Santa Catalina Island lies about twenty-odd miles off the coast, and for visitors based in Newport Beach it is an easy and memorable day trip. The Catalina Flyer departs from the Balboa Peninsula, which means you can reach the island without driving to another port. This guide explains how to plan a day or overnight, what to expect on the crossing, and how to make the most of your time in Avalon.
Why go from Newport
Catalina has several mainland ferry ports, including Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. Newport Beach stands out because the departure point is in a charming harbor village rather than an industrial port, and because the town is itself a destination. You can spend a night on the Balboa Peninsula, walk to the dock in the morning, and be in Avalon in about an hour and a quarter. Our Catalina Island guides cover the island in depth, including the first-visit guide, the ferry guides for the other ports, the Two Harbors guide, and the island history.
Booking and timing
Ferries run on a seasonal schedule, with more frequent service in summer and on weekends. The morning departure and late afternoon return give you several hours on the island. Reserve a specific sailing ahead of time for busy periods. Arrive at the dock a little early, bring your confirmation, and check the current schedule for any changes. If the weather is rough, the operator may adjust sailings.
The crossing
The boat has indoor seating and an open deck. Dolphins often appear in the channel, and sometimes whales, so keep an eye on the water. The ride is usually smooth, but wind can make the channel choppy. If you are prone to motion sickness, sit low and in the middle, and consider a remedy beforehand. A light jacket is helpful even in summer. The approach to Avalon, with the Casino building curving around the bay, is one of the best moments of the day.
A day in Avalon
Start with a stroll along the waterfront and the Pleasure Pier. Choose one or two organized activities: a glass-bottom boat or semi-submarine to see the kelp and fish, a golf cart tour of the village, a visit to the Casino building, or a trip up to the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden. For lunch, there are cafes and seafood restaurants along the main street, and the beaches offer a place to relax. Take time to walk the narrow streets and admire the colorful cottages. Shopping is limited to small shops and boutiques, and most things are within walking distance.
Adding adventure
For more active travelers, there are zip line tours, kayaking, and snorkeling. Inland tours reach the island's interior, where bison, foxes, and views of both coasts await. These tours take more time, so plan on an overnight if you want to combine them with other activities. Most visitors find that a day trip is enough for the highlights, while an overnight allows a slower pace.
Staying overnight
An overnight in Avalon reveals a quieter village after the day-trippers leave. Hotels fill up on summer weekends, so book ahead. Evenings are calm and lovely, with sunset on the bay and dinner at a waterfront restaurant. The first ferry back in the morning gets you to Newport in time for lunch or a flight. Our Catalina hotel pages can help you choose.
Tips for a smooth day
Pack light, because you will carry your belongings. Wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle. Keep a note of the return time and aim to be at the landing early. Book restaurant tables for lunch in peak season. Cash and cards are both accepted widely, but small vendors may prefer cash.
Combining with Newport
Pair the island day with a night on the peninsula before or after. Spend the evening on the Fun Zone, a sunset harbor cruise, or dinner on the beach. If you have an extra day, a whale watching trip or a Duffy boat rental in the harbor rounds out the water-focused itinerary. Newport Beach and Catalina complement each other, with a polished mainland harbor and a rustic island village just a boat ride apart. With a little planning, the trip is easy, scenic, and one of the best ways to spend a day on the Southern California coast.