How to Get to Catalina Island (Ferry, Helicopter & Travel Options)

Ferry to Catalina Island

You can get to Catalina Island by passenger ferry boat from four mainland ports in southern California. The ferry is the most popular way to get to Catalina and the ride is about an hour. The majority of transportation arrives in Avalon, CA.

Ferry Service

• Catalina Express offers daily service from Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point to Avalon. The Catalina Express also offers service to Two Harbors from San Pedro.
• Catalina Flyer offers daily service from Newport Beach to Avalon.

What is the best mainland port to depart from to go to Catalina Island?

The Catalina Express departs from two Los Angeles County ports in Long Beach and San Pedro. These ports are most convenient to Long Beach Airport (LGB) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). They also operate out of Dana Point in south Orange County. Dana Point is most convenient for travelers from south Orange County, CA and the Greater San Diego area.

The Catalina Flyer departs from Newport Beach in central Orange County. This port is convenient to John Wayne Airport (SNA) and all Orange County locations.

Terminal Location and Parking

Onsite parking is available for a fee at all three of Catalina Express ferry teriminal locations.

Catalina Express terminal in San Pedro: Berth 95, San Pedro, CA 90731 (at Swinford and Harbor Boulevard)
Catalina Landing in Downtown Long Beach: 320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, CA 90802
Catalina Express in Dana Point: 34675 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, CA 92629

Catalina Flyer parking:

For all-day or overnight parking, the Catalina Flyer recommends the Balboa Pier parking lot. Rates vary by season, weekends, and holidays, but typically range from $15–$30 per 24-hour period. The lot is located at 1 Balboa Pier, Newport Beach, CA 92661.

For drop-off, including ride-share services like Uber and Lyft, the Catalina Flyer recommends using 400 Main Street, Newport Beach, CA 92661 as your destination.

Helicopter to Catalina Island

Getting to Catalina by helicopter takes about 15 minutes via Maverick Helicopters. Daily departures are available to Avalon from Long Beach, San Pedro, Burbank Airport and John Wayne Airport/SNA. Maverick Helicopters utilizes the helipad at Pebbly Beach.

For directions to and information about getting to and parking at ferry and helicopter terminals, please visit the ferry terminals page. See information on Getting Around Catalina via foot, bike, golf cart, taxi, public transit, water taxi and shore boat.

Daily Scheduled Service to Catalina Island

Getting to Two Harbors

Transportation to Two Harbors is available via the Catalina Express from San Pedro, CA. You can also travel seasonally between Avalon and Two Harbors on the Cyclone boat. Private Charter Transportation, and Charter Services to Two Harbors and Emerald Bay are also available. You can also travel by private boat! 

Once on the island, the town of Avalon or the village of Two Harbors are easy to navigate by foot – Avalon is only about three-square miles. Taxi, public transit and shuttle transportation can take you to your destination.

Transportation to Catalina Island