If you’re planning a trip to Catalina Island, you’re probably wondering which port you need to leave from. There are three options: San Pedro, Dana Point, and Long Beach. Long Beach is the most popular, and that’s the one I used since it was the closest to me and had multiple departure times throughout the day.
This was my first trip to Catalina Island, so I’m sharing my step-by-step experience, from booking my tickets to my time onboard the Catalina Express:
Book Your Catalina Express Ticket Online
I decided to book my tickets online in advance since I didn’t want to risk purchasing them the day of. It’s a good idea to reserve your tickets ahead of time, especially during the summer or holiday weekends when they tend to sell out. I booked mine a week before my departure, and although the time I wanted was available, I had to call to confirm the spot. I’m not sure why it was necessary to call—maybe there was a glitch on the website—but the operator helped me out and reserved my tickets. If you need to cancel, you can do so 24 hours in advance without any extra fees.
There are two seating options: Commodore Lounge (first-class) and General Seating. If you opt for the Commodore Lounge, it’s an additional $15 one way. With this upgrade, you get priority check-in, boarding, comfy seating, and a free drink and snacks. It’s a nice option for an extra $30 round-trip. However, I was traveling with my dog, Zooey, and pets aren’t allowed in the Commodore Lounge, so I stuck with general seating.
Driving to the Port
If you’re driving to the port, there’s an overnight parking garage conveniently located right by the entrance. Since vehicles aren’t allowed on the ferry, you’ll need to leave your car here. The daily parking rate is $19, and no reservations are required. The address is 330 Golden Shore, Long Beach, CA 90802.
There were plenty of parking spots when I got there, and I felt safe leaving my car for the weekend. It’s not as big as an airport garage, but it’s a good idea to note where you parked, just in case.
Check-In at the Ticket Window
Once parked, it’s an easy walk across the street to the port entrance where you’ll need to stand in line to pick up your tickets. You can’t print them online, so be prepared to get them from the ticket window. It’s a good idea to arrive at least an hour before departure, as you’ll want your ticket in hand at least 30 minutes before the ferry leaves. If you’re not checked in 15 minutes before departure, you lose your seat, but you’ll still be charged for the full round-trip fare.
I arrived an hour early, and I’m glad I did, because there was a long line at the ticket window. Also, finding parking took a little longer than expected since I missed the entrance to the garage and had to circle back.
Get in Line for the Ferry
Once you have your tickets, hop in the general boarding line. The earlier you get in line, the better your seating options will be. Seats are first-come, first-serve unless you’ve upgraded to the Commodore Lounge. If you’re traveling with a pet, they’ll wait in line with you too. More on the pet rules coming up!
Pet-Friendly Rules
I was so excited to learn that pets are welcome onboard, free of charge. You don’t need a service animal to bring your pet, and each person can bring one dog. However, your dog must either be on a leash with a muzzle or in a pet carrier for the whole trip. I was a little nervous about Zooey wearing a muzzle, but she surprisingly handled it well. If your dog isn’t used to wearing a muzzle, you might want to wait until the last minute to put it on.
Where to Store Your Luggage
As you board the ferry, staff will direct you to store your luggage inside. I expected there to be a designated area below deck, but the luggage area is actually in the same room where passengers sit. It’s a large open space towards the back of the seating area.
Find Your Seat
After you drop off your luggage, you can sit wherever you like (unless you’re in the Commodore Lounge). I chose to sit outside to enjoy the fresh air and the views, especially since I had Zooey with me, and I thought she’d enjoy it too.
That’s It!
Once you’re settled, relax and enjoy the ride. There’s a brief safety announcement, and if the waters are calm, you’re allowed to walk around the ferry.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is the ferry ride?
The trip from Long Beach Port to Avalon Port takes about 1 hour. - Can I bring my car on the ferry?
No, vehicles aren’t allowed on Catalina Island. You’ll need to park your car at the port. - How do I get around Catalina Island if I can’t bring my car?
Catalina Island is small, and many activities are within walking distance. There are also taxis and golf cart rentals available at Avalon’s port. - Are there bathrooms on board?
Yes. - Do you get seasick?
This depends on the person and the weather. I’m prone to motion sickness, and the waters were choppy on my trip because a storm was coming. I felt a little queasy, but I took Dramamine before the trip, which helped. On the return trip, the waters were calm, and I didn’t feel any discomfort, although I took Dramamine just in case. - Is it cold if you sit outside on the ferry?
It really depends on the time of year. I went in November, and it was pretty chilly. Luckily, I had a warm jacket and a throw blanket to keep Zooey and me cozy. - How much are the ferry tickets?
A round-trip adult ticket (ages 12-54) from Long Beach Port to Avalon Port costs $74.50. For a complete list of fares, check out the Schedule & Fares page.
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