How to Get From Los Angeles to Catalina Island: A Local Answers
From the Author: I went from LA to Catalina this past October. I tried to book tickets on the Catalina Express 3 weeks in advance, and all the good times slots were booked. Please book in advance.
Looking for the best way to get from Los Angeles to Catalina Island? You’re in the right place. While there are a few ways to make the trip, the easiest and most affordable is to drive to Long Beach, park at the port, and hop on the Catalina Express.
I did it recently—parking was simple, the boat ride smooth, and we had a beautiful day on the island. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best options for getting from Los Angeles to Catalina Island, plus a few alternatives and FAQs to make your trip seamless.
Don’t have time to read the whole article?
The Catalina Express Round-Trip Ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro to Avalon is the quickest and cheapest way to get to Catalina Island.
How to Get From Los Angeles to Catalina Island
The Catalina Express is the fastest and cheapest way to get from Los Angeles to Catalina Island.
✅ It’s eco-friendly.
✅ Round-trip tickets, priced at $84, offer excellent value.
✅ Each booking allows a maximum of 14 people, making it convenient for group travel.
✅ By booking the Catalina Express Ferry, gain easy access to the abundant attractions on the island, including hiking trails, sightseeing opportunities, and a variety of dining and shopping experiences.
✅ During the ferry ride, you’ll have breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
✅ Be dropped off in downtown Avalon where all the action is.
| Catalina Express | Depart From | To |
|---|---|---|
| San Pedro (closest port to Catalina | 95 Perth Street, San Pedro | Avalon |
| Long Beach | 320 Golden Shore, Long Beach | Avalon |
Check availability for the Catalina Express Ferry.
How to Get to Catalina Island From LAX
There are two options to go from Los Angeles Airport (code: LAX) to Catalina Island via the San Pedro Port which is the closest port to LAX.
Car and Ferry
To get the Catalina Express at the San Pedro Port (the closest port to LAX), take I-405 S and 1-110 S.
If you need to rent a car from LAX, we recommend Discover Cars because of their competitive rates and free cancellation policy.
Public Transportation and Ferry
To get to the San Pedro Port via public transportation, take the Metro C Line Blue, Metro C Line Green, and Metro J Line Silver.
The Catalina Express: Need to Know
Here are some answers to some of the questions you might have about the Catalina Express.
⛴️ 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. 🧾
Parking Near The Port to Catch the Catalina Express Ferry
Parking will vary depending on which departure point you choose. Let’s start with the closest departure port to Catalina Island.
Catalina Island from San Pedro
🅿️ San Pedro Port: Parking is conveniently located next to the terminal.
💰Parking rates: $20/day or $2/hour. They accept cash, credit cards, and traveler’s checks.
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.
Why Choose 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.
😎 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 as well.
Catalina Express Reviews
Here are comments from previous passengers of 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.
Other Options to Get to Catalina Island from Los Angeles
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: Maverick Helicopters
Maverick Helicopters provides convenient flights from Long Beach or San Pedro to Catalina Island, with a quick 15-minute journey.
Catalina Island Transfers range from $329 – $599.
Maverick Helicopters offers per-seat flights from Long Beach (Maverick Queen Mary terminal) daily, and San Pedro on the weekends.
Additionally, charters are available from any local airport starting at $2699. The flight duration for these routes can vary from 21 to 28 minutes.
It’s essential to note that while helicopter transportation offers a faster and more direct option, it’s 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.
Where is Catalina Island?
Situated off the Southern California coast, Catalina Island lies approximately 29 miles west of Long Beach. Spanning 22 miles in length and reaching a maximum width of 8 miles, the island offers a sizable expanse of land to explore.
Map of Catalina Island
Where To Stay on Catalina Island
There are many hotels and accommodations to choose from on Catalina Island, here are some that I recommend:
Best Beach Access: Catalina Island Inn
Best Luxury: Mt. Ada Bed & Breakfast (gorgeous views of Catalina!)
Best for families with little kids: Hotel Atwater
Best Things to Do On Catalina Island
For a small island, there are many things to do in Catalina. Our favorite things to do is seeing the island by renting a golf cart, a great way to see the island. 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, there are no cars 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.
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.
LOS ANGELES TO CATALINA ISLAND
How to Get From Los Angeles to Catalina Island: FAQs
How to get to Catalina Island from Los Angeles?
The Catalina Express Ferry is the fastest and cheapest way to get from Los Angeles to Catalina Island. Plus, it’s a ton of fun, and you get great Pacific Ocean views.
How long does it take to get to Catalina Island from Los Angeles?
Once you get to one of the ports that leave for Catalina, the high-speed ferry takes one hour to get to the island from the port. You have to get from Los Angeles to one of the ports. San Pedro is the closest port to Los Angeles. Other ports are Long Beach, Dana Point, and Newport Beach.
Can I drive from Los Angeles to Catalina Island?
No. Because there isn’t a bridge to Catalina Island, you cannot drive from Los Angeles to Catalina Island. You have to get a passenger ferry, The Catalina Express, from any of the four mainland ports of Southern California – namely San Pedro, Long Beach, Newport Beach, or Dana Point. The ferry takes an hour.
What’s the best way to get to Catalina Island?
The Catalina Express Ferry is the fastest and cheapest way to get from Los Angeles to Catalina Island. Plus, it’s a ton of fun, and you get great Pacific Ocean views. Get the ferry from four ports: San Pedro, Long Beach, Newport Beach, or Dana Point.
How many days is enough in Catalina Island?
Two days on Catalina Island is plenty. However, if you intend to unwind, explore hiking trails, or indulge in diving adventures, extending your stay to 2-3 days would be a more suitable and realistic option.
Is there a ferry from LAX to Catalina Island?
No. There is no ferry from LAX to Catalina Island. From LAX, you need to get to one of the four ports to catch the Catalina Express or the Catalina Flyer from: San Pedro, Long Beach, Newport Beach, or Dana Point. The ferry takes about an hour to reach Catalina Island.
Do you need a car on Catalina Island?
No. You don’t need a car on Catalina Island. The town of Avalon is walkable, and most visitors and some locals get around the island via golf cart rentals. You can also bike and e-bike. Avalon is the only city in California authorized by the state legislature to regulate the number and size of vehicles allowed to drive on city streets.
What is the distance from Catalina Island to Los Angeles?
Catalina Island is 22 miles southeast of Los Angeles, California. It is part of California.
How do you get to Catalina Island from Los Angeles?
The easiest, cheapest, and fastest way to get to Catalina from Los Angeles is to take the Catalina Express Ferry from San Pedro (95 Berth, San Pedro). However, you can also take a helicopter, a private boat, a private plane, sail in or kayak.
What is the cheapest way to get to Catalina Island?
The cheapest way to get to Catalina Island is via the Catalina Express Ferry from San Pedro or Long Beach.
Is there Uber or Lyft on Catalina Island?
No. Uber and Lyft are not available on Catalina Island. The town of Avalon restricts the number of cars allowed on Catalina Island.
How do you get around Catalina Island?
Locals and visitors alike get around Catalina Island on foot, by public transit, by taxi, or by renting a golf cart.
How much is the boat ride from LA to Catalina Island?
The round-trip ticket for the Catalina Express is $84 per adult.
Does the Catalina Express Ferry include hotel pick-up and drop-off?
No. The Catalina Express Ferry doesn’t include hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Is Catalina Island worth visiting?
Yes! Catalina Island is worth visiting. Catalina Island is worth visiting for its natural beauty, diverse outdoor activities, rich history, and a serene atmosphere that offers relaxation and tranquility. Also, it is an island!
Are dogs allowed on Catalina Island?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Catalina Island. However, there are certain restrictions. To ensure your pet’s safety, it is necessary to keep them leashed at all times and be aware that certain beaches and attractions may not allow pets to accompany you.
LOS ANGELES TO CATALINA ISLAND
The Wrap-Up: How to Get From Los Angeles to Catalina Island
When it comes to traveling from LA to Catalina Island, the Catalina Express Ferry reigns supreme as the top choice. Not only is it the most affordable and quickest option, but it also boasts an environmentally friendly ferry service.
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
- Is There a Bridge to Catalina Island
- Is Catalina Island Worth Visiting
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.
