Long Beach - Avalon
Ferries to Catalina Island
Long Beach - Avalon
Ferries to Catalina Island
Ferries from Long Beach to Avalon are operated by 1 ferry company: Catalina Express. The crossing typically takes around 1 hour. There are currently 30 weekly sailings on this route, with prices starting from as little as $86. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability, and book your ferry to Avalon today.
Long Beach to Avalon ferry prices typically range from $89 to $402. The average ferry price from Long Beach to Avalon is around $201. The cheapest fares usually start from $89. The average foot passenger ticket costs $201.
Prices may vary depending on passenger numbers, vehicle type, route, and sailing time. Please be aware that pricing data excludes service fees and is based on searches from the last 30 days. This was last updated September 26.
The cheapest tickets on the Long Beach to Avalon ferry cost approximately $89.33.
Direct Ferries makes it easy to compare ferry tickets and prices worldwide, so you can find the best deal for your journey. Please visit our special Offers page to see current discounts on selected routes and operators. Booking early is typically the most reliable way to secure lower fares and better availability.
Yes, Direct Ferries offers a range of discounts throughout the year. Where available, senior discounts are applied automatically during the search process: simply select the relevant age range when entering passenger details.
Students and recent graduates can receive a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To claim this, register with our partner Student Beans and verify your student or graduate status. Once confirmed, you'll receive a discount code to use at checkout.
Resident discounts are available on selected routes in Spain and Italy. When applicable, choose the "Residents" option during booking and the discount will be applied automatically. Please note that you must present proof of residence or a valid ID showing the correct address at check-in.
There are around 30 weekly sailings from Long Beach to Avalon.
Catalina Express provide 5 sailings daily, 30 sailings weekly. Please keep in mind that ferry timetables often increase during the high season.
The first ferry from Long Beach to Avalon usually departs at around 06:00, with the last sailing leaving Long Beach Port at approximately 19:15.
Yes, a day trip from Long Beach to Avalon is one of the easiest and most popular ways to visit Catalina Island from mainland Southern California. All ferries arrive directly in Avalon Harbor, right in the center of town, within walking distance of beaches, restaurants, and attractions. As this is a domestic U.S. route, no passport is needed, and you can begin exploring the island immediately upon arrival.
For more inspiration on the best things to do in Avalon, please visit our blog.
The fastest ferry from Long Beach to Avalon is with Catalina Express in 1 hour.
The fastest ferries from Long Beach to Avalon usually cost around $200.91.
No, ferry operators currently do not allow cars on sailings between Long Beach and Avalon. If you wish to bring your car on the ferry, then you can use our Deal Finder to find alternative routes.
Whether you can take a campervan or caravan on the ferry depends on the operator and vessel used for your chosen crossing. Enter your travel details into our search bar to see which operators and vehicle options are available on the Long Beach to Avalon ferry.
For more advice and travel inspiration when taking a car, campervan, or caravan, please visit our blog.
Yes, you can bring your bicycle on the ferry from Long Beach to Avalon with Catalina Express. While most operators allow bicycles onboard, we recommend checking individual policies in advance to avoid any complications upon arrival at the port.
Yes, foot passengers are welcome on ferries from Long Beach to Avalon with Catalina Express.
There is no cabin accommodation on the Long Beach to Avalon ferry.
Whether an overnight ferry runs between Long Beach and Avalon depends on the operator and timetable. Enter your travel details in our search bar to check whether an overnight option is available, along with current timetables and alternative daytime crossings. Please be aware that overnight crossings can sometimes take a little longer than daytime sailings.
Pets are currently not allowed on ferries traveling from Long Beach to Avalon. Please use our Deal Finder to search for alternative routes that allow pet travel.
Please be aware that even where pets are not permitted on board, different regulations may apply to passengers traveling with guide dogs or assistance dogs. We recommend contacting our customer service team directly to confirm the specific rules for your preferred sailing. For general information, visit our Special Assistance Help page.
The Long Beach to Avalon ferry is a popular crossing to Santa Catalina Island, operated by Catalina Express. The crossing sails out of Long Beach and across the San Pedro Channel before arriving at the harbor town of Avalon. As this is a daytime crossing, overnight cabins aren't available, but it's still worth knowing what to expect onboard, especially if you're traveling with children.
Catalina Express offers comfortable indoor seating in an enclosed cabin. This is the standard option for most travelers and works well whether the sea is calm or a little choppy.
Outdoor deck seating is available and is a great way to enjoy the crossing on a clear day. You'll get good views of the Long Beach coastline and the Los Angeles basin as you depart, with the rugged hills and the harbor of Avalon coming into view as you approach Catalina Island.
Catalina Express offers a Commodore Lounge upgrade with enhanced seating, extra legroom, and complimentary refreshments in a quieter, more comfortable section of the vessel. This is a popular upgrade and well worth considering if you'd like a more relaxed crossing, particularly on busy summer and weekend sailings when the standard areas can get crowded.
There is an onboard snack bar serving drinks, including beer and wine, along with light snacks during the crossing. It's still worth grabbing something to eat before boarding if you'd prefer a full meal, as the onboard choice is fairly limited.
Open deck areas are available throughout the crossing and are well worth using on a clear day. The views of the California coastline on departure and the dramatic approach into Avalon's curved harbor, with its iconic Casino building and colorful waterfront, are best enjoyed from outside when conditions allow.
There are no dedicated play areas on this route, but the crossing is short enough that most children manage it easily. The open deck is a great place for children to watch the water, spot dolphins and flying fish along the way.
There's a reasonable amount of space for luggage onboard, though it's best to travel light if you can, particularly if you're visiting Avalon for the day rather than staying overnight. Avalon's waterfront and town center are easy to walk around from the ferry dock, and luggage storage is available in town if you want to drop your bags before exploring the island.
A regular passenger ferry service operates between Long Beach and Avalon, offering one of the quickest and most scenic ways to reach Catalina Island from the Los Angeles area.
Arrival guidance varies by terminal and sailing, but Catalina Express advises passengers to check in at the ticket window and be ready to board at least 30 minutes before departure, and some terminals recommend arriving earlier for busy sailings. For Long Beach departures, plan to allow extra time during peak periods.
Ticket windows usually open about one hour before the first sailing of the day. If you are traveling with bicycles, oversized luggage, or require special assistance, allow additional time to complete check-in and any required paperwork.
Long Beach offers public and private parking options near the Catalina Express terminal, but availability can be limited on busy summer weekends and during special events.
Passengers seeking nearby hotels, motels, or short-stay accommodation can compare local options on our accommodation page or search major travel sites for properties close to the Long Beach waterfront and downtown area.
Catalina Express aims to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility, though exact facilities and boarding procedures can vary by vessel and terminal. Please contact the operator ahead of travel to discuss specific needs and to arrange assistance with boarding, seating, or luggage handling.
When available, assistance can include crew support at the dock, priority boarding, and guidance to accessible seating areas. Providing advance notice allows staff to make appropriate preparations.
Passengers sailing with Catalina Express can each bring up to two checked pieces of luggage (maximum dimensions and weight apply) plus one carry-on item for the seat or overhead bin. Large, heavy, or excessive baggage may be restricted or require special handling.
Catalina Express arrives at Avalon’s waterfront terminal in the center of town. From the dock, you can walk to shops, restaurants, and rental offices. Taxis and local shuttle services are also available to reach hotels, beaches, and island attractions.
Travel requirements vary by route, so it's important to confirm which documents you need before you travel. On most international routes, you will need a valid passport to travel from Long Beach to Avalon, and possibly a visa or national ID depending on your nationality and the destination's entry rules.
To avoid delays at check-in, see our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and our blog post on traveling to Europe for useful tips.
Booking your Long Beach to Avalon ferry is very simple. Enter your departure and arrival ports along with your preferred travel date to view all available sailings and prices. You can also compare alternative routes and departure times to find the option that best suits your schedule and budget.
Look out for early-booking deals and special ticket types such as upgrades or flexi fares that allow changes or cancellations. To ensure a smooth booking process, always enter accurate passenger numbers and vehicle specifications.
The best time to book ferries from Long Beach to Avalon is as early as possible. Booking in advance often secures lower prices, along with a wider choice of departure times, seating, and cabin options. We recommend booking at least a few weeks ahead, particularly during peak holiday seasons. Prices can vary depending on demand and availability.
If no sailings from Long Beach to Avalon appear on your chosen date, this may be due to seasonal timetable changes, temporary schedule adjustments, or limited availability caused by high demand. We recommend checking alternative dates or nearby routes to find the most suitable option.
After completing your booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with your travel details. How your boarding pass is issued depends on the ferry operator you have booked with.
Some operators provide boarding passes at the time of booking, while others require check-in at the port terminal. Where available, online check-in can be completed through the Direct Ferries app.
Ticket desks are generally located near the terminal entrance. To prevent delays, we recommend arriving early to allow sufficient time for ticket collection and check-in.
At check-in you will need to present your booking confirmation and a valid photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If travelling with a pet, relevant documentation like vaccination records, pet passport and insurance may also be required. Passengers using resident discounts must provide proof of eligibility.
| Season | From price |
|---|---|
| Autumn (Sep - Nov) | $92 |
| Winter (Dec - Feb) | $762 |
| Summer (Jun - Aug) | $90 |
*Based on a one-way trip with one adult
| Ticket Type | From Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $86 |
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| Long Beach - Avalon Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $201 | |
| Long Beach - Avalon Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Destination | Catalina Island |
| No. of Operators | 1 |
| Operators | Catalina Express |
| Average Price | $201 |
| Average Pet Price | $216 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 5 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 30 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 1 h |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 1 h |
| First Ferry | 06:00 |
| Last Ferry | 19:15 |
| Distance | 14 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 September 2026.
The Port of Long Beach is a major passenger ferry departure point in Southern California and a key gateway for ferries from Long Beach to Catalina Island. Located close to downtown Long Beach and the waterfront, the port offers frequent high-speed ferry connections to Avalon, making it one of the most popular routes to Santa Catalina Island.
Long Beach Ferry Terminal primarily serves foot passengers on fast catamaran services operating year-round, with increased departures during weekends and summer months. Passengers are advised to arrive early to allow sufficient time for check-in and boarding, particularly during peak travel periods and holidays.
Address: Catalina Landing, 320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, CA 90802, USA
Ferry services to Catalina Island operate from a dedicated passenger terminal at Catalina Landing. Boarding gates are assigned by ferry operator and sailing time, so passengers should check their booking confirmation and follow terminal signage on arrival.
The Port of Avalon is the main ferry arrival point on Santa Catalina Island and the primary gateway for ferries to Avalon from Southern California. Located in the heart of Avalon Harbour, the port offers regular high-speed ferry connections to Long Beach, Dana Point and San Pedro, making it the most popular access point to Catalina Island.
Avalon Ferry Port serves foot passengers only, as private vehicles are heavily restricted on the island. The harbour is compact and centrally located, within walking distance of hotels, shops and beaches. Passengers are advised to arrive early for return sailings to allow sufficient time for ticket validation and boarding.
Address: Avalon Harbour, Crescent Avenue, Avalon, CA 90704, USA
Avalon operates from a single main harbour area serving all ferry arrivals and departures. Docking positions are assigned based on ferry operator and vessel size, so passengers should follow staff instructions and harbour signage.
Long Beach, located in Southern California, is a major departure point for ferries to Catalina Island, including the popular route to Avalon. Known for its waterfront attractions, beaches and relaxed coastal atmosphere, Long Beach is an ideal starting point for a Catalina Island ferry trip.
Avalon is the main town on Catalina Island and a popular ferry destination from Long Beach. Known for its crystal- clear waters, colourful harbour and laid-back island charm, Avalon offers outdoor adventure, relaxation and classic Southern California coastal scenery.
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