We are taking the Carnival Pride on Jan. 18th going to the Mexican Riveria. We are flying into LAX on the 17th. Would it be better to stay in Long Beach or at ab airport hotel in LAX? I think it is about a 45 minute drive down to the pier. If anyone has any good recommendations on hotels in Long Beach I would appreciate it. I checked out the Coastal Long Beach Hotel, but they are closing during that time.

I agree on getting to Long Beach the night before. You never know about the traffic situation... plus, you can see your ship when you wake up in the morning.

Try this for a map of the area. You can also go to the Vistor Bureau Web site for more detail.

We've stayed on Queen Mary and enjoyed it. Then again, I'm a liner buff. The location can't be beat, but choose your room type carefully.

I've never cruised out of southern California before, but will be next year. So I guess what everyone is telling me is that my booking a hotel in El Segundo is not a good idea?

Once you see El Segundo, you may understand

That is the address for the Hilton Garden Inn I have booked. It is really an LAX hotel. I try to choose hotels where I can get HiltonHonors points.

Dave, there is nothing wrong with El Segundo if you are just looking for a good nights sleep. The location is like any other airport hotel.

Have you looked at the Doubletree Hotel, San Pedro? I just Googled it and it had the Hilton Honors logo. A lot of people going on cruises stay there; it is reasonable and very close to the pier; in fact an early riser like you could watch your ship come down the channel when it arrives in the morning. They even provide a shuttle to the pier.

You might check it out.

(I assume you are leaving out of San Pedro)

Rick,

In fact I was looking at that Doubletree mere moments ago and will most likely book it. The shuttle is an added plus.

I like staying near the water anyway. It sort of sets the mood for the cruise.

Yesterday I booked a room at the Crowne Plaza Los Angeles Harbor Hotel in San Pedro. Bid it on Priceline for less than $90.00.

Jaimie

Has anyone stayed at the Sunrise hotel in San pedro? It is adjacent to the cruise terminal.

Thanks