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Getting to Catalina Island

Getting to Catalina Island is quick and easy. With three different cross-channel providers, you can choose how you want to arrive. Our island paradise may seem like it’s a world away, but the journey can take as little as 15 minutes. Due to a variety of departure times, you can easily visit Catalina for a day or longer. Furthermore, you can travel out of a variety of ports throughout Southern California via boat or helicopter. What are you waiting for? Explore the details below.

Catalina Flyer

a large ship in a body of water

For guests traveling from San Diego or South Orange County, consider hopping on the Catalina Flyer from Newport Harbor out of the Balboa Peninsula. Daily round-trip departures between February & December give you just the right amount of time to cruise around town before and after your food tour. Consider staying overnight if you want to join the Catalina Happy Hour Tour.

IEX Helicopters

a plane sitting on top of a body of water

IEX Helicopters offers the fastest way to get to Catalina. Their 15-minute flights start as early as 8 AM, depart until just before twilight, and originate from a number of ports including Long Beach, San Pedro, Orange County, and Burbank. Charter flights are available from each of these ports plus private landing sites. See more of the island by combining a food tour with an air tour.

Catalina Express

a small boat in a body of water

Offering up to 30 round-trip departures per day, the Catalina Express offers the highest number of departures out of Long Beach and provides you with the most flexibility in your booking options. With additional service offered out of San Pedro & Dana Point, they are able to serve guests from all over Southern California. Don’t miss their world-famous Bloody Mary with pickled green beans.