FUN FACTS ABOUT CATALINA
A Few Fun Facts to Know About Catalina Island
- It’s official name is Santa Catalina Island, but everyone just calls it “Catalina”
- It’s located 22 miles off the mainland
- Out of the 8 channel islands, Catalina has the most populated civilian settlement AND the most diverse animal species
- Catalina Island has been owned by the Wrigley family since 1919
How to Get to Catalina Island
There are several ways to get to Catalina Island, but the easiest, fastest, and most affordable mode of transport is via the Catalina Express ferry.
The Catalina Express departs from three different harbors: San Pedro, Dana Point, and Long Beach. If you’re going to the Avalon side of Catalina you can take any three of these routes, however, if you’re going directly to Two Harbors, you’ll need to depart from San Pedro.
Departing from San Pedro or Long Beach is your best option if you’re coming in from the LA area. If you’re located south of Newport Beach then Dana Point is probably your best bet.
Also, the Long Beach and San Pedro fares are slightly cheaper by a few dollars. Fares departing Long Beach and San Pedro are about $37 one way for adults. You can check full fares on the Catalina Express website here. Each of these ferry routes takes about an hour one-way, give or take.
If you want to be extra bougie and travel to Catalina in style, there are helicopter transfers via Island Express Helicopters that will get you to the island in an easy 15-minute flat. This will cost you about $150 one-way or $300 round trip.
