Must-Experience Cruises from California

Kickstart your cruise vacation planning with our selection of must-do cruises from California.

Cruises to the Mexican Riviera

The Mexican Riviera stretches along the Pacific Coast and boasts vibrant ports like Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Ensenada. Depending on the Mexican Riviera cruise you select, you may have the chance to visit two or more of these thrilling destinations in Mexico.

If your cruise docks in Puerto Vallarta, prepare for 26 miles of stunning beaches! You can tour a local tequila factory, enjoy a city sightseeing tour, or embark on a Jeep safari adventure into the Sierra Madre Mountains.

Cabo San Lucas is renowned for its lively atmosphere, exceptional deep-sea fishing, and iconic sights like El Arco, or "the arch." Enjoy snorkeling in the tranquil waters of Chileno Cove, go whale watching, or cruise around El Arco. For those who prefer land-based activities, options include thrilling off-road 4x4 tours, horseback riding, mountain biking, and more.

Long stretches of gorgeous beaches await you in Mazatlan. Unwind by the shore or join a walking tour through Old Mazatlan to see highlights like Teatro Angela Peralta and the 19th-century cathedral. Burn off those tasty meals by hiking to the lighthouse for some of the best views in Mazatlan, or get active fishing for big game species like marlin and sailfish.

Located just 90 miles south of San Diego, Ensenada offers attractions like the renowned La Bufadora blowhole, award-winning local wines to taste, scenic canyon hikes, and so much more.

Panama Canal Cruises

When you reserve a Panama Canal cruise leaving from California, you have the option for a full transit ending in Miami or one that concludes in Panama City (Colon).

Kick off your cruise with stops in the Mexican Riviera before heading to thrilling Central American spots like Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Discover the beautiful town of Antigua in Guatemala, and don’t miss the surfers in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. In Costa Rica, you'll dock in Puerto Caldera, just a short drive from Puntarenas. Nature enthusiasts can explore Carara National Park or travel south to Jaco for beachside festivities.

The highlight of these cruises is the breathtaking daylight transit through the Panama Canal. Experience why Cruise Critic awarded Dinogo the title of Best Cruise Line in Panama and Central America.

Panama Canal cruises that conclude in Miami also include a stopover in Cartagena, Colombia. Join a tour to explore Cartagena's rich colonial history, tales of pirates, and much more.

Pacific Coast Cruises

Another fantastic choice from California is a leisurely Pacific Coast cruise. Set sail from Los Angeles on one of two five-day journeys, visiting either Ensenada or San Francisco before arriving in Vancouver. If time permits, take a few days to explore Vancouver, one of British Columbia's most vibrant cities. Adventure awaits with options like whale watching, bungee jumping, kayaking, paragliding, and more. Don't miss the charming historic district of Gastown, the oldest area in Vancouver.

Alaska Cruises

For those dreaming of a cruise to Alaska starting in California, consider an itinerary that includes Glacier Bay and Juneau, departing from San Diego. You'll make a stop in Seattle before heading north to iconic Alaskan ports like Juneau, Icy Strait Point, and Ketchikan, finishing your journey in Vancouver.

On this cruise, your biggest challenge will be choosing what to see and do at each port. In Seattle, take in the stunning views from the Space Needle and witness the flying fish at Pike Place Market. Walk on a glacier in Juneau, embark on a whale-watching adventure in Icy Strait Point, and enjoy a lumberjack show in Ketchikan.

Torn between a Pacific Coast cruise and an Alaskan adventure? Why not enjoy both! Consider a Pacific Coast cruise that includes exciting destinations like Santa Barbara in California, Astoria in Oregon, and Seattle, along with a stop in Ketchikan before concluding in Vancouver.

Stroll through the downtown area of Santa Barbara to admire the city's stunning Spanish architecture, particularly Mission Santa Barbara, established in 1786. Discover the original Victorian homes in Astoria, the oldest town west of the Rockies. For breathtaking views, climb to the top of the Astoria Column. Explore Seattle's quirky attractions, like the Gum Wall and the Fremont Troll. In Ketchikan, keep an eye out for bald eagles; the Tlingit name Kach Khanna means "spread wings of the eagle."