West Coast Getaway with Santa Barbara

Los Angeles, a sprawling Southern California city, is famed not only for its influence on the entertainment industry but also for its diverse cultural offerings and sunny coastline. Highlights include the Getty Center, where art and stunning architecture meet in an expansive hilltop setting, and the historic Griffith Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the city and beyond.

For those embarking mid-afternoon, a stroll through the vibrant streets of Santa Monica or a visit to the eclectic Venice Beach Boardwalk provides a perfect slice of local life. Both are excellent spots to enjoy the quintessential SoCal sun, sand, and surf, complete with shops, street performers, and seaside eateries.

Santa Barbara, California, often referred to as the "American Riviera," boasts a Mediterranean-like climate complemented by beautiful beaches and a picturesque backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains. The city's architecture is a testament to its Spanish colonial heritage, particularly evident in landmarks such as the Mission Santa Barbara, a 19th-century Spanish mission with lush gardens and an historic museum.

Downtown Santa Barbara is known for its excellent shopping, fine dining, and vibrant cultural scene, including numerous galleries and theatres. The city’s palm-lined promenades and waterfront areas invite leisurely strolls, while local vineyards just a short drive away offer wine tasting experiences in a scenic setting. Santa Barbara provides a blend of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination on the California coast.

Love Sabatini’s? (Or really good Italian dinners?) You’ll be happy to hear this popular specialty restaurant has returned to its roots. Think traditional Italian comfort cuisine. Our new menu embraces the old: tried-and-true family recipes our chefs brought with them from Italy, plus exquisite Italian wines and cocktails. You can even enjoy some shareable plates exclusively at Sabatini’s Trattoria.

The Port of San Diego is the fourth largest port in California and is  is located right in downtown San Diego. Major cruise lines depart from the B Street Pier Terminal which is located a 10-minute drive from San Diego International Airport (SAN) and San Diego Station (Amtrak) and is easily accessible from major freeways.  The Embarcadero and nearby areas offer plenty of options for paid parking during your cruise.

Cruise lines embark to destinations such as the Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, the California Coast and the Panama Canal. 

With its warm climate, rich cultural heritage and activities for any adventurer, Ensenada is one of Mexico’s most popular cruise ports. Located on the west coast of Baja California, it is a colourful and exciting city that is also home to the largest production of wine in Mexico. Ships will dock at the Ensenada cruise port.

Top Things to Do in Ensenada:

• visit a winery in the Guadalupe Valley
• marvel at La Bufadora, the largest marine geyser in the world
• shop on Avenida Lopez Mateos
• snorkel around Todos Santos island

Los Angeles, a sprawling Southern California city, is famed not only for its influence on the entertainment industry but also for its diverse cultural offerings and sunny coastline. Highlights include the Getty Center, where art and stunning architecture meet in an expansive hilltop setting, and the historic Griffith Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the city and beyond.

For those disembarking mid-morning, a stroll through the vibrant streets of Santa Monica or a visit to the eclectic Venice Beach Boardwalk provides a perfect slice of local life. Both are excellent spots to enjoy the quintessential SoCal sun, sand, and surf, complete with shops, street performers, and seaside eateries.