Santa Catalina Island is known as the picture perfect paradise and the world apart from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. This one is just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California. It does not matter whether you are coming for the day, weekend or longer, this island is the great place for work or play. Getting to this place is the adventure all its own with either the boat of the helicopter ride across the beautiful southern California waters.
Once you you arrive, there are hotels and accommodations that will surprise and delight with their island feel and laid back hospitality. From shopping to thrilling adventures on the zip line or paddle board, there are a lot of activities and things to do in Catalina. You can relax your body with the relaxing ocean-side dining at one of the many restaurants or enjoy the active nightlife.
How to get to Catalina Island from Newport Beach? There is a thing called the Catalina Flyer. This one will depart once a day from Newport Beach and will arrive in Avalon in just over an hour. Here are some things that you have to know:
1. You are able to ride the ferry from the Balboa Peninsula, which is conveniently located in Orange County, to Avalon Harbor on Catalina Island.
2. There is passenger service offered once time daily each way. It starts at 9 am from Newport Beach and at 4:30 pm from Avalon.
3. There is high speed catamaran that offers the the stable ride and quick transportation to Avalon.
4. The Catalina Flyer is extremely popular mode or transportation that sells out quickly so please book early.
5. You are able to watch dolphins, whales and the other marine life on your ferry to Catalina Island.
Once again, please keep in mind that the Catalina Flyer departs from the Babloa Pavilion in Newport Beach at 9 am daily and returns from the island at 4:30 pm daily. It is one of the most easily accessible ports for everyone from Orange County, Inland Empire and San Diego County to travel by boat from the mainland to Avalon. The crossing time is only 90 minutes on the biggest catamaran to Catalina Island.
The Catalina Flyer has three deck. On the first deck, there is the snack bar available. On the second deck, there is the alcohol serving bar. If you want to go to the snack bar, please prepare the cash as credit cars are not accepted on board.
For those who have a plan to travel with infants, do not forget that while you can and should reserve the infant ticket online, the Catalina Flyer does not require you pay for the ticket upon the check in. Basically, you will not be charged for that ticket upon booking. Another thing to remember is that to carry only only two piece of hard carried luggage per person. There is no animal allowed so please do not bring one when you use this service.
