Is Catalina Island worth visiting? Yes, it is worth visiting for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and charming small-town vibe. It also has a rich history and cultural heritage that can be explored through tours. Plus, the island has several dining and shopping options, as well as scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. In this post, we’ll cover why Catalina Island is worth it, the best things to do on the island, the best time to visit, and more.
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Planning your trip to Catalina Island? Here are the best tours, hotels, and ferry service:
📸 Best Tours In Catalina Island:
- Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon (see more sights in less time)
- Mermaid Photo Shoot
- Bison Expedition
- 2 hour Inside Adventure Tour (visit the highest point of the island!)
- Undersea Expedition Tour (5 feet below the sea)
- 45 Minute Semi-Submarine Tour (best thing to do with kids!)
- Glass Bottom Boat Tour (see schools of fish w/o scuba diving or snorkeling)
😴 Best Hotels On Catalina Island:
- Hotel Atwater (💲) (free access to Descanso Beach Club)
- The Avalon Hotel in Catalina Island (💲💲) (360 views of Avalon!)
- Hamilton Cove (💲💲💲) (includes golf cart to explore the island)
⛴️ Best Ferry Service: Catalina Express (cheapest and quickest way)
Is Catalina Island Worth Visiting?
It sure is! Here are the best reasons why it’s worth the trip:
😍 Natural beauty: Catalina Island is a stunning destination, with crystal-clear waters, rugged terrain, and a picturesque coastline. You can explore the island’s many hiking trails, take an undersea tour, or simply relax on one of the island’s many beaches.
😍 Outdoor activities: Catalina Island is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, parasailing, ziplining, and more.
😍 Unique experiences: Catalina Island is home to a number of unique attractions and experiences, such as touring in a golf cart or riding in a semi-submarine.
😍 Small-town charm: The island’s main town of Avalon has a charming small-town vibe, with colorful buildings, quaint shops, and a variety of dining options.
😍 Accessibility: Catalina Island is easily accessible from Southern California, with regular ferry and helicopter service from many locations. You can easily make a day trip or plan a longer stay to fully explore the island.
Catalina Island Reviews
What are others saying about Catalina Island? Here are some reviews of visiting this destination:
“Personally, I prefer Catalina over Laguna Beach, Temecula, or Disneyland. The small town of Avalon can be explored within a few hours.” – TripAdvisor Review
“I would easily trade a day at Catalina Island for a day at Disneyland. I have great memories of my trip to Catalina, the crossing was smooth and 20 minutes faster than planned on schedule and it was really amazing to watch the island grow bigger as we were nearing in.” – TripAdvisor Review
“Yes. Yes. Yes….worth the trip!!! Rent a golf cart and tour around. make sure to have a drink at Luau Larry’s…….people watch, shop, enjoy.” – TripAdvisor Review
Things To Do On Catalina Island
So if you’re sold on why it’s worth visiting Catalina Island but wondering what to do there, here are the best things to do on the island including some once-in-a-lifetime things that’ll keep you coming back to the island!
1. Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon
Touring Catalina Island in a golf cart will give you all the fantastic views you need for a memorable vacation.
The tour will treat your eyes to the beauty that’s the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden and one of the most famous attractions on the island, Catalina Casino.
Choose from multiple departure times and fit the tour into your vacation plan without any hassle. It’ll take about two hours, and then you can go your way.
“Great way to see the island. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable and enhanced the views with the history of the island. He also took photos of our group at a very picturesque spot. Amazing experience and I highly recommend this tour!” – Stanrobin (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 5/5 (230+ reviews) ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 2 hours ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- Private guided tour without encountering the heavy crowds of Catalina Island
- See more attractions in less time
- Comfortable vehicles for the elderly and children
Check rates & availability for this Golf Cart Tour
2. Mermaid Photo Shoot on Catalina Island
Make your childhood dream come true and experience life as The Little Mermaid 🧜 for a day with this photo shoot tour in Catalina Island.
During the shoot, you’ll get to wear a mermaid tail that looks like it came out of a fairytale. Then, capture the moment with the help of top photographers.
The shoot takes about an hour, but only the tail will be provided upon reservation, so don’t forget to bring your own shell bra!
“So much fun being a mermaid on the island! The photographer was amazing and super easy to work with. I definitely plan on being a repeat customer when I come back to town ♥️” – Gabrielle (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 1 hour ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- Fitted mermaid tails for all participants, even kids and men
- Photos available on the same day
- Take photos under the famous “Catalina Island Mermaid” mural
Check rates & availability for this Mermaid Photo Shoot
3. Adventure Tour on Catalina Island
Do you want to enjoy the scenic nature of Catalina Island without spending hours in the scorching sun?
This tour inside an air-conditioned vehicle is perfect for you. Sitting comfortably in the shade, you’ll enjoy Catalina Island’s mesmerizing coastline and breathtaking canyons. You’ll also get a glimpse into the wildlife of the area.
The vehicle leaves from The Cabrillo Mole, and the reservation isn’t refundable. Also, the maximum for this tour is a group of 10 people.
“Our guide Delila was excellent. Very informative, funny, and mindful of giving the guests a wonderful experience. Traveling through the very remote landscape learning about the history of the Indians, animals that were brought in and removed, and families who acquired and sold, leading up to the Wrigley family. We also saw about 40 Bison along the way!” – Marla (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 4/5 ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 2 hours ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- Ventures into protected areas that are rarely accessible to walking tourists
- Catalina Island Conservancy fee helps preserve endangered species
- Guided tour for a more informative and enjoyable trip
Check rates & availability for this Adventure Tour
4. Catalina Island Undersea Expedition
Enjoy a below-the-surface glimpse of Catalina Island with this undersea tour. For 45 minutes, you’ll get to sit in a boat cabin five feet beneath the water’s surface, giving you a stunning view of the area’s sea life.
The tour is enjoyable for both adults and kids. It includes live commentary about the marine ecosystem and the creatures that live in it.
💡 Tip: Use the restrooms at Green Pleasure Pier before starting the tour; there are no restrooms on the cabin.
You can also enjoy the scenery from the deck on your way back after the tour ends. There are also multiple departure times to choose from.
“It was a fun ride. We saw lots of fish only maybe 5-6 different types but lots of them. I have 1.5 year old and she was entertained and had fun. My husband gets super seasick and he was fine. We would do it again.” – Codi (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 (70+ reviews) ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 45 minutes ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- Travel underwater without getting wet
- Experienced tour guides present throughout the tour
- Suitable for all ages
Check rates & availability for this Undersea Expedition
5. Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island From Avalon
Do you want to closely look at the marine life of Catalina Island without diving or getting wet?
This tour gives you all that and more. Hop aboard a semi-submarine that dives six feet beneath the water’s surface.
Feast your eyes on the island’s undersea paradise and watch fishes feed nearby from little windows.
Kids can enjoy this underwater adventure tour, but they must be in the company of adults. It isn’t wheelchair-friendly due to uneven surfaces.
“This is a nice tour for all ages. We took adults & seniors and everyone enjoyed it. A heads up, there are steps involved, so make sure your group members are able to independently get up & down the steps.” – Charrise (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 4/5 (170+ reviews) ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 45 minutes ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- Visits a preserved area called the Lovers’ Cove that’s not easily accessible
- The top deck is accessible after the tour ends
- This submarine is designed after America’s 1st nuclear-powered submarine
Check rates & availability for this Semi-Submarine Tour
6. Catalina Island Behind the Scenes Casino Tour
Catalina Casino has stood the test of time for almost a century, and it’s the most prominent attraction on the island.
Go on this tour to explore the dramatic landmark, including its areas that were not always open to the public.
It takes about 1.5 hours and involves a lot of walking, so take caution if you or your family have mobility issues.
During the tour, you’ll get to stand on the stage where Hollywood stars like Cary Grant and Errol Flynn performed.
“Fabulous opportunity to see a slice of life from a luxurious bygone time. The “Behind the Scenes Casino Tour” at the Catalina Island Casino is a unique blend of living history, music history, movie star anecdotes, and luxury life in the 1930s…” – Mark (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 4/5 ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 1.5 hours ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- See the first cinema that screened talkies
- Personal experience with a small group of up to 9 tourists
- Views of Los Angeles and San Diego from this 12-story casino
Check rates & availability for this Behind the Scenes Casino Tour
7. Discover Avalon: Catalina Scenic Tour
The Catalina scenic tour has everything for first-timers on the island. This tour takes you through the most breathtaking places on Avalon.
Upon checking in, the tour vehicle will take you up the island’s hills and along the coastline. It’s a great way to check out Catalina’s best attractions.
The tour is limited to groups of 6-8 persons to ensure privacy, and children are welcome with adults. However, the tour isn’t easily accessible to wheelchairs.
“Great experience! Our driver, Laura, was very friendly and provided great information. We enjoyed seeing the sites around Avalon. The views from Mount Ada were stunning. We also enjoyed seeing other homes in Avalon and Laura’s stories treated to the island.” – Richard (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 (150+ reviews) ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 50 minutes ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- Experienced tour guide on board to tell you about the history and sceneries of Avalon
- View of the entire city of Avalon from the hills
- A perfect introduction to the city
Check rates & availability for this Catalina Scenic Tour
8. Catalina Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Seeing the beauty of the undersea life through a glass bottom boat is a unique experience, and you can enjoy it on your trip to Catalina Island.
This tour will treat you and your family to a joyful 40 minutes of watching colorful fishes and aquatic creatures in Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve.
Best of all, the tour is limited to small groups of 9 people. And, the tour is only available in good weather to guarantee maximum enjoyment.
“The guide was very friendly and informative. The boat was set up perfectly for optimal viewing with large floor window panels We saw the beautiful kelp beds and a lot of different fishes up close. It is perfect for all ages.” – Julie (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 40 minutes ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- Live commentary from an experienced tour guide
- See many schools of fish without scuba diving or snorkeling
- Small group ensures privacy
Check rates & availability for this Catalina Glass Bottom Boat Tour
9. Discover the Catalina Island Casino
Take a trip to the Roaring 20s and enjoy the glamor of Catalina Casino with this guided tour.
The tour takes you through the art-deco-themed landmark and shows you its secrets and connections to the cinema capital of the world, Hollywood.
You’ll also get a close look at the Avalon Theatre and the casino’s ballroom, which were once graced with live performances of world-renowned bands.
Once booked, make sure to call the local operator’s number on the voucher to confirm your ticket. It’s also stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.
👉 Tip: Wear your best hiking shoes. There’s a lot of walking; 8 ramps up and then 8 ramps back down.
“Tour guide was funny and extremely knowledgeable, by the end of the tour, you don’t even realize 40 minutes have gone by. So happy we did this tour.“ – Rose (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 40 minutes ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- Experienced tour guides will explain the history of the casino
- A maximum of 15 tourists per tour to guarantee privacy
- See one-of-a-kind art deco murals
Check rates & availability for this Catalina Island Casino Tour
10. Haunted Catalina Ghost Tour
Scary stories have been around Catalina Island for years, and you can get to the heart of them on this ghost tour.
Walk through the picturesque city of Avalon and discover its paranormal mysteries with a local historian. It’s the perfect alternative to a horror movie night!
A maximum of 40 travelers are allowed to join. The tour is stroller- and wheelchair-accessible. The tour also includes audio headphones.
“Our experience was great! Our guide was extremely knowledgeable of the paranormal activity in Catalina. Would 100% recommend to a friend.“ – Jackson (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 1.5 hours ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- Friendly tour guides explain the haunting history of the island throughout the tour
- Scary stories about the Catalina Casino
- Historic sites
Check rates & availability for this Haunted Catalina Ghost Tour
11. Self-Guided Audio Tour Of Avalon
This self-guided tour is ideal for free souls who want to walk through Catalina Island without the restrictions of walking with a group and guide.
There’s a free VoiceMap mobile application that you can download for commentary about the island. You can listen to it while you’re walking. You’ll uncover some hidden details about Catalina Island.
Transportation isn’t provided on this tour. Make sure to bring your smartphone for the tour.
“Really informative and interesting content. Ease of use to go at our own pace, the app was also user-friendly and easy to navigate. A great concept.” – Jeffrey (see more reviews)
⭐ Rating: 4/5 ⭐
⏰ Tour Duration: 50 minutes ⏰
Why You’ll Love It
- Best value for money
- Self-paced
- Access to audio without the internet is available
Check rates & availability for this Audio Tour Of Avalon
12. Hiking
Hiking on Catalina Island is a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes. The island offers a range of hiking trails, from easy and scenic walks to challenging treks that offer stunning panoramic views. Hiking on Catalina Island allows you to discover hidden coves, pristine beaches, and unique wildlife.
Some of the popular trails include:
13. Zip Line Eco Tour
Prepare for an exciting two-hour adventure on Catalina Island with this zip-lining tour that’s highly rated on TripAdvisor.
You’ll be driven to the top of the ridge, 600 feet above Descanso Beach Club, and then descend across the canyon and through a forest of tall eucalyptus trees on five different lines. You’ll get to zip-line as fast as 35 mph while enjoying stunning views of the ocean.
14. Catalina Aerial Adventure
Located near Descanso Beach Club, Catalina Aerial Adventure provides a challenging outdoor experience among a grove of tall eucalyptus trees.
It features 5 self-guided courses of varying difficulty levels, each comprising a range of obstacles such as rope ladders, zip lines, and log bridges.
The courses are designed to cater to different skill levels, making them suitable for everyone.
15. Catalina Falconry Experience
Get up close with falcons, hawks, and owls as you learn how to hold them and call them back in this Catalina Falconry Experience. Learn about the history and techniques of falconry and the important role raptors play in the natural environment. You can even take pictures with them as a souvenir.
Where Is Catalina Island
Situated off the Southern California coast, Catalina Island is located 29 miles west of Long Beach. The island spans 22 miles in length and 8 miles at its widest point.
Catalina Island Map
How To Get To Catalina Island
The best way to get to Catalina Island is by ferry. It’s just a 1-hour ferry ride that Catalina Express and Catalina Flyer offer. You can choose to depart from any of these 4 cities closest to Catalina Island: Dana Point, Long Beach, Newport Beach, and San Pedro.
⛴️ Easily book a round-trip ferry to Catalina Island from Long Beach or San Pedro.
🚁 If you’re worried about getting seasick, you can choose to fly from mainland California to Catalina Island via Maverick Helicopters.
You can even kayak to Catalina Island but it’s a challenging adventure and isn’t for everyone.
✈️ If you’re flying into mainland California to visit Catalina Island, the closest airport is Long Beach Airport.
🚘 But you can find better flight options at Los Angeles International Airport which isn’t too far from San Pedro or Long Beach. You can rent a car at the airport to head to the ferry ports.
⭐ Here’s what you need to know if you’re traveling to Catalina Island from Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Monica or San Diego.
Where To Stay On Catalina Island
Catalina Island has a variety of accommodations: hotels, resorts, campgrounds and more. We recommend these 3 options:
Budget-Friendly Option: Hotel Atwater
Mid-Priced Option: The Avalon Hotel in Catalina Island
Lux Option: Hamilton Cove
Best Time To Visit Catalina Island
The ideal time to visit Catalina Island largely depends on the activities you have planned during your stay.
For those who enjoy water-related activities, the summer months are recommended. Alternatively, if you prefer to avoid crowds, then consider visiting in winter.
🌷 Spring: Fewer crowds and mild weather
Spring weather info for Catalina Island: March, April, and May
☀️ Summer: Warmest weather; best for getting into the water
Summer weather info for Catalina Island: June, July, and August
🍁 Fall: Fewer crowds and mild weather
Fall weather info for Catalina Island: September, October, and November
🌧️ Winter: Least crowds and off-season
Winter weather info for Catalina Island: December, January, and February
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it’s worth seeing as there is so much untouched natural beauty on this island. Plus it’s more accessible and cheaper to get to Catalina for island life compared to other island destinations. That’s what makes it special.
Catalina Island is generally considered safe for travelers. The island has a small population and a low crime rate, making it a peaceful and safe place to visit.
But, like any tourist destination, you should exercise normal precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring less populated areas or at night.
The cheapest way to take the Catalina Express ferry from San Pedro or Long Beach.
While a Catalina Island day trip is possible as all the best things to do are 2 hours and under but it’s best to stay overnight to experience the sunrise on the island.
It’s best to spend at least 2-3 days on the island to fully immerse yourself in island life just outside of mainland California.
Uber or Lyft aren’t available on the island due to regulations on the limit of vehicles on the island.
Unfortunately, you can’t drive your car on Catalina Island since the island is very small and cars aren’t allowed. There’s a 25-year waiting list to have your car on the island.
You can get around by walking, public transit, taxis, or by golf cart. While you can’t rent scooter rentals, you can rent a golf cart to see the island!
While it’s not mandatory to carry passports to go to Catalina Island and there aren’t any immigration checks, it’s best to carry a government-issued identification like a driver’s license, Real ID, or passport in case of emergencies.
Yes, you can bring your dog to Catalina Island, however, there are a few restrictions. For your pet’s safety, they must be kept leashed wherever you take them, and unfortunately, they may not be able to join you on certain beaches or attractions.
You can take the Catalina Express from San Pedro to Two Harbors but they don’t run a regular schedule. It’s best to take a ferry from San Pedro or Long Beach to Avalon. You can get to Two Harbors from Avalon either by boat or taxi.
Yes, you can live on Catalina Island. There are different residential options, including apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes in Avalon.
Some of the best restaurants on Catalina Island include Steve’s Steakhouse and Seafood, Bluewater Grill, Descanso Beach Club, and the Lobster Trap.
Final Thoughts
So, is Catalina Island worth visiting? Yes, it’s definitely worth seeing! We’d recommend maximizing your time by choosing the best things to do that cover the island’s highlights. If you’re choosing just one, we suggest booking the private golf cart tour for a personalized experience to see more in less time.
Read More From Bae Area and Beyond
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21 Best Restaurants In Catalina Island
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