Los Angeles isn’t just the entertainment capital of the world—it’s also an exciting port of call for cruise travelers. Whether you’re setting sail from the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro or docking after an incredible journey, the city offers a wide range of things to see and do just beyond the terminal.
Hollywood history, world-class museums, beachfront boardwalks, and global cuisine are all part of the LA experience. It’s a place where iconic sights and local culture collide, offering visitors a chance to explore much more than the usual tourist checklist.
This guide will help you make the most of your time in Los Angeles—even if you have just a few hours or a couple of days. From sightseeing and shopping to beach hopping and bites you won’t forget, here’s exactly what to do in LA to round out your cruise vacation in style.
Explore Iconic Attractions
Los Angeles is filled with landmarks that define its image in film, pop culture, and travel. These are the must-see spots that give you a true sense of the city’s character.
1. Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre
This stretch of Hollywood Boulevard draws millions of visitors every year. Snap a photo with the stars on the sidewalk or check out the celebrity handprints in front of the historic Chinese Theatre. It’s touristy, yes—but it’s also a classic.
2. Griffith Observatory & Hollywood Sign Viewpoint
Drive or hike up to Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city and a close look at the iconic Hollywood Sign. The observatory itself is free to enter and offers exhibits on space and science.
3. Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier blends beach fun with carnival charm. Ride the Ferris wheel, grab a bite at a seaside café, or stroll the boardwalk. The adjacent Third Street Promenade has great shopping and people-watching.
4. Downtown LA Landmarks
Stop by The Broad for contemporary art, visit the Walt Disney Concert Hall for its striking architecture, and sample local flavors at Grand Central Market. Downtown is walkable and full of personality.
5. Rodeo Drive
Browse the high-end shops in Beverly Hills or just window-shop along one of the most famous retail streets in the world. It’s polished, flashy, and uniquely LA.
Discover Unique Neighborhoods
Los Angeles is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own look, pace, and culture. Exploring a few of them gives you a better feel for the city than sticking to the main tourist sites.
1. Arts District
Once an industrial zone, the Arts District is now one of LA’s most creative corners. Walk through blocks of street murals, visit small galleries, and grab a coffee or craft beer at a local spot. It’s modern, artistic, and full of energy.
2. Koreatown
Koreatown stays busy late and offers some of the best food in the city. It’s known for Korean BBQ, 24-hour restaurants, karaoke bars, and stylish lounges. You’ll also find a mix of other Asian cuisines throughout the area.
3. Silver Lake & Echo Park
Trendy and casual, these neighborhoods attract artists, musicians, and locals looking for cool cafés, vintage shops, and great views. Take a walk around Echo Park Lake or visit Sunset Junction for shopping and people-watching.
4. Little Tokyo & Chinatown
These historic districts offer a mix of culture, food, and local businesses. In Little Tokyo, you’ll find Japanese bakeries, sushi counters, and museums. Nearby Chinatown is great for dim sum, tea shops, and colorful photo ops.
Hit the Beach (LA Style)
No visit to Los Angeles is complete without spending time on the coast. The beaches here offer more than just sand and surf—they’re part of the city’s lifestyle.
1. Santa Monica
This is one of the most accessible and popular beaches in the area. The pier has a small amusement park, casual dining, and great ocean views. The nearby bike path runs along the shore and is perfect for a rental ride or walk.
2. Venice Beach
Just south of Santa Monica, Venice is more offbeat. The boardwalk is packed with artists, skaters, street performers, and open-air vendors. Stop by Muscle Beach or check out the Venice Canals, a quieter spot a few blocks inland.
3. Malibu
For a more relaxed and scenic experience, head to Malibu. The beaches here are cleaner, quieter, and backed by cliffs. Zuma Beach is good for swimming, while El Matador State Beach offers dramatic rock formations and photo-friendly views.
4. Manhattan Beach or Redondo Beach
Closer to the cruise ports in San Pedro, these beaches are local favorites. They’re less crowded and ideal if you want to enjoy the ocean without the heavy tourist traffic.
Eat Like a Local
Los Angeles is one of the most diverse food cities in the world. You’ll find everything from hole-in-the-wall gems to creative fine dining. Eating well here doesn’t take effort—it’s part of the experience.
1. Taco Trucks & Street Food
LA takes its tacos seriously. Look for well-known trucks like Leo’s Tacos, Mariscos Jalisco, or El Chato. Carne asada, al pastor, or fresh seafood—whatever you choose, it’s hard to go wrong.
2. Korean BBQ & Asian Cuisine
Koreatown is packed with Korean BBQ spots where you grill meat right at the table. For something fast and satisfying, try spicy tofu stew or a bowl of bibimbap. Outside of K-Town, there are top-notch sushi bars, ramen shops, and dim sum restaurants in neighborhoods like Sawtelle and the San Gabriel Valley.
3. Grand Central Market
This downtown food hall is a quick way to sample a range of LA eats. Try an egg sandwich from Eggslut, pupusas from Sarita’s, or a carnitas taco from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas.
4. Classic Local Bites
For an old-school taste of the city, hit In-N-Out Burger, Pink’s Hot Dogs, or Randy’s Donuts. These spots are fast, casual, and uniquely tied to LA's food culture.
Cultural Hotspots & Hidden Gems
Beyond the famous landmarks, Los Angeles has cultural sites and lesser-known spots that offer a different kind of experience—quieter, deeper, and often more memorable.
1. La Brea Tar Pits & Natural History Museum
In the middle of the city, the La Brea Tar Pits bubble with prehistoric history. The museum on-site showcases fossils pulled from the tar, including mammoths and saber-toothed cats. Nearby, the Natural History Museum of LA County has impressive dinosaur exhibits and a beautiful nature garden.
2. LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art)
This major art museum covers everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary installations. Even if you don’t go inside, the outdoor “Urban Light” sculpture is one of the most photographed spots in the city.
3. Getty Center or Getty Villa
The Getty Center, perched on a hill, combines fine art, modern architecture, and sweeping views. The Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades focuses on Greek and Roman antiquities, housed in a replica Roman country house.
4. The Last Bookstore
Located downtown, this massive, maze-like bookstore doubles as an art installation. It’s quirky, atmospheric, and a great place to browse or snap a photo.
5. El Matador State Beach
If you're looking for a hidden coastal spot, this beach in Malibu is it. Reach it by a steep path down the bluff. The rock arches and cliffs make it feel far removed from the city.
Fun Day Trips From LA
If you have extra time before or after your cruise, there are several destinations just outside Los Angeles worth the short trip. These places offer a quick change of scenery without the need for overnight planning.
1. Disneyland – Anaheim
Roughly an hour from the cruise ports, Disneyland is a top choice for families or anyone who loves theme parks. The original park has classic rides, parades, and immersive lands like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Avengers Campus.
2. Catalina Island
A 1-hour ferry ride from Long Beach gets you to Avalon, the main town on Catalina Island. The island feels like a Mediterranean village, with snorkeling, zip lining, shopping, and relaxed dining. You can return the same day or stay overnight.
3. Palm Springs
This desert city is about a two-hour drive east. It’s known for mid-century architecture, boutique hotels, and poolside relaxation. You can also ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for mountain views and hiking trails.
4. Santa Barbara or Temecula Wine Country
For wine lovers, Santa Barbara offers a coastal escape with tasting rooms, beaches, and scenic drives along the Pacific Coast Highway. Temecula, about 90 minutes inland, has vineyards, hot air balloon rides, and a relaxed, rustic atmosphere.
Cruise-Ready Tips: Getting Around & Planning Logistics
A little planning goes a long way when adding Los Angeles to your cruise itinerary. Here are a few practical tips to make your visit smooth and stress-free:
1. Where to Stay Before or After Your Cruise
- San Pedro or Long Beach: Close to the ports, easy access, and more affordable options.
- Downtown LA: Central location with access to major attractions.
- Santa Monica: Ideal for beach lovers, walkable, and scenic.
2. Getting to the Cruise Ports
- Port of Los Angeles (San Pedro) and Port of Long Beach are both reachable by taxi, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or shuttle services.
- From LAX, it’s about a 30–45 minute drive depending on traffic.
- From Long Beach Airport, it’s closer—about 20 minutes to the terminals.
3. Transportation Tips
- Rideshare apps are the easiest and most flexible way to get around.
- Metro Rail and buses are affordable but may require transfers for tourist areas.
- Car rentals are useful if you plan day trips or want more independence.
4. Weather & Packing Tips
- Expect sunshine. Bring layers—mornings and evenings can be cooler, even in summer.
- Comfortable shoes are a must. LA involves a lot of walking and some uphill streets.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle will come in handy.
Make the Most of Your Time in LA
Los Angeles has something for every kind of traveler. Even a short visit can feel full if you plan ahead and focus on the experiences that matter most to you.
The city works well as a pre-cruise warm-up or a post-cruise wind-down. You can relax on the beach, dive into local culture, or explore iconic landmarks—all within reach of the cruise ports.
If you're sailing in or out of the Port of Los Angeles, consider booking a day or two on either side of your trip to explore what LA has to offer. You’ll return home with not just memories from your cruise, but from one of the most exciting cities in the world.
Looking for cruise deals from Los Angeles? Check out the latest sailings and special offers on CruiseDirect to start planning your trip.
