Long Beach in California
Hotels near Long Beach Cruise Terminal
The Long Beach Cruise Terminal, which primarily serves Carnival cruises, is located along the waterfront, next to the historic RMS Queen Mary and about 25 miles south of downtown Los Angeles.
Most travelers choose between staying as close as possible to the terminal or in downtown Long Beach. Hotels such as The Queen Mary and Hotel Maya are popular for their proximity and ease on embarkation day.
Many travelers also look for hotels with a free shuttle to the cruise terminal. While some hotels do offer this, availability is often limited, which is why choosing the right location in advance is important.
Hotels with Shuttle to Long Beach Cruise Terminal
Only a small number of hotels offer a free transfer, and availability can vary depending on schedules and demand.Because distances in Long Beach are short, many people still prefer walking or taking a quick Uber instead.
Hotel Maya – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
One of the more popular hotels near the port, located about a 10–15 minute walk away, with free shuttle available.
Hilton Long Beach Hotel
A few miles from the port, offering a complimentary shuttle service, though schedules may vary.
The Queen Mary
Right next to the cruise terminal, making it the closest possible stay.
No shuttle needed.
Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown Long Beach
About a 15–20 minute walk from the Carnival cruise terminal, or a short Uber ride.
Bestsellers
The Queen Mary
★★★
Best for: Staying next to the terminal
Located directly next to the cruise terminal, allowing you to walk to the ship in just a few minutes without needing any transport.
Hotel Maya
★★★★
Best for: Close stay with walk or shuttle option
A convenient waterfront hotel near the port, with both walking and shuttle options available depending on your preference.
Hyatt Regency Long Beach
★★★★
Best for: Downtown stay close to the port
A modern waterfront hotel in downtown Long Beach, about a 5–10 minute Uber ride to the terminal. Close to restaurants and attractions.
Most travelers choose between staying as close as possible to the Long Beach Cruise Terminal or in downtown Long Beach. Because most cruises depart around midday, staying close by helps avoid traffic delays on embarkation day.
Near the Cruise Terminal (Best for convenience)
The most convenient option, especially for first-time cruisers. Hotels like The Queen Mary and Hotel Maya are located closest to the terminal, with walking or shuttle access available.
Less ideal if you want more restaurants or hotel choices nearby.
Downtown Long Beach (Best overall)
A popular choice with more hotels, restaurants, and often better prices. The terminal is only a short Uber ride away (typically 5–10 minutes).
Not as convenient if you want to walk to the ship on embarkation day.
Hotels like The Cove Hotel can be a more affordable option in this area, though slightly further from the waterfront.
Anaheim / Disneyland (Only if visiting)
Some travelers stay near Disneyland before their cruise, but this area is about 30–45 minutes away and less practical on embarkation day.
Only recommended if visiting Disneyland, not for cruise convenience.
Airport Areas (Only for late arrivals)
Hotels near Long Beach Airport or LAX can be convenient if you arrive late at night, but most travelers prefer staying closer to the cruise terminal for an easier start to their cruise.
Long Beach Airport is the closest airport, about a 15–20 minute drive from the cruise port. Los Angeles International Airport is another common option, located about 30–60 minutes away depending on traffic.
Our Advice
Stay near the Carnival terminal if you want the simplest and most stress-free experience.
Downtown Long Beach is the best overall option if you prefer more choice and don’t mind a short ride.
Car Parking
Parking at the Long Beach Cruise Terminal is straightforward and one of the easiest options in Southern California.
Terminal Parking (Best option)
Parking is available directly at the terminal in a large on-site garage, typically around $20–25 per day (rates may vary).
This is the most convenient option, allowing you to walk from your car to the ship in just a few minutes. Arriving early is recommended, as traffic can increase around the port on embarkation day.
Oversized vehicles may need to use alternative parking due to height restrictions.
Hotels with Cruise Parking
Some hotels in Long Beach offer “Park & Cruise” options, which include parking during your trip and sometimes shuttle transport to the terminal.
However, these options are relatively limited and may come with restrictions such as fixed shuttle schedules or a limited number of parking days.
Parking vs Hotel Packages
Because parking is available directly at the terminal, many travelers prefer to park on-site for simplicity and flexibility.
For the latest parking details and updates, you can check the official Long Beach port website.
Sailing from Another Cruise Port?
Not all cruises in Southern California depart from the same location. Make sure to check your departure port before booking a hotel.
- Port of Los Angeles – see hotels near Los Angeles cruise port
- Port of San Diego – explore hotels near San Diego cruise terminal
- Port of San Francisco – view hotels near San Francisco cruise port