Catalina Island is a beautiful place located off the coast of southern California. It provides scenic views and physical activities, but the accessibility to the site is expensive.
Being a frequent traveler, I had to look for ways how to get to this island cheaply most of the time. Many people are often unable to afford the high costs of transport hence they are unable to enjoy the transport system’s beauty.
Here I will tell you how I have come across and what steps should be taken to how to get to Catalina Island on a small budget. Here, I will give you tips on how to have a splendid time in the park without having to spend a lot of money.
Understanding Your Options
When planning your trip to Catalina Island you would want to know the different means of transport. Here are the primary ways to reach the island:
- Ferry Services
- Helicopter Rides
- Private Boats
- Flying into Avalon Airport
How to get to Catalina Island Cheap for Free
It is nearly impossible to be in Catalina Island without paying a dime but there are few ways that can help one to cut down his or her expenses. If you live close to them or know someone who owns a boat, you could probably get a ride, but this is not very common.
In its absence, one can try getting into promotions that are initiated by local firms or companies. They at times use free tickets to the island as promotional items.
What is the Cheapest Way to Get Catalina Island?
Subsequent to my own research and traveling, I have discovered that the most affordable means of transportation to reach Catalina Island is by boat. Pre-booking usually can also help to get a lower price, especially if it is made during low-demand periods. If you can travel on a weekday or during off-season travel, the chances are high that you will come across even better offers.
The simplest and cheapest means of transport to Catalina Island is by water through a ferry. Two main companies operate the cheapest ferry to Catalina island: Catalina Express and Avalon. Trolleys are some of the best tourist attractions that a tourist can take while in Avalon.
Catalina Express
This is probably the best known, offering daily ferry service originating from several points in Southern California. It comprises of Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. Fare costs vary between $30 and $75 for round trips depending on the starting point and time of purchase. You should also be able to buy your tickets in advance online to get the best prices.
Avalon Trolley
If you are going to the island’s major city, Avalon, then the trolley ride can be a bit of entertainment. Avalon shuttle is internal and offers a way of transport within the area.
How Much Does It Cost to Fly to Catalina Island?
Another way of getting to Catalina Island is by flying. It is usually flown from Long Beach or Los Angeles. Transportation is relatively costly with flights costing anything between $100 and $200 for a one-way trip.
This depends on the season, as well as the time when one books the vehicle. However, if you are in a position to cut a few bucks, then you should know that flying is not always the cheapest than the ferry services.
How to get to Catalina Island Helicopter? In a hurry or want to have something special, you can always take a helicopter tour. Some of the flight companies that have direct flights to Catalina Island are Island Express Helicopters. It flies to Catalina Island from Long Beach and Los Angeles.
This is however one of the fastest means of getting to the island but also one of the most costly as it may cost between $150 and $250 one way.
How to Get to Catalina Island from San Diego
If you are arriving from San Diego then there is no direct way to get to the island, you will have to drive to one of the ferry terminals. It names Long Beach or San Pedro. The drive should take about two hours and from there, you get a ferry to Avalon. It is often cheaper than flying, at least with regard to the cost of gas and the tickets for the ferry.
However, you can take a bus from San Diego to Long Beach and then take the ferry but it may take you more time.
How to Get to Catalina Island from San Francisco
If you are traveling from San Francisco to Catalina Island, it is a little more organized than the other way round. You can take a flight to Los Angeles or Long Beach. After that you can get a shuttle or rent a car to the ferry terminal.
Alternatively, you could drive a car or take a bus or a train to Long Beach where there ferries ply. However, it should be noted that it can take more time, but buying a ticket in advance for a flight or train, you can save money.
How to Get to Catalina Island with a Car?
However, if you wish to have your car on the island you can drive to the island through the ferry service that is available from Long Beach or San Pedro. Catalina Express permits only a small amount of automobile transport. It is necessary to make a reservation beforehand.
A ticket for a car ferry may cost much more than a ticket for a person. It will be important to do the total cost. Upon getting to the island, note that there are few parking spaces available, so choose where you would wish to park your car ahead of time.
How to Get to Catalina Island Without a Car
If one plans well then it is very easy to travel without the car. The main means of getting around the island once one gets there are by bike, golf carts, and shuttles. It is when you are on the ferry that you can park your car and embrace the island’s no-hurry attitude.
Car hire is not necessary as bicycles and golf carts can be hired to move around Avalon and other attractive areas.
Where Can I Buy Tickets to Catalina Island?
Tickets for the ferry can be bought at the official website of Catalina Express or at the website of other ferry services. It is always advisable to purchase them in advance, especially in the busy season.
It is to guarantee supply and may also lead to locking in a better price. Ferry tickets can also be purchased from some hotels and travel agencies. They may even combine the ticket prices with accommodation services.
4 Ways to Get to Catalina Island for Cheap
Here are some additional tips for saving money on your trip to Catalina Island:
Book Early
It is always advisable to book the ferry tickets in advance. Early bookings usually attract some form of a discount.
Travel During Off-Peak Times
It is always better to travel during the off-season if possible and the shoulder season would be in spring or autumn.
Look for Package Deals
It is important to note that while there are no direct flights to the island some hotels offer package deals. It includes the ferry ride which can be cheaper.
Consider Group Rates
When traveling in a group, you should enquire on the possibility of being offered group fares for the ferry.
The Departure
As mentioned, visiting Catalina Island on a budget is not a problem if you know where to look and what to do. Whether you go for the ferry, the helicopter, or even a private boat, the fact of knowing your choices can mean quite a lot of money saved.
To my understanding, the ferry is the cheapest and best method to get to this beautiful island. Catalina Island is a beautiful place that is really interesting and to get there on a budget is an added bonus. Enjoy your adventure!
FAQs
What is the duration of the ferry from LA to Catalina Island?
The boat ride from Long Beach or San Pedro to Catalina Island takes one hour. The exact time may take a little longer depending on the ferrying company and the state of the sea.
Is Catalina Island a one-day trip?
It is possible to travel to Catalina Island on a day trip but this is not advisable if one wants to have the full experience of the island. A day trip greatly reduces the time you have for sightseeing in Avalon and the various things to do on the island. Catalina has so much to offer that many people prefer to spend at least two days in Catalina or even more.
How much cash should you carry to Catalina Island?
As for day tours, the cost per person will range from $100 to 150; if an overnight stay is planned, $300 to 500 per person per night. Do not forget to add the fares for the ferry, meals, lodging, various forms of entertainment, and shopping sprees.