Serenade of the Seas
33% offbalcony
U.S.U.S. - Pacific, Northwest
Catalina Island Cruise Port
Catalina Island, California
Catalina Island, California is a beautiful and unique destination located off the coast of Los Angeles.
Ships in port today
- Ruby Princess7:00A — 6:00P
Safety rank
#1
of 37 ports in the U.S.
Today · high / low
91° / 59°
September normals
U.S. - Pacific, Northwest
Catalina Island, California
// Catalina Island cruise port overview
The cruise port in Catalina Island,
explained
Lat: 33.3°NLong: 118.3°WTimezone: America/Los_AngelesINTN code: SXC
Catalina Island, California is a beautiful and unique destination located off the coast of Los Angeles. It is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse wildlife.
The island is home to a variety of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing. There are also plenty of hiking trails, as well as a variety of restaurants and shops.
The island is also home to the Catalina Island Conservancy, which works to protect the island's natural beauty and wildlife. Visitors can also take a tour of the island's historic sites, such as the Catalina Casino and the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden.
With its stunning scenery and diverse activities, Catalina Island is a great destination for a relaxing getaway.
Ships visiting
7 lines
15 ships call at Catalina Island
Peak passenger day
5,999
cruise passengers ashore
Excursions from
$49
per person · 7 tours
Most ships dock at
8:00 AM
arrival for 63% of calls
Average port time
9h 30m
alongside, typical call
Excursions in Catalina Island start at $49.
Browse Catalina Island excursions// Catalina Island Cruise Deals
Price drops on cruises to Catalina Island.
258 cruises stop here in Catalina Island during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Catalina Island cruise's 90-day average.
Prices refreshed daily
Voyager of the Seas
29% offbalcony
MS Koningsdam
29% offbalcony
Voyager of the Seas
27% offbalcony
Serenade of the Seas
27% offbalcony
Brilliant Lady
27% offbalcony
Ovation of the Seas
23% offoceanview
Ovation of the Seas
22% offoceanview
// Catalina Island Cruise Port location
Where is Catalina Island Cruise Port?
Catalina Island, California is located off the coast of Los Angeles in the Pacific Ocean. The island is approximately 22 miles south-southwest of Los Angeles and is accessible by ferry, helicopter, or private boat. The Catalina Island cruise port is located in the city of Avalon, which is the only incorporated city on the island. The port is located on the east side of the island, near the center of Avalon Bay.
- General location
- U.S.
- Category
- U.S. - Pacific, Northwest
- Coordinates
- 33.34°N, 118.32°W
- Time zone
- America/Los_Angeles
Cruise port · 33.34°N, 118.32°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Catalina Island cruise port guide
What to do in Catalina Island
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Your day ashore
You'll have about 9 hours 30 minutes in Catalina Island. Most ships dock around 8:00 AM.
Median across 147 scheduled calls
Ways to spend the day
7 themesTheme 1
Get Active
This might not be the most popular option, given you’re on vacation. But some people like to earn that buffet. Catalina Island offers a variety of options to get up and moving. You can hike, swim, or golf. Or, just walk the streets. The town is relatively small, but great for stretching your legs and sightseeing for a few hours
Theme 2
Dive or Snorkel
Clear waters offer a great opportunity to dive or snorkel during your visit. Lover’s Cove and Descanso Beach are popular areas to jump in nearby Catalina Island Cruise Port. You can also venture to the other side of the island to Two Harbors. It’s been known to offer some of the world’s best scuba and was voted “World’s Healthiest Marine Environment” by Scuba Diving Magazine.
Theme 3
Historical Sites
Catalina Island was opened for commercial activity in the late 1800’s and has been a mecca for celebrities and high society folk ever since. A majority stake of the island was purchased by William Wrigley (chewing gum magnate and Chicago Cubs owner) and multiple landmarks are still on display in the city center of Avalon. Some of these include the Wrigley Memorial, Chimes Tower, and Casino (not for gambling but for performances). All are in great shape and worth a visit while in port
Theme 4
Hiking
Hiking is another popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Catalina Island, California. The island is home to a variety of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, with stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. There are several guided hikes available, which provide an experienced guide to help you explore the island's trails and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Theme 5
Boat Tours
Trade down your massive cruise ship for a much smaller, more nimble boat. That will allow you to get up close and explore Catalina Island in all its glory. You’ll have a few options to get out on the water, and the best choice will depend on your priorities. For a thrill, check out the <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="//www.partner.viator.com/en/11376/tours/Catalina-Island/Catalina-Island-Ocean-Runner-Adventure/d24024-13327P10">Ocean Runner Adventure</a>. For an Undersea Tour, board the <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="//www.partner.viator.com/en/11376/tours/Catalina-Island/Catalina-Island-Semi-Submarine-Undersea-Tour/d24024-32779P2">Semi-Sub</a>. To see flying fish, <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="//www.partner.viator.com/en/11376/tours/Catalina-Island/Afishinados-Famous-Flying-Fish-Tour/d24024-25792P1">here’s your best option</a>. And for a stiff drink with a view, <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="//www.partner.viator.com/en/11376/tours/Catalina-Island/Catallac-Cocktail-Cruise/d24024-25792P6">this shore tour</a> is your best bet.
Theme 6
Explore Nature
The island offers some great options to explore nature. You’ll find amazing hikes winding you up the steep mountain face and rewarding you with spectacular views of the harbor. To see more of the island, we recommend exploring via jeep. You’ll be in port for a short amount of time so will need some wheels to get deep enough to see eagles, bison, fox, and more. We recommend the <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="//www.partner.viator.com/en/11376/tours/Catalina-Island/Safari-Island-Adventure-Tour/d24024-32779P4">Safari Island Adventure Tour</a>. Or, if looking to get the blood pressure up a bit, check out Catalina Island’s natural beauty from above. The <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="//www.partner.viator.com/en/11376/tours/Catalina-Island/Catalina-Island-Zip-Line-Eco-Tour/d24024-13327P2">Zip Line Eco Tour</a> includes six “zips” as you learn about the surrounding wildlife and ecosystem.
Theme 7
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to explore the waters around Catalina Island, California. There are several kayaking tours available, which provide all the necessary equipment and a knowledgeable guide to help you explore the island's coves and bays. Kayaking is a great way to get up close and personal with the island's marine life, and the views of the coastline are simply breathtaking.
Catalina Island cruise port attractions
5 in our guideC
Catalina Island Casino
You won’t get rich here, but you may get fulfilled. This breathtaking, 12-story structure is the backdrop of Catalina Island and the main focus when capturing the coastline on camera. Built in the early 1900’s, the entertainment venue once featured major acts like Duke Ellington and benny Goodman. Today, it plays host to large events like the Jazz Festival and fancy weddings. Within the structure, you’ll also find a 1,200 person movie theater and the Catalina Island Museum.
G
Golf
Surprisingly, golf is an option at this very small cruise port. This narrow, long course meanders through the sweeping canyons and provides fantastic views. The course was originally built with just three holes and expanded since the early 1900’s. Tiger Woods actually played here multiple times when young. Greens fees are relatively inexpensive at just <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="//www.partner.viator.com/en/11376/tours/Catalina-Island/Catalina-Island-Golf-Course/d24024-13327P4">$40 for 9 holes</a>. Make sure to book this excursion well in advance to reserve a spot during the short time you’ll be visiting.
J
Jeep Island Tour
Just outside Catalina’s main city of Avalon, you’ll find a landscape that looks like the backdrop for Jurassic Park. And like the characters in the movie, you’ll want to tour via jeep. Fortunately, the only animals that can eat you are the Bison. Even more fortunately, they prefer grass to humans. This is the best way to see most of the island and the amazing views it offers.
T
Two Harbors
Situated on Catalina’s west side, Two Harbors serves as a serene getaway from the action back near Catalina Cruise Port. For those looking to sweat a little, rent some mountain bikes, kayaks, or paddle boards from Visitor Services. If you make your way to the top, you’ll find spectacular views of both sides of the island. Once you get back down, grab some snorkeling gear and get ready for some of the best underwater views in the world. Two Harbors is roughly 20 miles from port.
Z
Zipline
Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour is an amazing option while in port. You’ll soar 600 feet above canyons and vast swaths of nature as you get the aerial tour of Catalina Island. On this two-hour excursion, you’ll learn about the local ecology in between your five breathtaking zips. The tour takes place just above the Descanso Beach area, a great place to spend some time before or after your zipline adventure. You can find pricing and availability for the <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="//www.partner.viator.com/en/11376/tours/Catalina-Island/Catalina-Island-Zip-Line-Eco-Tour/d24024-13327P2">Zip Line Eco Tour here</a>.
// Catalina Island fun facts
The Island's Movie History
Catalina Island has been featured in many movies and television shows over the years. Some of the most famous films include 'Gidget Goes Hawaiian' (1961), 'The Island of Dr. Moreau' (1977), 'The Rock' (1996), 'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End' (2007), and 'Aquaman' (2018). The island has also been featured in television shows such as 'The Love Boat' and 'Gilligan's Island'.
The Island's Native Name
Catalina Island, located off the coast of Southern California, was originally known as Pimu to the Native American Tongva people who lived on the island for thousands of years. The name Pimu translates to “the high place” in the Tongva language, and the island was a sacred place for the Tongva people.
The Island's Unique Wildlife
Catalina Island is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including the Catalina Island fox, the bald eagle, and the island scrub jay. The island is also home to a variety of marine life, including sea lions, dolphins, and whales. The island is a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers, who can explore the island's vibrant coral reefs and kelp forests.
Catalina Island cruise port beaches
6 in our guideD
Descanso Beach Club
This beach is the place to go for some action. Descanso Beach Club offers cabanas and other amenities for rent (kayaks, snorkels, paddle boards, etc). They also charge a small fee to use their beach area. But, it’s worth it if staying local and looking for your best beach option close to port. The walk from your terminal is about one-half mile, so budget 20 minutes or so. There’s also a great bar at the top of the beach, perfect for cooling down and people watching.
S
Shark Harbor Beach
Shark Harbor Beach is a popular beach located on the west side of Catalina Island, California. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The beach is also home to a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a great place to spend the day. There are also plenty of activities to do, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and parasailing.
T
Two Harbors Beach
Located on the opposite side of the island, Two Harbors features a narrow, sandy beach far from the cruise ship crowds. Here you’ll find a visitor center where you can rent all kinds of water activities including snorkels, paddle boards, boats, kayaks, mountain bikes, fishing poles, scuba gear, volleyballs, and more. Conveniently, Two Harbors also has a restaurant, bar, and store. Once here, you’ll have everything you need for a great day at Catalina. And if you miss your ship, they even have campgrounds available. Let’s hope that’s not necessary.
C
Crescent Beach
This is the closest beach to Green Pleasure Pier (your Catalina Island Cruise Terminal). You’ll see it immediately when tendering to port and as soon as you walk away from the terminal. The smaller beach is fine to grab some sun in between other events. The adjoining pier is where you’ll ship off for Submarine tours and Jet boats. So if killing time, it’s a great option. But, if looking for a beach day we’d recommend venturing a bit further from port.
D
Descanso Beach
Descanso Beach is a popular beach located on Catalina Island, California. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The beach is also home to a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a great place to spend the day. There are also plenty of activities to do, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and parasailing.
L
Little Harbor Beach
Little Harbor Beach is a beautiful beach located on the east side of Catalina Island, California. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The beach is also home to a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a great place to spend the day. There are also plenty of activities to do, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and parasailing.
Catalina Island cruise port shopping
3 in our guideC
Catalina Island Company
The Catalina Island Company is a great place to find souvenirs from your cruise. Located just a few blocks from the cruise port, the store offers a wide selection of items, including apparel, jewelry, books, and more. The store also has a variety of local art and crafts, as well as a selection of souvenirs from the island's history. The friendly staff is always willing to help you find the perfect item to take home with you.
C
Catalina Island Visitor Center
The Catalina Island Visitor Center is the perfect place to find souvenirs from your cruise. Located just a few blocks from the cruise port, the center offers a wide selection of items, including apparel, jewelry, books, and more. The center also has a variety of local art and crafts, as well as a selection of souvenirs from the island's history. The friendly staff is always willing to help you find the perfect item to take home with you.
C
Catalina Island Museum Gift Shop
The Catalina Island Museum Gift Shop is the perfect place to find souvenirs from your cruise. Located just a few blocks from the cruise port, the shop offers a wide selection of unique items, including books, jewelry, apparel, and more. The shop also has a variety of local art and crafts, as well as a selection of souvenirs from the island's history. The friendly staff is always willing to help you find the perfect item to take home with you.
// Catalina Island Cruise Port Terminals
Which Catalina Island cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
4 piers in Catalina Island
Pier 1 of 4
Avalon Cruise Ship Terminal
211 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704Avalon Cruise Ship Terminal is the main cruise ship terminal in Catalina Island, California. It is located in the heart of Avalon, the island's main city, and is the most popular port of call for cruise ships. The terminal is equipped with a variety of amenities, including a full-service restaurant, a gift shop, and a lounge area. It also offers a variety of shore excursions and activities for passengers to enjoy.
Pier 2 of 4
Green Pleasure Pier
Green Pleasure Pier is the terminal at which your tender will arrive. You’ll be among other water taxis, fishing charters and ferries at this smaller dock. Conveniently, Downtown Avalon (Catalina’s only city) is a five minute walk from your terminal. On foot, you can get to the clear other side of the city and back in roughly an hour or two. For a quicker mode of transportation, jump on one of the golf cart taxis you’ll see frequently zipping around Catalina.
Pier 3 of 4
Isthmus Cruise Ship Terminal
1 Isthmus Rd, Two Harbors, CA 90704Isthmus Cruise Ship Terminal is located in the small village of Two Harbors, located on the western side of Catalina Island. The terminal is a popular port of call for cruise ships, offering a variety of shore excursions and activities for passengers to enjoy. The terminal is equipped with a full-service restaurant, a gift shop, and a lounge area. It also offers a variety of water sports and activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing.
Pier 4 of 4
Two Harbors Cruise Ship Terminal
1 Two Harbors Rd, Two Harbors, CA 90704Two Harbors Cruise Ship Terminal is located in the small village of Two Harbors, located on the western side of Catalina Island. The terminal is a popular port of call for cruise ships, offering a variety of shore excursions and activities for passengers to enjoy. The terminal is equipped with a full-service restaurant, a gift shop, and a lounge area. It also offers a variety of water sports and activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing.
Wi-Fi
The Catalina Island Company offers free wifi access at the Catalina Island Cruise Terminal. Additionally, many restaurants and cafes in the area offer free wifi access.
Safety
Catalina Island, California is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The island has a low crime rate and is patrolled by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. The island also has a number of private security companies that provide additional security services. Additionally, the island has a number of safety measures in place, such as lifeguards, emergency medical services, and a fire department.
Port address
310 Whittley Avenue, Avalon, CA 90704
Catalina Island cruise port car rental
Catalina Island Car RentalIsland Rent-A-CarAvalon Car Rental
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
// Catalina Island, California cruise port excursions
Most Popular Catalina Island Cruise Port Tours
7 excursions · book direct with the operator
Independent shore excursions in Catalina Island, California, booked directly with the operator who runs them. We flag the ones that guarantee you're back on board before the gangway lifts.
Best Catalina Island shore tours
Curated from 7 · not a search resultWorry-free
4.9(638)$303
Catalina Island Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon
4.3(15)$55
Fantastic Catalina Race
1h 30mPrivate Sightseeing Tours
View Details for Fantastic Catalina Race (opens in a new tab)
4.7(14)$285
Experience Avalon Like a Local Private Golf Cart Adventure
2hPrivate Sightseeing Tours
View Details for Experience Avalon Like a Local Private Golf Cart Adventure (opens in a new tab)
5.0(9)$49
Catalina Island Parasailing First Trip of the Day
5.0(6)$95
Catalina Island Parasailing Adventure
4.0(5)$50
Catalina Express Avalon to San Pedro One Way Ferry
$350
Private Duffy Boat Cruise in Avalon Harbor
1h 30mVolunteer Tours
View Details for Private Duffy Boat Cruise in Avalon Harbor (opens in a new tab)// Weather
Catalina Island Cruise Port Weather
U.S. - Pacific, Northwest·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Catalina Island
69°
Avg · °F
Hot, mostly dry
- High
- 91°F
- Low
- 59°F
- Rain
- 0.1 in
// Year-round in Catalina Island
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Avg temp °FRainfall in
// Catalina Island cruise ship schedule
Catalina Island Cruise Port Traffic Today
One cruise ship is docked in Catalina Island today, Saturday, September 12, 2026, bringing an estimated 4,180 passengers and crew ashore across the port's 4 piers — Avalon Cruise Ship Terminal, Green Pleasure Pier, Isthmus Cruise Ship Terminal and Two Harbors Cruise Ship Terminal. Arrival and departure times below show how long each ship stays alongside, so you can judge how crowded Catalina Island will be while you're in port.
Total port traffic
4,180
- Passengers
- 3,080
- Crew
- 1,100
- Ships
- 1
How busy is it?
Quiet
4,180 passengers and crew — 16% quieter than a typical Catalina Island port day.
QuietTypical · 4,981Peak
5 AM8 AM11 AM2 PM5 PM8 PM11 PM
5 AM to midnight · solid bar = hours alongside · faded = arrival only, departure not published
Planning around the crowds?
- Catalina Island cruise port schedule 2026, day by day
- Slowest & busiest day analysis
- Complete cruise line & ship visitor list
// Traveler photos
Catalina Island photos, from our community
Shared by actual cruise passengers through our Cruise Quest mobile app and Gangwaze community. Every photo is reviewed before it appears here.
4 photos·2 cruisers
Been to Catalina Island?
Add a photo from your day ashore. We review every upload before it appears.
// Keep exploring
Also on your cruise
97% of Catalina Island cruises also call at one of these.
// Questions
Catalina Island cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Catalina Island.
Where is Catalina Island cruise port located?
Catalina Island, California cruise port is located in U.S.. Catalina Island, California is located off the coast of Los Angeles in the Pacific Ocean. The island is approximately 22 miles south-southwest of Los Angeles and is accessible by ferry, helicopter, or private boat. The Catalina Island cruise port is located in the city of Avalon, which is the only incorporated city on the island. The port is located on the east side of the island, near the center of Avalon Bay.
Is Catalina Island a good cruise port to visit?
Yes, Catalina Island, California is a great cruise port. It offers a variety of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. The island is also known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views.
How safe is Catalina Island cruise port for passengers?
Catalina Island cruise port has a safety score of 8.8 out of 10, ranking #1 of 37 ports in U.S.. Catalina Island, California is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. The island has a low crime rate and is patrolled by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. The island also has a number of private security companies that provide additional security services. Additionally, the island has a number of safety measures in place, such as lifeguards, emergency medical services, and a fire department.
What is the weather like at Catalina Island cruise port in September?
In September, Catalina Island cruise port has average high temperatures of 91°F (33°C) and average lows of 59°F (15°C).
How many excursions are available at Catalina Island cruise port?
There are currently 7 excursions and tours available at Catalina Island cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.
What are the top things to do at Catalina Island cruise port?
Catalina Island cruise port offers 7 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Get Active, Dive or Snorkel, Historical Sites, Hiking, Boat Tours. Catalina Island, California is known for its stunning natural beauty and its wide range of activities. Visitors can explore the island's rugged terrain on foot, by bike, or by boat. There are plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing. The island also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and live music venues. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore. No matter what type of experience you are looking for, Catalina Island has something for everyone.
Can I rent a car at Catalina Island cruise port?
1. Catalina Island Car Rental: Located just steps away from the Catalina Island cruise port, Catalina Island Car Rental offers a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. They also offer a variety of packages, such as a "Cruise and Drive" package that includes a one-way car rental from the cruise port to the airport.2. Island Rent-A-Car: Island Rent-A-Car is located just a few blocks away from the cruise port and offers a variety of vehicles, including economy cars, luxury cars, and SUVs. They also offer a variety of packages, such as a "Cruise and Drive" package that includes a one-way car rental from the cruise port to the airport.3. Avalon Car Rental: Avalon Car Rental is located just a few blocks away from the cruise port and offers a variety of vehicles, including economy cars, luxury cars, and SUVs. They also offer a variety of packages, such as a "Cruise and Drive" package that includes a one-way car rental from the cruise port to the airport.4. Catalina Island Tours & Transportation: Catalina Island Tours & Transportation is located just a few blocks away from the cruise port and offers a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. They also offer a variety of packages, such as a "Cruise and Drive" package that includes a one-way car rental from the cruise port to the airport.
What is the WiFi situation at Catalina Island cruise port?
The Catalina Island Company offers free wifi access at the Catalina Island Cruise Terminal. Additionally, many restaurants and cafes in the area offer free wifi access.
Where is the cruise terminal at Catalina Island cruise port?
The address of Catalina Island, California cruise port is 310 Whittley Avenue, Avalon, CA 90704.
What is the Catalina Island Cruise Port cruise schedule?
Today there is 1 cruise ship in Catalina Island: Ruby Princess — bringing an estimated 4,180 passengers and crew to port. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Catalina Island on any date.