Ask the Experts: Solo Cruising for Southern California Travelers

Ask the Experts: Solo Cruising for Southern California Travelers

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Expert solo travel tips for Southern California cruisers. Discover the best cruises, solo cabin deals, top cruise lines, and advice on booking solo-friendly sailings from Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Diego.

 

Ask the Experts: Solo Cruising for Southern California Travelers

Ever wondered what it’s like to step onto a cruise ship alone, unsure if you’ll have fun or meet anyone? That’s how Mia, a solo traveler from Los Angeles, felt when she first sailed from Long Beach.

But the moment she boarded, everything changed. Solo cabins, lively lounges, and fun excursions made her trip exciting, social, and unforgettable. By the end, she had explored a new city and made friends she still keeps in touch with.

Solo cruising from Southern California isn’t just possible — it’s an adventure full of freedom, connection, and discovery. Whether you’re departing Los Angeles, Long Beach, or San Diego, this guide answers the top questions solo travelers ask.

Q1: I’m a solo traveler and often find it difficult to identify who offers the best deals for solo trips. Are there any websites or resources you recommend to get clarity on this?

Finding affordable solo cruise deals can feel tricky because many cruise lines charge a single supplement, an extra fee for travelers in double-occupancy cabins. But don’t worry — there are some great resources specifically for Southern California travelers:

  • CruiseCritic (Solo Travelers Forum): This is a goldmine for advice, updates on waived or reduced single supplements, and real experiences from other solo cruisers sailing from Los Angeles, Long Beach, or San Diego.
  • VacationsToGo (90-Day Ticker): Perfect for last-minute departures. You can find discounted rates for Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, or longer West Coast repositioning cruises.
  • Travelzoo: Curates solo-friendly deals and perks for West Coast travelers, like onboard credit or free Wi-Fi.
  • Norwegian Cruise Line Studio Staterooms: NCL offers private solo cabins and an exclusive Studio Lounge — perfect for making connections. Their Mexican Riviera sailings from Los Angeles are very popular.
  • Holland America Solo Traveler Offers: They often reduce or waive single supplements on sailings from San Diego, ideal for longer, relaxing trips.

With these resources, Southern California solo travelers can compare prices, track promotions, and find cabins that fit their budget and style.

Q2: Does age play a role in deciding whether a solo trip is right for someone? For example, you want to avoid all the children and party ships.

Age doesn’t really matter — what matters is the vibe of the ship and the kind of experience you want. Here’s a quick guide for solo travelers departing Southern California:

Tips for solo travelers from Southern California:

  • Avoid peak school holidays if you want fewer families.
  • Consider 7+ night itineraries for a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Pick cruise lines known for a calmer, adult-friendly vibe if peace matters to you.

With these considerations, solo travelers can easily find a cruise that feels just right.

Q3: Is solo travel really becoming more popular, and are there any statistics or facts to support this trend?

Absolutely! Solo travel is on the rise globally, and Southern California is no exception.

  • More residents are embracing solo travel for flexibility, self-care, and freedom.
  • Cruise lines sailing from Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Diego have added solo cabins in response to growing demand.
  • Mexican Riviera cruises are especially popular because many Southern Californians can drive to the port, avoiding flights.
  • West Coast repositioning cruises offer longer voyages and great value, which appeals to solo travelers looking for adventure and relaxation.

The trend is clear: solo cruising is no longer a niche market, and Southern California travelers are helping lead the charge.

Q4: Which cruise lines are the most welcoming to solo travelers and offer the best deals?

If you’re sailing from Southern California, these cruise lines are especially friendly for solo travelers:

For a balance of comfort and social opportunities, Holland America, Princess, and Norwegian are excellent choices for solo travelers from Southern California.

Q5: Are Black Friday deals for solo travel better than other times of the year, or is there a better time to book a solo cruise?

Black Friday deals can be nice, offering perks like onboard credit or drink packages. On top of that, for Southern California solo travelers, the best deals often come at other times:

While Black Friday is worth checking, the most significant solo-specific savings are usually during Wave Season or with last-minute bookings.

Final Thoughts

Solo cruising from Southern California has never been easier. Whether it’s a quick weekend escape to Mexico or a longer international adventure, solo travelers departing Los Angeles, Long Beach, or San Diego can enjoy freedom, new connections, and unforgettable experiences — all without paying a premium for traveling alone.

Ready to cruise solo? Ask us anything and start planning your dream adventure today.

Best Cruises from Southern California:

Solo Cruise Destinations from Southern California

Mexican Riviera Cruises

Ports: Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, Ensenada
Why it’s great: Social atmosphere, warm weather, easy excursions, ideal for first-time solo cruisers.
Typical length: 5–7 nights

Baja California Short Cruises

Ports: Ensenada, Catalina Island
Why it’s great: Short, affordable, social weekend getaways.
Typical length: 3–4 nights

Pacific Coast Cruises

Ports: San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver
Why it’s great: Scenic sailing, cultural cities, relaxed pace.
Typical length: 4–7 nights

Hawaii Cruises

Ports: Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Big Island
Why it’s great: Deep relaxation, strong onboard community, nature-focused.
Typical length: 14–16 nights

 

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Hidden Gems: 13 Amazing Places to Visit Before Everyone Else Does

Hidden Gems: 13 Amazing Places to Visit Before Everyone Else Does

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Explore 13 hidden travel destinations from Hokkaido to Tuvalu and Greenland offering adventure, peace, and unique experiences away from crowded tourist spots.

Do you like visiting hidden travel destinations that most people don’t know about? You’re not alone.
A recent travel report by We Travel.com found that 87% of travelers want to explore underrated travel spots instead of crowded ones.

If you love nature, adventure, and learning about new cultures, these unique places to visit are perfect for you.

1. Hokkaido, Japan

Hokkaido is Japan’s northern island, famous for its snow, flower fields, and hot springs. You can try fresh seafood, ski in winter, or visit the colorful Furano flower farms.
It’s perfect for nature lovers — think quiet forests, calm lakes, and fresh pine scents.
You can also visit Sapporo City for winter festivals and ramen tastings.

2. Taiwan

Taiwan is full of kind people, tall mountains, and delicious food. Visit Taipei 101, try bubble tea, and explore Taroko Gorge. It’s a mix of city life and peaceful countryside.
Ride trains around the island, relax in hot springs, or visit colorful temples.

Woman-enjoying-peaceful view-on-Taroko-Gorge.

3. Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam has tall rice fields in Sapa and Ha Giang. Hike the misty hills and meet friendly local farmers. The weather is cool and fresh, great for exploring. Taste pho noodles and take a boat ride on Ba Be Lake.

4. Indonesia (outside Bali)

Skip Bali and visit Lombok, Flores, or Sulawesi. Enjoy volcanoes, coral reefs, and quiet beaches.
In Flores, see the unique Komodo dragons.
Sulawesi offers diving adventures and local traditions to discover.

5. Laos

Laos is peaceful and full of nature. Float on the Mekong River, visit golden temples, and enjoy slow living. Meet warm, welcoming people and watch stunning waterfalls like Kuang Si. Perfect for travelers who want calm, off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Beautiful-Golden-temple-in Laos.

6. Slovenia

Slovenia is full of mountains, lakes, and caves. Visit Lake Bled and hike in Triglav National Park.
Explore Postojna Cave or small villages with charming architecture.
It’s a safe, clean, and green country with friendly people.

7. Lithuania

Lithuania has old towns, forests, and lakes. Walk Vilnius’ cobblestone streets or explore the Curonian Spit dunes.
Try traditional pancakes and see the colorful wooden houses.
Summer festivals with folk music make it extra special.

8. Albania

Albania has blue beaches, mountains, and historic towns. Explore the Albanian Riviera or hike the Accursed Mountains.
Visit old castles, stone villages, and local markets.
It’s a budget-friendly, off-the-beaten-path travel destination.

9. Gobi Desert, Mongolia

The Gobi Desert is wide, quiet, and beautiful. Ride camels, see sand dunes, and sleep under stars.
Visit nomadic families who live in traditional gers.
Discover dinosaur fossils and the colorful Flaming Cliffs.

Beautiful-sand-dunes-in-the-Gobi-desert.

10. Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan blends modern and ancient. Visit Baku’s Flame Towers or Gobustan’s rock carvings.
Walk along the Caspian Sea or see mud volcanoes.
Try local foods like kebabs and baklava.

11. Tuvalu

Tuvalu is tiny and calm. According to The CEO Magazine, only about 2,000 visitors a year Snorkel in clear waters, bike around the island, and see coral reefs.
It’s perfect for travelers wanting a quiet, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

12. Greenland

Greenland has icebergs, glaciers, and colorful houses. Take a boat tour, see whales, and maybe catch the Northern Lights. Learn about Inuit culture and try local fish dishes.
In summer, the sun never sets, creating a magical travel experience.

Now you know 12 amazing hidden travel destinations. From snowy Hokkaido to sunny Tuvalu, each place is full of beauty, culture, and adventure.

Your next step: Pick one country from this list, research it more, and start planning your dream trip.

Ready for more?
Check out my next blog: How to Plan a Solo Trip: Tips for a Flawless and Fun Adventure

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

PURITY

Purity is a travel writer passionate about exploring new places and sharing honest, relatable stories. She creates guides, tips, and features that inspire readers to travel with curiosity, confidence, and ease.

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