When it comes to embarking on cruises from the United States, some people think first about Florida and Texas, launching to the Caribbean and the Riviera Maya. Others may envision East Coast departures to Bermuda and beyond. But the West Coast deserves to be recognized, especially those sailings heading out from Los Angeles and down to the Mexico Riviera. Hugged by the aquamarine waters of the Pacific, these destinations have delicious cuisine, historic towns, pristine beaches and even a world-class wine country. Add in the amazing cruise ships that will take you there, and you have a vacation that raises the bar.
Rodeo Drive, Los Angeles
Start your cruise in Los Angeles, the City of Angels, where the glitz and glamour of Hollywood is just one of the many attractions you’ll enjoy. Arrive a few days before so you can drive past the sprawling mansions of Bel Air, shop at the boutiques on Rodeo Drive, snap selfies under the hanging red lanterns in Chinatown, stroll the Santa Monica Pier and catch the latest shows at The Roxy Theatre or Whisky a Go Go.
Many cruises that leave LA head first to Ensenada, the brightest jewel on Baja California. With your cruise ship docked here for the day, you can easily enjoy a cold margarita on the public beaches such as San Miguel or El Punto, jump into a waterfall after hiking the 6-mile Cañon de Doña Petra trail into El Salto Canyon or experience a tasting and pairing session at wineries such as Bodega de Santo Tomás. Oh, and fish tacos were literally born here, so you’ll easily find the best.
Sea of Corez, Land's End
Next on the itinerary will be fan-favorite Cabo San Lucas. You don’t have to be part of the jet-set to live it up here, as the lively coastal town brims with all kinds of adventures. The best day spent here starts with a boat ride to the soaring natural rock formations that plunge into the Sea of Cortez at Land’s End. That same boat can drop you off at the romantic Playa del Amor, better known as Lovers Beach, where you can relax and watch the clear waves crash against the massive granite rocks that rest on the shore.
North Star® Observation Capsule
The Best for West Coast
There’s no better way to Baja than with Royal Caribbean® — the only cruise line voted best overall 22 years running by Travel Weekly Readers. Embark on a 3-night escapes to Ensenada on board the amped-up Navigator of the Seas®, or wander longer with 5-night getaways onboard Quantum® or Ovation of the Seas®. Each ship comes with memory-making thrills, such as the tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship, North Star®; bumper cars at the SeaPlex®; and the FlowRider® surf simulator. The best part: most itineraries include either overnights or shoreside tenders running all night in Cabo, so you can stay as late as you want, checking out its legendary nightlife for yourself.
