Sunshine and surf color this breezy, Southern California city.

Local Culture and Flavor
Considering its shared border with Mexico, San Diego’s culture is heavily influenced by Mexico. Latin-inspired architecture can be found throughout the city and the diversity of the population is reflected in the variety of ethnic cuisines and restaurants that line the streets. World-class museums, theatre, dance, music and art attract adoring patrons to the city, along with the natural beauty of San Diego’s beaches, coves, parks and caves.

Past and Present
Native Americans inhabited “the birthplace of California,” or San Diego, for over 10,000 years before the European settlers. The establishment of a mission and fort in 1769 marked the period of Spanish and Mexican rule. San Diego was incorporated into the United States in 1848 and began to expand as military developments increased within the town. Today, San Diego maintains a strong military presence, enjoys a culturally diverse community and is a leader in many modern industries including technology and international trade.

Discover a plethora of sites and activities to explore before or after your cruise from San Diego.

The world-famous San Diego Zoo is a can't-miss experience! San Diego Zoo Safari Park, the zoo's sister attraction, presents a unique opportunity to view more than 3,500 exotic animals in a sprawling 1,800-acre facility. Many animals are free to roam in vast open habitats.

History buffs should venture into Old Town San Diego, which is brimming with historic buildings, shops and restaurants. In 1769, the area became the first permanent Spanish settlement in what later became the state of California. This area is regarded as the "birthplace" of modern California.

San Diego's historic Gaslamp Quarter offers 16 blocks of Victorian-era buildings containing modern restaurants, boutiques and nightclubs. Nearby, Balboa Park is home to over a dozen museums, plus theaters and gardens—all in a lushly landscaped Spanish Colonial setting.

What to know before you go to San Diego, California.

Language
The primary language spoken in the United States is English.

Weather
San Diego enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate, with about 300 days of sunshine a year. When there is rainfall, it’s typically during the winter months, from December to March. In late May and throughout the month of June, it’s common to experience a cloudy “marine layer” off the coast, resulting in gray skies and slightly cooler temperatures. San Diego’s average midday temperature is 66°F in the winter and 76°F in the summer.

How to Pay
The U.S. dollar (USD) is the currency used in the United States. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted and ATM machines are found in abundance throughout the city.

How to Get Around
The Port of San Diego is conveniently located near the downtown area and a number of attractions. The area is easily navigated by bus, taxi or car. In downtown San Diego, the bright red San Diego Trolley provides fun transportation to key locations such as Old Town. Pedicabs and horse-drawn carriages are other popular modes of transportation along the downtown waterfront and in the Gaslamp Quarter. For those wishing to rent a vehicle, several rental car companies are located in the downtown area and provide transportation to and from the terminal. Taxi service is also available near the terminal.

Safety in San Diego
San Diego is a popular travel destination and considered very safe, but Disney Cruise Line Guests are always advised to follow safety precautions to protect valuables.

Instances of pickpocketing activity may increase in busy tourist areas and outdoor festivals. Always be conscious of your personal belongings and surroundings. It is a good practice to keep your wallet in your front pocket and all bags securely zipped.

Learn about departure port details such as driving directions, parking and onboarding information.

San Diego Port Terminal

Address

Port of San Diego 
1140 N. Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92101 

Upon arriving at the port, please follow the signs directing you to the Disney Cruise Line ship and terminal. 

The Disney Wonder sailing on May 8, 2025, will disembark at Canada Place in Vancouver, Canada.

The Disney Magic sailing on April 19, 2026, will disembark at Canada Place in Vancouver, Canada.

The Disney Wonder sailing on May 7, 2026, will disembark at Canada Place in Vancouver, Canada.

Driving Directions

Parking
The cruise terminal does not offer parking facilities; however, off-site options with shuttle service are available.

Luggage Handling and Transfers
Disney Cruise Line representatives will be at the terminal to meet, greet and check in Guests starting at 11:15 AM. Guests are allowed to enter at their scheduled Port Arrival Time. Guests who do not have a Port Arrival Time or have not had an opportunity to complete their Online Check-In should arrive after 2:00 PM. Porters will be on hand to assist with luggage.

Note: All Guests must be on board the ship no later than the published All-Aboard time.

Youth Activities
Wristbands will be distributed to Guests during Youth Activities registration on board the ship.

ATMs & Currency Exchange
There are no ATMs in the terminal, but you can cash personal checks and exchange currency at the Guest Services desk on board the ship with a valid photo I.D. The various ports of call have ATMs as well.

Wheelchair Accessibility
The terminal building and parking areas are wheelchair accessible. If you require temporary use of a wheelchair at the pier upon embarkation or debarkation, please request one upon arrival at the cruise terminal.

The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is located in Seaport Village on San Diego Bay. Delight in fresh sea breezes from your resort room with windows that actually open, or venture out and explore—by foot or by trolley—the magic of the historic Gaslamp Quarter, with its numerous restaurants, bars, boutiques and art galleries.

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
One Market Place
San Diego, California 92101
Telephone: (619) 232-1234

Check-In: 4 PM | Check-Out: 11 AM

The hotel is approximately 3 miles from San Diego International Airport and one mile from the cruise terminal.