The Catalina Express in Dana Point has taken millions of travelers from Dana Point Harbor to Catalina Island over the years. Many choose Catalina Express as their preferred transportation option to sail them to paradise in under two hours. Take a trip to Catalina Island on this public ferry option to soak up the year-round Mediterranean climate while enjoying an adventure-packed vacation playing golf, hiking, or kayaking for a long weekend away from your worries and the mainland.
The Catalina Express port is located at the Harbor in sunny Dana Point. This port is convenient for travelers choosing Catalina Island for their weekend getaway from San Diego or Orange County. There is also an option for those coming from the Los Angeles area to take the ferry from the Long Beach port.
Catalina Express Ferry
Leave the demands of daily life behind for some rest and relaxation by jumping on the Catalina Express Ferry. Enjoy the ocean air for 90 minutes as you make your way to the nearby tropical island. With Catalina Island only 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, this daily ferry makes up to 30 daily ferry trips a year. Catalina Express’ large fleet of eight fast, modern boats makes for a quick, easy, and fun getaway from mainland ports in San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point.
Travelers taking the Catalina Island Ferry can sit outside and enjoy the ocean air and sunshine while the boat makes the trip to Catalina Island. If you are lucky, you will spot a school of dolphins, or a humpback whale, accompanying the cruise to the island.
Catalina Express Parking
Whether planning a day trip or weekend away, Catalina Express parking is $20 per day. When you purchase your cruise tickets, there is a short-term parking lot, but if you plan to stay on the island overnight, you will need to move your car to the long-term parking lot. There is a shuttle to the dock from the long-term parking lot if needed.
If you are going to Catalina for the day or staying the weekend, enjoy all a tropical island has to offer a little more than an hour away from the mainland.
