Catalina Island is Southern California Mediterranean-inspired escape, an island paradise that feels worlds away from the mainland despite being just an hour ferry ride from Los Angeles. As someone who’s visited Catalina Island over a dozen times in the past decade experiencing everything from solo adventures to family vacations and romantic getaways I’ve compiled what I believe is the most comprehensive guide to this magical destination.
After my most recent visit in February 2025, I’ve completely updated this guide to include new attractions, current pricing, and insider tips you won’t find elsewhere. Having explored every corner of this 22-mile-long island from bustling Avalon to the more remote Two Harbors, I’m excited to share the definitive collection of things to do in Catalina that will help you plan an unforgettable island experience.
Essential Catalina Island Logistics
Getting There
Catalina Express Ferry: The most popular option with departures from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. Adult round-trip fares range from $75-90 depending on departure location. Travel time is approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. Book tickets
Catalina Flyer: Departs from Newport Beach. Round-trip adult tickets cost around $80 with a travel time of about 75 minutes. More information
IEX Helicopters: For a splurge, take a helicopter and arrive in just 15 minutes. Prices start at about $300 one-way. Reserve flights
Insider Tip: Book ferry tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during summer months when they frequently sell out.
Getting Around
Walking: Avalon is compact and walkable most attractions are within a 15-20 minute walk from the ferry terminal.
Golf Carts: The iconic way to explore (full-size cars are restricted on the island). Rentals cost $50-80 per hour depending on season. Book through companies like Catalina Island Golf Cart Rentals or Cart Rental Agency.
Bike Rentals: Available from $15/hour or $40/day through Brown Bikes and other providers.
Catalina Island Shuttle: Connects Avalon to Two Harbors and the Airport in the Sky. One-way fares start at $35.
Safari Bus: Seasonal service to interior destinations.
50 Amazing Things to Do in Catalina Island
Adventure & Outdoors
1. Zip Line Eco Tour
Where: Descanso Canyon, Avalon Cost: (About $129 per person) Time: 2 hours Best for: Adventure seekers, families with older children Soar down 5 separate zip lines at speeds up to 35mph while enjoying spectacular views of the island and ocean. The 2-hour guided tour includes historical and ecological information about the island.
Personal Tip: Request to be last in your group you’ll get extra time at each platform to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.
2. Catalina Aerial Adventure
Where: Descanso Canyon, Avalon Cost: ($49-89 depending on course level) Time: 1.5-2 hours Best for: Active travelers, families with teens This aerial obstacle course features suspended bridges, balance beams and zip lines among the eucalyptus trees. Five different courses offer varying difficulty levels.
Personal Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes and bring gloves if you have sensitive hands the cables can be rough.
3. Hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail
Where: Island-wide Cost: (Free, though permits required for camping, $25) Time: Multiple days for the full trail, or 2-6 hours for segments Best for: Serious hikers, nature lovers This 38.5-mile trail traverses the entire island, offering breathtaking views and wildlife encounters. Day hikers can enjoy segments like the Garden to Sky or Airport hikes.
Personal Tip: The section from Avalon to Black Junction is the steepest tackle it early in the day and bring twice as much water as you think you’ll need.
4. Explore the Botanical Gardens
Where: Avalon Canyon Cost: ($15 adult admission) Time: 1-2 hours Best for: Plant enthusiasts, photographers, relaxed sightseeing The Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Gardens showcase plants native to California islands, including several rare species found only on Catalina.
Personal Tip: Visit in March-May when wildflowers are blooming for the most spectacular colors.
5. Mountain Biking
Where: Island interior Cost: ($45-70 for rental plus $35 for Conservation Pass) Time: Half to full day Best for: Active adventurers, experienced cyclists With hundreds of miles of trails and roads, Catalina offers excellent mountain biking. Rental shops provide bikes, helmets, and maps of approved biking routes.
Personal Tip: The ride from Avalon to Blackjack Mountain is challenging but offers some of the best views on the island especially at sunrise.
6. Catalina Falconry Experience
Where: Near Descanso Beach Club Cost: ($125 per person) Time: 75 minutes Best for: Wildlife lovers, unique experience seekers Learn about the ancient sport of falconry and interact with trained hawks, falcons, and owls with stunning ocean views as your backdrop.
Personal Tip: The birds are incredibly photogenic, so bring a good camera. Morning sessions often have better light for photography.
7. Bison Expedition
Where: Island interior Cost: ($120-150 per person) Time: 2-3 hours Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers Tour the island interior in an open-air biofuel Hummer to spot the famous Catalina bison herd, descendants of animals brought over for a 1924 movie shoot.
Personal Tip: The 2pm tour often has the best bison sightings as they’re more active during this time.
8. Golf at Catalina Island Golf Course
Where: Avalon Cost: ($40-65 for 9 holes) Time: 2-3 hours Best for: Golf enthusiasts Play at the oldest operating golf course west of the Mississippi River, established in 1892. The 9-hole course offers challenging play with ocean views.
Personal Tip: Club rentals are available, but bring your own balls as they’re surprisingly expensive at the pro shop.
Water Activities
9. Snorkeling at Lover Cove
Where: East end of Avalon Cost: ($20-35 for equipment rental) Time: 1-3 hours Best for: All ages, water enthusiasts One of Southern California best snorkeling spots features vibrant fish, kelp forests, and clear waters. Rent gear from shops along Crescent Avenue.
Personal Tip: Bring fish food (available at local shops) to attract garibaldi California bright orange state fish.
10. Undersea Expedition
Where: Departs from Green Pleasure Pier Cost: ($45 adult, $35 child) Time: 45 minutes Best for: Families, those who want to see marine life without getting wet Board a semi-submersible vessel with underwater viewing windows to observe Catalina marine life up close.
Personal Tip: Sit on the left side of the vessel for the best viewing experience during the standard route.
11. Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Where: Avalon Bay or Descanso Beach Cost: ($25-35/hour rental) Time: 1-2 hours Best for: All ages, good balance helpful Paddle along Catalina coastline on a SUP board. The calm, clear waters around Avalon are perfect for beginners.
Personal Tip: Early morning offers the calmest water and best chance of spotting fish and maybe even dolphins.
12. Scuba Diving
Where: Casino Point Dive Park Cost: ($125+ for guided dive, $15 for park entry) Time: 2-4 hours Best for: Certified divers Explore one of Southern California premier dive locations with kelp forests, diverse marine life, and excellent visibility.
Personal Tip: The steps down to the water are steep use the gear shuttle service offered by local dive shops to transport your tanks and weights. Catalina Dive Shop
13. Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Where: Departs from Green Pleasure Pier Cost: ($20 adult, $15 child) Time: 40 minutes Best for: All ages, especially good for young children See Catalina underwater world without getting wet on this classic Catalina experience that’s been operating since the 1920s.
Personal Tip: The boats feed fish during the tour, so you’re guaranteed to see plenty of marine life.
14. Parasailing
Where: Avalon Bay Cost: ($85-125 depending on height) Time: 30-45 minutes (8-10 minutes in air) Best for: Thrill-seekers, great views Soar 600-800 feet above Avalon Bay for spectacular aerial views of the island and ocean.
Personal Tip: For the best photos, bring a waterproof phone case with a wrist strap you’ll want both hands free during takeoff and landing. Book Parasailing
15. Kayak Tour
Where: Descanso Beach Cost: ($45-120 depending on tour length) Time: 1.5-3 hours Best for: Active travelers, families Paddle along Catalina stunning coastline to explore hidden coves and kelp forests. Guided tours provide historical and ecological information.
Personal Tip: The Frog Rock & Casino Point tour offers the best combination of sea caves, wildlife sightings, and Catalina history.
16. Fishing Charter
Where: Departs from Green Pleasure Pier Cost: ($100-200 per person) Time: Half-day or full-day Best for: Fishing enthusiasts Catalina waters are rich with yellowtail, calico bass, bonito, barracuda, and seasonal species. Charters provide all necessary equipment.
Personal Tip: Book with Afishinado Charters Captain John runs the most comfortable boat with the latest equipment, and really knows where the fish are biting. Fishing Charters
17. Sailing
Where: Avalon Harbor Cost: ($150+ for private sailing) Time: 2-4 hours Best for: Romantic outings, small groups Charter a sailboat with a captain or join a group sailing experience to explore Catalina coastline under wind power.
Personal Tip: The sunset sails are worth the premium price the views are spectacular and they typically include complimentary wine and cheese.
Sightseeing & Tours
18. Catalina Casino Tour
Where: Avalon Cost: ($25 for walking tour, $35 for behind-the-scenes tour) Time: 40-90 minutes depending on tour Best for: Architecture fans, history buffs Tour the iconic Art Deco building that’s become the symbol of Catalina Island. Despite its name, it was never a gambling establishment but housed a ballroom and movie theater.
Personal Tip: The Behind the Scenes Tour is worth the extra cost you’ll see areas closed to the public including the projection booth and the ballroom unique floating dance floor.
19. Avalon Scenic Tour
Where: Departs from Tour Plaza Cost: ($35-45 adult) Time: 50 minutes Best for: First-time visitors, those with limited mobility This open-air tram tour provides an excellent overview of Avalon highlights and history, reaching viewpoints inaccessible to golf carts.
Personal Tip: Take this tour early in your visit it helps orient you to Avalon and gives ideas for places to explore in depth later.
20. Interior Expedition
Where: Island interior Cost: ($89+ per person) Time: 2-3 hours Best for: Nature lovers, photographers Travel into Catalina’s rugged interior in an open-air biofuel Hummer to see spectacular vistas, endemic plants, and wildlife including bison, foxes, and eagles.
Personal Tip: Bring layers even in summer the interior can be significantly cooler and windier than Avalon.
21. Ghost Tour of Avalon
Where: Downtown Avalon Cost: ($30 per person) Time: 1.5 hours Best for: History buffs, supernatural enthusiasts Walk Avalon streets after dark hearing tales of mysterious happenings, celebrity ghost sightings, and island legends.
Personal Tip: The tour guides are theatrical and entertaining Catherine is especially knowledgeable about the island Hollywood connections.
22. Airport in the Sky
Where: Island interior Cost: ($35 shuttle ride plus $5 entry fee) Time: Half-day Best for: Aviation enthusiasts, unique dining experiences Visit Catalina mountaintop airport for spectacular views, the famous “Airport in the Sky” sign photo op, and the Runway Café famous buffalo burgers.
Personal Tip: If you visit on weekends, you might see pilots from military flight programs making burgers as part of their training missions a unique Catalina tradition.
23. Catalina Island Museum
Where: Downtown Avalon Cost: ($17 adult admission) Time: 1-2 hours Best for: History buffs, art lovers, rainy day activity Explore exhibits covering Catalina Native American heritage, its Hollywood connections, and the Wrigley family influence on the island development.
Personal Tip: Check their calendar for special exhibitions they often feature surprising connections between Catalina and broader cultural movements.
24. Two Harbors Day Trip
Where: Island west end Cost: ($35 one-way shuttle) Time: Full day Best for: Escaping crowds, nature lovers Visit Catalina other side a rustic outpost with excellent hiking, snorkeling, and a laid-back vibe very different from Avalon.
Personal Tip: The Buffalo Milk cocktail at the Harbor Reef Restaurant is a must-try Catalina specialty. Two Harbors Information
Relaxation & Beaches
25. Descanso Beach Club
Where: Just past the Casino Cost: ($2 entry plus food/drinks/rentals) Time: Half to full day Best for: Beach relaxation, social atmosphere The island premier beach club offers comfortable lounge chairs, cabanas, a restaurant, and bar service directly to your beach spot.
Personal Tip: Reserve a cabana in advance during summer they sell out quickly and provide welcome shade during peak sun hours.
26. Island Spa Catalina
Where: Near the Atwater Hotel Cost: ($150-400 depending on treatments) Time: 1-4 hours Best for: Luxury relaxation, couples Catalina only full-service spa offers treatments using indigenous island botanicals, a soaking pool with ocean views, and a relaxation deck.
Personal Tip: Book the Ocean View Relaxation Room access even if you’re not getting a treatment the heated sand therapy beds are uniquely relaxing.
27. Stargazing at Lookout Point
Where: Above Avalon Cost: (Free) Time: 1-2 hours Best for: Romantic outings, photography enthusiasts Hike or take a golf cart to elevated viewpoints after dark to experience Catalina minimal light pollution and spectacular star visibility.
Personal Tip: Download a star map app before going Catalina dark skies let you spot constellations you’d never see from the mainland.
28. South Beach
Where: South of Avalon Cost: (Free) Time: 2-4 hours Best for: Quieter beach experience, families Less crowded than Avalon main beach with shallow, calm water perfect for young children.
Personal Tip: The beach is rockier than Avalon main beach water shoes are recommended for comfortable swimming.
29. Avalon Beach
Where: Downtown Avalon Cost: (Free) Time: 1-4 hours Best for: Convenience, families The main public beach in Avalon offers a large sandy area, calm swimming conditions, and proximity to restaurants and shops.
Personal Tip: The western end (near the green pier) tends to be less crowded than the eastern section.
30. Meditation Garden
Where: Mt. Ada Road Cost: (Free) Time: 30-60 minutes Best for: Quiet reflection, views This hidden gem offers spectacular views of Avalon Harbor in a peaceful setting with benches and shade trees.
Personal Tip: Visit at sunset for the most magical experience bring a journal or sketchbook to capture the moment.
Food & Drink Experiences
31. Catalina Wine Mixer
Where: Descanso Beach Club Cost: ($150-500 depending on package) Time: Full day event Best for: Wine enthusiasts, live music fans Yes, the event made famous by the movie Step Brothers is now a real annual festival (typically held in September) featuring wine tasting, live music, and comedy.
Personal Tip: VIP tickets are worth the splurge for the private tasting area and superior food options.
32. Avalon Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour
Where: Downtown Avalon Cost: ($89 per person) Time: 3 hours Best for: Foodies, history buffs Sample specialties from multiple Avalon restaurants while learning about island history and culture on this guided walking tour.
Personal Tip: Do this tour early in your visit you’ll discover restaurants you’ll want to return to later. Food Tour Information
33. Beer Tasting at Catalina Island Brew House
Where: Metropole Avenue Cost: ($15-20 for flight) Time: 1 hour Best for: Craft beer enthusiasts Sample locally brewed beers with island-inspired names and flavors at this cozy microbrewery.
Personal Tip: The Buffalo Milk Stout is a unique take on the island signature cocktail worth trying even if you’re not usually a dark beer fan.
34. Afternoon Tea at Mt. Ada
Where: Former Wrigley Mansion Cost: ($75 per person) Time: 2 hours Best for: Special occasions, luxury experience Enjoy a formal tea service at the former Wrigley mansion with panoramic views of Avalon Bay.
Personal Tip: Make reservations at least 3-4 weeks in advance this exclusive experience books up quickly, especially during summer. Mt. Ada Information
Shopping & Souvenirs
35. Antiquing on Sumner Avenue
Where: Downtown Avalon Cost: (Varies by purchase) Time: 1-2 hours Best for: Collectors, unique gift seekers Browse several antique and vintage shops clustered on Sumner Avenue for Catalina pottery, island memorabilia, and nautical treasures.
Personal Tip: The Catalina Island Museum Store has the best selection of authentic reproduction Catalina tiles and pottery if you’re looking for these collectibles.
36. Avalon Art Walk
Where: Downtown Avalon Cost: (Free unless purchasing) Time: 2-3 hours Best for: Art lovers, souvenir hunters Explore Avalon numerous art galleries featuring local artists inspired by Catalina natural beauty. Many offer shipping to the mainland.
Personal Tip: Visit during the First Friday Art Walk events (monthly) when galleries stay open late and often offer complimentary wine.
37. Catalina Candy Company
Where: Crescent Avenue Cost: ($5-30 depending on purchases) Time: 30 minutes Best for: Sweet treats, gifts Watch salt water taffy being made and sample freshly made fudge, caramel apples and other confections at this island institution.
Personal Tip: Their boxed taffy makes the perfect gift to bring back to the mainland light to carry and unique to the island.
Nightlife & Entertainment
38. Movies at the Casino Theatre
Where: Catalina Casino Cost: ($20 per person) Time: 2-3 hours Best for: Film buffs, history lovers Watch first-run movies in the historic Art Deco theater inside the Casino building, featuring the original 1929 pipe organ played before select screenings.
Personal Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to fully appreciate the stunning murals and architecture of this historic venue.
39. Live Music at El Galleon
Where: Crescent Avenue Cost: ($5-10 cover plus food/drinks) Time: 2-3 hours Best for: Music lovers, casual nightlife Enjoy live bands and karaoke at this local favorite restaurant/bar with a lively atmosphere and island-inspired cocktails.
Personal Tip: If you’re brave enough to sing karaoke, the locals will cheer for any performance of “26 Miles Across the Sea” the famous song about Catalina.
40. Stargazing Cruise
Where: Departs from Green Pleasure Pier Cost: ($45 adult, includes hot chocolate) Time: 90 minutes Best for: Romantic outings, astronomy enthusiasts Cruise beyond Avalon lights for unobstructed views of the night sky, with narration about visible constellations and celestial phenomena.
Personal Tip: The cruise runs seasonally (mostly summer) check availability when planning your trip.
Family-Friendly Activities
41. Mini Golf at Golf Gardens
Where: Avalon Canyon Road Cost: ($15 adult, $13 child) Time: 1-2 hours Best for: Families, competitive friends Play 18 holes at this meticulously maintained course often called “the most beautiful mini golf course in the world.”
Personal Tip: Go either early (before 10am) or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds and sun exposure.
42. Catalina Escape Room
Where: Middle Terrace Cost: ($37 per person) Time: 1 hour Best for: Families with older children, problem-solvers Test your wits in island-themed escape rooms that incorporate Catalina history and legends into the puzzles.
Personal Tip: The “Jewel Thief” room is the most engaging for first-time visitors as it incorporates many island references.
43. Beach Volleyball
Where: South Beach Cost: $ (Free if you bring a ball, $20 to rent) Time: 1-2 hours Best for: Active families, teenagers Play beach volleyball on the public courts at South Beach equipment rental available nearby.
Personal Tip: Morning games are best afternoon winds can make ball control challenging.
44. Catalina Island Aquatic Camp
Where: Toyon Bay Cost: (Day camps start at $85) Time: Half-day to full day Best for: Families with children ages 8-17 Let kids experience marine science, water sports, and conservation activities through guided day camp programs (advanced reservation required).
Personal Tip: If you have teens, the “Ocean Adventures” program lets them try scuba in a safe, controlled environment often a trip highlight.
Unique & Hidden Gems
45. Visit the Catalina Island Conservancy
Where: Avalon Canyon Road Cost: (Free, donations welcome) Time: 30-60 minutes Best for: Nature lovers, conservation enthusiasts Learn about ongoing efforts to protect Catalina unique ecosystem and native species at the conservancy educational center.
Personal Tip: The staff can provide trail maps and wildlife spotting recommendations not found in guidebooks. Conservancy Information
46. Buffalo Milk at Luau Larry
Where: Crescent Avenue Cost: ($12-15) Time: 30-60 minutes Best for: Adults, signature experience Try the island’s signature cocktail a creamy, rum-based drink invented on Catalina that’s become a visitor tradition.
Personal Tip: They’re stronger than they taste pace yourself! The Authentic recipe includes Crème de Cacao, Kahlúa, Crème de Banana, vodka, and fresh cream. Luau Larry Information
47. Bird Park Overlook
Where: Above Avalon Cost: (Free) Time: 30-45 minutes Best for: Photographers, view seekers Hike or take a golf cart to this often-overlooked viewpoint offering some of the best panoramas of Avalon Bay.
Personal Tip: It’s a steep walk but worth it stop at the Catalina Chimes Tower on your way for another hidden photo opportunity.
48. Historic Walking Tour
Where: Downtown Avalon Cost: ($15 for self-guided tour booklet) Time: 2-3 hours Best for: History buffs, architecture fans Pick up a self-guided tour map from the Catalina Island Museum and explore Avalon’s historic buildings, including several from the early 1900s.
Personal Tip: The Holly Hill House (Catalina oldest building) is often missed by visitors but offers fascinating architectural details.
49. Catalina Island Pottery and Tile Collection
Where: Catalina Island Museum Cost: ($17 museum admission) Time: 1 hour Best for: Art historians, collectors View the definitive collection of the famous Catalina tile works that influenced California design in the early 20th century.
Personal Tip: The gift shop sells authorized reproductions a perfect souvenir that connects to island history. Museum Information
50. Sunrise Hike to Buena Vista Point
Where: Above Avalon Cost: (Free) Time: 1-2 hours Best for: Early risers, photographers Take an early morning hike to this viewpoint for spectacular sunrise vistas across the ocean and harbor.
Personal Tip: Bring a headlamp if starting before dawn, and don’t forget your camera the golden light on Avalon is magical.
Curated Catalina Itineraries
Perfect Day Trip
- Morning: Casino Walking Tour (9:30am)
- Late Morning: Glass Bottom Boat Tour (11:00am)
- Lunch: Bluewater Grill for fresh seafood
- Afternoon: Rent a golf cart for a 2-hour scenic tour of Avalon
- Late Afternoon: Shopping and ice cream on Crescent Avenue
- Early Evening: Dinner at Maggie Blue Rose for upscale Mexican cuisine
- Evening: Catch the last ferry back (typically 7:30-9:30pm depending on season)
Why This Works: Hits the major highlights without exhausting yourself. The morning tours provide context for your self-guided afternoon exploration by golf cart.
Romantic Weekend Getaway
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive via morning ferry, check into hotel
- Lunch: Waterfront dining at The Lobster Trap
- Afternoon: Couples massage at Island Spa Catalina
- Evening: Sunset dinner at Avalon Grille followed by a cocktail at Descanso Beach Club
Day 2:
- Morning: Breakfast at Original Jack Country Kitchen
- Late Morning: Kayak tour around Casino Point
- Afternoon: Wine tasting at Catalina Island Vineyards
- Evening: Stargazing cruise or dinner at Mt. Ada (former Wrigley mansion)
Day 3:
- Morning: Hike to Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Gardens
- Lunch: Pack a picnic from Vons Express
- Afternoon: Relax at Descanso Beach Club before departing
Why This Works: Balances active adventures with relaxation and luxury experiences. The pace allows for spontaneous moments while including Catalina most romantic spots.
Family Fun Weekend
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive via morning ferry, check into hotel
- Late Morning: Undersea Expedition submarine tour
- Lunch: Antonio Pizzeria & Cabaret (kid-friendly)
- Afternoon: Miniature golf at Golf Gardens
- Evening: Family dinner at Steve Steakhouse (kid-friendly menu available)
Day 2:
- Morning: Catalina Aerial Adventure (ropes course)
- Lunch: Casual lunch at Eric on the Pier
- Afternoon: Beach time and snorkeling at Lover Cove
- Evening: Movies at the historic Casino Theatre
Day 3:
- Morning: Bison Expedition tour
- Lunch: Buffalo Burgers at Airport in the Sky
- Afternoon: Shopping for souvenirs before departing
Why This Works: Offers activities appealing to different age groups while keeping the schedule flexible enough to accommodate kids energy levels and interests.
Adventure Seeker 3-Day Trip
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive via morning ferry, check into hotel
- Late Morning: Zip Line Eco Tour
- Afternoon: Snorkeling at Casino Point Dive Park
- Evening: Dinner at Bluewater Grill
Day 2:
- Morning: Rent mountain bikes and ride to Hermit Gulch
- Late Morning/Afternoon: Hike Trans-Catalina Trail segment
- Evening: Reward yourself with dinner at Avalon Grille and drinks at Luau Larry
Day 3:
- Morning: Parasailing over Avalon Bay
- Afternoon: Kayak to Frog Rock and nearby sea caves
- Evening: Return to mainland tired but satisfied
Why This Works: Packs in Catalina most adrenaline-pumping activities while still allowing time to appreciate the island natural beauty.
Budget-Friendly Catalina Trip
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive via discount ferry tickets (book off-season, midweek)
- Accommodation: Hermit Gulch Campground or Catalina Hostel
- Morning/Afternoon: Self-guided hiking from Avalon to Wrigley Memorial
- Lunch: Pack your own or purchase affordable deli items from Vons Express
- Afternoon: Beach time at South Beach (free)
- Evening: Affordable dinner at Catalina Pizza Kitchen
Day 2:
- Morning: Free Casino exterior walk (skip paid interior tour)
- Late Morning: Snorkel with your own gear at Lover Cove (bring from mainland)
- Afternoon: Explore Avalon on foot using free Visit Catalina app
- Evening: Happy hour specials at local restaurants (check current offers)
Why This Works: Focuses on Catalina natural beauty and free/low-cost activities while avoiding pricier tours. Bringing your own equipment and staying at budget accommodations significantly reduces costs.
Beyond Activities: Supporting Information
Where to Stay
Catalina offers accommodations for every budget and style preference:
Luxury:
- Mt. Ada – Former Wrigley mansion with spectacular views and complimentary amenities
- Pavilion Hotel – Garden setting with wine & cheese reception
- Hotel Atwater – Recently renovated historic hotel with modern amenities
Mid-Range:
- Catalina Canyon Resort – Comfortable rooms with pool access
- Portofino Hotel – Mediterranean-style rooms near the beach
- Glenmore Plaza Hotel – Victorian charm in the center of Avalon
Budget-Friendly:
- Hermit Gulch Campground – Tent camping with amenities
- Catalina Hostel – Dormitory and private rooms available
- Seacrest Inn – Simple rooms at reasonable rates
My Recommendation: For a truly special experience, splurge on at least one night at Mt. Ada. The complimentary golf cart, incredible views, and inclusive amenities actually make it decent value despite the high price tag.
For a comprehensive guide to Catalina Island accommodation, check out our dedicated [Where to Stay in Catalina Island] article.
Where to Eat & Drink
Fine Dining:
- Avalon Grille – Contemporary American cuisine with island flair
- Bluewater Grill – Fresh sustainable seafood
- Steve Steakhouse – Prime steaks and seafood with harbor views
Casual Favorites:
- The Lobster Trap – Local institution for seafood
- Maggie Blue Rose – Upscale Mexican cuisine
- Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co. – Breakfast goods and specialty coffees
Quick Bites:
- Eric’s on the Pier – Fresh seafood with harbor views
- Original Antonio – Pizza and pasta
- Scoops – Homemade ice cream
Bars & Nightlife:
- Luau Larry – Home of the original Buffalo Milk cocktail
- Descanso Beach Club – Beachfront cocktails
- Harbor Reef Saloon (Two Harbors) – Island-famous Buffalo Milk cocktails
My Recommendation: Don’t miss buffalo milk at Luau Larry it’s a Catalina tradition. For dinner with a view, the Avalon Grille patio offers excellent people-watching along with their delicious locally-sourced menu.
For more detailed restaurant reviews and recommendations, see our dedicated [Best Restaurants in Catalina Island] article.
Practical Tips for Catalina Visitors
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (June-August):
- Warmest weather (70-80°F)
- All attractions open
- Largest crowds and highest prices
- Advance reservations essential
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October):
- Mild weather (60-70°F)
- Most attractions open
- Lower prices and fewer crowds
- Occasional rainy days
Off-Season (November-March):
- Coolest weather (50-60°F)
- Some attractions limited or closed
- Lowest prices and minimal crowds
- Most likely to experience rain
My Recommendation: Early June or late September offer nearly perfect weather without peak summer crowds. If you’re not planning water activities, April and October can be delightful with substantially lower prices.
What to Pack
Essential Items:
- Layered clothing (island breezes can be cool even in summer)
- Comfortable walking shoes (Avalon hills are steep)
- Swimsuit and cover-up
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle (tap water is potable)
- Light backpack for day trips
Seasonal Additions:
- Summer: Light jacket for evenings
- Fall/Spring: Light raincoat or umbrella
- Winter: Warm jacket and waterproof shoes
What to Leave Behind:
- Hair dryers (provided by most hotels)
- Excessive clothing (most places are casual)
- Full-size toiletries (save space and weight)
My Recommendation: Pack lighter than you think necessary Catalina is casual everywhere, and you’ll likely spend most of your time in activewear or beach attire.
Tips for Saving Money
Transportation Savings:
- Book ferry tickets in advance for best rates
- Check for ferry specials on birthdays and off-season
- Consider the Catalina Flyer from Newport Beach for alternate pricing
- Walk instead of renting golf carts (Avalon is compact)
Accommodation Savings:
- Visit midweek (Sunday-Thursday) for lower hotel rates
- Consider camping at Hermit Gulch or Two Harbors
- Book package deals through the Catalina Island Company
- Join Catalina Express loyalty program for discounts
Food & Activity Savings:
- Bring snacks and refillable water bottles
- Check Groupon and LivingSocial for discounted activities
- Purchase the Catalina Island Conservancy hiking permit ($35) for access to all interior trails
- Consider a multi-attraction “Avalon Scenic” package
My Recommendation: If you’re flexible with dates, midweek visits during shoulder season offer the best value. Many hotels drop prices by 30-40% compared to summer weekends.
Why Trust This Guide?
As a frequent Catalina visitor for over a decade, I’ve personally tested every activity mentioned in this guide. My most recent visit in February 2025 allowed me to verify current prices, hours, and the quality of each experience. I’ve stayed in multiple hotels across the island, hiked every major trail, and eaten at every restaurant mentioned.
Unlike many guides written by occasional visitors, this comprehensive resource is regularly updated with on-the-ground intelligence from my quarterly visits. I maintain relationships with local business owners and Catalina Island Conservancy staff to ensure the most current information.
In addition to my personal experiences, I’ve incorporated feedback from thousands of travelers through my Catalina Island community forum, where visitors share their most current experiences and tips.
Final Thoughts: Your Catalina Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, romance, or family fun, Catalina Island delivers an experience that feels worlds away from the Southern California mainland. The combination of Mediterranean climate, crystal clear waters, and preserved natural beauty creates a destination that deserves its nickname as California Island Escape.
As you plan your visit, remember that Catalina magic comes from its mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. Take time to wander beyond the main tourist areas, chat with locals, and discover your own special places on the island.
Have you visited Catalina Island? What were your favorite activities or hidden gems? Share your experiences in the comments below to help fellow travelers plan their perfect island getaway!