Are fantasies of Pacific Coast cruises drifting through your mind? Would a quick getaway vacation be the perfect escape from your busy schedule? Recharge your spirits with a round trip cruise between Los Angeles, California, and Ensenada, Mexico. To take full advantage of a short cruise on the Pacific Coast, here are some of the sights you absolutely won't want to miss.
Visit San Pedro for a Taste of Los Angeles Before Your Cruise
Nestled within the vast city of Los Angeles, the historic community of San Pedro is the perfect place to spend your day. Direct flights are available to Los Angeles from many parts of the world, so you can arrange to arrive in San Pedro at your leisure before your cruise departs. Navigate this scenic area with 1920s-era tram cars that transport you amongst its attractions. Hop on the Red Car Line, which costs only one dollar for a full day of unlimited rides, is ADA (disabled) accessible, and has stops that include the LA Maritime Museum and Marina Station. You'll also be able to walk to the USS Iowa from the Red Car and visit downtown San Pedro.
Have more time to explore? Visit Cabrillo Beach and Cabrillo Marine Aquarium before heading over to the World Cruise Centre to start your voyage.
Cruise Along the California Coast
As you sail along the Pacific Coast, you'll want to take advantage of everything available to you on your cruise ship. Spend your evening rejuvenating in the pool or at the Lotus Spa — then liven things up at night with decadent dining options, live entertainment, and casino gaming. Don't forget to head outside to take in the West Coast sunset.
If you decide on a four-day cruise, you'll want to call in at San Diego, Catalina Island, or Santa Barbara. Spend the day touring seaside villages, gardens, or even the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
Follow in the Footsteps of Ensenada's Celebrities
Ensenada is one of the most popular ports of call on a cruise to Mexico, and for good reason — you can visit several award-winning wineries, a giant marine geyser, and the Riviera del Pacífico, a former haunt of the rich and famous.
Start your day by taking a drive to Punta Banda Peninsula to watch La Bufadora ("the snorter"). This marine geyser, or blowhole, is one of the world's largest, with water shooting 18 or even 30 metres in the air! Be prepared to get wet when that geyser roars.
Next, get a taste of Baja as you tour one of several wineries, such as Bodegas de Santo Tomás, the oldest operating winery in Baja California. Then head over to the Riviera del Pacífico, where it's claimed the margarita was born. Opened in 1930 and managed by Jack Dempsey, this hotel and casino flourished in the 1950s. Take in the beautiful Moorish- and Spanish-style architecture and visit its gardens, gallery, and history museum. While there, you'll learn about the Riviera's famous — and infamous — clientele, from Lucille Ball to Al Capone.
When you need a quick getaway, take one of Princess Cruises' Pacific Coast cruises. On a three- or four-day cruise, you'll spend time soaking in Californian culture and watching the sunset as you cross into Mexico, from where you'll explore the sights and tastes of Ensenada. When you return home, you'll feel brand new.
