There are Coastal cruises out of the port of San Francisco. One cruise line offers voyages down the Pacific coast to Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and San Diego or up the coast to the Pacific Northwest.
One of the stops is Santa Barbara. Things to do in this port include the Old Santa Barbara Mission, the harbor, the zoo, and Stearns Wharf. Get a quick introduction to all these sites on the trolley tour. Excursions to wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley are popular. Whale-watching is good from mid-February through April.
Another port of call is San Diego. This sunny Southern California city has many attractions. The huge Balboa Park includes 15 museums, gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo. The Old Town district offers shopping and dining. Sea World has animals, shows and rides. A harbor cruise is a good way to see the huge Navy base.