🛫 Introduction
Planning a trip to Santa Catalina Island? This beautiful getaway, just off the coast of Southern California, offers stunning views, water adventures, and peaceful escapes. Whether you are flying from Los Angeles or another state.
This guide shows how to plan smart, best flights to Santa Catalina Island, book easily, and enjoy a smooth trip to the island. All data here is accurate and based on official sources, including Google Flights and Catalina Express.
What Makes Santa Catalina Island a Special Destination?
Santa Catalina Island, often called Catalina, is known for its crystal-clear waters, wildlife, and outdoor fun. Located just 22 miles southwest of Los Angeles, it feels like a world away. Visitors come here for snorkeling, kayaking, zip-lining, hiking, and relaxing on beaches.
The two main towns, Avalon and Two Harbors, offer different vibes. Avalon is lively and full of shops, while Two Harbors is quieter and rugged.
Can You Fly Directly to Santa Catalina Island?
No commercial airlines fly directly to Avalon or the island. However, Catalina has a small airport called Airport in the Sky (AVX). It sits 1,602 feet above sea level.
This airport is owned by the Catalina Island Conservancy, and it supports private flights only. No scheduled passenger flights operate here.
The typical route for travelers is to fly to a nearby airport on the mainland, then transfer by ferry or helicopter.
Best Airports for Reaching Catalina
Here are the best airports to choose from:
✈️ Long Beach Airport (LGB)
- Closest airport to Catalina ferry
- 11 miles to Long Beach ferry terminal
- ~20–25 minutes by car or rideshare
✈️ Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Largest hub, more flight options
- 25 miles to the San Pedro ferry terminal
- ~30–45 minutes drive, depending on traffic
✈️ John Wayne Airport (SNA)
- Best for Orange County travelers
- 25 miles to Dana Point ferry terminal
- ~30–50 minutes by car
Each of these airports has easy access to ferry ports and heliports via shuttle, rental car, or taxi.
✈️ Popular Airlines with Direct Flights to Santa Catalina Island (SNA)
Although there are no direct commercial flights to the island itself, many airlines provide service to the nearest major airport, John Wayne Airport (SNA).
Here are the top airlines offering direct flights to SNA, which is only 37 miles from Catalina:
| Airline | Service |
| Southwest | Direct flights to Santa Catalina Island (SNA) |
| Allegiant | Direct flights to Santa Catalina Island (SNA) |
| JSX | Direct flights to Santa Catalina Island (SNA) |
| Delta | Direct flights to Santa Catalina Island (SNA) |
| Alaska | Direct flights to Santa Catalina Island (SNA) |
| Breeze | Direct flights to Santa Catalina Island (SNA) |
These flights make it easy and affordable to reach Southern California before continuing on to the island.
🛥️ How to Reach the Island After Flying
Once you land at an airport like SNA or LAX, you can choose from several options:
The ferry is the most popular option and runs multiple times a day.
Flight + Helicopter Transfer Options
Want to get there fast? Take a helicopter.
- Island Express Helicopters offers flights from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Orange County.
- Travel time is about 15 minutes to Catalina.
- Prices usually start around $180–$250 one-way.
- Baggage is limited to soft-sided bags, usually 25–30 lbs per person.
- It is best to confirm luggage rules with the provider when booking.
More info: islandexpress.com
This is the fastest and most scenic way to arrive.
light + Catalina Ferry Packages
Most travelers prefer the ferry option. It’s affordable and reliable.
🛳️ Ferry Routes:
- Long Beach to Avalon
- San Pedro to Avalon or Two Harbors
- Dana Point to Avalon
- Note: Catalina Flyer runs from Newport Beach, less frequently
⏱️ Ferry Duration:
- Long Beach to Avalon: ~1 hour
- Dana Point: ~90 minutes
💲 Pricing:
- Round-trip fares start around $92 for adults
- Discounted rates available for early online booking
- Baggage included (up to 2 bags per person)
Book online via Catalina Express.
Average Flight Prices and Booking Tips
🧾 Booking Tips:
- Use Google Flights to compare prices to LGB, LAX, and SNA
- Best to book 45–60 days in advance
- Midweek flights are often cheaper
- LGB has higher fares but lower transfer costs
Flights to Santa Catalina Island – Flight Prices
| Departure City | Route (From – To) | Dates | Stops | Price (From) |
| Dallas | DFW – SNA | Sep 29 – Oct 6 | 1 Stop | $125 |
| Seattle | SEA – SNA | Sep 13 – Sep 20 | Nonstop | $177 |
| Atlanta | ATL – SNA | Sep 15 – Sep 24 | 1 Stop | $182 |
| Chicago | ORD – SNA | Sep 20 – Sep 26 | 1 Stop | $187 |
| New York | LGA – SNA | Sep 15 – Sep 24 | 2 Stops | $187 |
Look for bundle deals on travel sites or check for off-season discounts.
Best Times to Visit Catalina
Catalina has a mild coastal climate all year.
🌤️ When to Go:
- Spring (March to May) – Best combo of weather and low crowds
- Fall (September to November) – Fewer tourists, good deals
- Summer – Peak season, more events, but higher prices
- Winter – Quietest time, some ferry delays in storms
Plan based on weather, budget, and your travel style.
How to Book Flights to Santa Catalina Island Easily
Here is a quick guide to booking:
- Use Google Flights to find a deal to LAX, LGB, or SNA
- Choose your arrival date and airport
- Book your flight and ferry, or helicopter separately
- Check ferry schedules on Catalina Express
- Confirm hotel check-in aligns with your ferry arrival
Tip: Arrive 1 hour before ferry departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
Catalina Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Pack light: Soft luggage is easier to carry and fits ferry racks
- Arrive early: Be at the ferry port at least 1 hour before departure (per Catalina Express policy)
- Parking: Long Beach ferry terminal parking is $22–25 per day
- Shuttle service is available from LAX to San Pedro
- Download tickets or bring printouts to avoid delays
- Stay near the Avalon dock for convenience
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can you book a commercial flight to Catalina Island?
No. Only private aircraft or helicopters can fly directly to the island.
Q2: What is the fastest way to reach Catalina?
Helicopter from Long Beach – it takes just 15 minutes.
Q3: Which airport is closest to the Catalina ferry ports?
Long Beach Airport is the closest and most convenient.
Q4: Is the ferry included in my airline booking?
No. You must book a ferry or a helicopter separately.
Q5: How early should I get to the ferry terminal?
Catalina Express recommends arriving at least 1 hour early.
Q6. How much does it cost to fly to Catalina Island?
Flight prices can start as low as $125, depending on where you’re flying from and the time of year.
Q7. Are there flights from the USA to Santa Catalina Island?
Yes, you can fly from many U.S. cities to nearby airports like SNA (John Wayne Airport), then take a short boat or helicopter ride to Catalina Island.
Q8. Does Delta fly to Santa Catalina Island?
Delta offers flights to nearby airports like SNA. From there, you can reach Catalina Island by ferry or helicopter.
Q9. Can I fly to Catalina Island from California?
Yes, you can fly from cities in California to nearby airports such as John Wayne (SNA) or LAX, then take a ferry or chopper to the island.
Q10. What airlines fly to Catalina Island?
Airlines like Southwest, Delta, Alaska, Allegiant, JSX, and Breeze fly to airports close to Catalina Island.
🎯 Final Thoughts
The best way to get to Catalina is to fly into LGB, LAX, or SNA, then take a ferry or helicopter. The ferry from Long Beach is the most popular option. Helicopters are faster but more expensive. Use Google Flights to compare airfare. Book ferries early for better seat options.
Plan your visit now, and enjoy the beauty of Catalina Island with zero stress.
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