To and from catalina island from airport?

Question

Hello,wife and I are planning our 1st trip to catalina Island and would really appreciate some guidance? Where should we fly into? Can we get transportation to and from airport to the island and back? We're looking at about $200 per night for 3 nights, suggestions? Were planning for early part of July..Appreciate any help

Answer

Visiting Catalina Island in early July is a fantastic idea! Here’s a detailed guide for getting there, transportation, and accommodation options within your budget.

Getting There:

You have two main options: flying or taking a ferry.

Fly: You can fly into one of the nearby Los Angeles area airports: LAX (Los Angeles International), Long Beach Airport (LGB), or John Wayne Airport (SNA). The closest airport to Catalina Island is Long Beach Airport, which is only about 20–25 minutes from the Long Beach ferry terminal.
Ferry: From Long Beach, Dana Point, or San Pedro, you can take a Catalina Express ferry directly to Avalon on Catalina Island. The ferry typically takes about 1 hour. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially in July.

Transportation to/from airport:

From Long Beach Airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or airport shuttle directly to the Catalina Express terminal in Long Beach.
From LAX or John Wayne Airport, rideshare or rental car is convenient to reach the ferry terminals (about 1 hour drive from LAX, 1–1.5 hours from SNA).
Once on Catalina Island, most people walk, rent golf carts, bicycles, or use the local bus/taxi service to get around Avalon.

Accommodation:

For your $200 per night budget, options are more limited in peak summer, but still possible if booked early.

Hotel Catalina – Located in Avalon, often close to $200 per night depending on dates; offers basic, comfortable rooms and good location.
Sea Air Inn – Central Avalon location, clean rooms, some with ocean views.
Airbnb or vacation rentals – Sometimes offers good value for a few nights, especially if you book early; you can find small cottages or condos near the waterfront.

Additional Tips:

Book your ferry tickets as early as possible for July travel; ferries fill up fast.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes, as Avalon is hilly.
Plan activities like the glass-bottom boat tour, hiking to the Wrigley Memorial, snorkeling, or renting a golf cart for exploring the island.

Overall, the most seamless approach is flying into Long Beach, taking the Catalina Express ferry to Avalon, staying in a centrally located hotel, and using golf carts or walking to explore the island. Booking accommodations and ferry tickets early will help secure your preferred dates and rates.

To and from catalina island from airport?

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