🏝️ How to Get to Catalina Island From San Diego [2025–2026 Guide]

Catalina Island is about 90 miles from San Diego. Driving to ferry ports (Dana Point, Long Beach, San Pedro) takes 1–2 hours, plus a 1-hour ferry ride ($45–$90 one way). No direct ferries from San Diego.

Catalina Island, located off Southern California’s coast, is a popular getaway known for Avalon’s charming waterfront, outdoor adventures, and crystal-clear waters. While Catalina is close to Los Angeles, San Diego travelers can reach the island with a short drive and ferry connection. This 2025–2026 guide explains all routes, costs, and travel times for a seamless trip.

🚗 + ⛴️ Driving & Ferry From San Diego to Catalina Island

The most common way is to drive to a ferry port and then board a boat to Catalina.

• Step 1: Drive From San Diego to Ferry Ports

  • Dana Point: ~1 hour drive (65 miles).

  • Long Beach: ~2 hours drive (110 miles).

  • San Pedro (Los Angeles): ~2 hours drive (115 miles).

• Step 2: Ferry to Catalina Island

  • Dana Point → Avalon: 1 hour ferry ride.

  • Long Beach → Avalon or Two Harbors: 1 hour ferry ride.

  • San Pedro → Avalon or Two Harbors: 1–1.5 hours ferry ride.

• Cost: Round-trip ferry tickets usually $90–$180 per person, depending on route, class, and season.

• Operators:

  • Catalina Express (Dana Point, Long Beach, San Pedro).

  • Catalina Flyer (Newport Beach, ~1.5 hrs from San Diego).

🚘 Total Travel Time: 2.5–4 hours (drive + ferry).
💰 Total Cost: $90–$180 round-trip per person + parking ($20–$25/day at ferry terminals).

---

✈️ Flights From San Diego to Catalina Island

Catalina also has a small airport (Airport-in-the-Sky), but commercial flights are rare.

• Charter Flights: Small planes and helicopters operate from San Diego, Carlsbad, or Orange County.

• Duration: ~30 minutes flight time.

• Cost: $200–$400 per person one way (charters are more expensive than ferries).

• Best For: Special occasions or travelers with limited time.

---

🚖 Shuttles & Tours From San Diego

If you don’t want to drive, tours and transfers combine transport to ferry ports.

• Shuttle Services: Private shuttles from San Diego hotels to ferry terminals in Dana Point or Long Beach. Cost: $60–$120 per person round-trip.

• Day Tours: Some operators offer San Diego → ferry port → Catalina day trips including ferry tickets, starting at $150–$250 per person.

• Notes: Convenient, but more expensive than driving yourself.

---

🚲 Local Transportation on Catalina Island

Once on the island:

• Walking: Avalon is very walkable, with most attractions within 1 mile.

• Golf Carts: The most popular way to explore; rentals cost $50–$60 per hour.

• Biking: Available for $20–$40/day.

• Taxis & Shuttles: Connect Avalon, Two Harbors, and trailheads.

---

🌞 Best Time to Visit Catalina Island

• Spring (March–May): Mild weather, fewer crowds, wildflowers on hiking trails.

• Summer (June–August): Peak season with warm weather and busy ferries; book in advance.

• Fall (September–November): Pleasant temperatures and less crowded beaches.

• Winter (December–February): Cooler, quieter, but ferry rides can be choppier.

---

📝 Travel Summary Table

---

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How far is Catalina Island from San Diego?
About 90 miles; driving to Dana Point (1 hour) plus a 1-hour ferry is the quickest route.

Q2: Is there a direct ferry from San Diego to Catalina?
No, the closest ferries depart from Dana Point, Newport Beach, Long Beach, or San Pedro.

Q3: How much does the ferry to Catalina cost?
Round-trip fares range $90–$180 per person.

Q4: Can you fly to Catalina Island from San Diego?
Yes, by small plane or helicopter charter (~30 minutes), but it’s more expensive than ferries.

Q5: What’s the best time to visit Catalina Island?
Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer is busiest and sunniest.

✅ This 2025–2026 San Diego to Catalina Island guide covers all routes—driving, ferries, flights, and shuttles—so you can plan the perfect Southern California island escape.