26 Miles from Newport Beach
from Newport Beach
Twenty-six miles across the sea. Catalina Island is one of California's most magical destinations — and Newport Beach is your gateway.
26 mi
From Newport Beach
75 min
Ferry Crossing
88%
Preserved Wilderness
Year-Round
Departures
California's Island Paradise
"On a clear day, you can see Catalina Island from the Newport Beach shore. It sits on the horizon like a promise — and Newport Beach is your gateway to it."
Santa Catalina Island · 26 miles offshore
Getting There
Three Ways to
Reach Catalina
Newport Beach offers multiple ways to reach Catalina Island — from the classic ferry to private charter adventures.
Plan Your Visit
Catalina Itineraries
from Newport Beach
The Perfect Day Trip
Take the morning ferry, explore Avalon on foot, snorkel at Casino Point, have lunch at a waterfront restaurant, and return on the evening ferry.
The Weekend Escape
Stay overnight in Avalon, explore the island's interior on hiking trails, visit Two Harbors, and return refreshed on the second day.
About Catalina Island
California's Island Paradise
Santa Catalina Island lies 26 miles off the coast of Southern California, visible from Newport Beach on clear days. The island is 88% preserved wilderness, with the charming town of Avalon as its only significant settlement. The iconic Casino building, built in 1929, anchors Avalon's harbor and is one of California's most recognizable landmarks.
Day trips from Newport Beach are easy and rewarding — the ferry crossing takes about 75 minutes, leaving plenty of time to explore Avalon, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, or take a glass-bottom boat tour over the kelp forests. Overnight stays allow you to explore the island's interior on hiking trails and zip lines.
The waters around Catalina are among the clearest in Southern California, with visibility often exceeding 30 feet. Casino Point Underwater Park is one of the finest shore-diving and snorkeling sites on the West Coast.
Things to Do on Catalina
On the Water
- Snorkeling & diving
- Glass-bottom boat tours
- Kayaking & paddleboarding
- Parasailing
- Fishing
On Land
- Avalon town exploration
- Casino building tour
- Zip line eco-tour
- Hiking & biking
- Golf cart tours
Dining & Nightlife
- Seafood restaurants in Avalon
- Rooftop bars with harbor views
- The Avalon Casino ballroom
- Beachside cafes
- Wine tasting
Overnight Stays
- Avalon hotels & B&Bs
- Two Harbors camping
- Glamping at Hermit Gulch
- Boat-in anchorages
- Luxury resort stays
Trip Planning Tips
- Book ferry tickets 1–2 weeks ahead in summer
- Bring layers — it's cooler on the water
- Rent a golf cart in Avalon for easy exploration
- Casino Point snorkeling is free and spectacular
- Book overnight stays well in advance
- Check weather before a private charter crossing
Ferry Schedule
Catalina Express
Featured Partner
Catalina Express
High-speed ferry service from Newport Beach to Catalina Island. Year-round departures.
Book FerryFeatured
Catalina Island Trips from Newport Beach
catalina
Catalina Express Newport Beach
High-speed ferry service from Balboa Pavilion to Catalina Island. 75-minute crossing, year-round departures.
$$
catalina
Newport Beach Private Charters
Private charter boats to Catalina Island. Custom itineraries, flexible departure times, and personalized service.
$$$
Common Questions
Catalina Island FAQ
How long is the ferry from Newport Beach to Catalina Island?
The Catalina Express ferry from Newport Beach (Balboa Pavilion) to Avalon takes approximately 75 minutes. The crossing is generally smooth, though it can be rougher in winter months.
Can you do Catalina Island as a day trip from Newport Beach?
Yes — Catalina Island is an excellent day trip from Newport Beach. The ferry departs in the morning and returns in the evening, giving you 6–8 hours on the island. That's plenty of time to explore Avalon, snorkel, and have lunch.
Do you need to book the Catalina ferry in advance?
During summer and on weekends, booking in advance is strongly recommended. The ferry fills up quickly, especially for morning departures. Weekday trips in the off-season are easier to book last-minute.
What is there to do on Catalina Island?
Catalina offers snorkeling and diving at Casino Point, glass-bottom boat tours, zip lining, hiking, golf cart tours of Avalon, the historic Casino building, excellent seafood restaurants, and beautiful beaches. Overnight stays allow you to explore the island's interior.
Is it worth taking a private charter to Catalina instead of the ferry?
A private charter offers flexibility, privacy, and the ability to explore beyond Avalon — including Two Harbors and remote anchorages. It's significantly more expensive than the ferry but offers a completely different experience. Ideal for special occasions or groups who want a custom itinerary.
26 Miles Away
Catalina Is Waiting.
Newport Is Your Gateway.
Day trips, overnight escapes, and private charters. The island is 75 minutes away and a world apart.
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