Port Area Snapshot
The Port of Los Angeles, located in the vibrant San Pedro district of Los Angeles, California, is one of the busiest cruise ports on the West Coast. Just 25 miles from downtown LA, this port is a gateway to exciting voyages along the Pacific. Cruise travelers enjoy sunny weather, ocean views, and easy access to local attractions. With nearby beaches, shopping spots, and cultural landmarks, it’s a perfect starting point for a vacation. Whether flying in or driving, reaching the terminal is simple. It’s a major hub for cruise lines sailing to Mexico, Hawaii, and beyond.
Port Overview
Port Name: Port of Los Angeles
Port City: Los Angeles, California
Port Address: 100 Swinford St, San Pedro, CA 90731
Port Terminals: 2 terminals – World Cruise Center (Berths 91–93)
Cruise Lines: Princess, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney
Annual Passengers: Approx. 1 million
Port Features:
- Easy highway access from I-110
- Nearby hotels with shuttle service
- Onsite parking garage
- Cruise terminal with snack bars and lounges
- Panoramic views of the Vincent Thomas Bridge
Port Weather:
- Winter: Highs in the mid-60s°F, lows in the 50s°F; mild and breezy
- Summer: Highs in the upper 70s°F to 80s°F, lows in the 60s°F; warm and dry
Transportation & Access
| Option | Details | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Nearest airport | Los Angeles International (LAX) – 20 miles | flylax.com |
| Public transit | Metro Silver Line to San Pedro; DASH bus stops at port | metro.net |
| Rail | Union Station in downtown LA, 50 min via rideshare | metrolinktrains.com |
| Shuttles | Shared/private shuttles available from LAX | supershuttle.com |
| Rideshare | Uber & Lyft drop-off zone at terminal entrance | uber.com |
| Accessibility | ADA-compliant terminal access, elevators, restrooms | portofla.org |
Things to Do Within 30 Minutes
| Attraction | Why Go | Hours / Cost* | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| USS Iowa Museum | Explore a real battleship steps from the terminal | 10am–5pm • $24 | pacificbattleship.com |
| Cabrillo Marine Aquarium | Great for kids and ocean lovers | Noon–5pm • Donation | cabrillomarineaquarium.org |
| Crafted at the Port | Handmade goods, food, and weekend fun | Fri–Sun • Free | craftedportla.com |
| Korean Bell of Friendship | Peaceful park with city & ocean views | Dawn–dusk • Free | laparks.org |
| LA Maritime Museum | Learn about harbor history | 10am–5pm • $5 | lamaritimemuseum.org |
Where to Eat Near the Port
Premium Dining
| Restaurant | Best For | Cuisine / Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22nd St. Landing | Waterfront views with seafood | Seafood • $$$ | 22ndstlandingrestaurant.com |
| J. Trani’s Ristorante | Local Italian favorite since 1925 | Italian • $$$ | jtrani.com |
| San Pedro Fish Market | Fresh seafood & festive vibe | Seafood • $$–$$$ | sanpedrofish.com |
| The Whale & Ale | Classic British pub dining | British • $$ | whaleandale.com |
Budget-Friendly Dining
| Spot | Meal Times | Cuisine / Price | LINK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Busy Bee Sandwiches | Breakfast & lunch | Deli • $ | busybeesandwiches.com |
| Pacific Diner | Big plates, small prices | American • $ | yelp.com |
| Omelette & Waffle Shop | Great before morning cruise | Breakfast • $ | yelp.com |
| Green Onion | Tacos & burritos near the port | Mexican • $ | greenonionsanpedro.com |
Safety & Local Tips
- San Pedro is generally safe, but stay alert near parking lots at night
- Use crosswalks when walking around port streets
- Keep valuables hidden in cars or use hotel safes
- Expect heavy traffic on cruise days—arrive early
- Sunscreen is a must, even in winter
Cruise Day Logistics
- Parking garage at the terminal is $20/day, cash or card
- Luggage drop-off is just steps from the parking area
- Lines can get long—arrive 2.5 hours before boarding
- Check your cruise line’s website for terminal assignment
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there parking at the cruise terminal?
A: Yes, secure garage parking is available for about $20/day.
Q: How far is LAX from the port?
A: About 20 miles—expect 30–60 minutes depending on traffic.
Q: Can I walk from nearby hotels to the port?
A: Yes, several hotels are within walking or shuttle distance.
Q: Are there restaurants right at the terminal?
A: No full-service restaurants, but snack bars are available inside.
Q: What should I wear for the weather?
A: Light layers in summer, a jacket in winter—sun protection year-round.
Q: Can I tour LA before or after my cruise?
A: Absolutely! Many tours leave from downtown or nearby stops.
Q: Are taxis available at the terminal?
A: Yes, plus rideshare and shuttle services are easy to find.