Catalina Island Airport-in-the-Sky: Transportation Tips for Fly-In Visitors

You have a few different transportation options when it comes to getting to Catalina. The most popular choice is to go by sea. Catalina ferry boats operate out of coastal Southern California towns like Dana Point, Newport Beach, Long Beach, and San Pedro. Traveling by boat, you get the chance to see wildlife like whales or dolphins on your way to the island. Some visitors love to sail their way over to Catalina, which can take several hours from the mainland. There are also quick helicopter trips that take just 15 to 20 minutes from Los Angeles County locations. But perhaps one of the most amazing ways to travel to Catalina is to fly there in a plane. 

Catalina’s Airport in the Sky was built back in the spring of 1941 at the center of the island. It sits at an altitude of 1602 feet, and its runway was created by leveling two of the island’s mountain peaks. During World War II, the airport was used by the US Army, and by the 1950s, its 3000-foot long runway opened for use by the general public. Today, there are no commercial flights to Catalina. The runway there sees landings from private aircraft, chartered flights, and air freight planes. Once you arrive at Catalina Island’s Airport in the Sky, you’re 10 miles away from the city of Avalon. Catalina Taxi and Tours can be there to help you get around. Read on to learn some transportation tips for fly-in visitors. 

Fuel up after landing. Before you make the journey to Avalon (or Two Harbors) from the airport, stop by the Airport in the Sky’s restaurant–the DC-3 Cafe–for breakfast or lunch. This is a place atop the mountain, right near the airport, and it’s known for its delicious Killer Cookies and tasty Buffalo Burgers. 

Daily operations. The Airport is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. all year, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Taxi hours vary, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead for your transport from the airport. 

Know who to call. Catalina Taxi and Tours runs a private interior shuttle service that can do airport pickups, as well as make runs to many different locations outside of Avalon. Headed to a different destination on the island? There are so many places to go and things to see around Catalina. Call the Catalina Taxi and Tours office at 310-510-0342 to make a reservation for airport transportation and to plan for other tours or rides you may need. 

Once you land, where do you go? Typically, taxis on Catalina greet every arriving boat, but for planes, the procedure is a little bit different. In order to get transported from the airport to the city of Avalon, you’ll need to make a reservation  with Catalina Taxi and Tours in advance. A shuttle from the Airport in the Sky to Avalon takes about 30 minutes, and taxi vehicles can fit up to 7 passengers.

Different destinations. Most hotels, vacation rentals, and tourist attractions are in Avalon. However, the island is full of great places to discover. Catalina Taxi and Tours can get you to many of these places. 

• All around Avalon: Once you get to Avalon, you might want to get to know it a little better. Take a City of Avalon tour with Catalina Taxi and Tours to get the lay of the land. This tour comes with a side of history and culture, as you explore local landmarks and sights. 

Tour Two Harbors: Two Harbors is literally the other side of Catalina. A more rustic beach town on the island’s west end, it’s a great place for hiking, kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, and just relaxing. Catalina Taxi and Tours can get you there in one of our minivans or 4-runners. 

• Little Harbor: Avalon’s beaches are known as the place to be on sunny summer days. Beach towels line the sand from early morning hours to the evening. But if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of a downtown beach day, head to Little Harbor with Catalina Taxi and Tours for a more private beach day. This is one of the most scenic spots on the island, located on the windward side–about 16 miles from Avalon. 

• Picnics, peaks, and panoramic views: Catalina Taxi and Tours can take you to favorite spots all over the island. Around 88% of Catalina has been conserved and protected, so you’ll need help getting to the wilder side of the island. Some special stops include Haypress, where you can settle in for a picnic, with the chance to see some wildlife, Blackjack, one of the tallest peaks on the island, or the Summit, a gorgeous viewpoint above Avalon from where you can enjoy a leisurely walk back down to town. 

Make plans before you land. Catalina Taxi and Tours is ready to help you plan a memorable trip on the island. Start making memories as soon as you touch down! We can also help you get back to your plane for the flight home. Check out our website to learn more about places to go around Catalina and how we can help get you there.