Skip to content
visitorfun
ToursFamily FavoriteIconicOutdoor Adventure

Catalina Express

· San Pedro, CA

Why you should go…

Catalina Express operates high-speed passenger ferries between the Southern California mainland and Santa Catalina Island, with year-round departures from San Pedro, Long Beach and Dana Point. The crossing to Avalon takes about one hour from Long Beach and about 75 minutes from San Pedro, with up to 30 departures a day across all ports. One-way adult fares start at 42 dollars, with discounted rates for seniors and children.

  • #boat tour
  • #island
  • #ferry
  • #family
  • #day trip

Good to know

General tours guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Confirm the meeting point

    It is often a corner, a lobby, or a dock rather than the address you searched for. Check it the night before.

  • Small groups fill first

    In high season the intimate departures sell out well before the big-bus options do.

  • Ask how much is on foot

    Knowing how much of the route is walking, standing, or outdoors tells you what to wear and carry.

  • Read the weather policy

    Cancellation windows and rain rules vary by operator, and they are easier to find before you pay than after.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Catalina Express, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Aquarium of the Pacific

    $25–$50

    Southern California's largest aquarium, home to more than 11,000 animals across 100-plus exhibits in Long Beach.

    5.8 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions

  • Museums
    History Buff

    Bembridge House

    Under $25

    Docent-led tours of a restored 1906 Queen Anne Victorian house museum run by Long Beach Heritage.

    6.0 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Golf N' Stuff

    Under $25

    Family entertainment center with miniature golf, go-karts, a video arcade and a kiddie train.

    17 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions

  • Tours
    Iconic

    Paramount Studio Tour

    $50+

    A guided walking and golf-cart tour of the working Paramount Pictures studio lot in Hollywood.

    24 mi awayMore like this

  • Tours
    Family Favorite

    Newport Landing Whale Watching

    Under $25

    Year-round whale and dolphin watching cruises departing from Newport Beach harbor.

    24 mi awayMore like this

  • Tours
    Iconic

    Catalina Flyer

    $50+

    A 600-passenger catamaran ferry making the roughly 90-minute crossing between Newport Beach and Catalina Island.

    24 mi awayMore like this