20 Unique Things to Buy on a West Coast Cruise | Shopping Guide
This past Spring I sailed on the Ruby Princess from Los Angeles to Vancouver, BC. We visited 4 delightful ports along the way, where the Port of Call Shopper discovered some fabulous Things with West Coast and Canadian vibes. If you are fortunate enough to cruise this itinerary, here are 20 unique arts, crafts, and food I recommend saving room for in your suitcase on your cruise packing list. These souvenirs will remind you of your adventure!
Downtown Los Angeles
Downtown Los Angeles
World-renowned for its entertainment industry, Los Angeles is home to Hollywood, beaches, and cultural attractions. The Downtown Los Angeles Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of bold street art, colorful building murals, artist studios, and galleries set alongside designer boutiques offering beachwear, trendy cafes, breweries and nightlife.
Arts District Co-op in DTLA
The Arts District Co-op is a funky warehouse filled with an array of apparel, jewelry, artwork and home decor. The Arts District Co-op
Dylan Lex at ROW DTLA
Dylan Lex is a contemporary fashion boutique specializing in bold accessories that are seen on many of today’s celebrities. Dylan Lex
ARJ Los Angeles at ROW DTLA
Blending Eastern and Western design influences, ARJ Los Angeles offers a unique selection of tableware, glassware, and utensils that bring art into the dining room. ARJ Los Angeles
Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is known for its Mediterranean charm and an art scene inspired by picturesque landscapes, verdant vineyards and coastal lifestyles perfect for shore excursions. The Funk Zone is located just steps from the beach and offers an array of art galleries, crafting studios, SoCal fashion boutiques with resort wear, and a stellar collection of wineries and award-winning restaurants, so pack your sun protection.
Jess Conti Leather Goods
Jess Conti Leather Goods is located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, home to a collection of artists, galleries and boutiques. Jess handmakes apparel, accessories and bags you’ll find nowhere else. Jess Conti Leather Goods
Seaside Makers
Seaside Makers offers an array of artisan-made gifts and goods handcrafted by local makers. Grapeseed products, made from local vineyard by-products, include scrubs, oils, balms, and lotions. Seaside Makers
The Valley Project Winery
Located in the heart of the Funk Zone, visitors to The Valley Project tasting room can enjoy a variety of fine wines, while learning about the five distinct Viticultural Areas of Santa Barbara. The Valley Project
San Francisco, California
San Francisco, California
Best known for its Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, and rolling hills, San Francisco also offers an arts and culture scene as diverse as its neighborhoods. From the Mission District to China Town, and Fisherman’s Wharf to the Embarcadero, talented artists, designers, and culinary craftspeople reflect the city’s creative vibe and energy. Exploring these areas on shore excursions calls for comfortable walking shoes and checking your cruise packing list, making it ideal for unique souvenirs.
Far West Fungi
Showcasing all things “mushroom” including dried mushrooms, powders, teas, tinctures and truffle products, Far West Fungi showcases the vegetable’s umami greatness. Far West Fungi
Book Passage
This Indy bookstore offers a variety of books, stationery, and stunning postcards all written and crafted by local writers, photographers, and artisans. Book Passage
Village Market
Discover everything a chef’s kitchen needs, including regional packaged foods, oils, vinegars, jams, condiments, and spices produced locally in the Bay Area. Village Market
Astoria, Oregon
Astoria, Oregon
Perched at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria is a charming coastal town brimming with nautical heritage and beautiful Victorian architecture. Its rich history intertwines with a thriving arts and culture scene, where local artisans draw inspiration from the town’s breathtaking surroundings. Pack clothing layers for the Pacific Northwest climate and binoculars to take in the river views. From traditional crafts to bold works of art, every creation in Astoria reflects the natural beauty and spirit of this captivating town.
West Coast Artisans
West Coast Artisans offers an array of handmade fabric items, custom embroidery and unique gifts all sewn in a delightful studio and gallery. West Coast Artisans
Pat’s Pantry
Pat’s Pantry offers a world of flavors including spices, herbs, salts, peppers, condiments, and over 60 varieties of teas. Pat’s Pantry
Luminari Arts
Offering handmade gifts, jewelry, stationery, ceramics, and more, Luminari Arts is located in the heart of historic downtown Astoria. Luminari Arts
Made in Astoria Gallery
A contemporary gallery and retail space showing a collection of work by artists from the Columbia Pacific Region ranging from wood sculptures to paintings and handcrafted jewelry. Made in Astoria
Victoria, British Columbia
Victoria, British Columbia
Victoria is the capital of British Columbia, and sits on the southern end of Vancouver Island. It is celebrated for its colonial charm and rich history. Victoria’s arts community reflects artwork by both Canadian and international artists, craftspeople, and designers. It is also heavily influenced by its First Nations history and talented Native artisans.
The Butchart Gardens
The Butchart Gardens encompasses 55 acres filled with stunning displays of flora and fauna. The store offers a variety of seeds, stationery, scented bath products like toiletries, and home decor, a great addition to your cruise packing list. The Butchart Gardens
Puzzle Lab
Puzzle Lab utilizes original artwork from Canadian artists to fabricate heirloom-quality wooden puzzles that, once assembled, are true works of art. Puzzle Lab
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver, British Columbia
One of Canada’s most ethnically diverse cities, Vancouver is Canada’s busiest port. It is home to a variety of Indigenous peoples and international cultures, who bring authentic arts and crafts to the destination. Vancouver offers visitors an array of visual, performing, and culinary arts, discovered on shore excursions throughout its trendy neighborhoods such as Gastown, Yaletown, and the popular Granville Island, so keep your money belt handy.
Wickaninnish Gallery
This indigenous-owned gallery showcases the artwork of many emerging and established indigenous artists. Authentic crafts include prints, blankets, moccasins, jewelry and more. Wickaninnish Gallery
Granville Island Broom Co.
Handcrafted using a variety of antique tools and equipment, each broom from the remarkable Granville Island Broom Co. is unique, whether used functionally or displayed as a piece of historic art. Granville Island Broom Co.
Vancouver Studio Glass
This studio at Granville Island allows visitors to watch the process of glass-blowing dishware, vases, jewelry, and sculptures in person. Vancouver Studio Glass
The West Coasts of the United States and Canada are home to an extraordinary array of talented artisans, craftsmen, designers, and culinary innovators, each offering unique creations that capture the spirit of their destination. Cruising aboard the Ruby Princess provides a truly unforgettable way to experience these vibrant destinations, immersing travelers in the diverse cultures and craftsmanship of each port. Stash your treasures in your stateroom and finalize your cruise packing list.
Expert Travel Tips
Prepare your travel documents well in advance, ensuring your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your cruise dates. Travel insurance covers unexpected issues, from medical emergencies to trip delays. On embarkation day, attach luggage tags securely and pack a portable charger, reusable water bottle, medications, wrinkle-release spray, and toiletries in your carry-on. Always review the prohibited items list to avoid surprises at security.
For footwear, choose versatile options like comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and stylish pairs for dinners. Dress codes vary, so pack smart casual outfits for most evenings, formal wear for gala nights, evening chic looks, casual daywear for lounging, and activewear for onboard activities. Check onboard shops for last-minute needs, and keep your passport and other travel documents accessible throughout the journey.
Love the artisan items featured here but can’t make the trip? Visit our SHOP page to discover similar Things handcrafted by artisans – delivered straight to your door!
Also, visit our SHOP page to discover workshops, tours, and classes that turn global travel into a hands-on, unforgettable experience!
Keep cruisin’ through life, discovering your own special Things!
CHEERS!
