Left out of Long Beach. Stayed at the Courtyard Marriott downtown which was a great location. Took a taxi for 10 dollars to port. Used the free bus system to go up and down Ocean Drive for shopping, restaurants, etc. There are small businesses around the hotel too.

Cruise:

Positives - So many choices of food. I'm a vegetarian so there was plenty of options. Ships crew was wonderful as always (this is our 5th Carnival Cruise). Dining room staff was the best thus far. Great ports of call. Mazatlan - chose to go through a resort to use their beach, unlimited alcohol and drinks, as well as food. Paid $35.00 + 8 dollar taxi ride. Able to use their facilities as well as kayaks. Cabo - Went on ATV's. Really nice but heard lover's beach was nice too - wish we did this. You can take a water taxi to this beach. Puerto Vallarta - Booked the sea safari through Carnival. BEST EXCURSION EVER. We went on a speed boat, saw wild dolphins, went on a horse back ride....which was kinda scary up and down the hills, then went to a far away beach where no other people were. Had open bar and meal. Read more