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California Ferry Map

The ferry system in California is split between the frequent commuter routes around the San Francisco Bay Area and the tourism-focused crossings farther south. In Northern California, ferries also act as an alternate for bridge traffic, while southern ports mainly provide service to Catalina and the Channel Islands. Because much of this coastline faces the Pacific directly, routes here are more prone to cancellations from swell than the sheltered inland waters of the Puget Sound.

See more ferry routes in California

Catalina Island

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Small things that affect California ferry rides

A little local know-how can save time and headaches at the dock:

Pick the right Southern California terminal: If you’re heading to Catalina, confirm whether your ferry leaves from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point. These terminals are run by different operators, so they aren’t interchangeable. choosing the wrong one often means missing the sailing because traffic near the harbors adds up.
Use Clipper in the Bay Area: Manual kiosks are becoming less common. A Clipper card or the mobile app is the usual way to pay, letting you tap at the gate and often get a lower fare than you would with a physical ticket.
Channel Islands rules are strict: Ferries serving the Channel Islands National Park follow pack-in, pack-out. Most islands don’t have trash bins or water stations, and crew may check what you’re bringing before you board to make sure you’re self-sufficient.
Expect a colder, windier crossing: When the ferry clears the harbor, temperatures drop fast. San Francisco Bay is known for strong afternoon winds that often kick in around 2:00 PM, so a calm morning ride can turn into a much rougher, colder return.
Have your documents ready near the border: There isn’t a direct vehicle ferry from San Diego to Mexico, and many people use pedestrian routes to connect in Baja. Carry your passport and FMM visa before you approach the transit hubs near the border, so you don’t get turned away from the boarding area.