Overview
Catalina Island sits roughly 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles County in the Pacific Ocean. Despite its proximity to one of the world's largest metropolitan areas, the island feels remarkably removed from the mainland — a quality that has made it a beloved getaway for Southern Californians and out-of-state visitors alike for well over a century.
The island is home to two communities: the main resort town of Avalon on the eastern end, and the smaller, quieter settlement of Two Harbors near the isthmus on the western side. Avalon offers restaurants, hotels, shops, and most of the island's organized attractions. Two Harbors is the starting point for more rugged hiking and camping.
About 88 percent of the island is owned and managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy, which works to preserve its unique ecosystem. Endemic species — including the Catalina Island fox, which has rebounded dramatically after a near-extinction event in the 1990s — roam the interior alongside bison that were brought to the island for a film shoot in the 1920s and never removed.
The island's character is relaxed and walkable. Private automobiles are heavily restricted; most visitors explore Avalon on foot, by golf cart, or on organized tours. This restriction, along with the ferry crossing required to get here, gives Catalina a pace that feels genuinely different from the mainland.
Before You Go
Catalina Island is a domestic destination within the United States and requires no passport or visa for US citizens. International visitors should check TravelerPulse's Visas section and consult the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for entry requirements applicable to their nationality.
What to Pack
- Sun protection: The island is exposed and UV levels are high, particularly from May through September. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Layers: Even in summer, ocean breezes can make mornings and evenings cool. A light jacket or windbreaker is useful year-round.
- Water shoes or sandals: Useful for snorkeling entry points and rocky beach areas.
- Cash and cards: Avalon has ATMs and most businesses accept cards, but it's wise to carry some cash for small vendors and tips.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Private vehicles are not permitted for most visitors; the waiting list for a vehicle permit is extremely long. Plan to get around on foot, by golf cart rental, or on organized tours.
- Camping in the interior requires advance reservations through the Catalina Island Conservancy. Verify current availability and booking procedures on their official website before your trip.
- Cell service can be limited or spotty outside Avalon. Download any maps or information you need before you leave the mainland.
Getting There
The primary way to reach Catalina Island is by ferry. Two operators — Catalina Express and Catalina Flyer — run regular passenger ferry services from several mainland ports including San Pedro, Long Beach, Dana Point, and Newport Beach. Crossing times vary by departure point but typically range from roughly 75 minutes to just over an hour from the closer ports. Confirm current schedules, pricing, and departure points directly with the ferry operators, as sailings vary by season.
Helicopter service to the island is also available through Island Express Helicopter Service, connecting San Pedro with Avalon in approximately 15 minutes. This option is subject to weather conditions and capacity; verify current operations and rates on their official site.
The island has a small airport, Catalina Airport (Airport in the Sky), located in the island's interior. It primarily serves private and charter aircraft. If you are considering flying in on a private or charter flight, confirm landing fees, fuel availability, and transportation into Avalon in advance, as the airport sits several miles from town.
Most visitors book round-trip ferry tickets in advance, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when boats sell out. Arriving at the ferry terminal early is advisable even with a ticket.
Getting Around
Avalon's compact downtown is very walkable. The main waterfront promenade (Crescent Avenue), shops, restaurants, and many hotels are all within easy walking distance of the ferry terminal.
Golf carts are the de facto vehicle of Avalon and can be rented from several companies near the pier. They are a practical and enjoyable way to explore the town and some adjacent areas. Rental availability can be limited during peak periods; book ahead if possible and verify rates locally.
Organized tours are the main option for seeing the island's interior and more remote areas. The Catalina Island Conservancy and several tour operators run guided excursions by open-air vehicle, covering the buffalo roaming grounds, the airport, and interior scenic overlooks. Check current tour options and prices with operators upon arrival or on their websites.
For Two Harbors and the western end of the island, a separate ferry service connects Avalon and Two Harbors seasonally. Hikers and campers also reach Two Harbors via the Trans-Catalina Trail. Verify seasonal ferry schedules locally or with the Catalina Channel Express.
Where to Stay
Avalon has a range of accommodations from beachfront hotels to smaller inns and bed-and-breakfasts. Two Harbors offers more rustic lodging options including cabins and tent camping facilities. The Catalina Island Conservancy manages several campgrounds in the interior, including sites along the Trans-Catalina Trail.
Accommodation capacity on the island is finite and demand is high during summer weekends, holiday weekends, and the Catalina Marathon in March. Booking several months in advance is strongly recommended for those periods. Even shoulder season weekends can fill quickly.
Prices are generally higher than comparable accommodations on the mainland, reflecting the island's supply constraints. Verify current rates and availability directly with hotels or through reputable booking platforms close to your travel date, as rates fluctuate significantly by season.
For camping reservations — including interior Conservancy sites — check the Catalina Island Conservancy's official website for current booking procedures, fees, and site availability well in advance of your trip.
Things to See & Do
The Casino
Catalina's most iconic landmark is the Casino — a 1929 circular Art Deco building at the northern tip of Avalon Bay. Despite its name, it was never a gambling establishment; the word was used in the Italian sense to mean 'gathering place.' Inside are the Avalon Theatre, still in use as a cinema, and the Catalina Island Museum, which documents the island's history. Admission fees and hours for the museum vary; check the museum's official website before visiting.
Snorkeling and Diving
The waters around Catalina are among the most accessible dive and snorkel locations in California, with clear visibility and diverse marine life including garibaldi (California's state marine fish), kelp forests, bat rays, and sea bass. Lover's Cove Marine Preserve near Avalon is a popular, calm spot for snorkeling. Scuba diving operators in Avalon offer guided dives, equipment rental, and certification courses — verify operators, prices, and certifications locally.
Hiking
The Trans-Catalina Trail runs approximately 37 miles from Avalon to Parsons Landing on the western end. Day hikers can access shorter segments from Avalon and Two Harbors. A permit is required to access the Conservancy's interior lands beyond designated areas; verify permit requirements on the Catalina Island Conservancy website.
Wildlife Watching
Bison sightings on interior tours are common. The Catalina Island fox is spotted regularly in and around Avalon, especially at dawn and dusk. Respectful observation from a distance is expected — do not feed wildlife.
Zip Line
A zip line experience operates in the hills above Avalon. Verify current operator details, pricing, and booking requirements locally or online, as adventure activity providers can change.
Food & Drink
Eating and drinking on Catalina is concentrated almost entirely in Avalon, with a handful of options at Two Harbors. The general level of cuisine reflects the island's resort character — expect seafood, casual American, and some Mexican-influenced dishes at prices somewhat higher than the mainland, reflecting the cost of supplying a remote island.
Fish tacos, clam chowder, and fresh seafood are widely available and appropriate to the setting. The waterfront along Crescent Avenue has the highest concentration of restaurants, ranging from full sit-down dining to casual outdoor counters. Several bars with ocean views make for pleasant late-afternoon stops.
Grocery options are limited and more expensive than the mainland. If you are camping or planning a longer stay, consider bringing some supplies from the mainland. Two Harbors has a small general store; verify current stock and hours locally.
A local specialty worth trying is the Buffalo Milk cocktail — a sweet, creamy drink that originated on the island and is served at a few Avalon bars. It has no actual buffalo milk; the name is a nod to the island's famous bison.
Practical Information
Money and Costs
Catalina is generally more expensive than comparable mainland destinations. Accommodation, food, and activity costs reflect the logistical expense of supplying the island by boat. Budget accordingly.
Medical Services
Avalon has a small medical facility — Catalina Island Medical Center — that handles routine and emergency care. For serious medical emergencies, patients are typically transferred to the mainland. Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is worth considering.
Communications
Cell service is available in Avalon but can be inconsistent in the island's interior. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and many cafes.
Water
Tap water in Avalon is safe to drink. The island relies on a combination of desalination and water brought from the mainland; conserve water where possible.
Emergency Contact
For emergencies in the United States, dial 911. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department maintains a station in Avalon.
Safety
Catalina Island is generally considered a very safe destination. Violent crime is rare. The main safety considerations are environmental and outdoor-related.
Ocean swimmers and snorkelers should be aware of boat traffic in the harbor and near popular coves. Always snorkel or swim in designated areas away from vessel lanes. Strong currents can develop around the island's points and in the channel — check conditions with local dive operators before heading into open water.
Hikers venturing into the island's interior should carry sufficient water (dehydration is a real risk, especially in summer), sun protection, and a map or downloaded offline route. Cell coverage is unreliable in the interior, and trails can be more exposed and remote than they appear on maps. Let someone know your plans.
When encountering wildlife — particularly bison — maintain a safe and respectful distance. Bison are large, unpredictable animals and should never be approached or fed. The Catalina Island fox is habituated to humans but feeding it is prohibited and harmful to the animals.
