Port of Los Angeles

Seaport · Los Angeles, California

Illustration of Port of Los Angeles

Overview

The Port of Los Angeles is the busiest container port in the United States. With the Port of Long Beach next door, it forms the San Pedro Bay port complex.

History

The city created its harbor department in 1907 and annexed San Pedro and Wilmington to gain the port. The Vincent Thomas Bridge has crossed the main channel since 1963.

Today

The port handles a large share of U.S. imports from Asia, and its waterfront includes the World Cruise Center and the Battleship Iowa museum. Unescorted access to regulated terminals generally requires a TWIC card.

Compiled October 2026. History is summarized for general interest; check primary sources for research. This landmark is local context, not an employer or job listing.