Getting to the Airport in the Sky is an adventure! It is a great idea for a day trip to get out of town and see more of the island. It is about 10 miles outside of the main City of Avalon and located on private Catalina Island Conservancy owned land. Here are some different tips and options to get up to the Airport in the Sky.
Hiking
- Although hiking on Conservancy-owned land is free*, a hiking permit is required.
- Hiking Permits are obtained from the Conservancy Trailhead in Avalon, Visitors Services at Two Harbors or from the Tower at the Airport in the Sky.
- *To help offset the cost of maintaining the trails and signage, the Catalina Island Conservancy is requesting a $3 donation with the issue of each hiking permit. This donation is at your discretion. Your support is greatly appreciated.
- Catalina's terrain can be very steep at times, so be sure to do your research before you begin your trek
- For those of you who would prefer to enjoy hiking and camping without the hassle of carrying heavy gear, contact Catalina Backcountry. They will assist you by coordinating transportation of your gear, answering questions about the Trans Catalina Trail, and reserving campsites on the island.
Biking
- Another great way to see Catalina Island's majestic views and gorgeous canyons
- A Freewheeler Bike Pass is required which may be purchased at Conservancy outlets. Check out their information online. A Bike Pass is one of the many benefits of Catalina Island Conservancy membership and helps support the "wildlands" on the island.
Shuttle Bus (to and from Avalon)
- The Wildlands Express offers service in between Avalon and the Airport in the Sky at a cost per person each way.
- The Shuttle Bus runs daily. Please call (310) 510-0143 for hours, costs, and reservations.
- The shuttle is a great way to access our location and its schedule allows you time to eat, shop, watch private planes land, and tour the Nature Center.
- If you choose to hike the Airport Loop Trail, please obtain a hiking permit in Avalon, Two Harbors, or at the Airport Tower.
- I generally takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete the trail (aprx 2 miles).
Shuttle Bus (to and from Two Harbors)
- The Safari Bus travels in between the charming village of Two Harbors and the Airport in the Sky. It also makes stops at the Little Harbor Campground.
- Depending on the season, there are generally 1-2 scheduled trips per day each way.
- PLEASE MAKE YOUR RESERVATION IN ADVANCE
- For reservations, pricing, and schedules, please call The Reservations Phone Line for the Santa Catalina Island Company: (310) 510-2800
- Or Call Visitors Services in Two Harbors (310) 510- 4205
Vehicle Tours
- There are several guided tours you may choose from to visit the Airport in the Sky Restaurant
- Some of these tours stop in for just a few minutes. Others stay at the Airport long enough for a meal and a walk through the Nature Center
- Please make sure to allow yourself enough time to stop at our gift shop for that perfect souvenir or t-shirt.
Flying In
- Flying into the Airport is easy.
- The landing fees start at $35. Overnight tie-down fees start at $20.
- Consider joining the Catalina Aero Club for an annual fee of $210 and land for free all year!
- Guests may only land and take-off during regular operating hours:
Winter hours of Operation:
Mid October- Mid April
8 AM - 5 PM local time
Summer hours of Operation:
Mid June- Mid October
8 AM - 7 PM local time
- If you are flying in and require ground transportation upon arrival, please contact the Tower prior to take-off at (310) 510-0143
- For the Airport's Automated Weather Update Information, call (310) 510-9641