Catalina Island
A World Away, Just An Hour Away
California coast, and while it's part of Los Angeles County, it feels like a world away. Ferries reach the island in about an hour, and once you arrive, you'll find a walkable harbor town, protected wilderness, clear water for snorkeling and diving, and more than a century of history.
Catalina Island Quick Fact
- Location: a little more than 20 miles off the Southern California coast , in Los Angeles County
- Size: 76 square miles, with more than 50 miles of coastline
- Main town: Avalon, the island's only incorporated city (population about 4,000)
- Second village: Two Harbors, toward the island's west end
- Wilderness: nearly 90 percent of the island is protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy
- Getting here: about one hour by ferry from the mainland
- Island chain: the only one of the eight Channel Islands with a permanent civilian population that regularly welcomes visitors
Where Is Catalina Island and How Do I Get There?
Catalina Island is located a little more than 20 miles off the Southern California coast, across from Long Beach and Orange County. Most visitors arrive by passenger ferry, a trip of about an hour from mainland ports in Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point and Newport Beach. You can also arrive by private boat, by helicopter, or by private plane at the Airport in the Sky.
Visitors can't bring cars to the island. Avalon is easy to explore on foot, and golf carts and bikes are available to rent. See Getting Here and Getting Around for schedules and options.
How Much Time Do You Need on Catalina?
A day trip gives you enough time to explore Avalon's waterfront, take a tour, and enjoy a meal by the harbor. An overnight stay lets you slow down, see Avalon after the day boats leave, and fit in activities like snorkeling, ziplining or a bison tour. With two or three nights, you can explore the island's interior, visit Two Harbors, or hike part of the Trans-Catalina Trail. Browse our itineraries or places to stay to plan your trip.
Avalon or Two Harbors: Which Should You Visit?
Avalon is where most visitors stay, with hotels, restaurants, shops, tours and landmarks like the Catalina Casino, all within walking distance. Two Harbors is a small, rustic village toward the west end, popular with boaters, campers and hikers looking for a quieter, more outdoorsy experience. Two Harbors is about 40 minutes from Avalon by boat or two hours by bus. Learn more about visiting Two Harbors.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Catalina Island?
Catalina is a year-round destination with a mild climate. Summer is the busiest season, with the warmest weather and the most events. Fall brings warm ocean temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a favorite with locals. Winter and spring are quieter, with weekday hotel deals, green hillsides and holiday events. Check the weather page and events calendar before you go.
The Island's Story
The Tongva people lived on Catalina for thousands of years before European explorers arrived, and their history is still part of the island today. Spanish explorers claimed the island in the 1500s, and in 1919 William Wrigley Jr. purchased it, building much of the Avalon visitors see now. Today the Catalina Island Conservancy protects most of the island's land. Explore more of Catalina's history.
