The Best Hotels to Book Near the Port of Los Angeles, California

Introduce your labrador to the Long Beach lifestyle at the Westin. This pet-friendly hotel invites you both to snuggle up in a high-floor guest room and watch the sun disappear over the horizon every night. Seaside Dog Zone is right across the street for off-leash fun, though you’ll both agree that a walk along the waterfront is worth strapping on a leash – especially if you make a stop at Tugboat Pete’s Hot Dog Stand.

Give the family a Long Beach experience they’ll love when you stay at Hyatt Regency. Tell the kiddos to slip on their sandals and discover the ocean’s spectacular sea life at the Aquarium of the Pacific, then take your guppies for a swim at Alamitos Beach. If clouds threaten your day, spend the afternoon in the pool; then, head into your double-bed suite for a rainy afternoon with popcorn and movies.

Terranea understands your need to trek through a new place, even if that place is as relaxing as Terranea Beach. You’re always welcome to opt out of the award-winning golf, four sparkling swimming pools and boutique shopping at this resort, in favor of hiking from Oleganator’s Rock to Alta Vicente Reserve. You’ll sorely be missed at the spa, and the nine restaurants at Terranea will certainly try to tempt you back with an al fresco dining experience only Southern California can provide.

The Cove Hotel wants to introduce you to Long Beach living, starting with a glass of champagne or juice right when you check in. On the way to your room, the concierge will dutifully point out where the best tanning spot is on the sundeck and bring to your attention the wave of cocktails that you could have delivered to your private cabana. In your guest room, the largest option in Long Beach, you’ll find a coffee machine and patio waiting to wake you up with SoCal vibes each morning.

Let’s talk about relaxation at Bluestem Hotel. Make your way in from the port, and let your shoulders drop with your luggage. Embrace the natural elements and color pallets in each room, allowing your mind to fill the spacious suites with nothing except happy thoughts. The colorful courtyard seems to come alive around the fire pit, and you’ll, no doubt, feel the SoCal coastal vibes wash in from the beach only 4mi (6.4km) away. Any lingering stress you might have can be unpacked at an outdoor yoga session.

Unpack your clubs right when you arrive at Ayres Hotel. A morning stretch in the fitness center and a complimentary full American breakfast will get every muscle primed to take on the Old Ranch Golf Course next door. Of course, this is just a warm-up round for Navy and El Dorado Park Golf Courses right around the corner. We recommend spending your post-round in the hot tub at the Ayres to ensure your muscles are ready for at least another 18-holes.

Cycle your way from beach to beach, using a bicycle rental at Redondo Beach Tapestry. Though you won’t necessarily need to pedal the 0.5mi (0.8km) to the pier or Seaside Lagoon, your marina-view room will inspire you to discover more waterside bliss up and down the coast. Our suggestion is to let your nose trace the route to the best seafood on the shore, perhaps sniffing out claws at Redondo Beach Crab House or lobster tails and porterhouses at Chart House.

Get to know every sandy, salty and sunny aspect of the SoCal lifestyle at Portofino Hotel & Marina, which sits on a peninsula jutting out from Redondo Beach. You’ll enjoy ocean views and bay breezes right from your suite’s window. The flavors of the sea are yours to savor, whether that’s clam chowder at the waterside BALEENkitchen or the King Harbor bouillabaisse on your oceanside guest room’s patio. If dining in, don’t let the curated minibar go untouched.

Your magical journey to Disneyland begins at Residence Inn By Marriott, a 30-minute drive east from Mickey’s West Coast abode. Free breakfast and a dip in the pool will get you energized for a day spent meeting Eeyore, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the Disney gang. After a long day, unwind on the outdoor patio, and save a few dollars by cooking dinner in your suite’s fully equipped kitchen.