Big Sur coastline, California

California Coast Cruises

Experience the best of the West on California cruises

From the rolling hills of California to the mist-shrouded mountains of the Pacific Northwest, lies 1,478 miles of coastline dotted with modern metropolises and charming towns full of personality. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed week sampling local culinary delights through California’s renowned wine country, an adventurous trek along the rugged Pacific coastline or the inside scoop on Hollywood’s entertainment industry, Princess Cruises® offers the best cruises from California.

A view of Mission Santa Barbara in California, featuring its twin bell towers and light-colored stone facade, framed by a large tree and colorful flower gardens under a clear blue sky.

The stunning Mission Santa Barbara, known as the "Queen of the Missions," is surrounded by vibrant gardens and lush greenery.

A row of tall palm trees on Santa Monica Beach at sunset, with the Santa Monica Pier and Ferris wheel in the background, under a colorful sky with hues of pink, orange, and purple.

California Coast cruises

Explore the ports of the West Coast on a California cruise

Highlights of things to see and do on shore

Beautiful coastal views of Astoria, Oregon. Beautiful coastal views of Astoria, Oregon.

Enjoy a narrated drive around Astoria, and visit the Astoria Column, view the Flavel House and many picturesque homes, hotels and neighborhoods that have been featured in movies like The GooniesShort CircuitBenji the Hunted and others. Take in the views and brews of some of Astoria's finest craft beers while looking out over the scenic Columbia River.

Stunning coastline views at La Bufadora, Ensenada. Stunning coastline views at La Bufadora, Ensenada.

Head south and dance to live mariachi music in the Riviera del Pacifico. Visit the oldest winery in Baja California, and enjoy the beautiful weather as you taste wines crafted from nearly ancient vines. Sample delectable dishes under beach umbrellas, and enjoy the day’s special from local street vendors. If you’d like to see one of the world’s largest marine geysers, visit the scenic peninsula of Punta Banda, home to La Bufadora.

Breathtaking skyline and mountain views of Los Angeles. Breathtaking skyline and mountain views of Los Angeles.

L.A. is more than swimming pools, shopping and palm trees. It’s a world-class city that embraces its movie star good looks. Explore the star-studded Hollywood Hills. Visit the world-famous TCL Chinese Theatre’s Hollywood Walk of Fame, which features the handprints, footprints and autographs of more than 200 stars like John Wayne, Judy Garland and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson preserved in cement. Wander Olvera Street for authentic colors and tastes of Old Mexico.

A panoramic view of San Diego's vibrant harbor skyline. A panoramic view of San Diego's vibrant harbor skyline.

Relax on a sun-soaked beach. Take a tour of the county’s thriving wineries. ‘Ooh’ and ‘aah’ over the 4,000 rare animal breeds that call the San Diego Zoo their home. Watch thrilling shows featuring bottlenose dolphins at Sea World Adventure Park. Enjoy that south-of-the-border feeling with a stroll through Old Town. Sample the nightlife – all Classic California Coast cruises stay here until 11 p.m.

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge at dusk, San Francisco. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge at dusk, San Francisco.

You just may leave your heart in this iconic city. Home to cable cars, fog and world-class food, San Francisco is a cosmopolitan city with hip neighborhoods, parks and gardens and a relaxed atmosphere. Take a stroll down Lombard Street, the “most crooked” street in the world. Watch interesting characters flow through Union Square from a coffee shop window. Appreciate 1,000-year-old redwood trees at Muir Woods National Monument.

Lush vineyards and rolling hills along the California coast. Lush vineyards and rolling hills along the California coast.

Nicknamed “America’s Riviera,” Santa Barbara boasts whitewashed houses draped with bougainvillea, sapphire-blue water rolling up a rocky coast and palm-lined beaches. Even with all of that beauty, wine and whales may be the stars of this charming coastal city. Journey to the quaint Danish village of Solvang for wine tasting. Step aboard a high-speed catamaran and cruise out to the glistening waters of the Channel Islands to watch whales and dolphins frolic.

Downtown Seattle featuring the iconic Space Needle. Downtown Seattle featuring the iconic Space Needle.

At 110 years old, Seattle’s Pike Place Market is the country’s oldest continuously operated public farmers' market. It’s also home to the original Starbucks, where java-lovers toast the legendary coffeehouse. Let your eye guide you to local art, and your nose to hole-in-the-wall eateries, along eclectic streets. Tour and sample the wines hidden away in the state’s most popular wineries’ private cellars.

Fall foliage and city skyline views in beautiful Vancouver. Fall foliage and city skyline views in beautiful Vancouver.

If you’re looking for adventure in Vancouver, gather up your courage for a daring walk across the nearby Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge swaying 50 meters high. Stop and smell the cherry blossoms in world-famous Stanley Park, a West Coast rainforest fittingly dubbed the “Green Heart” of Vancouver. Ascend Grouse Mountain in the Super SkyRide tramway for a postcard-worthy view of the city over the rolling hills of Douglas firs.

Why cruise in California

California coast cruise shore excursions

Uncover the history, natural wonders and culinary delights of the California Coast through shore excursions specially designed to show you more of the state. Inspire your mind with up-close encounters with fascinating creatures and sites on immersive Animal Planet™ excursions.

Learn more
A breathtaking view of the rugged Big Sur coastline in California, with steep cliffs dropping down to turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, under a bright blue sky with patches of clouds hugging the green hillsides.

A breathtaking view of the rugged Big Sur coastline in California.

Why cruise with Princess

From the golden state to your plate

California has always been at the forefront of cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh fruits and vegetables, delicate meat and seafood dishes and compelling presentation. Taste flavors and influences from countless cultures, including Europe, Mexico and Asia, in one-of-a-kind dining experiences only enjoyed on the California Coast.

A plate of tacos filled with seasoned meat, served with cherry tomatoes, fresh salsa, tortilla chips, and a margarita garnished with a lime slice, set on an outdoor table in the sun.

A delicious spread of Mexican cuisine perfect for an outdoor meal in the sunshine.

A close-up of seared scallops served with a vibrant mix of roasted vegetables, black olives, and fresh basil, drizzled with herb oil on a white plate.

A beautifully plated dish of seared scallops.

An elegant chocolate hazelnut bar dessert with layers of rich chocolate and a crunchy base, topped with smooth dollops of chocolate ganache, a delicate chocolate garnish, and a touch of citrus cream.
A decadent chocolate peanut butter bar served with a chocolate garnish and a smooth, rich accompaniment, artfully arranged on a white plate with intricate chocolate accents.

An elegantly plated chocolate peanut butter bar, featuring artistic chocolate decorations.

Chocolate dreams made real

It’s your vacation, so indulge. Each evening, you’ll have your choice of delectable desserts to choose from in our dining rooms. Perennial guest favorites include the Princess Love Boat Dream, traditional New York cheesecake and create-your-own sundae. You’ll also find freshly baked made from scratch pastries offered in The Pastry Shop, International Café, and World Fresh Marketplace.

Cruise deals and promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you can win prizes.

View all deals and promotions
Aerial view of a large cruise ship's top deck, featuring multiple pool areas, lounge chairs, and glass-domed structures, sailing through deep blue ocean waters.

Escape to the open sea with Princess Cruises.

A couple stands together on the deck of a cruise ship, smiling as they enjoy the ocean view under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

You may also like

California coast shore excursions

Exploration, relaxation, flavor, fiesta and more.

LEARN MORE

California coast articles & videos

Read about the must-see attractions, unique cuisine, and the West Coast’s signature style.

LEARN MORE

Cabo San Lucas getaways

Revel in white-sand beaches, fun and adventure on a cruise to Cabo.

LEARN MORE

The Princess® Rewards Visa® Card Earn 20,000 Bonus Points = $200 Onboard Credit

Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $500 in the first 90 days. That’s worth $200 in onboard credit. Plus, enjoy 2X points per $1 spent on all Princess purchases including onboard purchases. Terms apply.