Easygoing San Diego embodies the Southern California surfer town fantasy, with its more than 300 days of sun, mild year-round temperatures and accessible outdoor activities. You can hike the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve to get a glimpse of whale migrations, go sailing in the bay and, of course, surf the famous swells of Del Mar, Oceanside and La Jolla. But the sixth-largest city in the United States also has some surprising neighborhoods: Old Town, North Park, Point Loma and Coronado are all within a few miles of the port, while the Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy are also within walking distance. Discover all before you cruise out of San Diego with Holland America Cruise Line.
Explore the sparkling Pacific with the cruise line voted best in the region. See the spellbinding El Arco in Cabo, snorkel off the Puerto Vallarta coast, and tour distilleries in Mazatlán.
Holland America Line cruises to Mexico from San Diego are available for guests who have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise and have proof of vaccination.
Approved forms of documentation and additional details will be confirmed closer to time of departure. For a full list of COVID-19 guest protocols and steps we’re taking to enhance public health, please see our Health Protocols Guide.
Our Flexible Cancellation program provides peace of mind where you can change your mind or even cancel the cruise up to 30 days before you sail for any reason and receive a Future Cruise Credit (FCC). If you test positive for COVID-19, you can receive the same FCC all the way to sailing day. Learn more or enroll in Flexible Cancellation.
Holland America Line cruises from San Diego to Mexico are available for guests who have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise and have proof of vaccination. Here are the COVID-19 Guest Protocols currently planned which are subject to change as further details are established. They will be updated in accordance with guidance from public health authorities. View our Travel Well information for more detail.
Holland America Line Flight Ease® offers specially negotiated low prices, a convenient and worry-free way to book air travel, late-arrival protection, and the freedom to change your flights with no change fees.
Life should be celebrated! What better way than with a Holland America Line cruise? Let us create the perfect event while you relax and have the time of your life.
See Details
1 Of 3
Things to do in San Diego
Balboa Park
The largest urban cultural park in the nation began as a parcel of 566 hectares (1,400 acres) of land set aside by civic leaders in 1868. It now houses 15 museums, performing-arts venues, incredible gardens and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. You can spend days visiting all of its attractions, including the United Nations Building, Spanish Village Art Center and Alcazar Garden.
Gaslamp Quarter
The historic center of San Diego, with its Victorian architecture and walkable blocks of shopping, dining and art galleries, is a pleasant two-mile stroll (or two-stop trolley ride) from the Port of San Diego. Take in incredible views of the Coronado Bridge and San Diego Bay from one of the many rooftop bars, have lunch alfresco or even check out a baseball game at Petco Park.
La Jolla Village
The affluent coastal village of La Jolla is known for its fabulous real estate, beautiful beaches and sophisticated dining and shopping around Girard Avenue and Prospect Street. One of the best ways to see La Jolla is from the water, via kayak: Spot some dolphins, enjoy the views of the dramatic shoreline or take a tour of Sunny Jim Sea Cave.
1 Of 3
More Information About Cruises from San Diego
When was San Diego founded? July 16, 1769
Where is San Diego located? Approximately 120 miles south of Los Angeles, CA.
What is the population of San Diego? 1,423,851 according to the 2019 U.S. Census Bureau
What language is primarily spoken? English
What is the time zone of San Diego, CA? Pacific Time
San Diego, California is GMT/UTC - 8h during Standard Time
San Diego, California is GMT/UTC - 7h during Daylight Saving Time
What currency is used in San Diego, CA? USD (Dollar)
How do I book a flight to San Diego? At Holland America we offer cruise travelers low prices on their flights. Please see more information on our Flight Ease program here.
What are some of the top places to see in San Diego? Visit our San Diego Port page for more information on our top travel recommendations.
What should I expect boarding to be like for my cruise departing San Diego, CA? Please visit our cruise preparation FAQ for information on how to access or print boarding passes, how to check in online, and to see if you need a passport.
Can I book an airport shuttle to my cruise? Book an airport transfer from the airport to your ship after you book a cruise with Holland America Line. We make getting to and from your cruise comfortable, convenient and hassle-free. For more information on EXC City Stays & Overland Tours, please visit: https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/pre-post-travel-cruise.html
Are you an already booked guest with Holland America Line? For booked guests, please see more details here on how to book an airport transfer.
