Top Hotel in Long Beach Near Cruise Port for Easy Access

Why Staying Near the Long Beach Cruise Port Matters

Planning a cruise is an exciting adventure, but one of the most critical decisions travelers face is where to stay before and after their voyage. Choosing a hotel in Long Beach near cruise port can make the difference between a seamless, stress-free experience and a logistical nightmare. The Long Beach Cruise Terminal, one of the busiest on the West Coast, serves thousands of passengers annually with departures to destinations like Mexico, Hawaii, and Alaska. Proximity to the terminal isn’t just about convenience—it’s about maximizing your time, minimizing travel costs, and ensuring a smooth embarkation and debarkation process. Whether you’re arriving the night before your cruise or extending your trip post-voyage, the right hotel can set the tone for your entire journey.

Long Beach, California, offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and seaside charm. With its palm-lined streets, vibrant waterfront, and proximity to major attractions like the Queen Mary and Aquarium of the Pacific, it’s a destination worth exploring. However, not all hotels are created equal when it comes to cruise access. Some provide free shuttles, while others require a quick Uber ride. Parking, luggage storage, and early check-in options are also crucial considerations. This guide will help you identify the top hotel in Long Beach near cruise port based on location, amenities, guest reviews, and value. We’ll cover everything from budget-friendly options to luxury stays, ensuring you find the perfect match for your travel style and budget.

Top Hotels Within Walking Distance of the Cruise Terminal

1. The Westin Long Beach – The Closest Luxury Option

The Westin Long Beach consistently ranks as the best hotel near Long Beach Cruise Port for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and premium service. Located just 0.8 miles from the terminal, it’s a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute drive. The hotel offers a dedicated cruise shuttle service (complimentary for guests) that runs on embarkation and debarkation days, making it one of the most hassle-free options. With modern rooms featuring signature Westin Heavenly Beds, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant, The Westin caters to both leisure and business travelers.

• Key Feature: Complimentary cruise shuttle with advance reservation
• Room Tip: Book a room facing the harbor for partial views of the terminal and ocean
• Ideal For: Couples, families, and business travelers who value reliability

Guests praise the hotel’s cleanliness, staff friendliness, and seamless shuttle coordination. One reviewer noted, “We arrived at 10 AM and were on the cruise ship by 11:30—no stress, no waiting.” The Westin also offers early check-in (based on availability) and luggage storage, which is a lifesaver for those arriving before standard check-in times.

2. Courtyard by Marriott Long Beach Downtown – Mid-Range Excellence

Just 1.1 miles from the cruise terminal, Courtyard by Marriott strikes the perfect balance between affordability and quality. This 4-star hotel is a favorite among cruisers for its clean, modern rooms, 24-hour fitness center, and on-site dining (The Bistro serves breakfast and dinner). While it doesn’t offer a dedicated cruise shuttle, Uber/Lyft rides to the terminal cost under $10 and take 5–7 minutes. The hotel provides free parking, which is rare for downtown Long Beach and ideal for guests driving in.

• Key Feature: Free parking + 24-hour front desk for late arrivals
• Room Tip: Request a room on the 5th floor or higher to avoid street noise
• Ideal For: Budget-conscious travelers who want a reliable, clean stay

Guests highlight the hotel’s proximity to downtown restaurants and the Pike Outlets, a shopping and dining complex a 10-minute walk away. The Courtyard also offers a “Cruise Package” that includes early check-in, late check-out, and a complimentary breakfast buffet—perfect for pre-cruise fueling.

3. Hotel Maya – A Unique Waterfront Stay

For travelers who want a resort-like experience, Hotel Maya is a standout choice. Located directly on the water, just 0.9 miles from the cruise terminal, this 4-star boutique hotel offers tropical decor, a private beach, and stunning harbor views. While it doesn’t provide a shuttle, the hotel’s location on the water taxi route allows guests to book a water taxi directly to the cruise terminal (a scenic 10-minute ride). Rooms feature private balconies, and the on-site restaurant, Fuego, serves Latin-inspired cuisine with ocean views.

• Key Feature: Water taxi access + private beach for relaxation
• Room Tip: Opt for an “Ocean View” room to see cruise ships docked
• Ideal For: Romantic getaways or travelers wanting a resort vibe

Guests rave about the hotel’s ambiance: “It felt like a mini-vacation before our cruise.” The Maya also offers cruise-specific perks, including early check-in (for a fee) and luggage storage, ensuring you can enjoy the beach without hauling your bags.

Best Value Hotels with Cruise-Friendly Amenities

1. Hyatt Regency Long Beach – All-Around Value

The Hyatt Regency is a 3.5-star hotel located 1.2 miles from the cruise terminal, offering exceptional value for its amenities. While it doesn’t have a dedicated shuttle, the hotel partners with a local transportation service to provide discounted rides ($12 round-trip to the terminal). Guests receive a 10% discount at the on-site restaurant, Saffron, which serves modern Californian cuisine. The hotel also features a rooftop pool, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi—all at a price point lower than luxury competitors.

• Key Feature: Discounted transportation + rooftop pool with skyline views
• Room Tip: Book a “Harbor View” room to watch cruise ships arrive/depart
• Ideal For: Families and groups seeking a mix of comfort and affordability

One family shared, “We saved over $100 compared to The Westin and still got a great experience.” The Hyatt also offers a “Cruise Concierge” desk that helps with shuttle bookings, luggage tagging, and even pre-purchasing cruise excursion vouchers.

2. Holiday Inn Long Beach Airport – Budget Pick with Perks

For travelers prioritizing budget, the Holiday Inn Long Beach Airport (1.8 miles from the terminal) is a smart choice. This 3-star hotel offers free airport and cruise terminal shuttles (on a first-come, first-served basis) and a complimentary breakfast buffet. Rooms are spacious, with microwaves and mini-fridges—ideal for families. The hotel also has a 24-hour fitness center and an outdoor pool, making it a comfortable base for pre- or post-cruise stays.

• Key Feature: Free shuttle + breakfast included
• Room Tip: Request a “Quiet Room” away from the pool area
• Ideal For: Budget travelers, families, and solo adventurers

Guests appreciate the hotel’s no-frills reliability: “We got a clean room, free breakfast, and a shuttle that left exactly on time.” The Holiday Inn also offers a “Cruise Package” with early check-in, late check-out, and a $25 dining credit—great for saving on meals.

3. Best Western Plus Long Beach Inn – Hidden Gem

Tucked away in a quieter area, the Best Western Plus (1.5 miles from the terminal) offers a peaceful retreat with cruise-friendly perks. While it lacks a shuttle, the hotel provides free parking and a 24-hour front desk for late-night arrivals. Rooms include microwaves, fridges, and free Wi-Fi. The on-site restaurant, The Long Beach Café, serves hearty breakfasts—perfect for pre-cruise fueling. The hotel also partners with a local taxi service for discounted rides ($10 flat rate to the terminal).

• Key Feature: Free parking + 24-hour front desk
• Room Tip: Book a “King Suite” for extra space and a separate living area
• Ideal For: Budget travelers, seniors, and those driving to Long Beach

One guest noted, “We saved $50 on parking and got a quiet room. Win-win!” The Best Western also offers a “Cruise Prep” package with early check-in, luggage storage, and a complimentary bottle of wine.

Transportation Options: Shuttles, Rideshares, and More

Free and Paid Shuttle Services

When choosing a hotel in Long Beach near cruise port, transportation is a make-or-break factor. Here’s a breakdown of shuttle options:

• Complimentary Shuttles: The Westin and Holiday Inn offer free shuttles with advance booking. The Westin’s runs every 30 minutes on cruise days, while the Holiday Inn’s operates on a first-come basis (arrive early!).
• Discounted Shuttles: Hyatt Regency partners with a local service for $12 round-trip rides. Book 24 hours in advance to secure a spot.
• Water Taxi: Hotel Maya offers a unique water taxi option ($15 one-way). It’s scenic but weather-dependent—check the forecast before booking.

Rideshares and Taxis: When to Use Them

Uber/Lyft are convenient but prices surge during peak cruise times (7–9 AM and 3–5 PM). Tips for cost savings:

• Book a ride the night before for a fixed rate (Uber’s “Reserve” feature).
• Use promo codes (e.g., “CRUISE15” for $15 off a $30 ride).
• Split the cost with other cruisers via the Long Beach Cruise Facebook Group.

Traditional taxis are available but often more expensive. The flat rate from downtown hotels to the terminal is $15–$20.

Self-Driving and Parking Tips

If you’re driving to Long Beach, parking costs add up quickly. Here’s how to save:

• Hotel Parking: Courtyard by Marriott, Best Western, and Holiday Inn offer free parking. The Westin charges $28/day, and Hyatt charges $25/day.
• Off-Site Parking: Park at the Long Beach Convention Center Garage (0.5 miles from the terminal) for $20/day. It’s secure and has 24/7 access.
• Early Arrival: Cruise terminals often allow early luggage drop-off (as early as 10 AM). Call ahead to confirm.

Cruise-Specific Amenities to Look For

Early Check-In and Luggage Storage

Most cruisers arrive in Long Beach the day before their voyage. Early check-in (before 3 PM) is rare but valuable. Top hotels offering early check-in:

• The Westin: Free if available; otherwise, $25 for 12 PM check-in.
• Courtyard by Marriott: $20 for 1 PM check-in.
• Hotel Maya: $30 for 12 PM check-in (includes beach access).

For late arrivals, all hotels listed above offer 24-hour front desks and luggage storage. Tip: Label your bags with your cruise cabin number for easy retrieval.

Late Check-Out and Post-Cruise Relaxation

After a cruise, you’ll likely want to relax before heading home. Late check-out (after 11 AM) is a game-changer:

• Hyatt Regency: Free until 1 PM on cruise days.
• Holiday Inn: $25 for 2 PM check-out.
• Best Western: $20 for 1 PM check-out.

Many hotels also offer post-cruise amenities like spa discounts, pool access, and dining credits. The Westin, for example, provides a 15% discount at its on-site spa for cruisers.

Special Cruise Packages and Deals

Several hotels offer “Cruise Packages” with bundled perks:

• Courtyard by Marriott: Early check-in, late check-out, and breakfast for $149/night.
• Holiday Inn: Free breakfast, $25 dining credit, and shuttle for $129/night.
• Hotel Maya: Water taxi, beach access, and cocktail for $199/night.

Book these packages directly through the hotel’s website—third-party sites (e.g., Expedia) often exclude them.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Cruise Port Experience

Best Time to Arrive at the Cruise Terminal

Avoid the crowds by timing your arrival right:

• Embarkation: Arrive between 10:30 AM–12 PM. The terminal opens at 10 AM, but lines peak between 11:30 AM–1:30 PM.
• Debarkation: Wait until after 8:30 AM. Early arrivals get stuck in long customs lines.

Tip: Check your cruise line’s app for real-time updates on embarkation/debarkation times.

What to Pack for Your Hotel Stay

Pack light but smart:

• Essentials: Swimsuit (for hotel pools), walking shoes, reusable water bottle.
• Convenience: Portable charger, snacks, cruise documents (print or digital).
• Extras: Small backpack for day trips to downtown or the beach.

Dining and Attractions Near the Cruise Port

Make the most of your pre- or post-cruise stay:

• Breakfast: The Long Beach Café (Best Western) or Saffron (Hyatt Regency).
• Lunch: The Pike Outlets (10-minute walk from Courtyard) has food trucks and sit-down restaurants.
• Dinner: Fuego (Hotel Maya) for waterfront dining.
• Attractions: Queen Mary (1.5 miles away), Aquarium of the Pacific (1.3 miles).

Comparison Table: Top Hotels Near Long Beach Cruise Port

Hotel	Distance to Port	Shuttle	Parking	Early Check-In	Price Range (Nightly)
The Westin	0.8 miles	Free (book ahead)	$28/day	Yes (fee)	$$$$
Courtyard by Marriott	1.1 miles	Uber/Lyft	Free	Yes (fee)	$$$
Hotel Maya	0.9 miles	Water taxi	$25/day	Yes (fee)	$$$$
Hyatt Regency	1.2 miles	Discounted ($12)	$25/day	Free (if available)	$$$
Holiday Inn	1.8 miles	Free (first-come)	Free	Yes (fee)	$$
Best Western Plus	1.5 miles	Taxi ($10)	Free	Yes (fee)	$$

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Hotel for Your Cruise

Selecting the perfect hotel in Long Beach near cruise port is about balancing location, amenities, and budget. The Westin is the gold standard for seamless access, while Courtyard by Marriott offers exceptional mid-range value. For a unique experience, Hotel Maya’s waterfront setting is unmatched, and budget travelers will love the Holiday Inn’s free shuttle and breakfast. No matter your choice, prioritize hotels with early check-in, luggage storage, and reliable transportation options. By planning ahead and leveraging cruise-specific packages, you’ll start your vacation stress-free and ready to sail. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best hotels in Long Beach near the cruise port for easy access?

Top hotels like The Westin Long Beach and Hyatt Regency Long Beach offer shuttle services and are within a 5-minute drive of the Long Beach Cruise Terminal. These options provide convenience, comfort, and quick transfers for cruise passengers.

Is there a hotel in Long Beach near the cruise port with free shuttle service?

Yes, several hotels, including the Renaissance Long Beach Hotel, provide complimentary shuttle service to the cruise port. Confirm shuttle schedules during booking to ensure seamless transportation.

How far are Long Beach hotels from the cruise port on average?

Most highly rated hotels are within 1-3 miles of the Long Beach Cruise Port, making it a short 5-10 minute drive. Many even offer walking-distance proximity or shuttle options.

Which hotel in Long Beach near the cruise port has the best guest reviews?

The Hyatt Regency Long Beach consistently earns high marks for its waterfront location, spacious rooms, and direct shuttle to the port. Guests praise its cleanliness and staff hospitality.

Are there budget-friendly hotels near the Long Beach cruise port?

Affordable options like Hotel Maya and Travelodge by Wyndham offer competitive rates while remaining close to the cruise terminal. Both provide basic amenities and paid parking or shuttle upgrades.

Can I store my luggage at a Long Beach hotel before or after my cruise?

Most hotels in Long Beach, including The Westin, offer luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures. Contact the hotel directly to arrange this service when booking your stay.