Catalina Express Tours and Tickets

There are different ways to experience the Catalina Express to California's Catalina Island. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best options available right now:

• Catalina Express: San Pedro to Avalon One-Way Ferry

• Avalon City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

One-way Avalon trips from Long Beach and San Pedro on the Catalina Express start at US$42 for adults, US$37.75 for seniors over 55, and US$37.75 for children aged 2–11. Kids under 2 ride for free. Trips from Dana Point are US$2 more. On top of this, there are island wharfage fees and a tax, which adds an extra US$5.

Yes, taking the Catalina Express is worth it—the only other option for visiting Catalina Island is by private boat. The Catalina Express is a high-speed ferry that shuttles you from the Californian coast in just an hour from Long Beach or San Pedro. Plenty of seats, Pacific Ocean views, and a drop-off in the main town of Avalon complete the experience.

Per one customer who booked the Catalina Express: San Pedro to Avalon One-Way Ferry, "It was my husband's first time ever to Catalina Island. The Catalina Express was comfortable and left on time. This was a great experience for both of us. We enjoyed our stay on the island. Lots to see and do."

The Catalina Express ferry, which takes passengers from the Southern California coast to Catalina Island multiple times daily, departs from three different ports: Catalina Landing in downtown Long Beach, the Catalina Sea and Air Terminal in San Pedro, and the offices of Dana Wharf Sportfishing in Dana Point Harbor.

The length of a one-way trip to Catalina Island on the Catalina Express ferry depends on the port of departure. Ferry rides from Long Beach take about one hour; trips from San Pedro take about one hour and 10 minutes; and trips from Dana Point take about 1.5 hours.

All Catalina Express ferries have indoor cabin seating, outdoor seating on the upper decks, and a bar serving drinks and snacks. Some ferries offer Commodore or Captain’s private lounges for an additional fare. These can be prebooked and offer more privacy, priority check-in and boarding, and a free drink.

Yes, you can bring two pieces of luggage and one carry-on that fits in the seats or overhead bins. Size and weight restrictions do apply, so check the Catalina Express website before you travel. Additionally, you can bring bikes if space is available—reservations are recommended.

Yes, there is parking at the Catalina Express ferry terminals. Keep in mind that the parking rates differ depending on the ferry terminal, though each usually offers daily rates, long-term parking, and reservations. Check the Catalina Express website for daily rates and more detailed parking information.

Yes, pets are allowed on board the Catalina Express ferry, with some restrictions. All pets must be leashed and secured in a commercial grade muzzle or an airline-style carrying case throughout the duration of the trip and kept close to the owner on deck. One pet is allowed per passenger.

When you're done at Catalina Island, California has a ton of fun things to do. Per other travelers, here are some of the top attractions to visit:

• Alcatraz

• Muir Woods

• Golden Gate Bridge

• USS Midway Museum

• San Francisco Bay

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in California.