Discover the Enchantment of Santa Catalina Island
Explore the breathtaking Santa Catalina Island, where stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life create the ultimate getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Santa Catalina Island offers a stunning escape from the mainland with its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and endless outdoor adventures. Perfect for tourists seeking relaxation or adventure.
A brief summary to Santa Catalina Island
- California, US
Local tips
- Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot.
- Consider renting a bike or golf cart to explore the island at your own pace.
- Pack sunscreen and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while enjoying outdoor activities.
- Don't miss the opportunity to take a guided tour of the island to learn about its history and wildlife.
- Check the local event calendar for festivals and special activities happening during your visit.
Getting There
-
Public Bus
From downtown Huntington Beach, walk to the nearest bus stop on Main Street. Take the OCTA Route 1 bus heading south towards Newport Beach. Stay on the bus for about 30 minutes until you reach the 'PCH & 19th St' stop. Transfer to the Coastal Route bus (Route 1) and continue until you reach the 'Balboa Island Ferry' stop. From there, take the ferry to Balboa Island. Once on Balboa Island, you can take another ferry to Santa Catalina Island. Make sure to check the ferry schedules in advance.
-
Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops in Huntington Beach. Start your ride along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) heading south. Continue cycling for approximately 20 miles until you reach the Balboa Island ferry terminal. Park your bike at the bike racks near the ferry terminal, then take the ferry across to Balboa Island. After arriving, look for the ferry that connects to Santa Catalina Island. Ensure you have your ferry tickets ready for a smooth transfer.
-
Walking to a nearby ferry terminal
If you are near the Huntington Beach pier, walk towards the beach and head south along the shoreline. Follow the beach path until you reach the Balboa Peninsula. From there, locate the Balboa Island Ferry, which will take you across to Balboa Island. After arriving at Balboa Island, you will find additional ferry services that can take you to Santa Catalina Island. Be sure to check the ferry schedules for a timely connection.
Discover more about Santa Catalina Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Korean Friendship Bell
37.5 km
Experience the beauty and history of the Korean Friendship Bell, a monument symbolizing harmony between the U.S. and South Korea in stunning San Pedro, CA.
Los Angeles Harbor Light
38.8 km
Discover the Los Angeles Harbor Light, an iconic historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into maritime history in San Pedro.
Muller House Museum
40.0 km
Discover the rich heritage of San Pedro at the Muller House Museum, a historical landmark showcasing the region's captivating stories and architectural beauty.
Battleship USS Iowa Museum
41.5 km
Discover the rich maritime history aboard the Battleship USS Iowa Museum in San Pedro, California, a must-visit for history buffs and families.
430 Vincent Thomas Brg
42.5 km
Explore the stunning Vincent Thomas Bridge in San Pedro, California, where breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline meet the vast Pacific Ocean.
Long Beach Light
42.9 km
Explore the Long Beach Light, a historic lighthouse offering breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into California's maritime heritage.
The Queen Mary
45.6 km
Experience the grandeur of The Queen Mary, a historical ocean liner turned hotel and attraction, rich in maritime history and unforgettable adventures.
Aquarium of the Pacific
46.3 km
Explore the wonders of marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific, where adventure meets education in Long Beach, California.
City of Long Beach: Rainbow Harbor
46.4 km
Discover the beauty and excitement of Rainbow Harbor, a vibrant marina in Long Beach, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Seashell Park
46.4 km
Experience tranquility at Seashell Park in Long Beach, California, where lush landscapes and scenic waterfront views await your visit.
Catalina Express
46.4 km
Experience the scenic ferry ride to Catalina Island with Catalina Express, your gateway to ocean adventures and island exploration in Southern California.
Shoreline Village
46.4 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Shoreline Village in Long Beach, California, where shopping, dining, and scenic views come together for an unforgettable experience.
Southern California Historical
46.5 km
Explore the Southern California Historical Museum, where the rich tapestry of culture and heritage unfolds through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences.
Long Beach Glass Bottom Boat
46.5 km
Experience the magic of the ocean with Long Beach Glass Bottom Boat Tours, revealing the hidden marine life of California's coastline.
The Pike Ferris Wheel
46.6 km
Discover the thrill of the Pike Ferris Wheel in Long Beach, California, where stunning views and coastal excitement await every visitor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Goat Harbor
3.7 km
Explore Goat Harbor: A picturesque coastal escape in California, perfect for relaxation, stunning views, and memorable moments by the sea.
The Catalina Experience
4.3 km
Discover the magic of The Catalina Experience, a premier campground in Avalon, CA offering nature-inspired adventures and unforgettable summer camp fun.
Bannings Beach
6.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Bannings Beach, a hidden coastal treasure in California, perfect for relaxation and stunning sunsets.
Ben Weston Beach
6.5 km
Experience the tranquility and stunning natural beauty of Ben Weston Beach, a hidden gem along California's picturesque coastline.
Frog Rock
8.2 km
Explore Frog Rock in Avalon, a whimsical geological gem offering stunning coastal views and a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs.
Hermit Gulch Lookout
8.6 km
Explore Hermit Gulch Lookout for stunning views of Catalina Island, perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Catalina Aerial Adventure
9.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Catalina Island from above at the Catalina Aerial Adventure, a must-do zip line experience for thrill-seekers.
Catalina Falconry Experience
9.1 km
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of falconry on Catalina Island, where wildlife meets adventure in a stunning natural setting.
Catalina Chimes Tower
9.3 km
Experience the charm and history of Catalina Island at the iconic Catalina Chimes Tower, a must-visit landmark with stunning views and melodic chimes.
CatalinaExpress
9.4 km
Experience the stunning journey to Avalon with Catalina Express—a scenic ferry ride to California's enchanting island getaway.
Casino Point Dive Park
9.4 km
Explore the vibrant underwater world of Casino Point Dive Park in Avalon, California, a paradise for divers and marine life enthusiasts.
Casino Ballroom
9.5 km
Experience the historic charm of the Casino Ballroom in Avalon, California – a stunning venue for events, entertainment, and breathtaking ocean views.
Catalina Casino
9.5 km
Discover the Catalina Casino, an iconic Art Deco landmark in Avalon offering entertainment, history, and picturesque ocean views.
Garden To Sky Summit
9.5 km
Discover the stunning natural beauty of Avalon with breathtaking views at Garden To Sky Summit, a top hiking destination in California.
Island Spa Catalina
9.5 km
Discover tranquility and rejuvenation at Island Spa Catalina, your ultimate retreat in Avalon, California, with luxurious treatments and stunning views.
Essential places to dine
Airport in the Sky Restaurant
1.7 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking views at Airport in the Sky Restaurant on Catalina Island.
The Cove Bar & Grill
9.4 km
Discover delicious Californian cuisine at The Cove Bar & Grill in Avalon – perfect for tourists seeking great food and stunning coastal views.
Naughty Fox
9.6 km
Discover culinary excellence at Naughty Fox in Avalon - where innovative New American cuisine meets stunning coastal views.
Katie's Kitchen
9.6 km
Experience the best of culinary fusion at Katie's Kitchen in Avalon - where innovative flavors meet local charm!
M Restaurant & Events
9.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at M Restaurant & Events in Avalon—where culinary tradition meets warm hospitality.
Cafe Metropole
9.6 km
Experience the best of Californian cuisine at Cafe Metropole in Avalon - where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors in a cozy setting.
Flx Biergarten
9.7 km
Discover Flx Biergarten on Catalina Island: Enjoy local craft beers and delicious food in a relaxing outdoor setting.
The Sandtrap
9.7 km
Discover the flavors of Mexico and America at The Sandtrap in Avalon – your go-to destination for delicious breakfasts and casual dining.
Bluewater Avalon
9.7 km
Experience the freshest seafood with breathtaking ocean views at Bluewater Avalon on Catalina Island.
Catalina Cantina Jr.
9.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Catalina Cantina Jr., Avalon’s top destination for tacos and Latin American delights.
West End Galley
9.7 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at West End Galley, where every meal is accompanied by stunning views and a relaxed island atmosphere.
Pete's Avalon's Plaza Cafe
9.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Pete's Avalon's Plaza Cafe—where vibrant flavors meet coastal charm in Avalon.
Harbor Reef Restaurant & Bar
9.7 km
Experience coastal dining like never before at Harbor Reef Restaurant & Bar in Two Harbors - savor fresh seafood with stunning ocean views.
El Galleon
9.7 km
Discover El Galleon in Avalon: A lively American restaurant offering delicious seafood, steakhouse favorites & karaoke nights on beautiful Catalina Island.
Maggie's Blue Rose Mexican
9.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Maggie's Blue Rose in Avalon – where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sugarbeach Inc
9.1 km
Shop the latest beachwear and stylish clothing at Sugarbeach Inc in Avalon, your go-to destination for coastal fashion.
Catalina Divers Supply
9.5 km
Explore the underwater wonders of Avalon, California with Catalina Divers Supply, your premier SCUBA tour agency and dive shop.
Afishinados Gallery
9.6 km
Discover unique local art and gifts at Afishinados Gallery in Avalon, where creativity meets coastal charm.
Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co
9.6 km
Experience the warmth of Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co – a perfect blend of cookies, coffee, and cozy vibes in Avalon, California.
Metropole Market Place
9.6 km
Experience the vibrant shopping and dining at Metropole Market Place in Avalon, California - a unique destination for tourists seeking local charm.
Stare Case
9.6 km
Discover unique treasures at Stare Case, Avalon’s charming boutique, where local craftsmanship meets coastal charm for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Catalina Seashell Co.
9.6 km
Explore Catalina Seashell Co. in Avalon for unique ocean-themed gifts and treasures that embody the spirit of the island.
Csc Boardshop
9.6 km
Explore Csc Boardshop in Avalon, CA for the finest surf and skate gear, embodying the spirit of California's coastal lifestyle.
Bay of Seven Moons
9.6 km
Explore the Bay of Seven Moons, Avalon’s premier gift shop offering unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts that capture the spirit of Catalina Island.
Catalina Gear
9.6 km
Explore stylish women's clothing at Catalina Gear in Avalon, California, and embrace the island's unique fashion while enjoying the coastal charm.
SunKissed
9.7 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish beachwear at SunKissed in Avalon, California – your ultimate shopping destination on Catalina Island.
Tradewinds
9.7 km
Explore fashionable clothing and accessories at Tradewinds in Avalon, CA - your destination for stylish beachwear and unique souvenirs.
Catalina Crafters
9.7 km
Explore your creative side at Catalina Crafters, a charming craft store in Avalon, California, offering unique supplies and artistic inspiration.
Catalina Memories
9.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs at Catalina Memories, the quintessential shop for capturing the charm of Avalon, California.
Lloyd's of Avalon
9.7 km
Experience the sweet charm of Lloyd's of Avalon, your go-to candy store and gift shop in beautiful Avalon, California.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chill at Descanso Beach Club
9.1 km
Discover the perfect beachside retreat at Descanso Beach Club, where exquisite dining meets stunning ocean views on Catalina Island.
Descanso Beach Club
9.1 km
Discover Descanso Beach Club, a stunning coastal retreat in Avalon, offering delectable cuisine, refreshing cocktails, and endless ocean adventures.
The sunset bar and grill
9.4 km
Experience unforgettable sunsets and delightful cuisine at The Sunset Bar and Grill, Avalon’s premier location for scenic dining and nightlife.
Three Palms Avalon Arcade
9.6 km
Discover the ultimate family entertainment hub at Three Palms Avalon Arcade, where games, food, and fun come together in Avalon.
Armstrong's Fish Market & Seafood Restaurant
9.7 km
Discover fresh seafood and a relaxed coastal atmosphere at Armstrong's Fish Market & Seafood Restaurant in Avalon, California.
Chi Chi Club
9.7 km
Experience Avalon's nightlife at Chi Chi Club, a lively bar and nightclub perfect for dancing and socializing in a vibrant atmosphere.
J L's Locker Room
9.7 km
Discover the lively J L's Locker Room in Avalon, where vibrant drinks and a friendly atmosphere await to enhance your island getaway.
Catalina Island Brew House
9.8 km
Discover the flavors of Catalina Island at Catalina Island Brew House, your go-to brewpub for craft beers, artisanal pizzas, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Marlin Club
9.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Avalon at Marlin Club, a cozy bar offering delightful drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
Observation Bar
45.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at the Observation Bar aboard the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach.
The Stave Bar
47.3 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance and delicious flavors at The Stave Bar in Long Beach, where craft drinks and tasty dishes await.
Congregation Brewery & Cocina - Long Beach
47.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of craft beer and American-Mexican cuisine at Congregation Brewery & Cocina in Long Beach, CA.
R Bar
47.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at R Bar in Long Beach, where innovative cocktails and live entertainment create unforgettable memories.
House of Hayden
47.3 km
Discover the vibrant House of Hayden in Long Beach, where cocktails and pool games create unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Blind Donkey
47.4 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail and beer culture at The Blind Donkey in Long Beach, a lively bar perfect for socializing and relaxation.