Catalina Island
A scenic island paradise 22 miles off the California coast, offering charming towns, beautiful beaches, and unique adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Catalina Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic island paradise 22 miles off the California coast, offering charming towns, beautiful beaches, and unique adventures.
"It felt like stepping into a postcard with crystal-clear waters and lush greenery everywhere you looked."
🚗 Rent a Golf Cart
The best way to see the island! Book in advance, especially for weekends.
🚢 Book Ferry Tickets
Secure your round-trip Catalina Express tickets early to guarantee your preferred times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golf Cart Exploration
Avalon
Cruise through Avalon and beyond, discovering scenic viewpoints and hidden gems at your own pace. A must-do for any visitor!
Descanso Beach Club
Avalon
Relax on the sandy shores, enjoy a refreshing drink, and soak in the stunning ocean views at this popular beach club.
Avalon's Charming Streets
Avalon
Wander through the picturesque streets lined with unique shops, delicious eateries, and vibrant architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Golf Cart Early!
Ferry Tickets & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Golf Cart
The best way to see the island! Book in advance, especially for weekends. +1
🚢 Book Ferry Tickets
Secure your round-trip Catalina Express tickets early to guarantee your preferred times.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, so pack comfy shoes!
💰 Be Prepared for Costs
Catalina Island can be pricey; budget accordingly for food, hotels, and tours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Golf Cart
The best way to see the island! Book in advance, especially for weekends. +1
🚢 Book Ferry Tickets
Secure your round-trip Catalina Express tickets early to guarantee your preferred times.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, so pack comfy shoes!
💰 Be Prepared for Costs
Catalina Island can be pricey; budget accordingly for food, hotels, and tours.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera for stunning ocean vistas and charming town scenes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Catalina Island's breathtaking scenery, from crystal-clear waters to lush greenery, making it feel like a postcard. The island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with activities like golf cart exploration and enjoying the beaches. While generally well-organized and welcoming, some find the island's dining and accommodation to be on the pricier side.
"Great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Southern California. Enjoy the peace and serenity of a island only 22 mi from Long Beach. Lots of fun things to see and do."
Jack T
"Catalina Island is the perfect quick escape — just an hour ferry ride or a 12-minute helicopter flight from the mainland. It was our first visit, and we absolutely loved it! There’s so much to do, from hiking and biking to exploring cute coffee shops and waterfront restaurants.
When the cruise ships are in town it gets busy, but once they leave, the island feels peaceful and almost private. We learned about 4,000 people live here year-round, and in summer that goes up to around 7,000.
Our favorite experience was the biking adventure — they drove us about 45 minutes from town up to the airport, and we biked back for about an hour and a half with incredible views and plenty of photo-worthy moments. We saw wild foxes and hummingbirds along the way!
Prices are similar to mainland California, but worth it for the experience. We stayed at a hotel with a sunset ocean view — perfect for a champagne toast. When our ferry was canceled due to choppy water, we took a helicopter back, which ended up being an amazing way to see the island from above.
Catalina Island truly feels like another world — safe, scenic, and unforgettable. Highly recommend!"
qrmomelka
"Such a great island to enjoy tranquil moments with family, friends or solo. Many activities for tourists and local shops to support. Ferry is about 1 hour and 15 min ride from San Pedro."
Nate Ulsh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Catalina Island is by the Catalina Express ferry, departing from ports in Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. The journey takes about an hour and offers scenic ocean views. +1
You can catch the Catalina Express from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point in Southern California.
The ferry ride to Catalina Island typically takes about one hour.
No, private vehicles are generally not allowed on Catalina Island. Visitors rely on golf carts, bicycles, or walking to get around Avalon and Two Harbors.
Yes, all Catalina Express terminals offer parking, though fees may apply. It's advisable to check the specific terminal's parking information in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your Catalina Express ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, weekends, and holidays, to ensure availability and preferred departure times.
Operating hours for attractions, shops, and restaurants on Catalina Island can vary seasonally. It's best to check the specific hours for any place you plan to visit closer to your travel date.
There are no general entrance fees to visit Catalina Island. However, you will need to pay for the ferry transportation and any activities or attractions you choose to experience on the island.
While some golf cart rentals might be available upon arrival, it's strongly advised to reserve them in advance, as they are very popular and often sell out, especially during busy periods. +1
The cost of golf cart rentals on Catalina Island can vary depending on the duration and type of cart. It's best to check with the rental companies directly for current pricing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most popular way to get around Avalon is by renting a golf cart. Walking is also feasible for exploring the main town. For Two Harbors, consider bicycles or walking. +1
Key attractions include exploring Avalon's charming streets, renting a golf cart for scenic drives, relaxing at Descanso Beach Club, and visiting the Catalina Casino. +1
Yes, there are many scenic spots for photos, especially along the golf cart routes with ocean views and within Avalon's picturesque streets.
Activities include snorkeling, diving, kayaking, hiking, glass-bottom boat tours, visiting the Catalina Casino, and exploring the town's shops and restaurants.
Catalina Island is generally considered safe for families. The main town of Avalon is walkable, and golf cart rentals offer a fun way for families to explore together.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular dining spots include Bluewater Avalon for seafood, Antonio's Pizzeria & Deli for casual bites, and The Lobster for upscale dining with ocean views.
Yes, food and dining on Catalina Island can be on the expensive side due to its island location and reliance on transport. Budget accordingly.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and some are increasingly accommodating vegan requests. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff.
Don't miss out on local ice cream shops and candy stores for sweet treats, perfect for a day of exploring.
You can bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages onto the ferry and the island. However, be mindful of any restrictions on glass containers and alcohol policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic overlooks accessible by golf cart, the charming streets of Avalon with its colorful buildings, and the iconic Catalina Casino are prime photography locations.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the island's natural beauty and coastal landscapes.
Drone usage is typically restricted in many areas of Catalina Island, especially around Avalon and the Casino, due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local ordinances before flying.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and town shots. A wide-angle lens can capture expansive ocean views, and a telephoto can be useful for wildlife if you venture further.
Photography inside the Catalina Casino may be restricted during events or tours. It's best to inquire about their specific photography policy upon arrival.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as food prices can add up. The ferry ride itself is often an exciting part of the adventure for kids. Look for family-friendly restaurants that offer kid's menus. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a stress-free getaway for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on free activities like exploring Avalon on foot, enjoying the beaches, and taking in the scenic views. While golf cart rentals are popular, walking can be a great way to see the town without additional expense. Look for package deals that might include ferry tickets and accommodation.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider staying at one of the charming hotels in Avalon, many of which offer ocean views or are located near the beach. A couples massage or simply relaxing together at Descanso Beach Club can add to the romantic ambiance. The island's relaxed pace allows for quality time together, away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Catalina Island: Getting Around
Beyond golf carts, Avalon is very walkable, making it easy to explore the shops, restaurants, and waterfront on foot. For those seeking a more active experience, bicycles are also available for rent. If your travels take you to the more remote Two Harbors area, bicycles and walking are the primary modes of transport. Remember that private vehicles are not permitted on the island, so plan your transportation accordingly.
When planning your golf cart rental, it's crucial to book in advance, especially if you're visiting on a weekend or during peak season, as they tend to sell out quickly. Some visitors have noted potential safety concerns regarding unfenced uphill routes when driving golf carts, so always exercise caution and adhere to posted speed limits.
Experiencing Catalina's Natural Beauty and Activities
For those who prefer to stay on land, hiking trails crisscross the island, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged interior. The Catalina Casino, despite its name, is not a gambling establishment but a stunning historic entertainment venue that hosts concerts and events, and offers tours of its magnificent ballroom and theater. Glass-bottom boat tours provide a fantastic way to see the underwater world without getting wet, showcasing the colorful reefs and fish.
Don't miss the chance to simply relax on one of the island's beautiful beaches, such as Descanso Beach Club, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea with convenient amenities. The island's natural beauty is a significant draw, with lush greenery and dramatic coastal scenery providing a picturesque backdrop for any activity.
A Culinary Journey on Catalina Island
For a quick and satisfying meal, pizzerias and delis are abundant, offering a more laid-back option. Many establishments also feature outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal with ocean views. Be aware that dining on the island can be more expensive than on the mainland due to transportation costs for supplies.
Beyond savory dishes, Catalina Island is also known for its sweet treats. You'll find numerous ice cream parlors and candy stores that are perfect for a refreshing indulgence after a day of exploring. These local favorites are a hit with both visitors and residents alike, adding a touch of sweetness to your island getaway.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit