Best Hotels Near Cruise Port in Los Angeles for Easy Access

Best Hotels Near Cruise Port in Los Angeles for Easy Access

Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is not just a global hub of entertainment, culture, and sunshine—it’s also a premier embarkation point for cruise vacations. With the Port of Los Angeles (POLA), also known as the World Cruise Center in San Pedro, serving as a gateway to destinations across the Pacific, Mexico, and beyond, travelers from around the world converge here to begin their maritime adventures. Whether you’re setting sail on a week-long Mexican Riviera cruise or a trans-Pacific journey, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay the night before (or after) your cruise. Choosing the right hotel can make all the difference in ensuring a stress-free, seamless embarkation experience.

Staying at a hotel near the cruise port in Los Angeles offers more than just convenience—it provides peace of mind. You’ll avoid the last-minute rush, reduce the risk of missing your departure, and enjoy a relaxed start to your vacation. Many travelers prefer to arrive a day early to explore the city or recover from long flights, while others want a quick, efficient transfer to the terminal. The ideal accommodation balances proximity to the port, transportation options, amenities, and value for money. In this guide, we’ll explore the top hotels near the Port of Los Angeles that deliver on all fronts, from luxury waterfront resorts to budget-friendly chains with shuttle services. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive list will help you find the perfect place to stay before your voyage.

Why Staying Near the Cruise Port in Los Angeles Makes Sense

Choosing a hotel close to the Port of Los Angeles isn’t just about convenience—it’s a strategic decision that enhances your overall cruise experience. The World Cruise Center is located in San Pedro, a historic waterfront district about 20 miles south of downtown LA. While it’s accessible via car, public transit, or shuttle, traffic in the Greater Los Angeles area can be unpredictable. Staying nearby minimizes travel time, reduces stress, and gives you more flexibility on embarkation day.

Benefits of Proximity

• Reduced Travel Time: Most top-rated hotels near the port are within a 10- to 15-minute drive, allowing you to arrive at the terminal with time to spare.
• Shuttle Services: Many hotels offer complimentary or low-cost shuttle transfers to the cruise terminal, eliminating the need for expensive taxis or ride-shares.
• Peace of Mind: Avoid the anxiety of missing your cruise due to traffic, flight delays, or unexpected road closures.
• Pre-Cruise Exploration: San Pedro and nearby Long Beach offer scenic waterfronts, museums, and dining—perfect for a relaxing day before setting sail.
• Post-Cruise Recovery: After a long cruise, a nearby hotel lets you rest, unpack, and recharge before heading home.

Ideal Location Criteria

When evaluating hotels near the cruise port in Los Angeles, consider these key factors:

• Distance to Terminal: Aim for hotels within 5 miles of the World Cruise Center.
• Shuttle Availability: Confirm if the hotel offers scheduled or on-demand shuttles to the port.
• Parking Options: If you’re driving, check if the hotel offers long-term parking (some provide cruise packages with parking included).
• Check-In/Check-Out Flexibility: Look for hotels with early check-in or late check-out options, especially if your cruise departs in the afternoon.
• Guest Reviews: Prioritize hotels with high ratings for cleanliness, staff friendliness, and shuttle reliability.

Top Luxury Hotels Near the Port of Los Angeles

For travelers who value comfort, style, and premium amenities, luxury hotels near the cruise port in Los Angeles offer an elevated pre-cruise experience. These properties often feature waterfront views, fine dining, spa services, and personalized concierge assistance—perfect for starting your vacation in high gear.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Los Angeles Downtown (Harbor View)

Located in the heart of San Pedro, the DoubleTree by Hilton is one of the closest full-service luxury hotels to the World Cruise Center—just a 5-minute drive away. Guests enjoy stunning views of the harbor, a rooftop pool, and an on-site restaurant, The Harbor View, which serves California cuisine with a nautical twist. The hotel provides a complimentary shuttle service to the cruise terminal on request, making it a favorite among cruisers.

• Distance to Port: 0.8 miles
• Shuttle: Yes (complimentary, on request)
• Amenities: Fitness center, pool, restaurant, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly rooms
• Parking: Valet parking available ($35/night); some cruise packages include parking
• Best For: Couples, families, business travelers

The Westin Long Beach

Situated just 10 minutes from the cruise port in Long Beach, this upscale hotel offers a serene escape with easy access to both the port and downtown attractions. The Westin is known for its Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath amenities, ensuring a restful night before your cruise. The hotel partners with local transportation providers to offer discounted shuttle rates for guests heading to the terminal.

• Distance to Port: 4.2 miles
• Shuttle: Partnered service (~$25 round-trip)
• Amenities: Pool, fitness center, on-site dining, pet-friendly
• Parking: On-site garage ($30/night)
• Best For: Luxury seekers, spa enthusiasts, extended stays

Hotel Maya – a DoubleTree by Hilton (Long Beach Waterfront)

Perched on a private island in the Long Beach harbor, Hotel Maya offers a tropical resort vibe just minutes from the cruise port. With palm trees, fire pits, and oceanfront rooms, it’s a favorite for travelers looking to unwind before their cruise. The hotel provides a shuttle to the World Cruise Center for a small fee, and its location allows for scenic walks along the water.

• Distance to Port: 5 miles
• Shuttle: Yes ($15 per person, round-trip)
• Amenities: Pool, restaurant, bar, fitness center, waterfront views
• Parking: Complimentary self-parking
• Best For: Romantic getaways, relaxation seekers, Instagram-worthy stays

Best Mid-Range & Value Hotels for Cruise Travelers

Not every traveler wants to splurge on luxury, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or convenience. Mid-range hotels near the cruise port in Los Angeles offer excellent value, clean accommodations, and essential amenities—all within a short distance of the terminal.

Holiday Inn Los Angeles – San Pedro/Port of LA, an IHG Hotel

This well-reviewed hotel is a top choice for budget-conscious cruisers who still want a reliable, clean place to stay. Located just 1 mile from the World Cruise Center, the Holiday Inn offers a complimentary shuttle service to the port on cruise days. Rooms are modern and equipped with microwaves, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi—ideal for families or extended stays.

• Distance to Port: 1.0 mile
• Shuttle: Yes (complimentary, scheduled)
• Amenities: Pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant, free breakfast (select packages)
• Parking: Complimentary self-parking
• Best For: Families, budget travelers, business guests

Best Western Plus San Pedro Hotel & Suites

Another standout in the mid-range category, this Best Western is known for its spacious suites and exceptional customer service. It’s located directly across from the cruise terminal, making it one of the most convenient options. The hotel offers a free shuttle to the port and includes a continental breakfast with hot items.

• Distance to Port: 0.3 miles (walking distance)
• Shuttle: Yes (complimentary, on-demand)
• Amenities: Pool, fitness center, suites with kitchenettes, free breakfast
• Parking: Complimentary self-parking
• Best For: Solo travelers, couples, extended-stay guests

Motel 6 San Pedro – Port of Los Angeles

For travelers seeking a no-frills, affordable option, Motel 6 San Pedro delivers basic comforts at a competitive price. While it doesn’t offer a shuttle, it’s just a 10-minute drive from the terminal, and many guests use ride-share services like Uber or Lyft. The motel is pet-friendly and includes free Wi-Fi and parking.

• Distance to Port: 1.5 miles
• Shuttle: No
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly, coin laundry
• Parking: Complimentary
• Best For: Budget travelers, last-minute bookings, solo cruisers

Hotels with Cruise Packages & Parking Deals

One of the biggest concerns for cruise travelers is parking—especially if you’re driving to the port and leaving your car for a week or more. Fortunately, several hotels near the cruise port in Los Angeles offer special cruise packages that bundle accommodations with long-term parking, shuttle services, and even breakfast.

What to Look for in a Cruise Package

• Parking Duration: Ensure the package covers your entire cruise length (e.g., 7-day cruise = 7 nights parking).
• Shuttle Frequency: Check if the shuttle runs on a schedule or is on-demand.
• Breakfast Inclusion: Some packages include a hot breakfast, saving you time and money.
• Room Upgrades: Look for packages that offer room upgrades or late check-out.
• Price Transparency: Confirm all fees (taxes, resort charges) are included in the quoted price.

Top Hotels with Cruise Packages

Here are three hotels known for their excellent cruise packages:

• Holiday Inn San Pedro: Offers a “Cruise & Park” package with 7 nights of parking, round-trip shuttle, and breakfast for one low rate.
• DoubleTree San Pedro: Provides a “Set Sail” package with parking, shuttle, and a $25 dining credit at The Harbor View.
• Best Western Plus: Features a “Cruise Ready” deal with parking, shuttle, and a welcome snack basket.

Tip: Book these packages directly through the hotel’s website or by calling reservations—third-party sites often don’t offer the full package benefits.

Transportation Options from Hotels to the Cruise Terminal

Even the best hotel is only as good as its connection to the cruise port. Understanding your transportation options ensures a smooth transition from your room to the gangway.

Hotel Shuttles

Many hotels near the cruise port in Los Angeles provide complimentary or low-cost shuttle services to the World Cruise Center. These are usually scheduled on cruise departure days and may require advance booking. Always confirm:

• Pickup location at the hotel
• Departure times (typically every 30–60 minutes)
• Return shuttle availability (if staying post-cruise)
• Reservation requirements

Ride-Sharing & Taxis

Uber, Lyft, and taxis are widely available and reliable. A ride from most nearby hotels to the terminal costs between $10–$25, depending on traffic and distance. Ride-shares offer the advantage of door-to-door service and flexible timing.

Public Transit (Metro & DASH)

For budget travelers, the LA Metro Bus and San Pedro DASH routes connect parts of Long Beach and San Pedro to the cruise terminal. However, this option requires transfers, walking, and advance planning—not ideal for families with luggage.

Private Transfers & Limos

For a luxurious touch, consider booking a private car or limo service. Companies like Blacklane and LAX Executive Car Service offer fixed-rate transfers with professional drivers. Ideal for groups or those with mobility concerns.

Comparison Table: Top Hotels Near Cruise Port in Los Angeles

Hotel	Distance to Port	Shuttle Service	Parking	Price Range (Per Night)	Best For
DoubleTree San Pedro	0.8 miles	Complimentary (on request)	Valet ($35/night)	$180–$280	Luxury, couples
Holiday Inn San Pedro	1.0 mile	Complimentary (scheduled)	Free self-parking	$140–$220	Families, budget
Best Western Plus	0.3 miles	Complimentary (on-demand)	Free self-parking	$130–$200	Convenience, value
Hotel Maya	5 miles	$15/person (round-trip)	Free self-parking	$200–$320	Waterfront views, romance
Motel 6 San Pedro	1.5 miles	No	Free self-parking	$80–$130	Budget, solo
The Westin Long Beach	4.2 miles	Partnered ($25 round-trip)	Garage ($30/night)	$190–$300	Luxury, spa

Final Tips for Booking Your Cruise Port Hotel in Los Angeles

Choosing the right hotel near the cruise port in Los Angeles is a crucial step in planning your cruise vacation. To ensure a seamless experience, keep these final tips in mind:

• Book Early: Hotels near the port fill up quickly, especially during peak cruise seasons (spring, summer, holidays). Aim to book at least 2–3 months in advance.
• Read Recent Reviews: Focus on reviews from other cruisers who mention shuttle reliability, cleanliness, and proximity.
• Contact the Hotel Directly: Ask about cruise packages, shuttle schedules, and parking details—don’t rely solely on third-party sites.
• Check for Cruise Day Promotions: Some hotels offer free breakfast, late check-out, or welcome drinks on cruise departure days.
• Plan for Luggage: If you’re not using a shuttle, ensure your ride-share or taxi can accommodate all your bags.
• Explore Local Attractions: Use your pre-cruise stay to visit the Los Angeles Maritime Museum, SS Lane Victory, or enjoy fresh seafood at San Pedro Fish Market.

With the right hotel, your cruise adventure begins the moment you arrive in Los Angeles. Whether you’re seeking luxury, convenience, or value, the hotels near the cruise port in Los Angeles offer something for every traveler. By prioritizing proximity, shuttle service, and cruise-friendly amenities, you’ll set sail with confidence—and maybe even a little extra time to enjoy the harbor views. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best hotels near cruise port in Los Angeles for easy access?

Top options include The Westin Long Beach, Hyatt Regency Long Beach, and Hotel Maya – a DoubleTree by Hilton. These hotels offer shuttle services, waterfront views, and are within a 10-minute drive to the LA Cruise Terminal.

Do any hotels near the Port of Los Angeles provide cruise shuttle services?

Yes, several hotels near cruise port in Los Angeles like Hyatt Regency Long Beach and The Westin Long Beach offer complimentary or paid shuttle services to the terminal. Always confirm availability when booking.

Are there budget-friendly hotels close to the LA Cruise Terminal?

Affordable choices include Travelodge by Wyndham and Best Western Plus, both within 5 miles of the port. These provide basic amenities and free parking, ideal for pre-cruise stays.

Which hotels offer views of the port or harbor?

Hotel Maya and Hyatt Regency Long Beach feature rooms with panoramic views of the harbor and marina. Their waterfront locations make them popular for travelers seeking a scenic stay.

Is parking available at hotels near the Los Angeles Cruise Port?

Most nearby hotels, including The Westin and DoubleTree, offer on-site parking for a fee. Some budget options like Motel 6 provide free parking—ideal for guests arriving by car.

How early should I book a hotel before my cruise departure?

Book at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer/holidays). Popular hotels near cruise port in Los Angeles fill up quickly due to high demand.