Hawaii from San Francisco, CA

Seaports have always been important throughout history… it’s about more than just the cargo, but the import and export of ideas. You could say that a city’s seaside status almost necessarily creates a crossroads of cultures. All that said, something sets San Francisco apart! Maybe it’s the year-round comfy weather that makes people want to spend their time outdoors, or perhaps it’s the spectacular food culture, or the history, or the hills, or the architecture. But one thing can be proven: San Francisco is beautiful, arguably the most romantic and cosmopolitan city in the U.S., and all of these elements go into the mix of making it a place you want to be, whether you know it or not. From the world’s most recognizable bridge, The Golden Gate, to the quirky, flower-lined Lombard Street… it’s no surprise that in SF even a former prison island — you knew we’re talking about Alcatraz, right? — ends up being an iconic destination.

Nestled on the slopes of volcanic Mauna Loa, the port of Hilo offers visitors a path on which to step back in time. Your Carnival cruise to Hilo alohas you to low-key Hawaii, where island life moves at a slower pace, people still greet each other on the street and blossoming flowers and macadamia thrive, all to the delight of the senses. A Hilo cruise transports you to this Hawaiian town draped in lush tropical foliage, overlooking the placid waters of Hilo Bay.

You’ve probably already sampled the famous local export — the coffee — so now dive deep into Hawaiian history on a Carnival cruise to Kona. While sailing the sunny, leeward side of the Big Island of Hawaii, you can tour a Hawaiian royal palace, see the first Christian church in Hawaii, and explore an ancient Hawaiian sanctuary. The black-lava coast of Kona, Hawaii, is ideal for deep sea fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking—all fueled with strong Kona Coast coffee.

Whether you’re on a cruise to Honolulu from the mainland, or a cruise from Honolulu, you’ll find yourself spellbound by this magical Pacific destination. Before or after your cruise, take the time to explore the historic port of Honolulu and its lively mix of world-class dining, perfect beaches and lush, tropical landscape. It’s hard to imagine a more picture-perfect holiday destination, and a cruise to Honolulu is an ideal way to experience it. Situated on the beautiful island of O’ahu, Honolulu invites you to stroll the fabled beaches of Waikiki under the protective watch of the ancient volcanic profile of Diamond Head... or visit the Polynesian Cultural Center, a 42-acre living museum of many South Pacific cultures. And be sure to stop off at the historic USS Arizona Memorial, an important landmark dedicated to those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor.

Thanks to its stunning coastline, Ensenada will give you plenty of postcard-worthy moments…, and it couldn’t be easier to get there. Escape to Mexico’s original seaside getaway with Carnival cruises to Ensenada. Once a favorite hideaway for high-rolling Hollywood stars, Ensenada is now one of Mexico’s most popular ports of call. You can sightsee, shop or kayak at Punta Banda… but the true pleasures of this festive city are culinary. That’s why a cruise to Ensenada, Mexico should top every foodie’s wish list. Have your fill of fresh oysters and sip a rich Baja merlot. Soak up the richness of the local culture as you enjoy the journey.

Seaports have always been important throughout history… it’s about more than just the cargo, but the import and export of ideas. You could say that a city’s seaside status almost necessarily creates a crossroads of cultures. All that said, something sets San Francisco apart! Maybe it’s the year-round comfy weather that makes people want to spend their time outdoors, or perhaps it’s the spectacular food culture, or the history, or the hills, or the architecture. But one thing can be proven: San Francisco is beautiful, arguably the most romantic and cosmopolitan city in the U.S., and all of these elements go into the mix of making it a place you want to be, whether you know it or not. From the world’s most recognizable bridge, The Golden Gate, to the quirky, flower-lined Lombard Street… it’s no surprise that in SF even a former prison island — you knew we’re talking about Alcatraz, right? — ends up being an iconic destination.