The Best Cruise Line to Hawaii From California
Princess, Holland America or Carnival: matched to the way you like to travel.
Get Quotes From Your PortThe Best Cruise Line to Hawaii From California
Three lines account for most Hawaii cruises from California: Princess, Holland America and Carnival. Each suits a different traveler, and the best cruise line to Hawaii from California is simply the one that fits yours.
| Princess | Holland America | Carnival | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main California port | Los Angeles (San Pedro); San Francisco seasonally | San Diego | Long Beach |
| Typical length | About 15–16 nights | 18 nights to a month | 14 days |
| Atmosphere | Classic, relaxed, wide choice | Calm, traditional, enrichment-focused | Lively, casual, family-friendly |
| Best for | Couples and Hawaii repeaters | Retirees and long-voyage lovers | Families and value seekers |
Princess
Princess has sailed to Hawaii from California for decades and its round trips are the benchmark: a good balance of sea days and island calls, a range of cabins and plenty to do on board. Choose it if you want a classic voyage from Los Angeles or San Francisco.
Holland America
Holland America’s Hawaii voyages from San Diego are usually longer and quieter, with live music, lectures and a mature crowd. If you have time and want the islands plus Mexico or a more complete circle of Hawaii, start here.
Carnival
Carnival’s Long Beach voyages offer Hawaii at Carnival’s accessible price level, with a fun, casual atmosphere that families enjoy. Carnival Legend’s planned 2027–28 Hawaii series from Long Beach makes it a growing option for Southern Californians.
Other lines appear from California now and then — a repositioning voyage here, a long Pacific itinerary there — so it is worth asking about the season you have in mind rather than assuming the three regulars are the only choices.
How to Decide
- Start with the port you can reach most easily.
- Decide how many nights you can be away.
- Choose the onboard style you will enjoy for a week or more of sea days.
- Compare what is included in the fare; Cruising for Less explains discounts and Wave Season lists promotions.
- Pick your cabin with the crossing in mind; see Cruise Ship Deck Plans.
For every line that sails Hawaii, including those that leave from Vancouver and Honolulu, see our sibling site Hawaiian Cruises.
Choosing a Line From California
What is the best cruise line to Hawaii from California?
Princess for classic round trips from Los Angeles and San Francisco, Holland America for longer voyages from San Diego, and Carnival for value and families from Long Beach. The best one is the line whose style and dates suit you.
Do Royal Caribbean or Norwegian sail to Hawaii from California?
Their Hawaii sailings are more often one-way voyages from Vancouver, and Norwegian’s year-round Hawaii ship sails from Honolulu. Ask our advisors to check the current season, since deployments change.
Compare California Hawaii Cruises
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will compare Princess, Holland America and Carnival Hawaii voyages for your dates and send free quotes.
Compare California Sailings