The Pacific Coast of North and South America is a wild, dramatic, gorgeous spot filled with a huge array of diverse landscapes, exciting cities, and truly stunning panoramas. It is one of the best places in the world to enjoy a luxury cruise, taking in the beaches of California, the temperate rainforests of Washington, the dynamic cityscapes of Vancouver and Seattle, and the vast frozen wilderness of Alaska.
There are endless adventures to be had on a cruise to the West Coast. So many, in fact, that choosing the ideal itinerary can be a challenge. But whether it is your first time on the ocean waves or you are a seasoned cruise aficionado, there’s something for you. Here are some of the best and most luxurious itineraries that cruise travelers can find on America’s Pacific Coast.
Pacific Northwest Explorer: San Francisco to Vancouver
The Pacific Northwest is one of the most scenic and dramatic landscapes in the world. Thanks to its combination of gorgeous natural beauty and exciting cities, it is a favorite destination for foodies and nature lovers alike. This cruise itinerary takes you up the West Coast of the US from San Francisco, stopping off in charming coastal towns in Washington and Oregon before heading north to the dramatic scenery of British Columbia.
Why It Stands Out
- Natural Beauty: The rocky cliffs, stunning beaches, and verdant forests that make up the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest give it a natural beauty that is hard to beat.
- Local Cuisine: Portland, Seattle, and Vancouver are some of the most renowned cities for dining in the world, with a deep commitment to sustainable produce and a farm-to-table ethos.
- Excursions: From kayaking and hiking to whale and dolphin watching, the Pacific Northwest is a paradise for outdoor explorers.
Baja California & Mexican Riviera: Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas
If you prefer the idea of warm sun on your skin and pristine golden-sand beaches, then cruise south to the sun-drenched coast of Baja California and the Mexican Riviera might be more to your taste. Departing from Los Angeles, this cruise takes you to the Mexican wine country of Ensenada and the Valle de Guadalupe, the party capital of Cabo San Lucas, and the gorgeous luxury beaches of Puerto Vallarta.
Why It Stands Out
- Beach Getaways: Mexico boasts some of the best beaches in the world, and a Mexican Riviera cruise ensures that you can spend your days relaxing, unwinding, and soaking up the sun in total comfort and style.
- Water Sports: Los Cabos is a playground for anyone who loves watersports. You can paddleboard, waterski, and windsurf around the cape or head up to Cabo Pulmo for some of the world’s best and most unspoiled snorkeling and scuba diving.
- Cultural Experience: As you head further south, the rich history and amazing cultural traditions of Mexico come alive in the smaller towns and local markets you visit on your shore excursions.
California Coast Cruise: San Diego to San Francisco
Of course, not every cruise has to be a grand voyage and sometimes the shorter itineraries are ideal, particularly for those of us with busy lives and fewer vacation days.
A three-day cruise along the California coast from San Diego to San Francisco lets travelers indulge themselves in the glitz, glamor, and luxury of the Golden State, discovering some of the most amazing spots that California has to offer, including Santa Barbara, Monterey, Los Angeles, and Napa Valley.
Why It Stands Out
- Wine Tasting: A visit to the world-famous vineyards of Napa Valley is an exceptional shore excursion, giving passengers the chance to enjoy wine tastings and amazing food pairings in stupendously chic and luxurious wineries.
- Hollywood Glitz: Don’t miss out on a stop in LA to visit iconic spots like Beverly Hills, Hollywood Boulevard, and Venice Beach and rub shoulders with movie stars and celebrities.