How to Visit Catalina Island: Prices, Ferries & Best Things to Do

The best things to do on Catalina Island surprised me, and I mean that in the best possible way. I have a soft spot for discovering places in the US that feel like international escapes, and Catalina delivered exactly that. This guide is based on my firsthand experience exploring the island, and it covers everything from water adventures to inland tours and the top spots to eat and stay

Just 22 miles south of LA, Catalina Island feels worlds away, with colorful harbor views and a Mediterranean atmosphere often compared to Italy’s Amalfi Coast. The island has two main towns: Avalon Harbor on the east, where most first-time visitors spend their time, and Two Harbors on the west, known for its quieter, slower pace.

This post is for travelers planning a day trip or short stay who want a balanced mix of scenery, light adventure, and practical tips, without needing a luxury budget.

If you’re planning a broader Southern California itinerary, you can also explore our guide to things to do in Buena Park for another easy getaway nearby.

Things to Do on Catalina Island: Quick Snapshot

Catalina Island is best suited for day trips and relaxed weekend escapes, with most highlights concentrated in Avalon and accessible without a car.

• Best for: Day trips & relaxed weekend escapes
• Top highlights: Bison tour, Descanso Beach Club, Zipline Eco Tour
• Walkability: Very high in Avalon
• Car needed? No
• Budget range: Moderate

How to Get to Catalina Island

Most visitors get to Catalina Island by ferry, which is the easiest and most popular option, while flying is a faster but more expensive alternative. Ferries connect the mainland directly to Avalon or Two Harbors, making them ideal for day trips and short overnight stays.

Ferry Options: Catalina Express & Catalina Flyer

On my trip, I traveled on the Catalina Express with a Commodore Lounge ticket, which made the journey feel more relaxed. Priority boarding meant no rushing, the reclining seats made the ride comfortable, and the complimentary snack and beverage—both soft drinks and alcoholic options—felt like a small but thoughtful upgrade.

Ferries are affordable and reliable. They bring you straight into Avalon or Two Harbors, making them ideal for day trips and short stays. The trade-off is that schedules are fixed, and seas can feel a bit choppy on certain days, something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to motion.

Pro Tip: Take an early ferry to make the most of your day on the island. We took the 9:50 a.m. ferry from Long Beach but if you’re comfortable with an even earlier start, an earlier departure gives you extra unhurried island time before crowds arrive. 

Right now, from the Long Beach terminal, the first Catalina Express departure is around 6:00 a.m., with additional departures throughout the day (for example, 8:15 a.m., 9:50 a.m., mid-afternoon, and early evening sailings).

Because schedules change with season and demand, it’s always best to check the Catalina Express website or booking page for the most up-to-date departure times before planning your trip. 

Flying to Catalina

Flying is faster and undeniably scenic, with aerial views that make the island’s shape and coastline even more striking. It’s a great option if you’re short on time or want to make the journey part of the adventure. 

That said, flights are more expensive, weather-dependent, and less flexible than ferries, which makes them better suited for travelers who value speed over budget.

Getting Around Catalina Island

You don’t need a car to get around Catalina Island. Most visitors explore Avalon on foot, use golf carts for hills and viewpoints, and rely on taxis or shuttles for longer distances, while Two Harbors is best navigated entirely on foot.

Once you arrive, things naturally slow down, and that’s part of the island’s charm. Catalina is small, and most areas are designed to be explored at an easy, unhurried pace.

Walking Around Avalon

Avalon is very walkable, and most visitors won’t need a car. Restaurants, shops, beaches, and tour departure points are clustered close together, which makes it easy to explore on foot and wander without a plan.

Renting a Golf Cart

If there’s one thing I regret not doing, it’s renting a golf cart. It’s one of the best ways to explore beyond Avalon’s main streets. A guided tour by golf cart allows you to explore beyond the main streets, reach scenic overlooks, and move at a leisurely pace.

Taxis and Shuttles

For longer distances or when you’re short on time, taxis and shuttles are available around Avalon. They’re convenient if you don’t feel like walking uphill or want to move quickly between activities.

Getting Around Two Harbors

In Two Harbors, walking is the primary way to get around. The area is small, peaceful, and designed for a slower rhythm, making it easy to walk between the beach, dining spots, and accommodations.

Top Things to Do on Catalina Island (Best Activities & Attractions)

The best things to do on Catalina Island range from walking Avalon’s waterfront and relaxing on the beach to inland adventures, wildlife tours, and scenic nature experiences. 

If you’re short on time, start with Avalon’s waterfront, choose one inland tour like the Bison Expedition, and end with beach time or sunset dining.

Explore Avalon — The Island Hub

Walk Around Avalon

One of my favorite things we did in Avalon was simply walking. We spent time strolling along the waterfront, watching the harbor glow as the sun set, and wandering Avalon’s quaint residential streets where everything felt slower and calmer. 

There are a few self-guided walking routes around town, but honestly, you don’t need one. You can just start walking and let the island show you around.

Jewels’ Tip: Walk up to Chimes Tower while you’re exploring. It’s close enough to town, and the views at the top were some of my favorites on the island.

Browse Local Boutiques and Shops

Avalon’s small shops are filled with island-inspired finds like breezy clothing, handmade jewelry, and souvenirs that feel special, not the kind you’ll forget about once you get home. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a lovely way to explore the town’s personality.

Try Buffalo Milk

Trying Buffalo Milk is one of those small but memorable Catalina experiences. It’s the island’s signature drink, a creamy cocktail often compared to a White Russian with a smooth, slightly sweet finish. 

Curious to find the best version, I asked our guides where they’d go, and they all pointed me to Buffalo Nickel. If you’re going to try it once, this is a great place to do it.

Enjoy Local Restaurants and Cafés

Dining in Avalon often means being right by the water. Many cafés and restaurants face the harbor, making it easy to sit, eat, and enjoy the view a bit longer. Stopping for coffee, lunch, or an early dinner here naturally becomes part of the experience, especially when you visit during the island’s quieter hours.

Beaches & Water Activities

Catalina Island’s beaches and water activities are among its biggest highlights, offering calm swimming coves, kayaking routes, snorkeling spots, and relaxed beach clubs within minutes of Avalon.

Relax at Descanso Beach Club

We spent part of our afternoon at Descanso Beach Club, settling into the oceanfront patio and letting ourselves fully relax. The sweeping views and the calm water just steps away made it easy to slow down and take it all in. This is the kind of place where you can swim, sunbathe, and truly unwind without much advance planning.

If beach wellness is your thing, you might also enjoy our guide to the best spas in Gulf Shores — another easy, restorative coastal escape worth adding to your list.

Kayaking Along the Coastline

Kayaking gives you a completely different feel for Catalina. As you paddle along the shoreline, you pass rocky coves and clear water, with a calm, almost hushed feeling that’s hard to find once you’re back on land. 

It’s active without being intense, and because you can move at your own pace, it works just as well for beginners as it does for more confident paddlers.

Paddleboarding in Calm Waters

Paddleboarding is another easy, enjoyable way to experience Catalina’s water. In the island’s calmer spots, it’s approachable even if it’s your first time, and it naturally blends gentle movement with a sense of calm. It’s a great option if you want to stay active while still keeping things light and unhurried.

Snorkeling or Scuba Diving

Catalina is known for its clear water and vibrant marine life, which makes snorkeling and scuba diving unforgettable experiences. Snorkeling close to shore works well for beginners, while scuba diving allows certified divers to explore deeper. Either way, spending time beneath the surface is well worth it.

Glass-Bottom Boat Tours

If you’d rather stay dry, glass-bottom boat tours are an easy, relaxed way to see what’s happening below the surface. They’re especially popular with families and anyone looking for something low-effort that still feels special. It’s a great option when time is limited or when you’re traveling with people of different ages.

Land Adventures

Catalina’s inland adventures include guided bison tours, eco ziplining, and scenic drives through rugged terrain that most visitors never see from Avalon’s harbor.

Go on a Bison Expedition Tour

After lunch, we headed out on a guided Bison Expedition Tour, and it ended up being one of the highlights of the day. The two-hour ride through the island’s interior was equal parts fun and scenic, with wide-open landscapes and sweeping views you don’t see from Avalon. We got especially lucky and spotted 16 bison along the way. 

While sightings are never guaranteed, the tour itself is a great way to learn about Catalina’s history and experience some of the island’s most impressive viewpoints. Our guide, Cindy, added to the experience with her humor and warmth, making the entire ride even more enjoyable.

Zipline Eco Tour

For a burst of adrenaline, the Zipline Eco Tour is a fun and memorable way to experience Catalina from above. We went on the tour on the morning of our departure, and it ended up being one of my favorite ziplining experiences anywhere. I’ve done zip lines around the world, but this one stood out for how thoughtful and well-run it felt.

Our guides, Hunter and Trent, walked us through the most thorough ziplining onboarding I’ve ever had, which made the whole experience feel safe and relaxed from the start. As we zipped over canyons and along the coastline, the tour never felt rushed. 

What makes this experience unique is that it’s also an eco-tour. Between zip-lining, the guides share insights into Catalina’s flora and fauna, adding context to the views and making the adventure feel more connected to the island itself.

Nature & Views

Catalina Island offers scenic botanical gardens, hiking trails, and dramatic overlooks that showcase its wild interior and coastal cliffs beyond the harbor.

Wrigley Botanical Gardens & Memorial

Wrigley Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful escape from the busier parts of Avalon. Walking through native plants and desert landscapes leads to elevated viewpoints overlooking the harbor. It’s a grounding experience that pairs well with a slower travel style and doesn’t require a high level of fitness.

Hiking Trails and Scenic Overlooks

Catalina’s trails range from short, scenic walks to more demanding hikes. Even brief walks often lead to expansive views, making this a great option if you want a nature experience without committing to a long trek. Early mornings or late afternoons are especially rewarding.

Trans-Catalina Trail Options

For experienced hikers or adventure-focused travelers, sections of the Trans-Catalina Trail showcase the island’s diversity, from coastal cliffs to inland valleys. You don’t need to complete the full trail to appreciate it—short segments still offer a sense of accomplishment and connection to the island’s wild side.

Family-Friendly & Relaxing Activities

Tour the Catalina Casino

Despite the name, there’s no gambling at the Catalina Casino. Instead, this iconic art deco landmark is one of Avalon’s most impressive buildings and a key part of the island’s history. 

The casino once served as a glamorous gathering place for movies, dancing, and social events, and today it still hosts major performances and celebrations throughout the year. 

The exterior alone is worth seeing, but taking a guided tour inside adds depth and context to your visit.

Mini Golf and Boardwalk-Style Games

Mini golf and casual games provide lighthearted fun without a big time commitment. These activities are especially appealing for families or anyone looking for something playful between more structured experiences.

Wildlife and Nature Education Programs

Educational programs focused on Catalina’s wildlife and environment add depth to your visit. They’re a thoughtful way to learn about conservation efforts and the island’s ecosystem, making them ideal for travelers who value meaningful experiences alongside relaxation.

Sample Itineraries for Catalina Island

Catalina Island is easy to experience in one day, a weekend, or a longer family trip, depending on how much time you have and the pace you prefer. 

These sample itineraries show how to group the best things to do on Catalina Island into relaxed, realistic plans that balance sightseeing, rest, and adventure.

One-Day Trip (Relaxed & Scenic)

Ideal if you’re visiting Catalina for the first time and want a taste of the island without feeling overwhelmed.

Morning

• Arrive on an early ferry and ease into the day with a walk through Avalon
• Stroll along the waterfront, browse local shops, and enjoy a slow coffee by the harbor

Midday

• Choose one main experience:
  • Relax at Descanso Beach Club, or
  • Go kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling
• Enjoy lunch near the water during quieter hours

Afternoon

• Take a glass-bottom boat tour or rent a golf cart to explore scenic overlooks
• Visit the Catalina Casino or Wrigley Botanical Gardens if time allows

Evening

• Early dinner in Avalon before heading back on a late-afternoon or early-evening ferry

Best for: Day-trippers, couples, solo travelers

Weekend Adventure (Balanced & Intentional)

Perfect if you want time for both adventure and rest.

Day 1

• Morning ferry to Avalon
• Walk the waterfront and explore shops and cafés
• Afternoon land adventure, such as a jeep tour or Zipline Eco Tour
• Dinner in Avalon and a relaxed evening stroll

Day 2

• Morning beach or water activity (snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding)
• Visit Wrigley Botanical Gardens or hike a scenic trail
• Lunch and final wandering time before heading back

Best for: Couples, active travelers, repeat visitors

Family Vacation (Flexible & Low-Stress)

Designed with slower pacing and easy wins for all ages.

Day 1

• Ferry to Avalon and settle into town
• Mini golf, boardwalk games, or a glass-bottom boat tour
• Casual dinner near the harbor

Day 2

• Beach time at Descanso Beach Club
• Wildlife or nature education programs
• Visit the Catalina Casino museum or take a golf cart ride

Optional Day 3

• Short hike or botanical garden visit
• Extra beach or free time before departure

Best for: Families with kids or multi-generational groups

Where to Eat on Catalina Island

The best places to eat on Catalina Island are concentrated in Avalon, where waterfront seafood, casual cafés, and relaxed island dining dominate the scene.

You’ll find easy breakfast spots, laid-back lunches near the harbor, and sit-down restaurants for dinner, making it simple to plan meals around your activities rather than the other way around.

Breakfast & Coffee Spots

• Bluewater Avalon Café: A local favorite for handcrafted coffee and hearty breakfast options, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring.
  
• Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co.: Casual and welcoming, ideal for a cappuccino and something sweet if you want to ease into the morning.
  
• Original Jack’s Country Kitchen: Classic comfort-style breakfasts that are filling and familiar, especially popular with early risers.
  
• Bistro at The Atwater: A convenient grab-and-go option for coffee or a light bite, especially if you’re staying nearby.

Casual Lunch & Quick Bites

• Descanso Beach Club: After checking in and storing our luggage at Hotel Atwater, we headed here for lunch. It’s Avalon’s only beachside restaurant and bar, and sitting on the oceanfront patio with a drink and casual island fare felt like the perfect start to our stay.
• Pete’s Café: We stumbled upon this spot after our afternoon Bison Tour and loved it so much we came back the next day. Their happy hour (often with $1 tacos and discounted drinks) makes it an easy, fun stop.
• Antonio’s Pizzeria & Cabaret: A laid-back crowd-pleaser for pizza, pasta, and casual Italian-inspired dishes that work well for lunch or an early dinner.

Dinner & Waterfront Dining

• Bluewater Grill Avalon: Fresh seafood with a view, from grilled fish to shrimp dishes, in a relaxed but refined setting near the harbor.
• The Lobster Trap: A Catalina staple for seafood lovers, known for generous portions, lobster specials, and an inviting, rustic feel.
• Steve’s Steakhouse & Seafood: Classic island dining with steaks and seafood options, ideal for a night-out dinner after a day of activities.

Drinks & Lounge Spots

• The Avalon Grille: Stylish yet comfy, this is a great place for a glass of wine, creative cocktails, and a menu that pairs well with sunset views.
• El Galleon: A fun choice for margaritas, casual bites, and vibrant island energy right in the heart of Avalon.
• The Naughty Fox: Known for creative cocktails and American fare in a relaxed, modern setting.

Two Harbors Dining

Dining in Two Harbors is more limited but charmingly local:

• Harbor Reef Restaurant & Bar: A go-to for lunch or dinner with ocean views and a relaxed island vibe.
• West End Galley: A laid-back eatery with sandwiches, comfort dishes, and easy outdoor seating — perfect after a beach or hiking morning.
• Two Harbors General Store: Perfect for picnic supplies if you’d rather eat on the beach or somewhere scenic.

Pro Tip: Come early or late for popular dinner spots to avoid waits, especially in summer. Combine meals with activities, for example, a beachfront lunch after snorkeling or a sunset dinner after a scenic hike makes the day feel complete. Ask locals for specials since many restaurants have seasonal or fresh-catch items not always listed online.

Where to Stay on Catalina Island

Most visitors stay in either Avalon or Two Harbors, and the right choice depends on your travel style: Avalon for convenience and first-timers, Two Harbors for quiet and nature. If you’re only visiting for the day, both areas are easy to explore without needing accommodation.

Avalon: Lively, Walkable, and First-Timer Friendly

Avalon is the island’s main town and where most visitors choose to stay, especially on their first trip. It’s colorful, social, and easy to navigate on foot, with restaurants, cafés, shops, and tour departures all close together. If you like having options and being in the middle of things, Avalon is the most convenient base.

Where to Stay in Avalon

📍Best Budget Spot: Catalina Island Inn

A simple, centrally located stay that’s basic and practical, perfect if you plan to spend most of your time exploring rather than in your room.

📍Best Mid-Range Spot: Hotel Atwater

We stayed at the chic, art-deco-inspired Hotel Atwater. Its central location made a big difference. We were within walking distance of most activities, which allowed us to move through the day at an easy, unhurried pace without worrying about transportation.

📍Best Luxury Spot: The Avalon Hotel

A refined boutique stay with thoughtful design and a calm atmosphere, ideal if you want something special without feeling flashy.

Two Harbors: Quiet, Nature-Focused, and Unplugged

Two Harbors sits on the west side of the island and feels entirely different from Avalon. It’s small, peaceful, and surrounded by nature, with far fewer crowds and distractions. 

This side of the island is all about beaches, snorkeling, hiking, and slowing down. Dining and services are limited, so it’s best for travelers who enjoy simplicity and planning ahead.

Where to Stay in Two Harbors

📍Best Budget Spot: Two Harbors Campground

A classic island camping experience with tent sites and rustic cabins, perfect for nature lovers who don’t mind roughing it a little.

📍Best Mid-Range Spot: Banning House Lodge 

A charming historic bed-and-breakfast with a peaceful atmosphere and harbor views, ideal for a quiet overnight stay.

📍Best Luxury: Vacation Rentals & Cottages in Two Harbors 

Many visitors find privately owned homes, cottages, and Airbnb/VRBO options that sit right by the water or tucked into the woods. These give you space, privacy, and often amenities like kitchens and decks. You can find them on: Airbnb, VRBO, and local Catalina rental agencies.

Best Time to Visit Catalina Island

The best time to visit Catalina Island depends on whether you prefer lively summer energy or a quieter, slower-paced experience.

Summer offers warm weather and peak beach conditions, while spring and fall are ideal for fewer crowds, easier ferry bookings, and relaxed exploring.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is peak season on Catalina Island, bringing warm weather and classic beach energy.

• Best for swimming, snorkeling, and beach time
• Lively atmosphere in Avalon and along the waterfront
• More ferry departures are available throughout the day
• Busier streets, fuller ferries, and higher demand for tours

Good fit if you enjoy energy, social scenes, and classic summer travel.

Spring & Fall (March to May, September to November)

Spring and fall strike a beautiful balance between good weather and a calmer island experience. 

• Fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace
• Easier ferry bookings and less waiting around
• Ideal for walking, hiking, and exploring Avalon slowly
• Comfortable temperatures without peak-season intensity

Perfect for travelers who value space, flexibility, and a slower rhythm.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is Catalina’s quietest season and often overlooked, which is exactly what makes it worth considering.

• Significantly fewer crowds and the most relaxed pace of the year
• Ferry bookings are easy and last-minute friendly
• Cooler temperatures make it ideal for hiking and exploring on foot
• Most restaurants and shops remain open, though some seasonal attractions scale back
• Hotel rates are typically lower than in peak season

Best for budget-conscious travelers, repeat visitors, and anyone who prefers having the island almost entirely to themselves.

Practical Tips & Local Advice

A little planning goes a long way on Catalina Island. Knowing what costs to expect and when to book ahead helps you avoid stress, manage your budget, and enjoy the island at a relaxed, unhurried pace.

Costs to Expect

Catalina is easy to enjoy, but it’s helpful to know what to budget for in advance.

• Ferry tickets are often one of the biggest expenses, especially in peak season
• Activities like kayaking, snorkeling, jeep tours, and ziplining are priced separately
• Meals in Avalon tend to cost more than on the mainland, especially along the harbor
• Beach clubs, rentals, and guided tours add up quickly if you pack too much into one day

Choose one or two paid experiences and let the rest of the day unfold naturally.

Catalina is also one of those destinations that’s easy to do carry-on only. If you want help packing light for a day trip or overnight stay, this carry-on packing guide has everything you need.

Booking Tours in Advance

Planning ahead can make your day feel smoother once you arrive.

• Popular tours and ferries often sell out during summer and weekends
• Booking in advance gives you more choice in timing
• Same-day availability is possible in the off-season, but not guaranteed
• Beach clubs and water activities are easiest when reserved ahead

Lock in your must-do experience, then keep the rest flexible.

Crowd & Ferry Timing Tips

Small timing choices can make a big difference in how your day unfolds.

• Choose an early-morning ferry to enjoy a quieter arrival
• Late-afternoon return ferries tend to be calmer than mid-day departures
• Weekdays are noticeably less crowded than weekends
• Booking ferries and popular activities ahead of time helps keep the day stress-free

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do on Catalina Island

Here are answers to the most common questions travelers ask when planning a trip to Catalina Island.

What are the best things to do on Catalina Island for a first visit?

First-time visitors should prioritize a waterfront walk through Avalon, one guided tour, such as the Bison Expedition or Zipline Eco Tour, and at least one water activity, such as snorkeling, kayaking, or a glass-bottom boat tour. These three experiences together give you a well-rounded introduction to the island’s scenery, wildlife, and pace without feeling rushed.

Is a day trip to Catalina Island worth it?

Yes, a well-planned day trip comfortably covers the highlights. Take an early ferry, spend the morning exploring Avalon, do one main activity in the afternoon, and catch a late ferry back. If you want more relaxed time on the water or to explore Two Harbors, an overnight stay is worth considering.

Is there a good way to save money on Catalina Island?

Book ferry tickets and tours in advance to lock in better rates and avoid sold-out slots. Balance one paid experience with free activities like walking Avalon’s streets, hiking scenic overlooks, and exploring the waterfront. At Pete’s Café, eating lunch during off-peak hours and checking for happy-hour specials can often yield great deals that help stretch your budget.

What are the best natural spots on Catalina Island?

The Wrigley Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful walk through native plants with harbor views. The Trans-Catalina Trail has sections suitable for all fitness levels, with dramatic coastal cliffs and inland valleys. Descanso Beach is the best spot for calm water and relaxed beach time close to Avalon.

Is it worth exploring beyond Avalon?

Yes, Two Harbors is worth the trip if you want a quieter, more nature-focused experience. It’s smaller, less crowded, and surrounded by hiking trails and snorkeling spots. Dining and services are limited, so it’s best for travelers who enjoy simplicity and plan ahead.

What should I know before visiting Catalina Island?

Book your ferry and any guided tours in advance, especially in summer and on weekends when both sell out quickly. You don’t need a car. Avalon is walkable, and golf carts handle everything else. Budget for ferry tickets, one or two paid activities, and meals, which tend to run higher than on the mainland.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do on Catalina Island

My overnight stay on Catalina Island was full of adventure, but what I remember most was how easy everything felt. As I worked my way through some of the best things to do on Catalina Island, there was time to move, time to rest, moments to learn something new, and space to simply wander.

I left feeling refreshed, not rushed, already thinking about when I could come back to experience more of the island. Catalina encourages you to slow down. Choose a few experiences that truly excite you, and let the island set the pace.

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Disclaimer: I was hosted by Catalina Island Company, but all opinions expressed here are my own.