Trying to figure out how to get from San Diego to Catalina Island? You don’t have many options but the two that exist couldn’t be more different. One is budget-friendly but takes longer, while the other gets you there fast but comes at a price.
Catalina Island is a stunning escape with crystal-clear waters, rugged landscapes, and endless outdoor adventures. But before you can enjoy it, you need to decide: ferry or flight? We’re breaking down both options so you can pick the best way to reach the island without wasting time or money.
Option 1: Car + Ferry [Cheapest]
Taking a car and ferry from San Diego to Catalina Island is an exciting adventure that offers stunning views of the California coastline. It’s also the cheapest way to go.
The journey involves driving from San Diego to Dana Point, the closest ferry point from San Diego to Catalina Island, and then taking a ferry to the island.
Here are the directions you need to follow:
- Start on I-5 North towards Los Angeles
- Take exit 79 for CA-74/Ortega Highway towards San Juan Capistrano
- Turn right onto CA-74 East/Ortega Highway
- Follow CA-74 East for about 10 miles
- Turn left onto Del Obispo Street
- Turn right onto Pacific Coast Highway
- Turn left onto Dana Point Harbor Drive
- Follow the signs to the ferry point: 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point
The drive from San Diego to Dana Point takes a little more than an hour, depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the ferry point, you can park in one of the nearby lots and take the ferry to Catalina Island. Parking costs $20/day.
Before you leave home, check the ferry schedule to choose the best time and ferry for you. The ferry from Dana Point to Catalina Island runs several times daily, but the schedule can vary depending on the season.
You can even kayak to Catalina Island but it’s a challenging adventure and isn’t for everyone.
Option 2: Car + Helicopter from Long Beach [Seasick-Free]
One of the most exciting and convenient options is to take a car and helicopter from Long Beach. With this option, you get a stunning birds-eye view of the California coast and don’t have to worry about getting seasick on a ferry ride to the island.
The first step in your journey to Catalina Island is to drive from San Diego to Long Beach. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic. Here are the directions:
- Take I-5 North toward Los Angeles
- Merge onto CA-73 North towards Long Beach
- Merge onto I-405 North towards Long Beach
- Take exit 29 for Lakewood Boulevard
- Turn left onto Lakewood Boulevard
- Turn right onto E Willow Street
- Turn left onto N Studebaker Road
- Turn right onto E 2nd Street
- Turn left onto Pacific Avenue
- Turn right onto W Ocean Boulevard
- Turn left onto Queensway Drive
- Turn right onto Harbor Scenic Drive
- Continue straight until you reach the Queen Mary Terminal
Once you arrive at the Queen Mary Terminal, park your car in the designated parking area. The helicopter ride takes about 15 minutes and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Per person, you can expect to pay ~$349 round-trip (~$179 for a one-way). Prices may vary from season to season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about methods to get to Catalina Island? We’ve got the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions below.
Catalina Island is 86.2 miles (138.72 km) northwest of San Diego.
While there isn’t a direct ferry from San Diego, you can drive to the closest post, Dana Point, and take a ferry to Catalina Island.
It takes around an hour and 30 minutes from San Diego’s closest port, Dana Point to Avalon on Catalina Island. The duration of the ferry depends on the weather and water conditions.
The ferry from San Diego’s closest port, Dana Point to Catalina Island costs $87.50 per adult.
Yes, you can book a flight with Maverick Helicopters from San Diego International Airport to Catalina Island Airport in the Sky.
No, you cannot drive to Catalina Island from San Diego. The only way to get to Catalina Island is by boat or helicopter. The closest ports to San Diego are Long Beach and Dana Point, about a two-hour drive from San Diego.
Yes, on a clear day, you can see Catalina Island from the coast of Southern California. The island is about 22 miles off the coast, so it’s only sometimes visible, but it’s definitely possible to catch a glimpse of it from certain vantage points.
While it’s not mandatory to carry passports to go to Catalina Island and there aren’t any immigration checks, it’s best to carry a government-issued identification like a driver’s license, Real ID, or passport in case of emergencies.
Yes, people do live on Catalina Island. The island’s population is more than 4,000 people. The island is home to 2 incorporated cities, Avalon and Two Harbors. While most of the island’s residents live in Avalon, there are several smaller towns scattered throughout the island.
Yes, you can bring your dog to Catalina Island, however, there are a few restrictions. For your pet’s safety, they must be kept leashed wherever you take them, and unfortunately, they may not be able to join you on certain beaches or attractions.
The crime rate on Catalina Island is relatively low, and the island is generally considered to be a safe place to visit. However, like any tourist destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe.
You can take the Catalina Express from San Pedro to Two Harbors but they don’t run a regular schedule. It’s best to take a ferry from San Pedro or Long Beach to Avalon. You can get to Two Harbors from Avalon either by boat or taxi.
Some of the best restaurants on Catalina Island include Steve’s Steakhouse and Seafood, Bluewater Grill, Descanso Beach Club, and the Lobster Trap.
Final Thoughts
No matter which option you choose, be sure to plan your trip in advance and check the weather conditions before you go. Catalina Island is a beautiful destination that’s definitely worth the journey from San Diego.
Read More From Bae Area and Beyond
Cheapest Way To Get To Catalina Island
51 Epic Things to Do in San Diego That You Need on Your Bucket List
Is Catalina Island Worth Visiting? These 15 Best Things Will Blow Your Mind!
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