Catalina Island
1 Green Pleasure Pier, Los Angeles, CA, 90704
Santa Catalina Island, also known as Catalina, is a picturesque Southern California island just off the coast of Los Angeles. Known for its rocky terrain, clear blue waters, and Mediterranean feel, it’s an idyllic escape that feels worlds away, despite only being an hour from the mainland by ferry. The island’s main town, Avalon, offers boutique shopping, oceanfront dining, and harbor views. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are also ample opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and boating.
The Basics
Visitors seeking a whole Catalina-from-mainland package can take a full-day guided tour from Anaheim or Los Angeles, while independent travelers coming from LA can simply book ferry tickets online. Once you’re on Catalina, an Avalon scenic tour is the perfect introduction to the island. Food tours offer a delicious way to discover the unique eats and culinary culture of Catalina. If you’d like a peek at the underwater world but aren’t keen on getting wet, check out a glass-bottom boat tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
Catalina Island is a must-see for beach-goers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families.
Catalina is an easy day trip from LA or Anaheim, though staying overnight offers a bit more solitude once the day-trippers leave.
Be sure to bring a camera and sunscreen, plus sturdy shoes if you plan to do some hiking.
How to Get There
Ferries shuttle visitors to Catalina Island’s Avalon Harbor in just over an hour from Long Beach, Dana Point, San Pedro, or Newport Beach. Be sure to check out the coastal views as you leave port. If you’re day-tripping, be aware of the last ferry departure times. Segway and golf cart rentals or walking are the most common ways to get around the island.
When to Get There
Catalina enjoys Southern California sunshine year-round. Crowds are more likely during summer, with expanded ferry service through September. Winter months are typically less busy, though the climate is cooler.
Catalina for Adventurers
While it’s tempting to simply lounge on the island’s beaches, there is an array of outdoor activities for those seeking adventure. Snorkeling, biking, golfing, Segway tours, scuba diving, kayaking, camping, hiking, and parasailing are just some of the options readily available on Catalina. There is also a zipline eco tour in the hills behind Avalon.
Ways to explore
Many visitors choose to prebook their ferry transfers from the mainland, such as departures from San Pedro. These departures typically use the Catalina Express boat and give visitors the flexibility to choose from a variety of different time slots to travel to Avalon. Once on Catalina Island, an Avalon scenic tour offers a relaxed introduction to the area and its viewpoints. Food tours are another popular option; these usually run as guided walking tours that showcase favorite local haunts with a variety of food and drink tastings along the way.
Accessibility
Avalon’s waterfront area is generally wheelchair accessible with paved promenades, and the ferries and ports are wheelchair accessible, too.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Refillable water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, small bag
What to wear
Comfortable walking shoes, light layers, hat
Not allowed
Feeding or approaching wildlife, littering
Amenities
Visitor center in Avalon with maps, restaurants, and shops
AddressÂ
Catalina Island lies off the Southern California coast and is only reachable by ferry. Most visitors travel to the island independently via scheduled boat services, though it’s also possible to get to the island by helicopter.
Driving
You can’t drive to Catalina Island. Instead, drive to Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point harbors, where Catalina Express ferries depart. Paid parking options are available near each terminal.
Public transportation
Ferries shuttle visitors to Catalina Island’s Avalon Harbor in just over an hour from Long Beach, Dana Point, San Pedro, and Newport Beach. It’s easy to get to each of these ports by public transportation, such as local bus services.
Best times to visit
Visit mid-morning to beat afternoon crowds and have a full day to explore the highlights of Catalina Island.
Best days to visit
Tuesdays through Thursdays typically have lower crowd numbers. Weekends attract heavy day-trip traffic from Southern California.
Best months to visit
April through October are good months to visit, as they offer pleasant weather and the most reliable ferry schedules.
Special events
The Catalina Wine Mixer usually takes place in July and includes wine tastings, live entertainment, and delicious food.
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