Location & Transportation
Most cruise lines use the World Cruise Center in San Pedro, located at 500 N. Front Street. The terminal is known for its distinctive design, featuring an elevated gangway that connects directly to your ship. Right next door, you can explore the historic Queen Mary, now a fascinating hotel and museum.
Carnival Cruise Line also operates from the nearby Long Beach Cruise Terminal at 231 Windsor Way in Long Beach. Both terminals lie more than 20 miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
For ground transportation, Xpress Shuttle and Supershuttle provide convenient bus services to and from LAX. If you’re traveling with a group, taxis can be an economical option for reaching your destination.
Nearby Lodging
Los Angeles offers a wide range of hotels—from stylish boutique accommodations in Downtown to beachside resorts near Santa Monica. You’ll find options to suit every budget and taste.
Nearest Airport
The primary gateway is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located approximately 20 miles away. Besides shuttles and taxis, rideshare services are readily available for a hassle-free transfer.
Sightseeing
Los Angeles is a city of contrasts, where iconic landmarks and hidden gems await around every corner. Highlights include:
- Santa Monica: Enjoy the laid-back beach atmosphere, explore the busy pier with food stalls and games, and stroll along the Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place.
- Venice: Wander the quirky boardwalk, check out the vibrant street art, and discover the trendy boutiques and galleries on Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
- Malibu & Huntington Beach: Perfect spots for catching some waves and soaking up the Pacific sun, with Surfrider Beach in Malibu offering a classic California surf scene.
- Hollywood: Visit the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, see the stars outside Grauman's Chinese Theatre, and snap a photo of the iconic Hollywood sign.
- Beverly Hills: Window-shop along Rodeo Drive and explore upscale neighborhoods with a glamorous vibe.
- Downtown LA: Immerse yourself in culture with attractions like the Museum of Contemporary Art and Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall.
- Griffith Park: Enjoy panoramic views from the Griffith Observatory and explore the expansive parkland that also houses the Los Angeles Zoo.
- The Getty Center: Admire art, architecture, and breathtaking gardens.
- Theme Parks: For thrill-seekers, Universal Studios and Disneyland make for exciting day trips outside the city.
Tours & Excursions
Los Angeles is best explored with flexible options that suit your interests:
- Enjoy a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour covering Hollywood and Beverly Hills, with over 100 stops to let you discover at your own pace.
- Join a guided walking tour through Downtown or historic neighborhoods for local insights.
- Consider day trips to popular attractions like Universal Studios or Disneyland if you have extra time.
Shopping
The city offers an eclectic mix of shopping experiences:
- Malls & Complexes: Explore upscale centers like the Beverly Center, Hollywood & Highland, and The Grove for both luxury and contemporary brands.
- Boutiques & Districts: Wander along Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, or check out the unique finds in Downtown’s Fashion District and the trendy stores in Santa Monica Place.
- Local Markets: Discover artisanal goods, vintage clothing, and quirky souvenirs in various neighborhoods throughout the city.
Dining
Los Angeles’ dining scene mirrors its cultural diversity:
- Savor fresh seafood and California classics at beachfront cafes in Santa Monica.
- Indulge in international flavors at trendy eateries in West Hollywood and Downtown.
- Grab a bite at casual food trucks or enjoy fine dining—there’s something for every palate and budget.
- Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the ideal Southern California weather.
Culture & Local Events
Los Angeles blends modernity with a rich cultural heritage. Here’s what you can expect:
- Currency & Payments: The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Major credit cards are widely accepted, but remember that prices are usually posted without sales tax (typically 4–6%, sometimes as high as 10%), which is added at the register.
- Communication: English is the main language, and Spanish is widely spoken, making it easy to navigate the city.
- Operating Hours: Most retail stores, shopping centers, and attractions are open from around 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday, with shorter hours on Sundays. Many supermarkets and pharmacies operate 24/7.
- Tipping Guidelines:
- Full-service restaurants: 15–20%
- Taxi drivers and personal services: 10–15%
- Bartenders: $1 per drink or about 15% of the total
- Hotel staff (bellhops, doormen, housekeeping): $1–$2 per service
- Local Events: Los Angeles hosts a variety of festivals and cultural events throughout the year. To see what’s happening during your visit, check out current listings at Discover Los Angeles.
- Safety & Awareness: Always keep an eye on your belongings in busy tourist spots. In case of an emergency, dial 911.