The Los Angeles World Cruise Center sits 20 miles south of LA in San Pedro.
For other US West Coast Cruise destinations check out our US West Coast Cruise Ship Port Guide page.
You’ll find three passenger terminals equipped with essential facilities:
- Check-in desks
- Security screening points
- Waiting lounges with free Wi-Fi
You can sail with major cruise lines including:
- Princess Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Royal Caribbean
Popular destinations from this port include:
- Mexican Riviera
- Hawaiian Islands
Transport options to the terminal:
- Direct transfers from LAX Airport
- Shuttles from Long Beach Airport
- On-site secure parking facilities
Your journey starts at this coastal hub, connecting you to Pacific destinations via modern cruise ships.
The terminal’s location offers easy access from central LA whilst providing all necessary pre-boarding services.
Map of Los Angeles, California Cruise Ship Port
Port Location and Transportation Options
The World Cruise Center at Port of Los Angeles sits in San Pedro, 20 miles south of central London. You can reach your ship in four ways:
- Book a rideshare service
- Take a shuttle
- Drive your own car
- Arrange private transport
When driving yourself, you’ll see clear signs to the World Cruise Center. The cruise parking structure offers secure parking at a daily rate covering your entire trip.
You might prefer taking a shuttle from LAX or nearby hotels. Shuttle services:
- Handle your luggage
- Take you straight to your terminal
- Ensure timely arrival for check-in
- Remove transport stress
The shuttle option proves particularly useful if you’re travelling with lots of luggage or want to avoid parking fees.
Cruise Terminal Facilities and Services
The Los Angeles World Cruise Terminal spreads across three modern terminals, giving you all the essential services you need for your cruise departure.
Each terminal provides:
- Check-in counters
- Security screening zones
- Comfortable waiting areas
- Wheelchair access
- Clean restrooms
- Free Wi-Fi connection
You can access practical services including:
- Currency exchange points
- ATM machines
- Staffed information desks
- Gift shops
- Snack bars
- Vending machines
- Luggage handling
- Porter support
When you board your ship, covered walkways shield you from rain and sun. The terminal layout makes navigation straightforward, with clear signs guiding you to your destination.
Popular Cruise Lines and Destinations
Major cruise lines from Los Angeles:
- Princess Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Royal Caribbean
You can sail to these popular destinations:
- Mexican Riviera (Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán)
- Hawaiian Islands
- Pacific Coast (San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver)
- Panama Canal
You’ll get the best weather conditions if you book your cruise between October and April. These months form the peak sailing season from Los Angeles, giving you optimal conditions at each destination.
The cruise lines offer different itineraries to match your holiday preferences. You can choose short coastal trips or longer ocean voyages, depending on how much time you want to spend at sea.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Nearby Things to Do
You can explore several attractions while waiting for your cruise from the Los Angeles World Cruise Center.
The USS Iowa Battleship Museum sits right next to the terminal. You can tour this historic warship and learn about naval history.
The LA Waterfront at San Pedro offers:
- A scenic waterfront promenade for walking
- Fresh seafood restaurants
- Local boutique shops
You’ll find these attractions within a short distance:
- Cabrillo Marine Aquarium – showcases local sea life
- Korean Bell of Friendship – offers cultural insights
- Point Fermin Park – features hiking trails and a lighthouse
Long Beach attractions are just a quick drive away, making them perfect for half-day visits.
Parking and Ground Transportation
Transportation Options – LA World Cruise Centre
You can park directly at the cruise terminal’s garage for long-term stays. Off-site parking lots nearby offer cheaper rates and include shuttle services to the terminal.
Alternative transport choices:
- Book an Uber or Lyft
- Take a private shuttle from your hotel or LAX
- Use Metro buses
- Reserve a taxi or car service
Airport connections:
- LAX: 25-minute journey to terminal
- Long Beach Airport: 20-minute journey to terminal
Both airports connect to the cruise terminal through:
- Shuttle services
- Taxis
- Rideshare options
- Private transfers
See what’s on offer from the Port of Long Beach, California for a different US West Coast Cruise Destinations.
Best Times to Cruise From Los Angeles
Peak Season
You’ll find the best cruising conditions from Los Angeles during two main periods:
- Late spring (April-May)
- Early fall (September-October)
These months give you mild weather and dry conditions, perfect for trips to:
- Mexican Riviera
- Hawaiian Islands
Budget-Friendly Options
Your best deals appear in the off-peak winter season (November-March):
- Lower ticket prices
- Fewer passengers
- Slightly cooler weather
- Occasional rain showers
Summer Considerations
When you book summer cruises, expect:
- Higher prices
- Busier ships
- More families onboard
- School holiday crowds
The organised structure makes it easy to scan the information, and the second-person perspective keeps it direct and engaging. Each point delivers clear, actionable information without unnecessary words.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Hotels That Offer Cruise Packages Near the Los Angeles Port?
The Los Angeles port area offers you more than 25 hotels with cruise packages. You can choose popular options like DoubleTree and Crowne Plaza. These hotels provide you with cruise-focused amenities including port shuttles, secure parking and morning breakfast. You’ll find everything you need before boarding your ship.
What Security Measures Are Required for Boarding a Cruise Ship in LA?
Required Security Items for Your LA Cruise:
You need:
- Your valid government-issued photo ID
- Your passport (for international cruises only)
- Your cruise boarding pass
Security Process:
- You must pass through metal detectors
- Your bags go through X-ray screening
- Security staff will check your documents
Prohibited Items:
- Weapons of any kind
- Outside alcohol
- Illegal substances
- Sharp objects
- Flammable materials
Pack your documents in an easily accessible place to speed up the boarding process. Check your cruise line’s specific guidelines, as some rules may vary between companies.
Can I Book Shore Excursions Directly at the Los Angeles Cruise Terminal?
No, you can’t book excursions at the Los Angeles cruise terminal. You’ll need to book your shore excursions before your trip. You have two simple booking options:
- Book through your cruise line’s website
- Call your cruise line’s customer service team directly
For the best choice of excursions and available time slots, you should make your bookings several weeks before your cruise departure date.
Are Wheelchair Rentals Available at the Los Angeles Cruise Port?
You can’t rent wheelchairs directly at the Los Angeles Cruise Port. You have two main options for wheelchair rentals:
- Contact local medical supply companies near the port to arrange delivery
- Book a wheelchair through your cruise line before your departure date
Contact your cruise line or a medical supplier at least 7 days before your sailing date to ensure availability. Most suppliers will deliver the wheelchair to your location or the cruise terminal.
What’s the Maximum Luggage Size Allowed for Los Angeles Cruise Embarkation?
Standard luggage allowance for LA cruise embarkation includes:
- Two suitcases: up to 23kg (50 pounds) each
- One carry-on bag: maximum size 61cm x 41cm x 30cm (24″ x 16″ x 12″)
You should check your specific cruise line’s website or booking documents, as limits can vary between operators.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Monterey, California Cruise Ship Port.
