How Far Is Catalina Island From Long Beach?
Wondering, “How far is Catalina Island from Long Beach?”
You’ve landed on the right page because I live in Los Angeles and can share with you how far Catalina Island is from Long Beach, how to get to Catalina Island from Long Beach, and travel tips for going from Long Beach to Catalina Island.
The distance between Catalina Island and Long Beach is about 30 miles and takes about an hour and 15 minutes via high-speed boat ride.
Getting to Catalina Island from Long Beach via the ferry is half the fun and the best way to get to Catalina Island.
There is no bridge to the island, so the only way is by boat, or via helicopter.
It is a beautiful ride on the Pacific Ocean with stunning views of the mountains.
No time to read this whole article? No worries. The Catalina Express Ferry is the fastest and cheapest way to get to Catalina Island from the port of Long Beach.
Don’t have time to read the whole article?
Book this Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon, which has a perfect 5-star rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How to Get to Catalina Island From Long Beach
From the Author: When I tried to book tickets for last September – 3 weeks in advance – for the Catalina Express, the good departure times (early am and the latest returns back to mainland California) were sold out. So, even in the off-season, fall, buy your ferry tickets a month or two in advance. I was shocked and had to change our trip to a later date.
The easiest and cheapest way to get to Catalina Island from Long Beach is via a high-speed boat ride on the Catalina Express from Long Beach to Avalon on Catalina Island.
Before you drive to the Long Beach Port to take the ferry to Catalina, purchase your tickets online.
⛴️ The Catalina Express sells out quickly, especially in peak season. ‼️
I did not take the advice that I give on this blog and tried to buy tickets to Catalina this past month, a week before I wanted to go, and they were sold out for the day I wanted to travel. I didn’t get to go.
So please don’t make my mistake, buy tickets in advance.
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
How Much Is It to Go to Catalina Island From Long Beach
The price of the round-trip ferry is $84.
No time to read this whole article? No worries!
Book the Catalina Express here! ⛴️
How Long Does It Take To Get to Catalina Island From Long Beach?
It takes a little over an hour via the Catalina Express.
The Best Way to Get to Catalina Island From Long Beach
To get to Catalina Island from Long Beach, head to Long Beach Port:
📍Location: 320 Golden Shore in Long Beach, California
Arrive at the port at least 30-60 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and boarding.
Once on board, enjoy the scenic ride across the ocean to Catalina Island. The journey typically takes about 60 minutes, depending on the ferry’s destination in Catalina Island.
Transportation and Maps
Below is a map detaining the four routes to get from mainland California to Catalina Island.
The Catalina Express from the Long Beach port drops passengers off in either Avalon (the main town) or Two Harbors (quieter, with less to do).
The ferry will dock at one of the main ports on Catalina Island, such as Avalon or Two Harbors.
You can then explore the island and enjoy its various activities, beaches, and attractions.
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
Return Trip From Catalina Island to Long Beach
Remember to check the ferry schedule, as departure times may vary depending on the season.
Making reservations in advance is also a good idea, especially if you plan to visit Catalina Island during the busy summer, on weekends, or if you plan on spending only one day on Catalina Island.
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
Some Things You Need To Know About The Catalina Express Ferry:
⛴️ Duration of Ferry: About an hour
🛟 Closest Port to Los Angeles and LAX: San Pedro, 95 Berth, San Pedro, CA
🚾 Restrooms Available: Yes
🐶 Pets Allowed: Only service animals
🥤Food Allowed: Yes
🧑🏻🦽 Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller accessible
👫 Maximum Capacity: 149
👜 Luggage: Yes. Two bags per person, weighing less than 50 pounds.
➡︎ To confirm a reservation on the Catalina Express, you must book your return time when you book your arrival time. 🧾
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
Where To Park Near The Long Beach Port to Catch the Catalina Express Ferry?
Catalina Island from Long Beach
🅿️ Long Beach Port: Parking is conveniently located next to the terminal.
💰Parking rates: $22/day. They accept cash and credit cards.
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
Why Take The Catalina Express?
I’ve taken the Catalina Express many times when family comes to town or just to get away from Los Angeles for the weekend. It’s super convenient and easy to take.
No time to read this whole article? No worries!
Book the Catalina Express here! ⛴️
😎 It’s Easy: Catching the ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro is easy. Parking is accessible once you get to the port. It only takes about an hour to get to the island because, as the name suggests, it’s an express. As someone who gets seasick and doesn’t care for boats, I can stand out on the deck and don’t feel too nauseous.
😎 Nice Views, Baby: It is so much fun taking the ferry. The cool air whips through your hair. You can face the back of the boat and feel the water spray your face while watching beautiful views of the mountains pass.
Check rates & availability for the Catalina Express.
😎 Convenient pick up from several ports: With a range of departure points and schedules available, the Catalina Express provides convenient options for planning a visit to Catalina Island. Throughout the year, the ferry operates regularly, and during the peak season, it offers even more frequent departures.
😎 Eco-friendly: The modern engines on the high-speed ferries of Catalina Express are designed to emit low emissions, reflecting their commitment to environmental stewardship. Taking the Express is more environmentally friendly than taking your own boat there.
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
Catalina Express Reviews
Here are comments from previous passengers about taking the ferry:
Very easy process to purchase tickets for the Catalina Express from Long Beach. No problems whatsoever.
— Nancy
It was affordable and very worth the price!! We had a fun day with lots of activities ☀️🛳. It was nice to ride on the boat and seat at the top and enjoy the view.
— Patricia
I put a wrong date on my ticket. Viator was very accommodating and Catalina Express was very helpful and able to accommodate the changes. Catalina Express station is very clean, bathroom and surroundings. Catalina Express ferry was clean as well.
— Lulu
Read more reviews on Viator.
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
Other Options to Get to Catalina Island
There are a few more options to get to Catalina that aren’t as cheap as taking the Catalina Express.
🛳️ Catalina Flyer from Newport Beach
There is another ferry to Catalina from Newport Beach, the Catalina Flyer (not as accessible for Angelenos).
🛥️ Yacht/Boat Charters
You have the option to book boat charters from Los Angeles to Catalina Island, such as Los Angeles Yacht Charter and Luxury Liners.
However, it’s important to note that this is a more expensive choice, with yacht charters ranging from $750 to $27,000.
⛵️ Sailing
For a truly eco-friendly journey to Catalina Island, consider sailing with companies like Bluewater Sailing and Mariner Sailing Charters.
These sailing options offer a sustainable and environmentally conscious way to reach the island.
🚣🏼♂️ Kayaking
It’s possible to kayak to Catalina. Embarking on a kayaking adventure to Catalina Island is indeed feasible, but it necessitates meticulous planning, thorough preparation, and prior experience in open-water kayaking.
🚁 Helicopter
IEX Helicopters provides convenient flights from Long Beach or San Pedro to Catalina Island, with a quick 15-minute journey.
The round-trip prices for these flights range from $349 to $598.
Additionally, flights are available from LAX airport, Santa Monica, Burbank, Van Nuys, and Hawthorn, with round-trip prices ranging from $2,699 to $3,699.
The flight duration for these routes can vary from 21 to 28 minutes.
It’s important to note that while helicopter transportation offers a faster and more direct option, it is also more expensive compared to taking the Catalina Express ferry.
✈️ Private Planes
Private planes can fly directly to Catalina’s airport, known as “Airport in the Sky.” No commercial plans are allowed.
Check rates & availability for the Catalina Express.
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
Where To Stay on Catalina Island
There are many hotels and accommodations to choose from on Catalina Island, here are some that I recommend:
Below are my top five hotel picks in Catalina:
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
Best Things to Do On Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a great place to take a tour! There are several that are worth it. We have done the Golf Cart tour and the Catalina Casino Tour.
Click the button below for more tours on Catalina Island.
There are many things to do on a small island like Catalina. Our favorite way to see the island is by renting a golf cart.
If this is your first time, we’ve highlighted some favorite tours that will give you a good taste of Catalina Island life.
⛳️ Golf Cart Tour: Take this top-rated 5-star Golf Tour to see a lot of Catalina at once. As we’ve mentioned, no cars are allowed on Catalina, except for a few exceptions (you have to apply to get a car), so you’ll see many locals and tourists using golf carts to get around. It’s a ton of fun.
Note: this tour is very popular and likely to sell out. Please purchase tickets in advance.
⛵️ Glass Bottom Boat Tour: View what’s in the ocean without having to get in it! Discover life under the surface of the Pacific Ocean. Board the boat in Avalon and enjoy views of colorful fish, coral, and other sea life while you sail.
🤿 Semi-Submarine Tour: This is a great experience to do with children. The sub dives six feet (two meters) below the surface at Lovers’ Cove in Avalon.
🎰 Catalina Island Casino Tour: This small-group tour gives visitors to Santa Catalina Island a chance to see spaces in the Casino that were long hidden from public view, including the historic projection room and green rooms used by stars including Errol Flynn and Cary Grant.
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
When is the Best Time to Visit Catalina Island?
The ideal time to visit Catalina Island varies depending on what type of activities you’re most interested in.
If you enjoy water activities, the summer months are recommended because it’s warmer.
Conversely, if you prefer to avoid large crowds, the winter season will suit you best.
Spring: Spring means fewer crowds and mild weather.
👉🏻 See also: Spring Weather Info For Catalina Island: March, April, and May.
Summer: Warmer temperatures, great for the many water activities on Catalina Island.
👉🏻 See also: Summer Weather Info For Catalina Island: June, July, and August.
Fall: Fall means fewer crowds and mild weather, and is one of the best times to visit.
👉🏻 See also: Fall Weather Info For Catalina Island: September, October, and November.
Winter: Winter means fewer crowds and a bit cooler weather. Great time to hike on Catalina Island.
👉🏻 See also: Winter Weather Info For Catalina Island: December, January, and February.
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
How Far Is Catalina Island From Long Beach: FAQs
Here are some of your questions about getting to Catalina Island from Long Beach asked and answered.
How much is Uber from Long Beach Airport to Catalina Express?
The fare from Long Beach Airport (Code: LGB) to the Catalina Express is from $15. to $20. depending on the time of day.
Is a day trip to Catalina Island worth it?
Yes, I usually only go to Catalina Island for a day. It’s a small island. Once there, you may find you want to stay longer, but it’s definitely worth checking out for a day.
How do I get from Long Beach Airport to Catalina Island?
The easiest and cheapest way to get from Long Beach Airport to the Catalina Express at the port of Long Beach is to take a Lyft or Uber. They are about 10 miles apart, 26 minutes, depending on traffic, and the ride will cost you anywhere from $15 to $20, depending on the time of day you travel.
Is the Catalina Express the only way to get to Catalina Island?
There are several other options to get to Catalina Island besides the ferry, but the Catalina Express is the cheapest way to get to Catalina.
What is the best airport to fly into to go to Catalina Island?
The closest airport that will give you readily available access to Catalina Island is Long Beach’s own airport (LGB). Located approximately 33 miles from Catalina Island, Long Beach Airport provides daily flight services to and from 12 destinations, including international connections.
How long does it take to get to Catalina Island from Long Beach?
The ferry ride from Long Beach to Catalina Island takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes each way. You can enjoy onboard amenities like restrooms, light snacks, and a full bar during the journey.
What is the distance between Long Beach and Catalina Island?
Catalina Island is located approximately 22 miles off the coast of Long Beach, California. The island offers a peaceful escape from city life and is a popular destination for day trips and overnight stays.
What is the cost of a ferry from Long Beach to Catalina Island?
A round-trip ferry ticket from Long Beach to Catalina Island costs $84. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the season and availability, so it’s a good idea to book in advance.
Are day trips to Catalina Island worth it?
Absolutely! Day trips to Catalina Island allow you to explore the island’s beautiful landscapes, beaches, and unique activities. With its proximity to Long Beach, it’s a convenient and accessible way to experience the island quickly.
What activities are there to do on Catalina Island?
Catalina Island offers visitors a wide range of activities, including hiking, renting a golf cart, snorkeling, kayaking, and zip-lining. The island is also home to the charming town of Avalon, where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring the local culture.
How far is Catalina Island from other California cities like San Diego and Dana Point?
Catalina Island is approximately 85 miles from San Diego and 41 miles from Dana Point. If you’re traveling from either of these cities, you can find convenient transportation options like ferries and private charters to help you make the trip.
How do you get to Catalina Island from Long Beach?
The easiest and cheapest way to get to Catalina Island from Long Beach is via a high-speed boat ride on the Catalina Express from Long Beach to Avalon on Catalina Island.
Before you drive to the Long Beach Port to take the ferry to Catalina, purchase your tickets online.
What is the cheapest way to get to Catalina Island?
The cheapest way to get to Catalina Island is via the Catalina Express from Long Beach to Avalon on Catalina Island
Can you drive from Long Beach to Catalina Island?
No, there is no way to drive from Long Beach to Catalina Island. Also, the number of vehicles allowed on Catalina Island is restricted.
Is there Uber or Lyft on Catalina Island?
No, there isn’t Uber or Lyft on Catalina Island. Catalina Island is small in length, a mere 22 miles long. The best way to get around the island is to walk, bike, rent a golf cart, or go on a golf cart tour.
How do I get around Catalina Island?
Most people walk, bike, take a taxi, or rent a golf cart. Even locals drive golf carts to get around Catalina Island. California restricts the number of cars on the island.
Is there a ferry from LGB to Catalina Island?
No, there isn’t a ferry from the Long Beach Airport (Code: LGB) to Catalina Island. To get from Long Beach to Catalina Island you have to drive to the Long Beach Port and take the Catalina Express.
How long is the boat ride from Long Beach to Catalina Island?
The Catalina Express take a little over an hour to get from Long Beach to Catalina Island.
How much is the boat ride from Long Beach to Catalina Island?
The round-trip cost of the Catalina Express is $84. per person.
Does the ferry include hotel pick-up and drop-off?
No, the ferry doesn’t include hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Is Catalina Island worth visiting?
Yes! Catalina Island is worth visiting. Catalina Island is a beautiful island off mainland California. There are incredible hikes, water activities, and a lot of tours to discover.
Are dogs allowed on Catalina Island?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Catalina Island with some restrictions. Dogs must be leashed and aren’t allowed on certain beaches.
How to you get to Two Harbors on Catalina Island?
While you can catch the Catalina Express from San Pedro to Two Harbors, it’s important to note that they don’t operate on a consistent schedule. For a more reliable option, it’s advisable to opt for a ferry departing from either San Pedro or Long Beach to Avalon. From Avalon, you have the flexibility to reach Two Harbors either by boat or by taking a taxi.
HOW FAR IS CATALINA ISLAND FROM LONG BEACH
Wrap Up: How Far Is Catalina Island From Long Beach
So there you have it; the distance between Long Beach and Santa Catalina Island is 29.8 miles, making it a quick and enjoyable journey for your getaway.
The easiest and cheapest way to get to Catalina Island from Long Beach is via a high-speed boat ride on the Catalina Express from Long Beach to Avalon on Catalina Island.
So, pack your bags and prepare for your picture-perfect island escape just a stone’s throw away from Long Beach. Your adventure awaits, and Catalina Island promises an unforgettable experience filled with mesmerizing sights and exciting activities.
Read More of My Tips About Visiting Catalina Island
- Cheapest Way to Get to Catalina Island
- Wrigley Botanical Garden & Memorial on Catalina Island
- Renting a Golf Cart on Catalina Island & What You Need to Know
- Catalina Island Ferry: Everything You Need to Know
- Catalina Island in June
- Catalina Island in July
- Catalina Island in August
California Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for California?
100% YES! – With basic coverage averaging $1.50 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
💦 Can you drink the water in California?
Yes — But I wouldn’t. It doesn’t taste very good and there are contaminants in it. You’ll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters drinking water while on the go (traveling) and helps keep you hydrated.
🚙 Is it safe to rent a car in California?
Yes — Renting a car in California is one of the best ways to explore this vast, awesome state, and kind of a must! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local California companies, so you get the best rates. (read more)
🏨 What’s the best way to book my California accommodations?
For California hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a California Airbnb, don’t forget also to check VRBO, which has better rates than Airbnb.
🧳 What do I pack for California?
Head to the Ultimate California Packing List to get all the information you need about packing for a trip to California.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy airfare to California?
For finding cheap California flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
