Where to Stay Near Port Canaveral for Your Cruise

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Where to Stay Port Canaveral Cruise: A Brief Overview

Port Canaveral is a popular cruise port located in Florida, and it’s no wonder why. With its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and abundance of activities, it’s the perfect place to start or end your cruise vacation. But before you set sail, you’ll need to decide where to stay in Port Canaveral.

There are a number of great hotels and resorts to choose from, each with its own unique offerings. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront hotel or a more affordable option close to the port, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best places to stay in Port Canaveral, so you can make the most of your cruise vacation. We’ll cover everything from amenities and location to price, so you can find the perfect place to call home base for your next trip.

Hotel Price Range Amenities
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Cocoa Beach-Port Canaveral $70-$100 Free breakfast, free WiFi, indoor pool, fitness center
Best Western Plus Cocoa Beach Oceanfront $100-$150 Free breakfast, free WiFi, outdoor pool, beach access
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Cocoa Beach $150-$200 Free breakfast, free WiFi, outdoor pool, fitness center
Hilton Garden Inn Cocoa Beach $200-$250 Free breakfast, free WiFi, outdoor pool, fitness center

Port Canaveral Cruise Terminals

Port Canaveral is home to four cruise terminals, each of which is operated by a different cruise line. The terminals are located just a short walk from each other, and all offer a variety of amenities and services for cruise passengers.

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is operated by Carnival Cruise Line and is the largest cruise terminal in Port Canaveral. It can accommodate up to four cruise ships at a time and features a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Terminal 1 also has a state-of-the-art security checkpoint, which can process passengers quickly and efficiently.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 is operated by Royal Caribbean International and can accommodate up to three cruise ships at a time. It features a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as a children’s play area. Terminal 2 also has a security checkpoint that is similar to the one at Terminal 1.

Terminal 3

Terminal 3 is operated by Norwegian Cruise Line and can accommodate up to two cruise ships at a time. It features a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as a spa and fitness center. Terminal 3 also has a security checkpoint that is similar to the ones at Terminals 1 and 2.

Terminal 4

Terminal 4 is operated by Disney Cruise Line and can accommodate up to two cruise ships at a time. It features a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as a children’s play area and a character meet-and-greet area. Terminal 4 also has a security checkpoint that is similar to the ones at Terminals 1, 2, and 3.

Cruise Ship Docking Schedules

The following is a list of the cruise ship docking schedules for Port Canaveral. The schedules are subject to change, so please check the cruise line’s website for the most up-to-date information.

Carnival Cruise Line

  • Carnival Breeze: Departs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays
  • Carnival Conquest: Departs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays
  • Carnival Horizon: Departs on Fridays
  • Carnival Liberty: Departs on Mondays and Saturdays
  • Carnival Magic: Departs on Tuesdays and Fridays
  • Carnival Valor: Departs on Wednesdays and Sundays

Royal Caribbean International

  • Allure of the Seas: Departs on Mondays and Saturdays
  • Freedom of the Seas: Departs on Tuesdays and Fridays
  • Liberty of the Seas: Departs on Wednesdays and Sundays
  • Mariner of the Seas: Departs on Thursdays
  • Oasis of the Seas: Departs on Mondays

Norwegian Cruise Line

  • Norwegian Breakaway: Departs on Mondays and Saturdays
  • Norwegian Escape: Departs on Tuesdays and Fridays
  • Norwegian Getaway: Departs on Wednesdays and Sundays
  • Norwegian Joy: Departs on Thursdays
  • Norwegian Spirit: Departs on Mondays

Disney Cruise Line

  • Disney Dream: Departs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays
  • Disney Fantasy: Departs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays

Other Cruise Lines

  • Celebrity Cruises: Departs on Mondays and Saturdays
  • Holland America Line: Departs on Tuesdays and Fridays
  • Princess Cruises: Departs on Wednesdays and Sundays
  • MSC Cruises: Departs on Thursdays
  • Royal Caribbean International: Departs on Fridays

Port Canaveral is a popular cruise destination, and it offers a variety of cruise terminals and docking schedules to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a large terminal with a lot of amenities or a smaller terminal with a more intimate atmosphere, you’re sure to find a cruise terminal that’s perfect for you in Port Canaveral.

3. Nearby Hotels

There are a variety of hotels located near the cruise terminals in Port Canaveral, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts. Here are a few of the best choices for each type of traveler:

  • Budget-friendly: The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cocoa Beach is located just a short walk from the cruise terminals, and offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The hotel also has a free breakfast buffet, a fitness center, and a pool.
  • Mid-range: The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Port Canaveral is located about a mile from the cruise terminals, and offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes. The hotel also has a free breakfast buffet, a fitness center, and a pool.
  • Luxury: The Hilton Garden Inn Port Canaveral is located about a 10-minute drive from the cruise terminals, and offers luxurious rooms with balconies overlooking the ocean. The hotel also has a spa, a fitness center, and a pool.

4. Things to Do in Port Canaveral

There are a variety of things to do in Port Canaveral, both before and after your cruise. Here are a few of the best options:

  • Beaches: Port Canaveral is home to several beautiful beaches, including Cocoa Beach, Playalinda Beach, and Jetty Park Beach. These beaches offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
  • Shopping: Port Canaveral is home to a variety of shopping options, including the Port Canaveral Marketplace, the Island Marketplace, and the Pier Marketplace. These shopping centers offer a wide variety of stores, including boutiques, souvenir shops, and restaurants.
  • Restaurants: Port Canaveral is home to a variety of restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Some of the best restaurants in Port Canaveral include The Boathouse, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and The Crab Shack.
  • Attractions: Port Canaveral is home to a variety of attractions, including the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, the Brevard Zoo, and the Canaveral National Seashore. These attractions offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the area.

Port Canaveral is a great destination for a cruise vacation. With its convenient location, beautiful beaches, and variety of things to do, there is something for everyone in Port Canaveral.

Where should I stay near Port Canaveral for my cruise?

There are a number of great hotels and resorts located near Port Canaveral, each with its own unique amenities and offerings. Here are a few of our top recommendations:

  • The Westin Cocoa Beach Resort is a luxurious beachfront resort located just a short walk from Port Canaveral. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a number of restaurants and bars.
  • The Hilton Garden Inn Cocoa Beach is a more affordable option that is still close to Port Canaveral. The hotel offers free breakfast, a free airport shuttle, and a heated outdoor pool.
  • The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Cocoa Beach is a great option for families or groups traveling on a budget. The hotel offers free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a playground.

What is the best way to get from my hotel to Port Canaveral?

There are a few different ways to get from your hotel to Port Canaveral. The most convenient option is to take a taxi or Uber. You can also take a shuttle bus, which is usually included in the price of your cruise ticket. If you have a car, you can drive yourself to Port Canaveral.

How early should I arrive at Port Canaveral for my cruise?

It is recommended that you arrive at Port Canaveral at least 2 hours before your cruise’s departure time. This will give you plenty of time to check in, drop off your luggage, and go through security.

What are the best things to do in Port Canaveral before my cruise?

There are a number of things to do in Port Canaveral before your cruise. Here are a few of our top recommendations:

  • Visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. This is a great place to learn about the history of the space program and see some of the actual rockets that have been launched into space.
  • Take a walk or bike ride along the Port Canaveral Boardwalk. This is a great way to enjoy the waterfront views and people-watch.
  • Have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants in Port Canaveral. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from, including seafood restaurants, steakhouses, and Italian restaurants.

What are the best things to do in Port Canaveral after my cruise?

There are a number of things to do in Port Canaveral after your cruise. Here are a few of our top recommendations:

  • Visit the Cocoa Beach Pier. This is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can also go fishing, rent a jet ski, or take a parasailing ride.
  • Go shopping at the Melbourne Beach Outlets. This is a great place to find deals on name-brand clothing, shoes, and accessories.
  • Take a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. This is a great way to learn about the history of the space program and see some of the actual rockets that have been launched into space.

    There are many factors to consider when choosing a place to stay near Port Canaveral for your cruise. The best location for you will depend on your budget, interests, and desired activities. Some of the most popular options include staying in Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, or Orlando. Each area offers its own unique set of attractions and amenities, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Cocoa Beach is a popular choice for cruise passengers because it is located just a short drive from Port Canaveral. The beach is a major draw, with its white sand, clear water, and gentle waves. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars in Cocoa Beach, so you can find plenty to do after your cruise.

Merritt Island is another great option for cruise passengers who want to be close to the water. Merritt Island is home to the Kennedy Space Center, which is a popular tourist destination. There are also plenty of other things to do in Merritt Island, including fishing, boating, and hiking.

Orlando is a great option for cruise passengers who want to experience all that Central Florida has to offer. Orlando is home to several theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. There are also plenty of other attractions in Orlando, such as museums, shopping malls, and restaurants.

No matter what your interests are, you are sure to find a great place to stay near Port Canaveral for your cruise. By considering your budget, interests, and desired activities, you can choose the perfect location for your next vacation.

Key Takeaways:

  • There are many factors to consider when choosing a place to stay near Port Canaveral for your cruise.
  • Some of the most popular options include staying in Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, or Orlando.
  • Each area offers its own unique set of attractions and amenities, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.