How to Get to Santa Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island, a beautiful destination off the coast of Southern California, is accessible by ferry. Two popular ferry services that operate between the mainland and Santa Catalina Island are the Catalina Express and Catalina Flyer. If you are a busy traveler, helicopter can be another option as it takes only 15 mins from Longbeach to the island.


1. Catalina Express Ferry

  • The Catalina Express offers daily departures from multiple locations, including Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point.
  • Passengers can choose from different departure points and travel times based on their convenience.
  • The journey takes about one hour, providing passengers with scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Reservations for the Catalina Express can be made online through their official website, and tickets should be purchased in advance
  • Time of Duration : 1.5 hours
  • Fares : Round Trip (Long beach ↔Avalon) for Adult is $91. 
  • For schedule/fare and more Reservation : Click to Catalina Express webpage


2. Catalina Flyer

  • The Catalina Flyer operates out of Newport Beach and offers a more leisurely pace for travelers.
  • The ferry ride with Catalina Flyer takes approximately 1.5 hours and is known for its comfortable seating and open-air decks.
  • Time of Duration : 1.5 hours 
  • Tickets for the Catalina Flyer can be purchased online or at the ferry terminal in Newport Beach.
  • Fares : Round Trip (Newport ↔Avalon) for Adult is $78
  • For schedule/fare and more Reservation : Click to Catalina Flyer webpage


3. Helicopter Rides to Catalina

  • For a thrilling and faster alternative, helicopter services are available for transportation to Santa Catalina Island.
  • Helicopter rides offer breathtaking aerial views of the coastline and the island, adding an extra element of excitement to the journey.
  • Helicopter services usually depart from specific heliports, and reservations can be made directly through the helicopter operators.
  • While helicopter travel may be a bit pricier than ferry options, it provides a quick and memorable way to reach the island.
  • Time of Duration : 15 mins
  • Fares : Round Trip (Longbeach ↔Avalon) for 2 Adults is $349
  • For schedule/fare and more Reservation : Click to Maverick Helicopter webpage

If you look for tour information about Catalina Island, please check this webpage!

☞ Go to Catalina Tours!