Things to Do in Catalina Island: My Personal Guide to the Perfect SoCal Escape

Save this post, or share it with your travel buddy.

I’ll be honest I wasn’t expecting Catalina Island to feel so far away from LA. But the moment I stepped off the ferry and into Avalon’s palm-fringed charm, it felt like I’d arrived somewhere completely different. No traffic, no noise just ocean breezes, pastel buildings, and the laid-back island pace I didn’t know I needed.

Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend, a solo recharge, or a family-friendly adventure, Catalina offers just the right mix of outdoor fun, cute cafes, and stunning views. Here’s everything I did (and loved) on my trip to Catalina Island and what I’d recommend if you’re planning yours too.

Things to Do in Catalina Island

How to Get to Catalina Island

Getting to Catalina is part of the adventure. Here are your two main options:

Catalina Express ferry arriving at Avalon dock
  • Ferry (most popular):
    • Catalina Express runs daily from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point.
    • The ride takes about 1 hour and costs around $92 round trip for adults.
    • Pro tip: Sit outside if you don’t mind the breeze you might spot dolphins!
  • Helicopter (for a splurge):
    • Island Express Helicopters offers 15-minute flights from Long Beach.
    • A cool way to start your trip with panoramic views of the coast.

Ferry Tips

  • Book at least 1–2 weeks in advance if you’re traveling in peak season.
  • Get to the terminal 45 minutes early especially if you’re parking.
  • Sit outside or bring ginger chews if you’re sensitive to motion.

Avalon vs. Two Harbors: Which Side Should You Visit?

Catalina Island has two main visitor hubs Avalon on the east coast and Two Harbors on the west. While they’re both part of the same island, the experiences they offer are completely different. Here’s how to choose the right one for your trip (or why you might want to experience both):

Simple map showing Avalon and Two Harbors on Catalina Island for visitor comparison

Avalon: The Charming, Walkable Main Town

I stayed in Avalon, and it’s where most first-time visitors start. This colorful harbor town is lively but relaxed, with everything conveniently within walking distance from restaurants and beach clubs to tour companies and scenic viewpoints.

Avalon Harbor, Catalina Island

What makes Avalon ideal:

  • Great for first-time visitors, couples, families, and short trips
  • Easy access to activities like snorkeling, golf cart rentals, glass-bottom boat tours, and ziplining
  • Plenty of cafes, cocktail bars, and boutique shops
  • Home to iconic spots like the Catalina Casino, Descanso Beach Club, and the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden
  • A wide range of accommodations, from budget motels to luxury stays like Mt Ada

Avalon has a vacation-town vibe: walkable, social, and activity-packed but without feeling crowded or chaotic. You don’t need a car here, which makes it super low-stress.

  • Best For: First-time visitors, short getaways, couples, families, solo travelers
  • Vibe: Charming, lively, convenient
  • Getting Around: Totally walkable + golf cart friendly

Two Harbors: The Remote, Rugged Side of Catalina

Two Harbors feels like a different island altogether. Located on the northwest coast, it’s a tiny village with a single restaurant, one general store, one lodge, and no cars. It’s separated from Avalon by rugged inland terrain and is only accessible by boat, ferry (from San Pedro), private yacht, or a multi-hour hike.

Two Harbors, Catalina Island

What makes Two Harbors unique:

  • Best for nature lovers, campers, boaters, and off-the-grid adventurers
  • Surrounded by remote coves, beaches, and hiking trails perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, backpacking, and stargazing
  • Basecamp for the Trans-Catalina Trail, and offers access to pristine wilderness and empty beaches
  • Less infrastructure = fewer people, deeper connection with nature

I didn’t stay here on my last trip, but I’ve added it to my list for next time especially for a peaceful weekend of digital detox and kayaking into hidden coves.

  • Best For: Campers, hikers, outdoor purists, adventure seekers
  • Vibe: Rustic, wild, disconnected (in a good way!)
  • Getting Around: Limited ferry service, everything is on foot or by boat

Avalon vs. Two Harbors: Quick Comparison

FeatureAvalonTwo Harbors
Best forFirst-timers, families, couplesNature lovers, hikers, campers
AccessibilityDaily ferries from 3 mainland portsLimited ferry from San Pedro only
Dining & amenitiesDozens of restaurants, shops1 restaurant, 1 general store
ActivitiesTours, beaches, nightlifeHiking, kayaking, scuba, camping
VibeBustling, charming, socialPeaceful, wild, off-the-grid
AccommodationsHotels, B&Bs, vacation rentalsOne lodge, campsites, tent cabins

My Take

If it’s your first time on Catalina, start with Avalon you’ll get the full island charm without the need for logistics. But if you’ve been before, or you’re the type who loves sleeping under the stars and waking up to nothing but ocean breeze and bird calls, then Two Harbors might be your paradise.

Let me know if you’ve stayed in both I’d love to hear how you experienced them!

Best Time to Visit Catalina Island

Catalina is a year-round destination, but here’s what to expect each season:

  • Spring (March–May): Wildflowers, pleasant weather, fewer crowds.
  • Summer (June–August): Warmest and most popular time; book ahead.
  • Fall (September–October): Ideal weather + fewer tourists.
  • Winter (Nov–Feb): Quiet, cool, and relaxed great for hiking and budget stays.

Consider timing your visit around the Catalina Wine Mixer or the JazzTrax Festival in fall!

Best Things to Do on Catalina Island

1. Snorkel at Lover’s Cove

Diver snorkeling through clear kelp forest at Lover’s Cove, Catalina Island

Snorkeling at Lover’s Cove was one of the highlights of my trip. This protected marine preserve is located just a short walk from the Avalon ferry terminal, and the water here is teeming with bright orange garibaldi, swaying kelp forests, and rocky reefs. Visibility was surprisingly good even near shore, and I spotted schools of fish within minutes of getting in.

You can rent gear from several outfitters in town, or join a guided snorkel tour for extra safety and local insight. I went in the early afternoon, and the water was calm and crystal clear.

  • Tip: Wear water shoes some of the rocks near the entry are slippery!
  • Great for: Beginner snorkelers, marine life lovers, families with older kids

2. Take the Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Catalina Glass Bottom Boat Tour

If you’d rather stay dry (or are traveling with younger kids), the glass-bottom boat tour is a gentle and scenic way to explore Catalina’s underwater life. The boat has large glass panels built into the hull, and the guides point out everything from kelp forests to colorful reef fish as you float over them.

I took this tour in the afternoon as a relaxing break between hikes, and it was a great way to learn more about Catalina’s unique marine ecosystem. Tours typically last around 40 minutes and depart several times a day from Avalon.

  • Good to book ahead during summer weekends!
  • Great for: Families, non-swimmers, older adults

3. Explore Avalon by Golf Cart

Couple driving a golf cart along coastal road with Avalon Bay view

One of the most iconic things to do on Catalina is renting a golf cart and cruising through Avalon’s winding hills and coastal overlooks. I rented one for two hours and followed the suggested scenic route, which loops through residential neighborhoods, hilltop lookout points, and past the historic Wrigley Mansion.

My favorite stops were:

  • Buena Vista Point – Panoramic views over the harbor
  • Renton Mine Road Overlook – Remote and peaceful, with ocean views
  • Wrigley Terrace Road – Quiet stretch with lovely mid-century homes and garden views

Golf carts are rented by the hour and are super easy to drive, even if it’s your first time. Just make sure you have your driver’s license and return it on time to avoid late fees.

  • Great for: First-timers, photographers, people who want to see Avalon’s beauty without hiking

4. Visit the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden

If you love peaceful walks and desert plants, you’ll enjoy a visit to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden. The garden is home to California-native and drought-tolerant plants, with beautiful succulents, blooming cactus, and interpretive signs along the way. It’s a slow uphill path that leads to the memorial a stunning stone structure dedicated to William Wrigley Jr., the chewing gum magnate who helped shape Catalina’s tourism legacy.

I went early in the morning and had the place almost to myself. The memorial overlooks Avalon Canyon and makes for a great photo spot.

  • Entry fee: ~$10 for adults, discounts for kids/seniors
  • Give yourself about 1–1.5 hours for the round trip from Avalon
  • Great for: Garden lovers, history buffs, mellow hikers

5. Hike the Garden to Sky Trail

Sky Trail Hike Catalina Island

Right above the Wrigley Memorial lies one of the best short hikes on the island Garden to Sky Trail. It’s a 2.5-mile round trip trail that leads to a ridgeline where you can see both sides of the island: the Pacific Ocean to the east, and the Catalina backcountry stretching west.

The trail starts off shaded with some gentle elevation, but becomes fully exposed toward the top so bring water and sunscreen. It’s not difficult, but there are some steep switchbacks. I hiked it mid-morning and had the summit mostly to myself.

  • Hiking Tip: You’ll need a free hiking permit from the Catalina Island Conservancy to go beyond this trail or continue into the interior. Grab it online or at the Trailhead visitor center.
  • Great for: Hikers, photographers, people who want a rewarding view without committing to an all-day trek

6. Visit Descanso Beach Club

Descanso Beach Club

If you’re looking to slow things down and lean into vacation mode, Descanso Beach Club is the perfect place. Located just a short walk from Avalon’s main boardwalk, it’s one of the few private beaches in California where you can legally sip a cocktail with your toes in the sand.

I rented a lounge chair here and spent the afternoon swimming, people-watching, and sipping a frozen piña colada. There’s a full-service beach bar and restaurant, plus private cabanas if you’re celebrating something special.

But Descanso isn’t just for lounging this is also the launch point for kayak rentals, snorkeling, and the zipline eco tour. You could easily spend half a day here and never get bored.

  • Tip: There’s no entry fee if you just want to hang out, but chairs, lockers, and cabanas are extra.
  • Great for: Couples, groups, luxury travelers, active beachgoers

7. Go Ziplining over Descanso Canyon

Adventurer mid-zipline across Descanso Canyon overlooking the ocean
Source: @MalikahKelly

The Zip Line Eco Tour is one of the most popular adventure experiences on Catalina and it lives up to the hype. You’ll soar across five ziplines stretched high above Descanso Canyon, reaching speeds of up to 35 mph with panoramic views of the ocean.

I booked this for my second day on the island and was a bit nervous at first, but the guides were fantastic. They talk you through the safety harnesses, share fun facts about Catalina’s ecology, and make sure you’re feeling confident before each launch.

The entire experience takes about 2 hours, including the shuttle ride up to the first platform. It’s exhilarating, scenic, and honestly way smoother than I expected.

  • Weight limit applies (~80–240 lbs), so check in advance before booking.
  • Great for: Thrill-seekers, groups, anyone looking for a memorable highlight

8. Try the Catalina Aerial Adventure

Catalina Aerial Adventure

Tucked in the same canyon area as the zipline course is the Catalina Aerial Adventure a ropes and obstacle course suspended in the trees. Think balance beams, swinging bridges, rope ladders, and ziplines designed for both adults and older kids.

There are multiple difficulty levels, and you can choose your path based on your comfort level. I watched a family with tweens tackle the medium course while a couple next to me powered through the advanced one it’s as fun or challenging as you make it.

If ziplining feels a bit too much, or if you want a team-style challenge, this is a great alternative.

  • Book in advance during weekends or holidays, as time slots can fill up quickly.
  • Great for: Families with teens, group bonding, active travelers

9. Visit the Catalina Casino

Despite its name, the Catalina Casino isn’t a gambling venue it’s a stunning Art Deco landmark that has become a symbol of the island. Built in 1929 by William Wrigley Jr., the Casino houses a beautifully preserved ballroom, a museum, and a classic movie theater with original acoustics.

I took the guided tour (about an hour), which included the top-floor ballroom with sweeping views of Avalon, and a behind-the-scenes look at the theater’s 1920s projection equipment.

Even if you don’t join a tour, the exterior alone is worth admiring. At night, the building lights up with golden tones and looks magical from across the harbor.

  • Tours run daily and are especially fun for architecture lovers.
  • Great for: History buffs, photographers, anyone into vintage glam

10. Try Scuba Diving or SNUBA

Scuba Diving on Catalina Island

If you’re scuba certified or curious about trying it Catalina Island is one of Southern California’s best spots to explore beneath the waves. The waters are usually clear and calm, and the marine life is incredibly diverse.

Several local operators offer guided dive tours, and you don’t have to go far from shore to see rocky reefs, kelp beds, and all kinds of colorful fish.

If you’re not certified but want to go deeper than snorkeling, try SNUBA a hybrid between scuba and snorkeling where you’re tethered to a floating oxygen tank. I tried it at Casino Point Dive Park, and it felt like scuba-lite (in the best way). No certification needed, but still super immersive.

  • Tip: Water temps are chillier than you think, ask for a wetsuit!
  • Great for: Divers, marine life enthusiasts, adventurous first-timers

11. Play Mini Golf in Avalon

Mini Golf in Avalon

This little mini golf course tucked into Avalon’s hillside surprised me in the best way. It’s not flashy, but it’s one of the oldest mini-golf courses in the U.S. and has a nostalgic, tropical garden vibe. Winding paths take you past rock formations, bridges, and quirky old-school obstacles. There’s enough challenge to make it fun for adults but simple enough for kids to enjoy too.

I played a round before dinner, and it was the perfect low-key break between activities. It’s also shaded for the most part, which is nice on sunny days.

  • Walk-ins are welcome, and it’s open until early evening.
  • Great for: Families, couples, groups looking for a casual competition

12. Take a Jeep Eco Tour to Spot Bison

Spotting Bisons on a Jeep Eco Tour in Catalina Island

Seeing wild bison on an island was not on my bingo card for this trip but Catalina surprised me again. The bison were originally brought here in the 1920s for a film shoot, and a herd of about 100 still roam freely through the interior. Your best chance to spot them is by joining a Jeep Eco Tour organized by the Catalina Island Conservancy.

These open-air 4×4 tours take you deep into the island’s wild backcountry, through rugged hills and coastal ridgelines. Along the way, the guides share local history, geology, and stories about Catalina’s plants and animals. I loved the sweeping views and the chance to get off the beaten path without having to hike for hours.

  • Book your tour in advance, especially during summer weekends.
  • Great for: Wildlife lovers, families, outdoor enthusiasts, photographers

13. Wildlife Watching on Catalina

Island fox in Catalina Island

Beyond bison, Catalina is home to some surprisingly rare and adorable wildlife. My personal favorite? The island fox is a tiny, cat-sized fox found only on the Channel Islands. They’re quick, curious, and incredibly cute (I spotted one near Hermit Gulch campground at dusk).

You’ll also see pelicans, eagles, rays, garibaldi, and even sea lions sunbathing near the ferry terminal. You don’t need to go far to see wildlife just slow down, keep your eyes open, and be respectful of their space.

  • Early mornings and late evenings are best for spotting land animals.
  • Great for: Kids, animal lovers, casual observers

14. Hike the Trans-Catalina Trail

Trans-Catalina Trail

If you’re craving a true island adventure, the Trans-Catalina Trail delivers. It’s a 38.5-mile trek that runs from Avalon to Parsons Landing on the island’s rugged west coast. You’ll pass through bison country, camp on remote beaches, and hike steep ridgelines with ocean views on both sides.

I didn’t do the full trail on this trip (next time!), but even hiking a section near Hermit Gulch gives you a taste of Catalina’s wilder side. If you have 3+ days, this could be the trip of a lifetime.

Permits and reservations for campsites are required. Bring plenty of water some sections are dry and exposed.

Great for: Experienced hikers, backpackers, off-grid explorers

Where to Stay on Catalina Island

In Avalon:

  • La Paloma Las Flores ($) – Budget-friendly cottages with character.
  • Hotel Atwater ($$) – My personal pick. Great location, bright rooms.
  • Mt Ada ($$$) – A luxurious mansion stay with oceanfront breakfast views.

In Two Harbors:

  • Banning House Lodge ($$) – Rustic charm and stunning sunsets.
  • Two Harbors Campground ($) – Beachfront campsites and tent cabins.
  • Hermit Gulch Campground ($) – Walkable from Avalon, quiet, and scenic.

Where to Eat on Catalina Island

  • Bluewater Grill: Fresh seafood and harbor views. Don’t skip the chowder.
  • Original Jack’s Country Kitchen: A hearty breakfast spot with a cozy vibe.
  • Lloyd’s of Avalon: Catalina’s go-to for homemade saltwater taffy.
  • The Pancake Cottage: Perfect for pre-hike fuel.
  • Descanso Fresh: Smoothies and wraps with a side of beach breeze.

What to Pack for Catalina

  • Swimsuit + towel
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Light jacket (evenings can be chilly)
  • Water shoes or sandals
  • Sneakers for hikes
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Small backpack
  • Motion sickness remedies (for the ferry)

Catalina Island Itinerary: 1, 2, and 3 Day Options

1-Day Catalina Itinerary (Day Trip)

Great for: First-time visitors, quick getaways

  • Morning: Arrive early, rent a golf cart, visit Buena Vista Point + Wrigley Garden
  • Afternoon: Snorkel at Lover’s Cove or take a glass-bottom boat tour
  • Evening: Grab a snack at Lloyd’s, catch the sunset ferry

2-Day Catalina Itinerary (Weekend Trip)

Great for: Couples, families, weekend retreats

Day 1:

  • Arrive by ferry, explore Avalon by golf cart, hike Garden to Sky Trail
  • Dinner + drinks at Descanso Beach Club

Day 2:

  • Breakfast at Pancake Cottage, go kayaking or ziplining
  • Relax at the beach, return by afternoon ferry

3-Day Catalina Itinerary

Great for: Nature lovers, relaxed explorers, longer getaways

  • Day 1: Town tour, Wrigley Garden hike, sunset views + dinner
  • Day 2: Water adventure (kayak/snorkel), zipline or aerial adventure, beach time
  • Day 3: Jeep Eco Tour or boat to Two Harbors, explore, return by evening

FAQs About Visiting Catalina Island

How long should I stay on Catalina?

One night is enough for Avalon, but two lets you explore at your own pace.

Can I visit Catalina without a car?

Yes! Avalon is walkable, and you can rent bikes or golf carts for fun.

Do I need a hiking permit?

Yes, if you plan to hike outside of Avalon. It’s free get it online or in town.

Are there grocery stores?

There are small markets in Avalon and Two Harbors, but prices are higher than the mainland.

Final Thoughts

Catalina felt like a mini vacation from the California chaos a slow, sun-drenched slice of island life just an hour from LA. Whether you’re into snorkeling, hiking, beach cocktails, or off-the-grid camping, this island delivers something for every kind of traveler.

Let me know if you’re planning a trip or have questions I’m happy to share more tips!

Save this post, or share it with your travel buddy.