Visitor Centers

For any visitor to Catalina Island, the official Visitor Centers, run by the Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, are an invaluable resource and the perfect first stop. They provide a wealth of local knowledge to help you get oriented quickly and customize your adventure.

The primary Visitor Center is conveniently located on the iconic Green Pleasure Pier in Avalon, the main hub for most travelers.

Here, friendly staff act as island concierges, offering official maps, visitor guides, and expert recommendations for everything from tours and attractions to the best spots for dining and lodging. It’s the ideal place to browse brochures and plan your day.

For those exploring the island’s more rugged and remote west end, a second Visitor Services office in Two Harbors caters specifically to the needs of boaters, campers, and hikers. It’s the go-to spot for obtaining essential hiking and camping permits and getting detailed information on the best outdoor activities in the area.

Stopping at one of these centers is the surest way to get reliable, current information to make the most of your island experience.

Catalina Day Cruises

Escape the hustle of the Southern California mainland with a scenic boat ride to the enchanting Santa Catalina Island. In just about an hour, this journey across the Pacific transports you to a world that feels miles away, renowned for its Mediterranean charm, pristine waters, and relaxed pace.

Most visitors arrive in the picturesque main town of Avalon, a walkable village brimming with quaint shops and seaside restaurants.

A one-day cruise provides ample time to discover the island’s diverse attractions. You can stroll along the waterfront, dine on fresh seafood, or explore the iconic, art deco Catalina Casino, which has stood as a landmark for nearly a century. For those craving adventure, the crystal-clear coves are perfect for diving and snorkeling, offering incredible views of vibrant marine life, including the bright orange Garibaldi.

Other popular options include kayaking along the coast, parasailing high above the bay, or taking a thrilling 300-foot plunge over the canyon floor on an adrenaline-pumping zip line tour.

Venture beyond the coast into the island’s rugged interior to hike a portion of the famous Trans-Catalina Trail. This is where you might catch a glimpse of the island’s most unexpected residents: a herd of American bison. These majestic animals are the descendants of a small group left behind after a silent film production in the 1920s and now roam freely through the hills.

Getting there is simple, with high-speed ferries departing daily from mainland ports including Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point, making Catalina Island the perfect destination for an accessible and unforgettable day trip.

Catalina Express

Getting to Catalina Island is a quick and comfortable experience aboard the Catalina Express, the primary ferry service connecting the mainland to this island paradise. Their modern fleet is designed for speed and comfort, whisking passengers across the channel to the Avalon pier in about an hour. The journey itself is part of the adventure, offering stunning ocean views through massive, ceiling-to-seat-level windows, a signature feature on their high-speed catamarans like the 381-passenger Jet Cat Express.

Onboard, passengers can choose the seating that best suits their style. You can relax in the comfortable, airline-style seats of the enclosed main cabin or opt for the individual open-air seating on the upper decks to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and California sunshine.

For those seeking an elevated travel experience, Catalina Express offers premium upgrades for an additional fee. The Commodore Lounge provides the convenience of pre-boarding privileges and reserved seating, along with a complimentary beverage and snack.

For the ultimate in exclusivity, the more intimate Captain’s Lounge offers plush, comfortable seating and the same priority boarding and refreshment perks, ensuring your island getaway begins with a touch of luxury.

With a fleet of eight vessels, Catalina Express operates daily departures from three convenient mainland ports: San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point.