Planning a Phoenix to Catalina Island getaway is a great way to escape the desert and experience a coastal destination with beaches, outdoor adventures, and a walkable harbor town. While Catalina Island is located off the Southern California coast, it’s a practical and popular option for travelers looking for a weekend trip from Phoenix.
Just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island is one of the closest coastal getaways you can experience near Phoenix. Whether you’re planning a short weekend trip or a longer week-long stay, Catalina Island is waiting for you just a short distance away.
How to Get from Phoenix, AZ to Catalina Island, CA
If you’ve ever wondered how to get from Phoenix to Catalina Island, the answer is simple. The drive from Phoenix to Long Beach is an approachable 6 hours and perfect for a road trip. Prefer to fly? Long Beach Airport has direct flights from Phoenix, making it even faster. From there, daily ferries depart via the Catalina Express, making the journey seamless and stress-free.
What Makes Catalina Island Different from Other Island Getaways
Catalina Island isn’t your typical coastal destination—here’s what makes it unforgettable:
- Wild bison roam the island’s rugged interior
- Avalon offers a Mediterranean-style vibe with colorful buildings and charming harbor views. Head to the Mediterranean-style Descanso Beach Club to enjoy luxury cabanas and a casual beachfront restaurant & bar.
- Minimal cars create a truly walkable town with little traffic
- California culture shines through with fresh coastal cuisine and outdoor adventure
While Phoenix buzzes with dry desert heat, Catalina invites you to slow down and cool off on the Island. 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 coastal reset Phoenix residents didn’t know they needed.
Top 5 Catalina Island Experiences Phoenix Travelers Will Love
Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a longer stay, these experiences are must-dos:
-
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—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. Take 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
Phoenix natives are likely familiar with the Biltmore Wrigley Mansion, a 50th anniversary gift from William Wrigley Jr to his wife Ada. Did you know that on Catalina, you can stay at Mt Ada, the former residence of William and Ada that is now a luxury bed and breakfast with sweeping ocean views? You can also stay steps from the beach at Pavilion Hotel, a newly-refreshed beachside oasis. Or grab a room at the island-chic Hotel Atwater, conveniently located next to the Discovery Tour Plaza. You can also get closer to nature with 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 people watch in the afternoon at the island’s only biergarten, Flx Biergarten.
Ready to Trade the Desert for the Ocean?
Catalina Island proves you don’t need to travel far to feel completely transported. With an easy drive or quick flight from Phoenix and seamless ferry access from Long Beach, it’s the ultimate island escape for Phoenix residents craving a cool, coastal reset.
Explore Catalina Island packages and special offers and turn your next getaway from Long Beach into an island experience you’ll never forget.
FAQ
How do you get from Phoenix to Catalina Island?
You can fly or drive to Southern California, then take a ferry from ports like Newport Beach, Dana Point, or Long Beach to Avalon.
Is Catalina Island a good weekend trip from Phoenix?
Yes, Catalina Island is a popular weekend getaway offering beaches, outdoor activities, and a relaxed atmosphere.
How long does it take to get to Catalina Island from Phoenix?
Travel time includes a short flight or a 6–7 hour drive, plus a ferry ride of about 75–90 minutes.
What are the best things to do in Catalina Island?
Popular activities include snorkeling, kayaking, golf cart tours, beach relaxation, and waterfront dining.
Which ferry port is best from Phoenix?
Newport Beach and Dana Point are convenient when flying into Orange County, while Long Beach is a good option when flying into Los Angeles.