New York City is known for its concrete streets, high-rises, and the thrill of a high-paced culture. Sometimes, though, you crave a getaway that’s a little slower paced. Catalina Island, an island that sits just 22 miles off the Southern California coast, feels like a true change of pace. If you’re looking for island getaways from NYC, this is a great place to start.
How to Plan a Trip from NYC to Catalina Island
Planning a NYC to Catalina Island getaway starts with flying into Southern California, then heading to a ferry port for the final leg to Avalon, the biggest town on Catalina Island. Grab a flight to Long Beach Airport (LGB), your closest and most convenient option, or Los Angeles International (LAX) and check out Hollywood before heading to Hollywood’s playground of the 20’s and 30’s. Travelers can also start with a flight to John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County.
Once you’ve arrived in California, all you have to do is pick a ferry. Catalina Express offers daily service to Avalon from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point, plus the Catalina Flyer sails from Newport Beach in Orange County to Avalon. The trip itself becomes part of the vacation once you’re on board, with wide-open coastal views before you arrive in Avalon’s walkable harbor town.
For New York travelers comparing city energy with a more relaxed beach destination, Catalina makes it easy to transition from an urban itinerary to a laid-back island where there's no car (or subway) necessary once you arrive.
Why Catalina Island Appeals to New York Travelers
Catalina offers a completely different kind of experience from New York City: sea air, ocean views, and a waterfront town where everything feels slower and more scenic. Instead of traffic, taxis, and packed schedules, visitors find beaches, harbor walks, outdoor adventures, and a refreshing sense of distance from the mainland. Here are some unique things about Catalina Island that New Yorkers will love:
- Wild bison that roam the island’s vast interior
- A Mediterranean-style vibe with colorful buildings and charming harbor views. Head to Descanso Beach Club and enjoy luxury cabanas and a casual beachfront restaurant & bar.
- Minimal cars, no stoplights, and a small footprint create a truly walkable town with little traffic
- A beautiful subtropical climate with highs of around 72°F in the summer and 63°F in the winter
Catalina invites you to leave behind your to-do list. Spend your time lounging on the beach at Descanso Beach Club, kayaking in crystal-clear coves, snorkeling vibrant marine habitats, or enjoying outdoor dining with sweeping ocean views at restaurants like Pier 24.
Top Catalina Island Experiences for an Island Getaway from NYC
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Ziplining in Descanso Canyon with an ocean view
A thrilling outdoor adventure, the Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour lets you soar across five different lines at speeds up to 35 mph while taking in captivating canyon scenery and sweeping ocean views along the way. -
Water Adventures
Explore crystal-clear waters filled with bright fish and kelp forests just steps from shore. Stop by Descanso Beach Ocean Sports for snorkels, kayaks, paddle boards, and more. Or stay dry with a boat tour like the Undersea Sub Expedition or the Glass Bottom Boat Voyage. -
Land-Based Tours
Challenge yourself on the elevated ropes course at Catalina Aerial Adventure, then explore the island’s rugged interior on guided tours like the Bison Expedition and Journey to Island’s End. You can also head out on the Wrigley Island Tour, Catalina’s signature motor tour, for an exclusive look at the Wrigley family’s hidden ranch and historic DC-3 airplane. -
Historic and Beachfront Hotel Stays
Turn your day trip into an overnight adventure. Stay at Mt Ada, the historic former Wrigley estate perched above Avalon. Relax steps from the sand at Pavilion Hotel, a newly refreshed beachside oasis, or reserve a room at the island-chic Hotel Atwater near the Discovery Tour Plaza. Prefer to get in touch with nature? Catalina also offers diverse camping options. -
Local Cuisine
Sample fresh California coastal fare at iconic Catalina Island restaurants like Avalon Grille, Pier 24, and Descanso Beach Club. Grab breakfast, coffee, and tea at the delicious Bistro at the Atwater and enjoy an afternoon brew at the island’s only biergarten, Flx Biergarten.
Your Southern California Escape Starts in Avalon
For New York residents and visitors building a West Coast itinerary, Catalina Island is an easy add-on that feels far more special than a standard beach stop. With year-round ferry service to Avalon and a setting that blends classic seaside charm with outdoor adventure, it is one of the most memorable island getaways from NYC to keep on your radar when Southern California is calling.
Explore Catalina Island packages and special offers to start planning your Southern California escape today.