Despite Hawaii being one of the top west coast cruise destinations for decades, many folks we talk with still don't realize that you can take a cruise to Hawaii. Even fewer understand just how amazing of a way it is to explore the culture, food, history, and natural beauty offered by this magical destination. Let's take a look at some of the ways that you can explore Hawaii on a cruise.
One of the biggest challenges with Hawaiian cruises is that unlike other itineraries such as going to Alaska, California Coastal, or Mexican Riviera - there are no international ports anywhere close to Hawaii. As a result, cruise options are relatively limited compared to others. It also means that these cruises are generally more expensive, smaller ships, or longer than your typical cruise.
Icy Strait Point is one of the most exciting recent additions to the list of Alaska cruise destinations and I suspect it is the beginning of a new phase of planned and privately owned cruise ports that will ultimately allow the destination to continue expanding without overcrowding the existing ports. However, it isn't just me saying this. In fact, Icy Strait Point claimed the 2020 Port of the Year award at the 14th annual Seatrade Cruise Awards earlier this month.
Read more: Icy Strait Point Wins 2020 Seatrade Port of The Year Award
What better way to visit the historical city of San Diego that once belonged to Spain than to approach its shores by way of the Pacific Ocean as did its conquerors? Before arriving near the shore, travelers on a cruise ship may easily see the whales that swim in the ocean, and they might spot expert surfers such as Rob Machado and others. In San Diego, where the weather is perennially pleasant, there are many interesting places to visit during shore excursions on a cruise ship. Here are a few:
Read more: Things To Do In San Diego California On A Cruise Ship Visit
Glorious Skagway Alaska lies on the Alaskan panhandle. This small settlement in between the sky and the mountains is an understandably popular tourist destination. People from all over the world come here to admire the magnificent scenery, clean air and explore this part of the United States. Skagway is a particularly popular destination for cruise ships. If you're heading up north and want to stop here on your planned cruise, you'll find many a great many things to do once you embark. From exploring the region's history to shopping and charming gardens, it's all easy to admire even in a few hours.
Read more: Things To Do in Skagway Alaska On a Cruise Ship Visit
There are vacations, and then there are escapes. Along the gently rolling California coast is a seaside paradise known as Santa Barbara. Unlike its fast-paced neighbors of Los Angeles and San Francisco, Santa Barbara is a town of charm and tranquility nestled in the American Riviera. The sun-splashed stucco city is a seaside escape where mountains meet the ocean. Known for its world-renowned vineyards, golden valleys, arts and culture, and exceptional culinary scene, Santa Barbara is a haven for exploration and adventure. Santa Barbara has near-endless amount of activities and experiences that make it hard to plan a day trip itinerary. Here are 5 cruise shore excursions to experience the best of Santa Barbara.
When thinking about taking a perfect romantic cruise, most folks think about the Caribbean, Hawaii, or maybe even the Mediterranean but we love cruising on the west coast! That’s why we’ve decided to put together our picks for the top five most romantic cruise ports in California, Mexican Riviera, and British Columbia. Sorry, Alaska and Hawaii … I’m not counting you guys this time.
Read more: Things To Do In Seattle Washington On a Cruise Visit
Thanks to its location on the Inside Passage's southern edge, Ketchikan is an incredibly convenient stop for Alaskan cruise vessels. But it's not just convenience that makes Ketchikan an unforgettable port of call. Not only is Ketchikan surrounded by phenomenal rainforest scenery, it's also home to incredible architecture and many fantastic cultural institutions.
Read more: Things To Do In Ketchikan Alaska On A Cruise Ship Visit
Juneau has rightly earned its reputation as being the go-to destination for Alaskan adventure. The town is nestled into one of the country’s largest and most pristine wilderness areas in the Northern hemisphere. Whether you’re exploring ancient glaciers, setting sail on the fishing trip of a lifetime, taking a helicopter tour of the region, experiencing an authentic Alaskan seafood dinner fresh from the ocean, or taking in the wildlife of the incredible region, Juneau isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience. The lush rainforest and iconic glaciers make it a thrilling destination for outdoor experiences. When spending the day in Juneau, don’t miss out on these top cruise shore excursions.
Read more: Things To Do In Juneau Alaska On a Cruise Ship Visit
Only 22 miles from the cruise terminals at Long Beach and San Pedro, Catalina Island is a popular stop for cruise ships traveling to Mexico and Pacific Coastal cruises. With a combination of natural beauty popular with divers and natural beauty to explore on land as well as quaint shops, restaurants, and historic gardens, this is a cruise destination that you won't want to miss.
Read more: What To Do On A Catalina Island Cruise Ship Visit
Cabo San Lucas might be Mexico, but it has been a playground for Americans looking to have fun for more than 100 years. Fishing, golf, food, tequila, and eco-tourism await cruise guests here.
Read more: Things To Do In Cabo San Lucas Mexico On a Cruise Ship Visit
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is a fabulous cruise port that is safe for American visitors and offers a wealth of cultural, eco-tourism, and foodie excursions that you won't want to miss.
Read more: Things To Do In Puerto Vallarta Mexico On a Cruise Ship Visit
Ensenada, Mexico has the fortune of being just far enough away that it avoids some of the security concerns towns closer to the Mexico/US border face but it is still close enough to be a perfect cruise ship stop. Whether you are coming through the Panama Canal, Hawaii, or simply a quick 3 or 4-day cruise from Los Angeles, Ensenada is probably on your itinerary if you are sailing from California. Here's why I enjoy visiting Ensenada, Mexico and you probably will too!
Read more: Things To Do in Ensenada Mexico On a Cruise Ship Visit
Vancouver is the gateway for most Alaska cruises since it serves as a foreign port and so you can spend more time heading to Alaska, whereas Seattle cruises must stop in Victoria. The city is a cosmopolitan destination with a large Asian and South Asian population and offers a variety of cultural tourism opportunities as well as eco-tourism in Vancouver itself as well as the mountains just outside the city.
Read more: Things To Do in Vancouver British Columbia Canada
The Long Beach Cruise Terminal is one of two cruise ports serving passengers in Los Angeles and Orange County as well the rest of Southern California.
San Pedro Cruise Terminal, also known as The World Cruise Center is located at Berths 91, 92, and 93A/B at the Port of Los Angeles is one of three cruise ports serving guests from Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego. San Pedro is only a few minutes from hotels, restaurants, and tourist activities Long Beach and San Pedro.