handed to you on the street. Also, 'Celebrity Home Tours' sold on the sidewalk are often inaccurate; you'll see a lot of hedges and gates but no celebrities. For religious sites like the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, modest dress is required (shoulders covered). The best time to visit the Santa Monica Pier is 11:00 AM; any later and the 'social media' crowds make walking difficult.
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FAQ — Los Angeles
Is the San Pedro cruise terminal the same as Long Beach?
No, they are separate facilities about 7 miles (11 km) apart. The World Cruise Center is in San Pedro and serves lines like Princess and Holland America. The Long Beach Cruise Terminal is next to the Queen Mary and primarily serves Carnival. Always check your cruise documents specifically for the 'World Cruise Center' or 'Long Beach Terminal' before ordering a rideshare. Getting this wrong can cost you 45 minutes of your port call day. Visitors should double-check the pier number on your boarding pass the night before arrival to ensure your driver takes you to the correct bridge.
How much is a taxi from San Pedro to the Hollywood Sign?
A taxi or Uber will cost between $95.00 and $130.00 each way, depending on traffic surge pricing. The journey covers about 30 miles (48 km) and takes between 60 and 90 minutes. Note that you cannot drive 'to' the sign itself; the taxi will drop you at Lake Hollywood Park or the Griffith Observatory for the best view. Be prepared for the return fare to be slightly higher if you are traveling during the 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM rush hour. Keep in mind that rideshare apps are often 20% cheaper than traditional yellow cabs for this specific long-haul route.
Can I walk to the USS Iowa from my cruise ship?
Yes, if you are docked at the World Cruise Center (Berths 91-93), it is a flat 10-to-15-minute walk along the Harbor Boulevard Parkway. You will exit the terminal building and follow the marked pedestrian path south. The battleship is massive and impossible to miss. This is the only major LA attraction accessible without a vehicle. If you have mobility issues, a very short $8.00 rideshare can take you from the terminal door to the ship's entrance. This for anyone who wants a zero-stress morning is recommended before heading further afield in the afternoon.
Are there lockers at the Los Angeles cruise port?
No, there are no luggage lockers or storage facilities at the World Cruise Center or Long Beach Terminal due to Homeland Security regulations. If you have a late flight after your cruise, you must use a third-party service like 'Bounce' or 'Stasher,' which partners with local shops in San Pedro to hold bags. These services typically cost $6.00 per bag for the day. Alternatively, many cruise lines offer a 'luggage valet' service for about $25.00 that sends your bags directly to the airport from the ship.
What is the best way to see the Hollywood Sign in 4 hours?
A 4-hour window is extremely tight. Your only realistic option is to take a direct rideshare to Lake Hollywood Park (3200 Canyon Lake Dr), take your photos, and return immediately. You will spend 2.5 to 3 hours in the car and have about 30 minutes for photos. Do not attempt to hike or visit the Observatory in this window. Skipping the sign and focusing on the San Pedro waterfront is usually recommended if your port call is under 6 hours for a stress-free experience.
Is public transit safe and reliable from the LA port?
The 'Silver Streak' (J Line) bus is a reliable way to reach Downtown LA for $2.50, but it is not a 'tourist' bus; it is a commuter line. The Metro Rail A Line from Long Beach is currently experiencing significant delays and security concerns and is not recommended for cruise passengers. If you use the bus, you must have a TAP card or the TAP app on your phone. For a one-day visit, the 60-to-90-minute transit time each way is usually a poor use of limited hours compared to a 45-minute Uber.
Can I visit Disneyland from the Los Angeles cruise port?
Disneyland is in Anaheim, about 30 miles (48 km) east of the port. A taxi takes 45–60 minutes and costs about $75.00 each way. However, a 'day trip' to Disneyland is only recommended if your ship is in port for at least 12 hours. Between the commute, security lines, and attraction queues, you will struggle to see more than 3 or 4 rides. If you choose this, it is best to purchase a 'Genie+' pass in advance to skip the longest lines.
What should I wear for a day in Los Angeles?
Dress in layers. The port at San Pedro is often windy and 18°C (64°F), while Hollywood can be 28°C (82°F) and stagnant. Wear comfortable walking shoes—even 'glamorous' LA requires miles of walking. 'California Casual' is the rule: nice jeans and a polo or blouse will get you into 95% of venues. If you plan to visit the Getty or a high-end Santa Monica restaurant, slightly dressier attire is appropriate. Always carry a hat and high-SPF sunscreen, as the Southern California sun is deceptively strong even when it's breezy.
Is it easy to find a taxi back to the ship from Santa Monica?
Taxis are rare on the street in Santa Monica; you should use the Uber or Lyft app. Rideshare drivers are abundant in the beach area and will usually arrive within 5 minutes. If you prefer a taxi, you must walk to a major hotel like The Fairmont or the Shore Hotel and use their taxi stand. An Uber from Santa Monica to San Pedro at 3:00 PM takes about 55 minutes, but by 4:00 PM, it can take 90 minutes. Always leave early.
Where is the best place for lunch near the cruise pier?
The San Pedro Fish Market (now at the West Harbor pop-up) is the quintessential local choice, located just 5 minutes from the terminal. For something quieter and more upscale, 22nd St. Landing Seafood Grill & Bar offers great harbor views and fresh catches. If you want a quick deli sandwich before heading out on a long tour, Busy Bee Market on Walker Street is the local secret—their 'Belly Buster' sandwich is legendary.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.