Cruising the Mexican Riviera Without Shore Excursions
8 Days on the Carnival Panorama – Puerto Vallarta • Mazatlán • La Paz • Cabo San Lucas
Who says you need pricey excursions to have an unforgettable cruise? On our recent 8-day Mexican Riviera sailing aboard the Carnival Panorama, we skipped the organized tours and still had a trip full of sandy toes, ocean breezes, and plenty of adventure. With just a little curiosity and a willingness to explore, each port offered its own slice of paradise—no tour bus required.
Embarkation in Long Beach
The Long Beach Cruise Terminal is one of the easiest I’ve experienced—smooth check-in, organized security, and before you know it, you’re walking the gangway. Once you’re on board, grab lunch, order your first drink, and let vacation mode kick in.
Staterooms open around 1:30 PM, but your luggage may not arrive until later. Keep essentials—like medication, swimsuits, and sunscreen—in your carry-on so you can start enjoying the ship immediately.
Our first two days at sea were spent heading toward Puerto Vallarta. And let me tell you, day one sailing out of Long Beach is always brisk—think more hoodies than bikinis. But for us landlocked folks, even bundled up on the Lido deck feels like vacation.
Puerto Vallarta
Right off the pier is a vibrant flea market with friendly vendors and plenty of photo spots. Beyond that—beach time! The waterfront is lined with hotels, restaurants, and umbrella rentals. My boys tossed a football in the surf while my daughter got her must-have vacation braids.
We walked back to the ship for lunch, then returned for more shopping—there’s even an indoor mall right at the port.
Mazatlán – Stone Island (Isla de la Piedra)
Mazatlán’s industrial port means you’ll need to take a tram or bus to exit the dock area. We opted to venture to Stone Island—an easy and budget-friendly beach escape.
From the cruise terminal, turn left and walk about 8–10 minutes to the “Embarcadero A La Isla De La Piedra” crossing. Tickets are just $3 USD round trip, and the short boat ride drops you near a stretch of sand lined with restaurants.
We chose El Velero, where $20 USD got us two appetizers, sodas, chairs, loungers, and a table for the day. The atmosphere was wonderfully laid-back with options for boogie boards, banana boat rides, or simply floating in the warm Pacific.
La Paz
La Paz was a first for us—and a rarity on cruise itineraries. The ship docks in a remote location with only a small market at the pier, so plan to travel into town.
We took the $10 USD cruise shuttle, which stops at both a beach and the downtown malecón. Visit the beach first, then head downtown, as the return trip to the ship is direct from there.
La Paz has the charm of a fishing village with crystal-clear waters and fantastic restaurants. I could have spent hours exploring the shops and cafés, but traveling with teens meant keeping things moving.
Cabo San Lucas
Cabo requires tendering into the marina via water shuttle, but the views of the famous Arch from the ship are worth it.
Cabo’s marina is buzzing with restaurants, bars, and shops. You’ll also find plenty of locals offering water taxi trips to the Arch or glass-bottom boat rides for just a few dollars. While beaches are limited right near the marina, the energy here is vibrant and fun.
Final Sea Day
We spent our last sea day exactly how we started—relaxing on deck, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the ship before returning to reality.
Quick Tips for Each Port
Puerto Vallarta – Bring cash for flea market bargains and small beach rentals. The beach is just a short walk from the ship. Mazatlán – Wear comfortable shoes for the walk to Stone Island ferry. The boat ride is short but sunny—don’t forget your hat and sunscreen. La Paz – The shuttle is the easiest way into town; plan your stops in order to maximize time. Cabo San Lucas – If you want to see the Arch up close, negotiate with water taxi drivers at the marina; prices are very flexible.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a guided excursion to enjoy the Mexican Riviera. With a little planning and an adventurous spirit, you can experience authentic food, gorgeous beaches, and vibrant local culture—often for just a few dollars. Whether it’s your first cruise or your fifteenth, this itinerary is perfect for soaking in Mexico’s charm at your own pace.
If you are ready to plan your Mexican adventure reach out to Holly for help planning your next adventure!
