Things to Do in Catalina Island

✨ Why Travelers Love This Experience Full Mermaid Makeover – Slip into a shimmering tail, shell bra, and ocean-inspired accessories to fully transform into a magical mermaid. Sparkling Details – Enjoy scale makeup, pearls, and gems that make your look photo-ready. Take-Home Treasures – Receive a keepsake 4x6 photo print and a starfish hair clip to remember your day under the sea. Interactive Fun – Kids pick a mermaid name and take home a treasure chest prize, while adults often use the experience to create stunning content for social media. Capture the Magic – Guests are welcome to snap their own photos and videos during the session for even more memories. All Ages Welcome – Designed for kids, teens, and adults alike — the perfect activity for families, friend groups, or anyone who dreams of becoming a mermaid.

Important Note: This is a one-way ferry from Avalon to San Pedro. You must also book the other leg, also on Viator. Climb aboard the ferry in Avalon, California for one-way service to San Pedro. You can expect awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean on your trip. Enjoy refreshments and light snacks on board, available for purchase.

Catalina Xtreme Parasail thrives to ensure our customers have a safe and amazing experience in the air.. we pride ourselves with also giving back to our community with partnering with the Susan G. Komen foundation to give back a % of parasail flights to help research and bring awareness to our town and those who have been impacted. • No experience needed •Digital photo package available for purchase • Stay dry or dip in the water options •Observer (non-flyer seats) available for purchase

In addition to being the only fish shaped golf cart on the island, we are also the only golf cart to hold large groups! Hop aboard our unique, fully electric "Gary the Garibaldi" golf cart for a fun, comfortable, and eco-conscious tour of Avalon. Enjoy breathtaking views, learn about the island's history, and capture stunning photos along the way. Our expert local guides will share fascinating insights about the island’s landmarks, what it's like to live on the island, and our distinctive Garibaldi-inspired bus provides the perfect backdrop for memorable snapshots. Our tour offers a one-of-a-kind sightseeing experience that showcases both Avalon’s charm and natural beauty. All passengers must be 8+ years old.

Important Note: This is a one-way ferry from Avalon to Long Beach. You must also book the other leg from Long Beach to Avalon, also on Viator. Climb aboard the ferry in Avalon, California, for one-way service to Long Beach. You can expect awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean on your trip. Enjoy refreshments and light snacks on board, available for purchase.

See the best of Catalina on this all-encompassing aerial tour over California's island escape! Depart from Pebbly Beach for a 20-minute exploration into the mostly untouched natural beauty of the 22-mile-long island sanctuary featuring a rugged interior and cliffs rising from the ocean.

Avalon History Tours is a small family-owned business located on Catalina Island. We offer an authentic and immersive experience led by knowledgeable guides who are local residents. Our hour-and-a-half-long tour covers approximately one mile of the island's charming and predominantly flat terrain, making it accessible to most guests. For extra convenience, guests aged 6 and over are provided with a headset to wear during the tour, ensuring they can hear the tour guide clearly. Get ready to delve into the rich history of Catalina Island, with a focus on iconic landmarks such as the Holly Hill House, the scenic Green Pleasure Pier, and the renowned Catalina Casino. Guests will discover the origins of the island's name, the visions of Shatto, the Banning Brothers, and how the Wrigley family transformed the island into its current state. Wander through the heart of Avalon, connecting the past with the present, one step at a time.

Catalina Island’s original custom guided golf cart tour! Explore Avalon through the eyes of a local. With us you will learn about the history of the Island and the lifestyle of its residents. Custom tours of 2 hours will entertain and educate you! Reserve your tour time in advance, limited times and space are offered each day. SOLD OUT? NEED A DIFFERENT TOUR TIME? CALL US!

We offer a fun and exciting private tour of Avalon with a professional local guide via a large-capacity luxury golf cart for up to 5 passengers.   Save miles on your feet with the comfort and enjoyment of our fleet. Catch a glimpse of the spectacular bay views without hiking up the hills. See and hear everything Avalon and Catalina Island have to offer in just two hours. This joyride will save you time from getting lost and wasting your precious vacation time.

Descend Catalina Island's Descanso Canyon by zip line, dropping from 600 feet above sea level, including one run that is 1,100-lineal feet long. You will travel close to three-quarters of a mile over five consecutive zip lines. See the world at heights of 300 feet above the canyon floor and at speeds pushing 40 mph.

Dine like a local. Experience Catalina's history, culture & foodie fun with our knowledgeable guides on this delicious 2.5-hour food tour. • Enjoy an all-inclusive experience as you sip, sample & savor Avalon's best. • Encounter the sights, sounds and stories behind our well-known historic landmarks. • Relax by the ocean on Catalina Island's only food & beverage excursion. • Experience 5+ unique tasting locations - meet the people responsible for Avalon's food scene. • Tour is limited to 10 people to ensure a personalized experience.

Explore the captivating marine life of Catalina Island on this Dolphin and Sea Lion Tour. Set sail from Avalon on a six-passenger boat to encounter playful Common Dolphins and majestic sea lions in their natural habitat. During whale migration season, the tour also ventures to spot Grey, Blue, and Fin Whales, along with other coastal wildlife like Harbor Seals and resident Bald Eagles. With a dedicated Captain on board, the adventure promises an engaging experience filled with local insights and wildlife spotting. Ideal for families and nature lovers alike, this tour lasts up to one hour and is suitable for ages 4 and up. - Up to 1-hour tour searching for dolphins and sea lions - Maximum capacity of 6 passengers for a personalized experience - Opportunity to see various whale species during migration season - Departure from Avalon, accommodating small bags and cameras

Tour the historic Village of Avalon with our local historian. Together you will walk through Avalon while exploring the spooky history and paranormal mysteries of Catalina. Learn the difference between a spirit or a ghost. Understand why Catalina is so haunted, and why our guide has proof of the other side. This is the only Ghost Tour on Catalina and has been voted one of the Top Ten Ghost Tours in The Country from USA TODAY.

Take a trip down memory lane to the days when bands were big and movies were just beginning to talk. The Catalina Casino epitomizes everything glamorous about Santa Catalina Island. You'll see the extraordinary Art Deco murals and a classic 1929 pipe organ inside the Avalon Theatre, which still shows nightly movies on its massive screen. A short film is shown highlighting the history of this iconic building and its Hollywood connection. This tour requires uphill walking inside the casino.

Step into a living tapestry of history, mystery, and natural wonder at Avalon Bay! Wander through sun-drenched landscapes where every cobblestone whisper tales of the past—begin your journey with the island’s 16th-century discovery in 1542 and follow the trail of chewing-gum tycoon William Wrigley Jr., who transformed Catalina into a visionary playground. Unfold enigmas as you solve riddles hidden in the architecture, from the hand-painted mosaics of artist Juliana Rotter to the island’s iconic “Catalina Cowgirl,” a trailblazing tale waiting to be uncovered by you.

More than 15,000 happy guests and counting! Experience the oceans like never before! This truly unique immersive experience takes you on a thirty minute virtual "scuba dive" through the world's oceans. Our flagship experience and fan favorite. Our debut short film, was shot in nine countries across three oceans and a sea, featuring over forty marine species. This immersive movie lets you virtually dive into Catalina’s kelp forests, encounter giant sea bass, humpback whales, whale sharks, manta rays, bull sharks, schools of fish, playful sea-lions, underwater caves, and more. All footage was filmed underwater in 360 degrees by our team and collaborators, captured on real dives around the world.

Rediscover the enchantment of Avalon on this delightful nonstop 50 minute journey along the beachfront, up the hillsides, and through the heart of this friendly and historic town. This tour always receives the highest ratings for customer satisfaction in our visitor surveys. You’ll see picture-perfect views and colorful local attractions as your guide shares interesting Catalina Island history and folklore from the comfort of our passenger vehicle. This seven-and-a-half mile journey provides a comprehensive history of Santa Catalina Island’s only city, Avalon. Don’t forget your camera. 

Tour the historic Village of Avalon with our local historian. Together you will walk through Avalon while exploring the spooky history and paranormal mysteries of Catalina. Learn the difference between a spirit or a ghost. Understand why Catalina is so haunted, and why our guide has proof of the other side. This is the only Ghost Tour on Catalina and has been voted one of the Top Ten Ghost Tours in The Country from USA TODAY.

We've been taking curious Catalina visitors on journeys of discovery into Lover's Cove Marine Preserve for nearly a century. While the vessels have evolved over the years, the unique experience of being drawn in to an undersea wonderland remains the same. Meet your captain at Float B on the Green Pleasure Pier that extends into Avalon Harbor, directly offshore from Catalina Avenue. Once aboard the MoonStone, you will be able to see the bottom of the sea! You’ll see a variety of colorful fish and other sea life as you cruise through what many consider to be one of the healthiest marine environments in the world.

This exciting, narrated journey along the scenic Skyline Drive takes you ten miles into Santa Catalina Island’s protected wilderness area. Cruise along Catalina's ridge tops where you will view spectacular vistas, deep canyons, quiet coves, and an endless blue ocean.

Come face-to-face with Catalina's abundant marine life on this 45-minute underwater excursion. Cruise five feet below the surface in a spacious, climate-controlled cabin with a live guide suggesting salient points of interest. Every passenger has their own seat and port hole but you are also free to roam around the cabin for other viewpoints.

Spectacular canyons, a scenic coastline, and an unspoiled countryside alive with native plants and wildlife will take your breath away on this two-hour guided eco-land excursion. As you venture ten miles into the rugged interior, you will view the protected side of Catalina Island seldom seen by most visitors. Naturalist onboard enriches experience with wildlife and inside knowledge of the areas visiting during the tour.

Come aboard Catalina Island's newest semi-submarine, the SS Nautilus, and enjoy a deep sea adventure 1,000 leagues beyond your imagination. The main attraction of this unique vessel allows six feet underwater viewing while staying dry so eager seafarers can get up close and face-to-face with schools of fish anticipating treats fired away from custom designed fish food torpedo buttons. Designed after America's first nuclear powered submarine, the USS Nautilus, the 45-minute journey is the destination itself as our captain and his crew ventures out on an exploratory mission to the undersea gardens of Avalon Bay.

Discover Avalon’s most iconic landmarks on the Best of Avalon + Scenic Mt. Ada Tour! Ride in comfort aboard our brand-new safari tram, The Eagle, as a knowledgeable naturalist narrates your journey. Highlights include the historic Catalina Casino, the picturesque Lover’s Cove, the elegant Wrigley Mansion, and the stunning views from Mt. Ada. Enjoy a stop at Descanso Beach to take in the island’s natural beauty. This tour offers unforgettable photo opportunities and a unique perspective on Catalina’s rich history and breathtaking scenery. But the adventure doesn't stop there! Along the way, our knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating tales of Avalon's storied past, from its Hollywood heyday to its enduring allure as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Learn about the island's unique ecosystem, including its diverse wildlife and conservation efforts that have helped preserve its natural splendor for generations to come.

NEW COVID PROTOCOLS: Players will need to follow all state and local guidelines while playing the Fantastic Catalina Race. "A Truly Amazing Race"!! The Fantastic Catalina Race is a unique hybrid of a sightseeing tour and interactive mystery novel around Avalon. Our races are unlike anything you've ever done before, and we offer an experience you will never forget. Great for the whole family! Great for Groups!

Take a self-guided GPS audio tour through the streets of Avalon with me. My name is Matthew and I am one of the 4000 residents of Avalon. Being a local I get asked a lot of questions. Do you live here full time? How expensive is it? What is that large house up on the hill? Why does everyone drive around in golf carts? How can you have a casino that doesn't allow gambling? Along with historians, authors, and other passionate locals, we will walk the streets of Avalon to answer these questions and more. You'll learn the stories behind our town and its famous landmarks from the people who live here. The tour is ready whenever you are and the audio plays automatically at exactly the right time and place using your smartphone's GPS and the VoiceMap mobile app, which also works offline.

If you feed them, they will come describes this timeless attraction aboard Catalina Island's state-of-the-art Glass Bottom Boat. Enjoy a scenic 45-minute harbor cruise as you comfortably sail out to the crystal clear waters of Lover's Cove, a California protected marine preserve. The Sea View provides the perfect "window" to discovery, bringing the undersea world right up to your feet. Both young and old adventurers get to explore a variety of marine life without even getting wet! The specially designed food drop tubes provide an on board interactive experience by allowing seafaring enthusiasts to create feeding frenzies over and over again with the island’s local sea inhabitants. 

Departing from the iconic Balboa Pavilion in Newport Beach daily. Departing times vary depending on time of year see all times available when booking. Travel time is approximately 75 minutes from Newport Beach to Avalon, Catalina Island. This is one of the most easily accessible ports for residents/visitors of Orange County, Greater Los Angeles, Inland Empire and San Diego County to travel by boat from the mainland to Avalon, Catalina Island. This is the "largest" catamaran to Catalina Island and is state of the art, with three decks. The first deck is enclosed with plenty of seating and a snack bar. The second deck offers a full bar and additional indoor seating. The third deck is open air with seating in the California sunshine and offers stunning views during the trip. Enjoy “Speed – Service – Comfort”.

Embark on an engaging scavenger hunt through the historic streets of Avalon California, on the island of Catalina! Explore the quaint and beautiful harbor and waterfront. See the historic sights like the Avalon Casino. See some of the overlooked gems like the the Avalon Veteran's Memorial. Explore and see the many unique shops, restaurants and galleries. Go at your own pace and see the best of what Catalina has to offer. Ready to discover Catalina in a whole new way? Let the adventure begin!

Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment! Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!

Explore Avalon, Catalina's vibrant harbor, while uncovering the island's hidden natural wonders. This walking tour takes you beyond the lively shops and piers to the serene wilderness that hosts unique wildlife, including island foxes and bald eagles. Discover the rich stories of Avalon, where community life meets stunning landscapes, from the iconic Casino to picturesque overlooks. Perfect for nature lovers and curious travelers, this tour reveals the harmony between urban charm and natural beauty. — Walking tour through Avalon’s bustling marketplace and scenic spots — Discover the protected wilderness and wildlife beyond the town — Learn about Avalon’s history, myths, and community spirit — Ideal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking unique experiences

Step into Avalon’s past on Legends, History and Tiles of the Past, a guided walking experience that blends Catalina’s rich heritage with the beauty of its iconic tilework and the allure of old Hollywood. Stroll through historic streets and waterfront landmarks as knowledgeable local guides reveal the true stories behind the island’s most celebrated sites, from classic hotels and colorful murals to Hollywood legends and longtime residents who shaped Catalina’s charm. This family-friendly, leisurely tour offers an easy, flat route and plenty of photo-worthy moments, making it perfect for curious travelers of all ages. Discover the artistry, architecture, and history that make Avalon unforgettable—book now and uncover the timeless stories woven into every step of the island.

Experience our Private Excursion tailored exclusively for you! Embark on a serene journey through the picturesque landscapes of USA as you make your way to the heart of the city. Upon your arrival, meet your seasoned tour guide, ready to lead you on an enchanting tour of Avalon. Discover the awe-inspiring allure of Avalon, marvel at the grandeur of Catalina Island, and capture iconic moments, and many more. Our excursions are meticulously designed schedule. We'll greet you directly at the hotel and ensure you return with ample time to relax and relish your day. Leave the details to us as we escort you on an extraordinary adventure, crafting memories that will stand the test of time!

Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in breathtaking beauty with our exclusive Horse Trail Overlook Ride. This is more than just a trail ride; it's a personalized journey crafted for you, your loved ones, and the magnificent landscape that surrounds us. Imagine: The gentle rhythm of hooves carrying you through picturesque trails, leaving the everyday behind. Unobstructed views from stunning overlooks, where the world unfolds before your eyes without a crowd. The quiet companionship of your group, sharing laughter and awe in a truly intimate setting. A perfectly matched horse, chosen for your comfort and experience, guided by our expert wranglers.

Experience our Private Excursion tailored exclusively for you! Embark on a serene journey through the picturesque landscapes of USA as you make your way to the heart of the city. Upon your arrival, meet your seasoned tour guide, ready to lead you on an enchanting tour of Catalina Island. Discover the awe-inspiring allure of Catalina Island Casino, marvel at the grandeur of Catalina Island, and capture iconic moments, and many more. Our excursions are meticulously designed schedule. We'll greet you directly at the hotel and ensure you return with ample time to relax and relish your day.

Explore the rugged hills above Avalon on a captivating horseback ride that spans two hours. Guided by experienced equestrians, this adventure reveals the stunning landscapes of Catalina Island, including panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Avalon Harbor. Riders will discover the island's rich history and unique wildlife while enjoying a relaxed pace tailored to their comfort. This ride promises an intimate experience, perfect for couples and small groups, making memories amidst Catalina’s untouched wilderness. A unique way to appreciate nature on horseback awaits you.

There’s seeing Avalon… and then there’s experiencing it. On this private two-hour golf cart adventure, you’ll explore Avalon, Catalina Island’s largest city, with a year-round local who truly loves sharing it. Expect sweeping hilltop views, sparkling harbor panoramas, hidden streets, and scenic overlooks that make you reach for your camera. When the light is perfect or a view deserves a pause, we stop. No rushing. No monotone script. Just real stories, real island insight, and a guide who brings the place to life. This experience blends the must-see highlights of Catalina Island with the hidden gems many visitors miss. Relaxed but never boring, informative but never rehearsed, and entirely private, it revolves around you. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll leave with memories that stay long after the ride ends. If you’re going to explore Avalon, make it the kind of tour you’ll still be talking about when you get home.

The IMMERSED dome theater invites young adventurers aged 3-10 on a playful journey with friendly aliens Imani, Aki, and John. After their ship crashes on Earth, the audience helps the Stellars learn what plants need to thrive while racing against time to revive the Yumi-Plumi forest. This interactive experience fosters cooperation and responsibility, allowing children to actively participate in the engaging story as they watch the characters grow and find their way home. Enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned theater with assigned seating and beanbag chairs available for a cozy viewing experience.

Resolution, the groundbreaking dome theater film that won the Audience Award for Best Immersive Experience at SXSW, invites you into a captivating world where music and visuals collide. Set against The Polyphonic Spree’s powerful album Salvage Enterprise, this immersive journey unfolds around a campfire, revealing the inner worlds of its characters through stunning visuals, from soaring canyons to psychedelic starscapes. Created by an acclaimed team of Oscar and Emmy winners, this experience has been hailed as the future of music and cinema. Secure your ticket now to witness this revolutionary cinematic adventure that promises to redefine storytelling.

Set off on a scenic 75-minute horseback ride through breathtaking landscapes on Catalina Island. This guided trail takes you to a stunning overlook high above Avalon, where you can soak in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the island's rugged beauty. Suitable for riders of all levels, knowledgeable guides will share insights about Catalina’s rich equestrian history and unique wildlife during your ride. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, this adventure offers a social and affordable way to explore the island’s natural wonders while enjoying the thrill of horseback riding.

Your very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment! Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!

Experience the ultimate coastal adventure with a helicopter flight from Catalina Island to Long Beach, California. Soar like an eagle over the sparkling Pacific Ocean, taking in panoramic views of the coastline and iconic landmarks. This luxury aerial journey offers a fast, scenic, and unforgettable way to travel between Catalina and the SoCal mainland.

Explore the stunning vistas of Catalina Island with our exclusive private charters, designed for up to 6 passengers. Whether you're planning a trip to Two Harbors for lunch or a scenic adventure around the island, each charter is tailored to your preferences. Enjoy the flexibility to set your own itinerary and spend up to 10 hours on the water, making it perfect for families, friends, or special occasions. Stand-by rates are available if you wish to be dropped off at a specific location, with the vessel waiting for your return. - Private charters accommodate up to 6 guests - Custom itineraries for every occasion, including lunch trips and adventures - Flexible duration of up to 10 hours - Stand-by options for convenient drop-off and pick-up services