Catalina Island, located off the coast of Southern California, is a picturesque destination known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life, and charming small-town feel. For wheelchair users, planning a trip to this beautiful island involves considering accessibility at attractions, ports, and transportation on the island. Here’s a guide to help you navigate your way to and around Catalina Island with ease.
Accessible Attractions on Catalina Island
Avalon is the main town on Catalina Island, and a few attractions can be enjoyed by visitors using wheelchairs.
- Descanso Beach Club – The beachfront restaurant, cabana, and lounge areas are wheelchair accessible via ramps. No beach wheelchairs are available.
- Catalina Island Museum – Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and restrooms. Exhibits highlight the island’s rich history and culture.
- Catalina Casino – Offers accessible tours with ramps and elevators to the theater and ballroom.
- Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden – Features paved paths and ramps, showcasing native plants and offering scenic views.
Getting to Catalina Island
Ferries are the main way to reach Catalina, with most departures operated by Catalina Express. Boarding ramps and accessible seating are provided, but restroom size and layout vary by vessel—some may not fit large mobility scooters. Smaller onboard wheelchairs are available on request, but self-transfer is required.
- Long Beach Port – Fully accessible terminal with ramps, elevators, restrooms, and nearby accessible parking.
- San Pedro Port – Accessible terminal with ramps, elevators, restrooms, and accessible parking close to the entrance.
- Dana Point Port – Accessible terminal with ramps, accessible restrooms, and nearby parking.
- Newport Beach – Terminal has ramps and accessible restrooms. Confirm ferry vessel accessibility when booking.
Getting Around Catalina Island
- COAST – City of Avalon Seaside Transit – ADA-accessible, on-demand public shuttles within Avalon. Book via the Ride Circuit app or by phone. Each vehicle can accommodate one wheelchair user plus other passengers. Operates daily 7 AM–9 PM.
- Catalina Taxi & Tours – Offers accessible vehicles for private shuttle trips, including routes into the island’s interior.
- Golf Cart Rentals – Some companies may offer modified golf carts with ramps or hand controls; availability is limited, so confirm before arrival. Examples include Catalina Island Golf Cart Rentals, Island Rentals Inc., and Cartopia Cart Rentals.
- Rolling Around – Avalon is compact, with paved sidewalks and curb cuts. Some hills and occasional cobblestone or uneven areas exist, especially farther from the waterfront.
Last updated on November 13, 2025
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