Long Beach to Catalina: A Local Getaway
Long Beach has it all—a lively waterfront, great food, and nonstop energy—but even locals need a reset sometimes. What if a true island escape was closer than you ever imagined?
Just 22 miles off the coast, Catalina Island feels like a world away, yet it’s one of the easiest coastal getaways you can experience from Long Beach. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous day trip or a long weekend, Catalina Island is California’s Island Escape™, and it starts right here at the Long Beach harbor.
How to Get from Long Beach to Catalina Island: No long flights, no passport, no jet lag
If you’ve ever wondered how far Catalina Island is from Long Beach, the answer is refreshingly simple: about 22 miles and just over one hour by boat.
Daily ferries to Catalina Island depart directly from Long Beach, making the journey seamless and stress-free. For Long Beach travelers, this is one of the easiest and most accessible island escapes in Southern California.
What Makes Catalina Island Different From Other Island Getaways
Catalina Island isn’t your typical coastal destination—and that’s what makes it unforgettable
- Wild bison roam the island’s rugged interior
- Avalon offers a Mediterranean-style village vibe with colorful buildings and charming harbor views
- Minimal cars create a truly walkable town with no traffic
- California culture shines through with fresh coastal cuisine, local wines, and outdoor adventure
Unlike far-flung island trips, Catalina blends exotic beauty with familiar comfort—making it the perfect island getaway just of the Long Beach shore. While Long Beach buzzes with activity, Catalina invites you to slow down. Spend your days 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. It’s the kind of coastal reset that feels effortless and instantly refreshing.
Top 5 Catalina Island Experiences Long Beach Travelers Will Love
Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a longer stay, these experiences are must-dos:
1. Ziplining in Descanso Canyon with an ocean view
A thrilling outdoor adventure, Catalina’s zip line experience lets you soar across 5 different lines at speeds up to 35 mph. You can take in the captivating canyon and stunning ocean views during your journey. This Catalina Zipline Eco Tour is easily one of the most exciting ziplines near Long Beach.
2. 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 and the Glass Bottom Boat Voyage.
3. Aerial Adventure & Eco Tours
Explore an elevated ropes course at the Catalina Aerial Adventure and guided hummer tours that allow you to explore to the island’s rugged interior like the Bison Expedition and Journey to Island’s End.
4. Luxury and Beachfront Hotel Stays
Experience pure elegance at Mt Ada, a luxury bed and breakfast overlooking Avalon Bay. Stay steps from the beach at Pavilion Hotel, a recently-refreshed beachside oasis. Want to be close to the action? Hotel Atwater is conveniently located in the center of town. Or get even closer to the water with incredible camping options.
5. Local Cuisine
Sample fresh California coastal fare at iconic Catalina Island restaurants like Avalon Grille, Pier 24, and Descanso Beach Club. Grab breakfast at the delicious Bistro at the Atwater and people watch in the afternoon at the island’s only biergarten, Flx Biergarten.
Ready to Escape Long Beach for a Day or Three?
Catalina Island proves you don’t need to travel far to feel transported. With easy ferry access from Long Beach, unforgettable experiences, and zero traffic it’s the ultimate island escape just off the Southern California coast.
Explore Catalina Island packages and special offers and turn your next Long Beach getaway into an island experience you’ll never forget.