THE BEST DESTINATIONS YOU CAN VISIT ON CRUISES FROM LOS ANGELES
By Hannah Rheaume | Published on November 1, 2021
Published on - December 1, 2021 at 11:00 am
When it comes to sunny, warm-weather vacation destinations, the beautiful Baja Coast and Mexican Riviera check every box. You’ll find it all here — rich culture and history, delicious cuisine, sun-kissed beaches and dramatic landscapes that alternate between rugged limestone cliffs and dense, green jungles. There are so many reasons why this picturesque region is consistently rated one of the top vacation destinations in the world — and one every sun-seeker should add to his or her wander list.
While lots of travelers choose to fly into one of the Mexican Riviera’s main resort cities, like Cabo San Lucas or Ensenada, Mexico, there’s an even better way to experience all the best destinations along the Baja Coast — a cruise getaway. For the first time in over a decade, Royal Caribbean® now offers plenty of kid-friendly cruises from Los Angeles to Mexico, making it easier than ever before to hit top West Coast ports likes Catalina Island, Cabo, Ensenada, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán.
What’s more, the ship you’ll be sailing on is one of the most popular in the fleet. Home to adrenaline-boosting waterslides, show-stopping entertainment and plenty of room to kick back and soak up the sun, the Amplified Navigator of the Seas® is a destination in and of itself.
Royal Caribbean® offers a wide variety of cruises from Los Angeles to choose from, so you can find an epic getaway that fits right into your schedule. From 3- and 4-night escapes to charming Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico, to 5-night adventures that include an overnight in Cabo. If you have a full week to work with, you can set sail on a 7-night itinerary that hits the ultimate Mexican Riviera trifecta — Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán. Here’s a closer look at all the amazing destinations you can visit on cruises from Los Angeles to Mexico.
Even if you only have a few days to spare for a Baja cruise from Los Angeles, you can still look forward to a great experience that goes big on natural beauty. Royal Caribbean® offers 3- and 4-night sailings to captivating Catalina Island, a top vacation destination among Los Angeles locals looking for a peaceful break from the city. Though it’s just a stone’s throw away from the California coast, Catalina Island feels a world away. You’ll find a mix of laid-back beach-town vibes and Old-World Mediterranean charm here, along with plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy all day long. Like hiking trails that yield panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and lush botanic gardens blooming with Catalina cherry, island scrub oak, cedar, agave and aloe plants. If you’re craving a bit of old-school glamor, head to the Catalina Casino in Avalon, where Hollywood’s glitterati once gathered and danced to the sounds of big bands. And for the ultimate beach break, there’s pretty Descanso Beach, perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling and paddle boarding.
Most of the shorter Baja cruises from Los Angeles also include a stop at Ensenada, Mexico — a popular resort town located just 70 miles south of the border. You can reach this vibrant Baja gem on 3-, 4- or 5-night sailings from Los Angeles onboard Navigator of the Seas®. Diversity is the name of the game at this fan-favorite port. If you’re a foodie, get ready to dig into world-class cuisine that spotlights fresh-caught seafood (fish tacos and ceviche are menu standouts at most restaurants here). Wine and spirit lovers can look forward to sampling some of the region’s finest varietals and mezcals, served during guided tastings offered at many of Ensenada’s cozy bodegas. For outdoor enthusiasts, there’s plenty to see and do on the sparkling waters of the Pacific — like whale-watching tours, great snorkeling and diving, and windsurfing. One of the coolest things to do during a visit to Ensenada is to kayak out among the sheltered coves and dramatic rock caves just off Arbolitos Beach.
When people think of the most romantic destinations in the Mexican Riviera, Puerto Vallarta is usually the first place that comes to mind. Hugged by the turquoise waters of the Bahía de Banderas, this world-famous resort town is best known for its exquisite beaches. Quiet and secluded Playa La Garza Blanca is a great choice for tranquil lounging beneath swaying palm trees. Playa de Los Muertos and Playa Los Camarones offer a livelier vibe and all kinds of water sports and activities. And Conchas Chinas Beach, with its sheltered inlets and natural pools, is a favorite among couples. If you’d rather spend your time closer to port, Puerto Vallarta offers no shortage of cool city sights. Its botanic gardens are famous, encompassing 63 acres of unique flora and fauna. And its street food scene rivals that of the world’s top culinary capitals — just try some tasty tacos al pastor and you’ll probably agree. Another great way to spend your day in Puerto Vallarta is horseback riding through the Sierra Madre rainforest in search of glittering waterfalls and rivers. No matter what kind of adventure piques your interest, you’ll find Puerto Vallarta more than lives up to its reputation as a must-visit destination. You can sail there on a 7-night cruise from Los Angeles onboard Navigator of the Seas®.
Every bit as famous as Puerto Vallarta — though probably better known for its lively energy and nightlife — is Cabo San Lucas. A favorite destination among spring breakers and bachelor or bachelorette groups, Cabo offers plenty of fun for those looking to let loose. However, there’s more to this world-renowned vacation spot than beach bars and nightclubs. Cabo is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes along the Mexican Riviera. Like Land’s End, where towering stacks of basement rock form arches over the sapphire water. There’s also Playa Chileno, a Blue Flag-certified beach that’s a favorite among snorkelers and divers, and Acapulquito, a good option for surfers and home to a well-known surf school. Water sports abound in Cabo, too. You can hop on a thrilling banana-boat ride, zip over the brilliant blue waves on a jet ski, or soak in views while soaring through the air during a parasailing excursion. Royal Caribbean® offers five- and seven-night cruises from Los Angeles with stops in Cabo. Some itineraries even include an overnight here so you can experience the city’s thrilling nightlife, too.
Last but certainly not least is Mazatlán, another great city to cross off your travel list when you sail on a Royal Caribbean® cruise from Los Angeles to Mexico. This vibrant resort town is a great destination for families, couples and groups of adventure-seeking friends. It’s famous for its big-game fishing and its miles of pretty shoreline — some of the most famous beaches line its lively Malecón. Mazatlán also bursts with culture and history. You’ll find a healthy dose of it along the charming cobblestone streets and colorful 19th-century buildings of its Old Town, as well as in the rustic “Pueblos Magicos” (or “Magic Villages”) that surround Mazatlán. Each beckons with an authentic taste of traditional life outside the city. If you’re craving a bite to eat, you’ll find all kinds of delicious cuisine to choose from in Mazatlán’s many bodegas and beach bars. Make sure to try some sweet pineapple tamales, smoked marlin and homemade mole while you’re here.
Thrills On Deck In Between Destinations
The incredible ports you’ll visit aren’t the only things to look forward to when you book a cruise from Los Angeles. The ship you’ll be sailing on offers just as many one-of-a-kind experiences. Amplified with epic activities and spaces to unwind, Navigator of the Seas® is a fleet-favorite that truly lives up to the hype. If you’re chasing thrills, brave any of the ship’s hair-raising waterslides, like The Blaster® aqua coaster and the RiptideSM mat racer. If all you want to do is kick back and bask in the sunshine, you’ll be happy to know the ship features an expanded resort-style pool deck with plenty of room to chill out in between refreshing dips. And at night, the adventure keeps going with dazzling ice-skating shows, Broadway-style performances and drinks that raise the bar at Bamboo Room and The Lime and Coconut®.
Know Before You Go
Ready to book a cruise from Los Angeles to Mexico? The best way to make sure you get the best cruise deals is by signing up for emails with exclusive sales and promotions and regularly checking our website. And if you aren’t an L.A. local, consider spending a few days before or after your Baja cruise getting to know the City of Angels. Home to lots of iconic sights, a world-renowned food scene and plenty of rich history, Los Angeles is a place everyone should visit at least once.
