San Pedro Embarkation
San Diego, California offers a quintessential Southern California experience with its beautiful coastline, laid-back atmosphere, and vibrant urban areas. As a major U.S. port, San Diego is both a destination in its own right and a convenient gateway to the Mexican Riviera. The city is defined by its stunning bayfront, with the iconic Coronado Bridge as a backdrop, and a rich history that is reflected in its historic Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. The port is perfectly situated for you to explore all of this on a short day trip.
⛵ Port Introduction
San Diego has two main cruise terminals located on the Embarcadero: the B Street Pier & Cruise Ship Terminal and the Port Pavilion at Broadway Pier. Both are located in the heart of downtown San Diego, which makes getting to the city's main attractions incredibly easy. Your ship will dock directly at the pier, so you won't need to take a tender. The walk from the gangway to the terminal building is very short, and you are right at the edge of the city.
⚓ Terminal Information
The B Street Pier is the larger and more frequently used of the two terminals. The terminal building is a modern, two-story structure. As you disembark, you will be processed through a streamlined security area. The walk from the ship to the city streets is short, safe, and well-marked.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The B Street Pier terminal has comprehensive facilities. You'll find ample seating while waiting to board or disembark, and there are restrooms inside the terminal. Free Wi-Fi is available for up to four hours for cruise passengers. There are no major shops inside, but you'll find a tourist information center right in front of the terminal where multilingual staff can help you with maps and recommendations. Tour pickups and taxi stands are located directly outside the terminal. Public transportation is also accessible just a short walk away.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. Given San Diego's proximity to Mexico, Spanish is also widely spoken, but it is not necessary to know it to navigate the city. You will find that English is universally understood in all tourist-centric areas, businesses, and public services.
💰 Money
The currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are universally accepted at restaurants, shops, and attractions. Cash is also widely used. ATMs are easy to find at banks, inside grocery stores, and throughout the downtown area. There are no extra fees for using a bank's ATM if you are a customer of that bank, but fees for using an ATM from a different bank will vary.
🚗 Transportation
San Diego's downtown is very walkable, and many attractions are within a short distance of the cruise port.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the terminal and throughout the city. They are metered and the rates are regulated.
Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are extremely popular and a convenient option. You can book a ride using the app and the fare is set upfront.
Public Transportation: San Diego has an excellent public transportation system, including the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus and trolley services. The Santa Fe Depot, a major transit hub for Amtrak, the local COASTER commuter train, and the Trolley System, is just two blocks from the port. The MTS bus route 992 runs directly between the San Diego International Airport and downtown, including a stop near the cruise terminal, offering an affordable option.
♿ Accessibility
San Diego has an accessibility rating of 7 out of 10. The B Street Pier terminal is wheelchair accessible with elevators and a mobile gangway. The waterfront promenade along the Embarcadero is flat and well-maintained, making it easy to navigate. While downtown San Diego is generally accessible, you will find some older areas with uneven sidewalks or cobblestone streets.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to the main attractions from the cruise port is on foot. The pier is located right in the heart of the Embarcadero, and you can easily walk to the USS Midway Museum, Seaport Village, and the lively Gaslamp Quarter. If you want to go further, such as to Balboa Park or the San Diego Zoo, a taxi, ride-share, or public bus are all great options.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally easy to find and are free to use. They are available at many public parks, museums, and along the Embarcadero. The city of San Diego provides a useful map of public restrooms, including those managed by the Port of San Diego, which are open 24/7.
💊 Drugstore
Walgreens: 301 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
CVS Pharmacy: 645 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101. Open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
✨ Authentic Experience
Explore the Barrio Logan Arts District: For a taste of local culture, skip the tourist crowds and head to the Barrio Logan Arts District, a short ride from the port. This vibrant neighborhood is home to Chicano Park, a National Historic Landmark with stunning murals painted on the pillars of the Coronado Bridge. Wander through the art galleries, visit the local shops, and grab a bite to eat from a family-run restaurant.
Savor Fish Tacos from a Local Spot: While fish tacos are a Baja California staple, San Diego has its own unique twist. Seek out a local, no-frills taqueria in a neighborhood like Old Town or Barrio Logan. The fish is always fresh, and the flavors are simple and delicious, often served on a corn tortilla with cabbage, a creamy sauce, and a side of salsa. It's a culinary experience that reflects the city's coastal identity and Mexican heritage.
Hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: If you want to experience San Diego's natural beauty, take a short drive north to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. This stunning coastal park offers panoramic ocean views and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. You can walk along the bluffs and spot dolphins or whales, and even hike down to the beach below. It's a peaceful and breathtaking escape from the urban environment.
