Catalina Island FAQ and Visitor Questions

Planning a trip to Catalina Island and wondering about lockers, Uber or Lyft, dog rules, Catalina ferry details, passport requirements, or how to reach the island? This FAQ brings together answers to common questions about visiting Catalina Island.

Have questions about Catalina Island? Here are answers to help you understand what to expect when you visit.

Transportation

What airport works best for a Catalina Island trip: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or Long Beach (LGB)?

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is the airport nearest the port used by the greatest number of Island ferry departures. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) serves the region with more airline choices and daily flight options. John Wayne Airport (Orange County or SNA) is also an option.

What are the ways to reach Catalina Island?

Travel to Catalina Island is available by boat, ferry, helicopter, private plane, or private vessel. Regular ferry transportation is offered by Catalina Express from Long Beach, which has the most frequent departures, as well as San Pedro and Dana Point. Catalina Flyer operates from Newport Beach. Maverick Helicopters provides helicopter service from Long Beach, San Pedro, Santa Ana, and Burbank.

How much time does the ferry take to Catalina Island?

Catalina Express and Catalina Flyer both run a high speed ferry service that reaches Catalina Island in just over one hour.

Which mainland port is best for traveling to Catalina Island?

Catalina Express leaves from two Los Angeles County ports: Long Beach and San Pedro. Those departure points are convenient for travelers using Long Beach Airport (LGB) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Catalina Express also operates from Dana Point in south Orange County, which is most convenient for visitors coming from south Orange County, CA and the Greater San Diego area.

Catalina Flyer departs from Newport Beach in central Orange County. That port is convenient for John Wayne Airport (SNA) and Orange County locations.

What is the easiest way to move around Catalina Island?

Avalon, the main town on Catalina Island, covers just under three-square miles, and most places are close enough to reach on foot. Walking is the preferred way to get around.

Some hotels farther from downtown provide guest shuttles, and many vacation rentals include golf carts.

How can visitors travel from Avalon to Two Harbors?

Catalina Island Company operates the Cyclone boat between Avalon and Two Harbors. Seasonal schedules vary, and the trip takes approximately 40 minutes. Visitors may also arrive by private boat, chartered boat, or taxi.

What time of year is best for visiting Catalina Island?

Each of the 4 seasons has its own reason to visit Catalina Island. Spring (March - May) brings pleasant weather and lively events. Summer (June - August) is the busiest period, with warm ocean conditions suited to many water activities. Fall (late August - November) is known locally as the secret season because temperatures remain warm after the crowds have left. Winter (December - February) is the Island’s calmest season and offers a strong chance to truly get away.

Is Catalina Island still free on your birthday?

Catalina Express ended its ride free on your birthday promotion several years ago. Some Island businesses still provide birthday discounts.

Is a passport necessary for Catalina Island?

No. A passport is not needed because Catalina Island is part of Los Angeles County in California.

Does Catalina Island have public bus transportation?

Avalon has public transportation through City Of Avalon’s Seaside Transit, an on-demand, point-to-point public transportation service called COAST. Rides are available anywhere within Avalon’s city limits, including Hamilton Cove, with fares starting at $2 per rider. Riders use the system through the Ride Circuit app in the Apple App or Google Play Store. COAST standard operating hours are 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily.

Are Uber and Lyft available on Catalina Island?

Uber and Lyft do not currently serve the Island. Taxi service is available, and Avalon is walkable and very pedestrian friendly. Visitors may also use COAST by Circuit for transportation anywhere within Avalon’s city limits, including Hamilton Cove, with fares starting at $2 per rider. COAST is accessed by downloading the Ride Circuit app through the Apple App or Google Play Store. Standard COAST hours are 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily.

Can visitors rent cars on Catalina Island?

No. Catalina Island has no car ferries and no car rentals. Full size vehicle ownership and driving are limited to businesses and a restricted number of residents. Most residents travel by golf cart. Visitors may rent golf carts by the hour, with a 2 hours maximum, to explore the hills around Avalon. Avalon also has 1 taxi company and COAST by Circuit, a public on-call transportation service. Avalon is highly walkable, and most visitors travel on foot.

Things To Do

What activities are available on Catalina Island?

Catalina Island offers a broad mix of land and ocean based activities, ranging from culture to adventure. There are options for many different kinds of visitors.

Are there family friendly activities on Catalina Island?

Yes. Catalina is very family friendly. A family focused list called Kidalina includes activities and dining options suitable for families.

What are the top things to do on Catalina Island?

1. Get out on the water by kayak, paddleboard, or motor boat.
2. Rent a Golf Tour.
3. Try the Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour.
4. Explore Catalina’s backcountry with a guided tour.
5. Visit Two Harbors.
6. Go parasailing.
7. Go SCUBA diving or snorkeling.
8. Tour the Catalina Casino.
9. Play mini golf.
10. Take a Flying Fish Tour.

What kinds of tours can visitors find on Catalina Island?

Catalina Island offers many land and sea tour options.

Where can bison be seen on Catalina Island?

Bison, also known as the American Buffalo, roam the 42,000 acres of protected land managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy in the island’s interior. Bison are not found in Avalon, though they may be seen in Two Harbors. Interior tours are offered by several companies, and hikers or campers may also encounter bison. They are impressive to see, but visitors should stay well back because they are large and dangerous animals.

Is there a Casino on Catalina Island?

Catalina Island Casino was constructed in 1929 as a dance hall and movie theater. In Italian, Casino refers to a gathering place, and there is no gambling at this site. The Casino boasts the world's largest circular ballroom. Building tours are offered daily.

Can golf carts be rented for multiple days on Catalina Island?

Golf cart rentals are hourly only, with a two hour maximum rentals. They are not available for full-day or overnight rental. Some vacation rentals include a golf cart for the length of the stay. Because parking is very limited in Avalon, visitors are not advised to park on city streets without a permit.

Avalon covers just 3 square miles and is considered highly walkable. Taxi service and public transportation are also available in Avalon.

What is the drinking age on Catalina Island?

Catalina’s drinking age is 21. Driving under the influence remains a crime in a golf cart, and open containers of alcohol are strictly prohibited.

Can visitors walk around Catalina Island with alcohol?

Catalina Island follows California law because it is part of California. Drinking alcohol in public spaces is generally illegal. Alcohol must be consumed at a licensed venue.

Where is a Catalina Island bike permit available?

A Freewheeler Bike Pass is required to ride a bike in the interior of Catalina Island. It is available through the purchase of a Catalina Island Conservancy membership, starting at $35. Bring the receipt to any Catalina Island Conservancy location to receive the permit placard for the bike. Bike permits can also be obtained at the Catalina Island Conservancy Trailhead on Pebbly Beach Rd.

Can alcohol be consumed on Catalina Island beaches?

Alcoholic beverages, animals and smoking are prohibited on public beaches on Catalina Island, which is part of Los Angeles County. Visitors can enjoy a cocktail at Descanso Beach Club, one of California’s last private beaches with public access.

Is horseback riding offered on Catalina Island?

Yes. Horseback riding is back on Catalina Island through Catalina Island Horseback Adventures.

Hotels & Lodging

Where can visitors stay on Catalina Island?

Avalon offers vacation rentals, hotels, and bed and breakfasts. Campsites are available around the Island. In Two Harbors, lodging includes 1 bed and breakfast inn and 2 vacation rental homes.

How much do Catalina Island hotels cost?

Rates vary. Many hotels have packages that include boat transportation. Current pricing and rates are available through the online booking engine.

Which Catalina Island hotels or tours are handicap accessible?

Many lodging properties provide handicap-accessible rooms. Guests should contact the lodging property they choose for details. Accessibility information is shown in the amenities tab of hotel listings on the website. Some tours are handicap accessible, and visitors should ask when buying tickets. Brown Bikes offers wheel chair rentals.

Do any Catalina Island hotels permit smoking?

Some lodging properties have designated smoking areas. Visitors should contact their selected property for details.

Pets

Are dogs allowed on Catalina Island, the boat, tours, and in hotels? Is Avalon pet or dog friendly?

Pets may travel on Catalina Express, but they must either wear a muzzle or remain in a pet carrier.

Pets are not allowed in certain restricted areas, including Crescent Avenue between Clarissa and Metropole, paved areas on lower Sumner and lower Catalina, Avalon public beaches, the Green Pleasure Pier, and the Cabrillo Mole, which is the boat landing. When a dog is transported through a restricted area, both a leash and muzzle are required. Some hotels, vacation rentals, and restaurants welcome pets. The amenities tab on member listings indicates whether a property is pet friendly.

Services

What is the current water and drought situation?

After nearly 7 years of drought, Catalina Island is no longer under mandatory water conservation. Southern California Edison still encourages all residents, businesses, and Island visitors to keep up their conservation efforts.

Where can phones be charged on Catalina Island?

Avalon has 4 options for device charging.

Are lockers available for storing belongings on Catalina Island?

Lockers are available at the Cabrillo Mole, where the boats arrive, and at Descanso Beach Club for participants of the Zip Line, Climbing Wall & Aerial Adventure. Avalon Blue Line Baggage also provides bag storage and delivery services; call 310-510-9599 for more info.

Are public showers available on Catalina Island?

Public showers are located on Casino Way across from the Catalina Yacht Club in Avalon. Hours change by season, so visitors should check with the Visitor Center on the Green Pier for current hours. Descanso Beach Club has outdoor showers, and Two Harbors has coin operated showers.

Can visitors rent electric scooters or wheelchairs on Catalina Island?

Wheelchair rentals are available from Brown’s Bikes on Pebbly Beach Road. Availability can be checked by calling 310-510-0986. City of Avalon also offers a Dial-A-Ride program.

Where is WiFi available on Catalina Island?

WiFi is offered through Catalina Wifi, starting at .99 cents per day depending on the package purchased. Most hotels also offer WiFi for paying guests. Complimentary wired internet access is available at the Avalon Library.

Is there a baby and kid gear rental service?

Yes. Kids on the Move is a full service baby and kid gear company. Visitors to Catalina Island can rent cribs, portable cribs, high chairs, car seats, strollers, and other necessities.

Relocation

How can someone move to Catalina Island?

Year round housing is very limited on Catalina Island. There is a 25 year + waiting list for a full-size vehicle. Current employment opportunities and local realtors are available for those exploring a move.

Is there a public school on Catalina Island?

Yes. Avalon’s K-12 public school serves nearly 500 students and is part of the Long Beach Unified School District.