Avalon Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Reaching Avalon begins with a ferry journey from one of several Southern California ports, including Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point, or Newport Beach. The crossing typically takes between 60-90 minutes depending on your departure point and weather conditions. Once on the mainland, visitors can reach these ferry terminals via car, with ample parking facilities available at each port (though reservations are recommended during peak seasons). Public transportation options connect major transit hubs to the ferry terminals, with shuttle services often timed to match ferry departures and arrivals. For those coming from further afield, Los Angeles International Airport is approximately 22 miles from the Long Beach terminal.

Perched on Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California, Avalon beckons with its Mediterranean-style charm and crystal-clear waters. This idyllic seaside town serves as the main gateway for ferry travelers seeking an escape from mainland bustle. Walking the palm-lined streets, visitors are greeted by colorful cottages, a picturesque harbor dotted with boats, and the promise of island adventures just steps from the ferry landing.

Avalon enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with pleasant temperatures year-round, though each season offers distinct advantages. Summer (June-August) brings warm temperatures perfect for swimming and water activities, but also the largest crowds and highest prices. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the ideal balance of comfortable weather, reduced crowds, and slightly lower rates, making them particularly appealing for most travelers. Winter brings cooler temperatures but peaceful ambiance and the lowest rates of the year. Ferry service operates year-round but with increased frequency during summer months. The annual Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival in October and the Avalon Harbor Underwater Cleanup in February are notable events worth planning around.

While Avalon itself is a captivating destination, the ferry connections open up possibilities for further exploration. Two Harbors, Catalina's second village located on the island's isthmus, is accessible via a 45-minute ferry ride from Avalon and offers a more rustic, outdoor-focused experience with excellent hiking and camping. Day trips to nearby coves and beaches such as Descanso Beach, Little Harbor, and Shark Harbor provide pristine natural settings reachable by local water taxis or tour boats. For the adventurous, the Trans-Catalina Trail connects various parts of the island through a scenic 38.5-mile hiking route with ferry service returning hikers to Avalon. The island's interior wilderness, managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy, features unique ecosystems and wildlife viewing opportunities accessible via guided tours departing from the harbor.

Avalon packs remarkable diversity into its compact one-square-mile town center. The iconic Catalina Casino, a round Art Deco masterpiece (not actually a gambling venue), houses a historic theater and ballroom offering tours that reveal the island's glamorous past. Water enthusiasts can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the coastline, or book glass-bottom boat tours to witness the vibrant marine life of Lover's Cove Marine Preserve. Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden showcases native island plants and offers panoramic views after a pleasant uphill walk. Culinary highlights include fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants like Bluewater Grill, local favorites like buffalo milk cocktails (a creamy island specialty), and casual dining at Original Jack's Country Kitchen for breakfast. Crescent Avenue, the curved main street along the harbor, offers charming shops and galleries perfect for afternoon browsing.

Avalon harbors fascinating stories beneath its picturesque surface. The town maintains a decades-long waiting list for car permits, resulting in most residents using golf carts for transportation and giving Avalon its distinctive unhurried atmosphere. William Wrigley Jr. (of chewing gum fame) once owned the entire island and brought his Chicago Cubs baseball team here for spring training from 1921-1951, building facilities that still stand today. During Hollywood's golden age, Avalon was a favorite escape for film stars like Charlie Chaplin and Joan Crawford, with many filming locations around the island. The waters surrounding Avalon were once home to the world's largest flying fish measuring up to 18 inches, which can still be spotted during evening boat tours in summer months.