Pre and Post Cruise Vacation Ideas In Long Beach

Long Beach serves as a premier departure point for Pacific Coast cruising, with convenient access to short Baja cruises, Mexican Riviera itineraries, and Carnival's Hawaii departures beginning in 2027. Many cruise passengers arrive a day or two early to settle in before their voyage, while others extend their stay to explore Southern California after returning from sea. This bustling waterfront city offers an ideal blend of maritime attractions, cultural experiences, and classic California beach lifestyle - perfect for enhancing your cruise vacation.

Note: The Long Beach Cruise Terminal is operated exclusively by Carnival Cruise Line. Other cruise lines such as Princess, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean sail from the nearby Port of Los Angeles terminal in San Pedro..

Top Activities and Attractions in Long Beach For Cruisers

Long Beach offers an impressive variety of activities perfect for cruise passengers looking to extend their Southern California vacation with one or two days of exploration before or after the cruise.

The Queen Mary Historic Ship Experience

The permanently moored Queen Mary provides a fascinating glimpse into ocean liner history that beautifully complements your modern cruise experience. This Art Deco masterpiece offers self-guided tours through elegant staterooms, the bridge, and engine room, giving cruise passengers unique insight into maritime travel's golden age. The ship features multiple dining options, from casual fare to upscale restaurants, plus special events and exhibitions throughout the year. Many cruise passengers enjoy staying overnight in one of the ship's converted staterooms for a truly immersive maritime experience before their departure. The Queen Mary sits just minutes from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal, making it incredibly convenient for pre or post-cruise visits. Check the Queen Mary's official website for current access details and any scheduled restoration closures.

Aquarium of the Pacific

This world-class Aquarium of the Pacific showcases marine life featuring marine habitats of the Pacific Ocean, from California to tropical reefs. The facility houses over 12,000 animals representing more than 500 species, with impressive exhibits featuring sharks, sea otters, tropical fish, and interactive touch tanks that delight visitors of all ages. The aquarium's location on Rainbow Harbor provides stunning waterfront views and convenient access to nearby restaurants and shops. Special programs often include behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters that create memorable experiences for families and couples alike. The facility stays open late during summer months, perfect for cruise passengers looking to fill time before evening departures or after afternoon arrivals. All-day parking is $8 with aquarium validation.

Long Beach Harbor Scenic Cruise

A harbor cruise offers cruise passengers a unique perspective of the port where their ocean voyage begins or ends. These narrated boat tours showcase the massive container operations, naval facilities, and various cruise ships docked at the Long Beach Cruise Terminal. The one-hour excursions provide excellent photo opportunities of the Long Beach skyline and often include wildlife sightings of sea lions and dolphins. Many tours offer multiple departure times throughout the day, making it easy to fit into pre-cruise schedules. The experience helps cruise passengers appreciate the scale and importance of Long Beach as one of the world's busiest ports while building excitement for their upcoming ocean journey.

Helicopter Tours to Catalina Island

For cruise passengers seeking a premium experience, Maverick Helicopters provide breathtaking aerial views of the coastline you'll see from your cruise ship. The 15-minute flights each way depart from the Long Beach Heliport near the Queen Mary, with total experiences including time in Avalon typically lasting 1.5-2 hours. Round-trip flights typically cost around $300-400 per person, while ferries (Catalina Express) offer a more affordable alternative. The helicopter departure point sits conveniently close to the Queen Mary, easily accessible from cruise port hotels. Tours operate year-round with multiple departure times, though advance booking is essential.

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Alamitos Bay and Belmont Shore offer calm water conditions perfect for cruise passengers wanting active water experiences before or after their ocean voyage. Rental companies provide equipment and brief instruction for beginners, while experienced paddlers can explore the bay's channels and harbors independently. The protected waters make these activities suitable for families with older children and adults of varying fitness levels. Many rental locations offer hourly or half-day options, ideal for cruise passengers with limited time. The activity provides a peaceful way to enjoy Southern California's coastal environment while staying active - a nice contrast to the relaxation-focused cruise experience.

Gondola Getaway Canal Tours

The Naples Island canals offer a unique romantic experience reminiscent of Venice, complete with singing gondoliers and intimate boat rides through residential waterways. These hour-long excursions from Gondola Getaway provide a peaceful escape perfect for couples celebrating anniversaries or special occasions with their cruise vacation. The gondolas accommodate up to six passengers, making them suitable for small families or groups of friends. Many packages include wine and appetizers, creating a memorable pre-cruise celebration or post-cruise wind-down experience. The canals showcase beautiful waterfront homes and provide a serene contrast to the bustling cruise port atmosphere. Advance reservations are recommended, especially during sunset hours when the experience becomes particularly magical.

Museum of Latin American Art

MOLAA provides cultural enrichment that beautifully complements Mexican Riviera cruise itineraries by showcasing contemporary Latin American and Latino art. The museum's permanent collection and rotating exhibitions offer insight into the cultures and artistic traditions cruise passengers will encounter in Mexican ports, creating explicit connections to the destinations featured in Baja and Mexican Riviera cruises. Interactive displays and educational programs help visitors understand the historical and cultural connections between California and Latin America. The museum's sculpture garden provides outdoor art viewing in a peaceful setting, perfect for cruise passengers seeking cultural experiences before their departure. Free or discounted admission days vary - check the museum website before visiting.

Long Beach Museum of Art

Perched on bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this museum combines artistic enrichment with spectacular ocean views that remind cruise passengers of the maritime adventure ahead. The museum focuses on contemporary art and design rather than maritime themes, providing insight into regional culture and creativity. The clifftop location offers panoramic views of the coastline and Catalina Island, the same waters cruise passengers will navigate. The museum's sculpture garden and outdoor terraces provide peaceful spaces for reflection before or after cruise experiences. Special exhibitions often feature works by California artists, creating natural connections to regional cultural experiences.

Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Ranch

This preserved 1844 ranch estate at 4600 Virginia Road offers cruise passengers a glimpse into Southern California's agricultural and architectural heritage through guided tours of the historic adobe home and beautiful gardens. The 7.5-acre property showcases period furnishings, Native American artifacts, and landscaped grounds that demonstrate the region's pre-development character. Self-guided garden tours allow visitors to explore at their own pace, perfect for cruise passengers with varying schedules. The ranch hosts special events and educational programs that provide cultural context for understanding California's history. The peaceful setting offers a quiet retreat from cruise port activity while building appreciation for the region's diverse cultural heritage.

Shoreline Village Shopping and Dining

This waterfront entertainment complex sits about a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal, making it convenient for passengers with limited time or early departure schedules. The village features waterfront restaurants offering fresh seafood and California cuisine, plus shops selling everything from souvenirs to cruise essentials. The marina setting provides beautiful harbor views and opportunities to watch boats coming and going. Street performers and seasonal events create lively atmosphere perfect for families and groups. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating where cruise passengers can enjoy meals while watching ships in the harbor, building anticipation for their upcoming voyage or celebrating their return.

Belmont Shore Beach Activities

Belmont Shore provides the quintessential Southern California beach experience with wide sandy beaches, gentle waves, and a vibrant beachfront atmosphere perfect for cruise passengers of all ages. The area features beach volleyball courts, rental equipment for various water activities, and beachfront dining options ranging from casual snack bars to upscale restaurants. The Belmont Pier offers fishing opportunities and spectacular sunset views over the Pacific Ocean. Families appreciate the lifeguarded beaches and nearby amenities, while couples enjoy romantic sunset walks along the shoreline. After all, no visit to Long Beach would be complete without spending time enjoying one of Southern California's iconic beaches that epitomize the coastal lifestyle cruise passengers come to experience.

Beyond Long Beach - Regional Attractions

Long Beach's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Southern California's most famous destinations.

Disneyland and Disney California Adventure (30-45 minutes in light traffic)

Located 30-45 minutes in light traffic from Long Beach (allow up to 60-90 minutes during peak periods), Disneyland Resort offers world-class family entertainment that pairs perfectly with cruise vacations. Many cruise passengers, especially those traveling with children, extend their Southern California stay to experience both parks. The resort's proximity to Long Beach makes it practical for day trips or longer stays, with convenient shuttle services available from many cruise port hotels. Disney's California Adventure particularly appeals to cruise passengers with its California-themed attractions and coastal references. Multi-day park passes often provide better value for cruise passengers planning extended stays, and the resort's hotels offer package deals that can include cruise port transportation. Most visitors use rideshares, taxis, or rental cars, though public transit options exist via Metro A Line.

Los Angeles and Santa Monica (45 minutes in light traffic)

The greater Los Angeles area sits 45 minutes in light traffic from Long Beach (allow up to 60-90 minutes during peak periods), offering cruise passengers access to world-famous attractions like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica Pier. Santa Monica's beachfront location resonates particularly well with cruise passengers, providing additional coastal experiences and the iconic Santa Monica Pier with its amusement park and aquarium. Many cruise passengers choose to split their pre or post-cruise time between Long Beach's convenience and Los Angeles's entertainment offerings. Public transportation via Metro Rail connects Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles and other destinations, while ride-sharing services provide direct access to specific attractions and neighborhoods throughout the metropolitan area.

San Pedro and Palos Verdes Peninsula

Just 15 minutes south of Long Beach, San Pedro offers additional maritime attractions including the Los Angeles Maritime Museum and historic Cabrillo Beach. The nearby Palos Verdes Peninsula provides dramatic coastal scenery, tide pools, and hiking trails with panoramic ocean views that showcase the rugged California coastline cruise passengers will see from their ships. The Korean Bell and Point Vicente Lighthouse offer cultural and historical experiences with spectacular Pacific Ocean vistas. These destinations appeal particularly to cruise passengers seeking quieter, more natural experiences compared to Long Beach's urban attractions. The short drive makes these areas perfect for half-day excursions before or after cruise departures.

Making the Most of Your Long Beach Cruise Adventure

Long Beach provides cruise passengers with an ideal combination of convenience and variety, whether you're arriving early for a Mexican Riviera cruise, departing on a short Baja adventure, or preparing for one of Carnival's new Hawaii departures. The city's maritime heritage creates natural connections to your cruise experience, while its diverse attractions ensure that every traveler - from families with young children to couples celebrating anniversaries - finds meaningful ways to enhance their vacation.

The key to maximizing your Long Beach experience lies in balancing must-see attractions with relaxed exploration time. Consider your cruise departure schedule, energy levels after long travel days, and personal interests when planning your pre or post-cruise activities. Traffic in the LA area can add significant time to any journey, so allow generous buffers on embarkation day. Many cruise passengers find that mixing active experiences like kayaking or beach time with cultural attractions creates the perfect rhythm for extending their maritime adventure.

Ready to plan your perfect Long Beach cruise experience? Contact Heather Hills at Flow Voyages for expert guidance on cruise selection, pre and post-cruise planning, and insider tips that transform good vacations into unforgettable adventures.

Written by: James Hills

Pro-BloggerWest Coast Cruise ExpertThought Leader

James is an avid fan of all types of cruising but especially enjoys exploring the Pacific coastal regions since it perfectly captures the elements that he is passionate about, including natural beauty, conservation, opportunities to explore new cultures, and meeting some fantastic new people too.