If you’ve got a layover in Catalina Island, don’t let it go to waste sitting at AVX. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of AVX:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Catalina Airport to Downtown
From AVX, the local transport gets you to Catalina Island in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Catalina Island, we’d suggest Catalina Casino Tour (Avalon) and Descanso Beach Club (Avalon). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AVX, check out Panoramic Viewpoint at Airport in the Sky or Catalina Conservancy Airport in the Sky Museum to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Blue Water Grill (Avalon) and Original Jack’s Country Kitchen (Avalon) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Catalina Island.
- At the airport: Airport in the Sky Restaurant (Diner Style) and Airport in the Sky Cafe (Coffee & Pastries) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Catalina Island, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Catalina Island.
Bag Storage Near AVX
Luggage storage options at AVX can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Catalina Island for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at AVX for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Catalina Island or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Taking a Break at AVX
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, AVX has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Catalina Island count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave AVX. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.