Catalina Island: Things to Do Guide

Have you heard about Santa Catalina Island? It’s a very special place because of all the entertainment it offers to those who decide to visit it.

In this article, we offer you a complete guide on some things to do in Santa Catalina, California, and a list of essential tips that can help you make your stay more enjoyable. Read on!

Photo by Soly Moses

 

Exploring Santa Catalina, California: Top Things to Do on This Beautiful Island

Avalon’s Zip Line Eco Tour

Venture out on the Zip Line Eco Tour in Catalina Island, where you can discover the natural beauty of the island while enjoying the adrenaline rush of sliding down five zip lines. This tour is considered one of the best outdoor activities on the island. It lasts approximately 2 hours and starts at 182 meters above sea level, with spectacular views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.

During the tour guides share interesting information about the flora and fauna of Catalina Island, including more than 60 species unique to the island. This adds an educational element to the experience and helps you appreciate the local biodiversity. The tour costs approximately $139.95, although prices may vary on weekends and holidays.

 

Glass Bottom Boat Tours Avalon

Exploring marine life on a glass bottom boat tour in Avalon is one of the things to do in Santa Catalina Island, California. These tours allow you to observe the fascinating underwater world through large glass windows at the bottom of the boat. They last approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and usually start at the Green Pleasure Pier in Avalon.

The boats sail to Lover’s Cove, a protected marine area known for its rich biodiversity and crystal clear waters. During the tour, you can observe many maritime species, including colorful fish such as the golden garibaldi, jellyfish, kelp forests, and underwater plants.

 

Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden

Another beautiful destination is the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden, located in Avalon, Santa Catalina, California. The garden was founded in 1935 as a private collection of desert plants. It was later transformed into a public space highlighting plants endemic to the California Channel Islands. It includes rare and endangered species, a herbarium, and an educational center where botany seminars are held.

The memorial rises 24 meters and offers panoramic views of Avalon Canyon and the San Pedro Channel. The site is perfect for hiking, nature viewing, and picnicking in a peaceful setting. It is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Justin Ennis, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

 

Snorkeling at Descanso Beach

Snorkeling at Descanso Beach is another great thing in Santa Catalina Island, California. This popular destination is known for its crystal clear waters and attractive marine life. They include a complete snorkeling package with a mask, snorkel, fins, and wetsuits. Enjoy a variety of maritime species, including garibaldi fish, giant sea bass, stingray,s and even sea lions.

Descanso Beach Ocean Sports is open daily from 9 a.m., depending on the weather. In addition to snorkeling, Descanso Beach Ocean Sports offers kayak and paddleboard rentals. Water shoes are recommended due to the rocky bottom in some areas. Always check weather conditions before heading out, as they can affect the quality of the snorkeling experience.

Photo by Jeremy Miles, CC BY-SA 2.0, on Flickr

 

Hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail

Does hiking appeal to you? If your answer is “yes,” the Trans-Catalina Trail will give you an exciting adventure that runs approximately 62 km through the beautiful island of Santa Catalina, California. Enjoy spectacular views and the opportunity to camp on pristine beaches.

A reservation and camping permit are required, which are free and can be obtained online. Be sure to bring plenty of water, as drinking water is not available at all campsites. Bring comfortable hiking boots, a backpack appropriate for camping, clothing suitable for the weather, sun protection, and food and cooking equipment. The best time for hiking is spring and fall due to cooler temperatures and less exposure to the sun.

Photo by Prajna Amey on Unsplash

 

Kayaking at Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve

Another water activity in Santa Catalina Island, California, is kayaking at Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve. This protected area offers calm waters, diverse marine life, and a stunning natural environment, making it a great place to explore by kayak. It is also known for its biodiversity, including kelp forests and a variety of marine species such as garibaldi fish, moray eels, and horn sharks.

You can choose guided tours or rent kayaks for individual explorations. Local companies provide all the necessary equipment, including single or double kayaks, life jackets, and wetsuits if needed. We recommend checking the weather before heading out. The best times to visit are during spring and summer when temperatures are warmer and underwater visibility is optimal.

 

Parasailing Avalon Harbor Adventures

Don’t miss out on a thrilling parasailing experience at Avalon Harbor on Santa Catalina Island, California. Several companies offer parasailing experiences that allow you to soar above the crystal clear ocean waters and enjoy breathtaking views of the island and its coastline.

Each flight lasts between 7 and 10 minutes, and the total experience is usually about an hour, depending on the number of passengers. To add more excitement, you can ask to be slightly submerged in the water during the flight. Participants must be at least 6 years old, and minors need the consent of an adult.

We recommend you book in advance, especially during high season, to secure your spot. Bring comfortable clothing and sunscreen. If you want to get wet, make sure you are prepared for it.

 

Avalon Underwater Dive Park Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is another great thing in Santa Catalina Island, California. The Avalon Underwater Dive Park, also known as Casino Point Dive Park, is a protected marine park that offers a unique experience for divers and snorkelers. It is known for its diverse marine environment, which includes kelp habitats and artificial reefs.

The park has ladders that allow easy access to the water and facilitate entry and exit for divers, making it an ideal place for beginners and experts. It is open every day, but check weather conditions before visiting. We recommend booking in advance if you plan to take a guided tour or rent equipment during the high season.

Photo by Jaymantri

 

Flying Fish Boat Excursions Avalon

You can’t miss the Flying Fish Boat Excursions in Avalon, Santa Catalina Island. This is a unique and exciting experience for nature lovers like you, allowing you to observe these fascinating fish in their natural habitat while cruising the waters of the Pacific Ocean. The most recommended tours are Flying Fish Voyage and Afishinado Charters.

We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather in the ocean. Consider a sweater or light jacket, as it can get cold at night. Although reservations are not required, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during high season.

 

Bison Expedition Jeep Eco Tours

Another exciting way to explore the natural beauty of Santa Catalina Island is the Bison Expedition Jeep Eco Tours, where you can spot the famous bison that inhabit the island. These tours offer a unique experience that combines adventure, education, and the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. The tour is conducted in a Hummer or open jeep so you can enjoy panoramic views as you tour the island’s grounds.

It is not recommended for people with hypertension, heart problems, or mobility problems, because the routes can be difficult. Children under 5 years of age are also not allowed to participate. It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during high season. Check the weather forecast before the tour, because conditions may affect the experience.

 

Expert Tips for Visitors in Santa Catalina Island CA

1. The most common way to get there is by ferry, departing from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. The trip takes approximately one hour. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during high season.

2. For a faster and more exciting experience, consider flying by helicopter, although this can be more expensive.

3. A great way to tour Avalon is to rent a golf cart to explore areas further away from the city center with ease.

4. Join an eco-tour or a bison tour to learn about the local wildlife while enjoying the scenery.
   The calm waters around Avalon are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. You can easily rent equipment from local companies.

5. If you plan outdoor activities, such as hiking or kayaking, consider taking the first ferry to make the most of your day. Mornings can be chilly, so bring a jacket if you plan to be on the ferry deck or if you are doing outdoor activities.

6. Don’t forget to enjoy the local food at popular restaurants offering fresh seafood and other culinary delights. If you want to have lunch at popular places like the Mt. Ada Hotel, it is advisable to make reservations in advance.

7. Remember that Santa Catalina Island is a protected area, so please follow the conservation rules and do not touch any natural environment.

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