Want a wild escape in California that’s unlike any other? Head to a cove on Catalina Island where a campground accessible only by boat promises a scenic and isolated coastal experience: breathtaking views, starry nights, and the soothing sound of the Pacific in the background. You arrive by sea, live by the rhythm of the waves, and leave with the feeling of having discovered a closely guarded secret.
California is overflowing with federally managed campgrounds — over 16,000 options — and stars like Yosemite or Joshua Tree attract crowds. But away from the well-trodden paths, on Catalina Island, a discreet haven welcomes you just a stone’s throw from the village of Two Harbors. Here, the horizon is tinged with blue, the coves play hide-and-seek with the cliffs, and you wake up facing a crystal-clear Pacific. Welcome to Two Harbors Campground, a campground perched on a cliff overlooking the sea… inviting you to slow down.
Accessible only by boat: heading to Catalina Island
You reach the island via the Catalina Express, which provides direct connections from San Pedro (Los Angeles) to Two Harbors. Expect about 1 hour 15 minutes of crossing, with several daily departures whose times vary with the season. Prices fluctuate, but plan for a round trip at a price similar to the quick connections along the California coast. Once on the island, between Avalon (the “capital” of Catalina) and Two Harbors, a fast boat called Cyclone generally operates from May to October (about 40 minutes). Check the updated schedules and prices before you go.
Once docked at Two Harbors, the adventure continues on foot: a lovely trail of about a quarter of a mile (a few hundred meters) leads you to Two Harbors Campground, suspended above the blue Pacific. The setting is enough to make you forget the time.
A scenic and isolated coastal experience
The campground offers what the California coast has of the rarest: the combination of grand oceanic panoramas and a true sense of isolation. At sunset, sailboats silhouette against the horizon, the cliffs blush, and the celestial dome lights up with stars. You can hear the sea lions in the distance, sometimes the breath of a sunfish, and the lapping of the waves like a lullaby.
Tents or canvas cabins: sleeping by the Pacific
At Two Harbors Campground, you choose between a classic tent site or a pre-set tent cabin. In high season, prices start around $75 per night (for reference). Whichever option you choose, you have drinking water, picnic tables, fire pits for evenings by the fire, toilets, and showers. Book early for weekends and the beautiful season: this slice of paradise, even discreet, is worth it.
Kayak, paddle, fins: the adventure in azure blue
The translucent waters of Catalina are an ideal playground for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling. The trails departing from Two Harbors also offer spectacular hiking opportunities. For equipment and outings, head to the Two Harbors Dive & Recreation Center in the nearby village. Diving enthusiasts know that the waters around the island are among the most renowned in the United States: kelp forests, abundant marine life, and often generous visibility.
Restocking without carrying too much
Traveling light? The Two Harbors General Store makes life easier for you. Upon the boat’s arrival, place your order: the team delivers your groceries directly to the campground, chilled, for a fixed rate (amount subject to change, previously around $48). Perfect for keeping drinks cool and preparing a seafood dinner under the stars. Want a table with your feet in the sand (or almost)? The Harbor Reef Restaurant & Bar, just steps from the dock, serves simple and generous dishes, sea and sun style.
When to go and what to expect
Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and moderate crowds. Summer comes with swimming and lingering evenings, but availability vanishes quickly. The fast ferry between Avalon and Two Harbors usually operates from May to October, while ferries from the mainland adjust their schedules according to the season. For maximum tranquility, consider midweek stays: Catalina then reveals itself in its most beautiful calm.
How to connect the mainland and the airport
The majority of visitors reach Catalina by boat. From the Catalina Express terminal in San Pedro, expect about 30 minutes by car to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), or around 90 minutes by public transport. The island does have a small airport, but for the vast majority of travelers, the sea is the royal route… and the most poetic.
Ideas to extend your Californian odyssey
If the magic of Catalina has captivated you, explore other facets of the Golden State. The campgrounds near waterfalls in California offer nights at the foot of cascades and misty mornings: take a look at this inspiring selection here: California campgrounds near waterfalls. Want to alternate between sea and desert? The classics Yosemite and Joshua Tree await you, along with thousands of other lesser-known wild spots.
Before boarding for San Pedro, a road trip by van or RV can complement the adventure: perfect your gear with these essential accessories for vans and RVs and discover what makes the quality of construction of Swift RVs. If the call of the nomadic life beckons you, explore inspiring paths here: camping and alternatives for a nomadic lifestyle.
Prefer train over flying? Optimize your routes and connections to the Los Angeles area with these smart tips for traveling by train to camping. Once in LA, the Catalina Express takes over, and you just have to let yourself be carried away… by the swell and by the delightful thought of a truly unique coastal camping experience.
