Avalon is the main town on Catalina Island. Start your day hiking the Hermit Gulch Trail to enjoy the scenic views from the top. Continue exploring the wildlife wonders with a visit to the Catalina Island Conservancy, where you can rent gear to see the buffalo, bald eagles, and foxes. After that, relax at the Catalina Island beach. End the day with the Avalon Scenic Tour, a 50-minute trolley ride for breathtaking views of the city.
Start the day by taking part in a local tradition – the Catalina Flying Fish Tour. You’ll watch schools of flying fish do their acrobatics. After that, spend the afternoon at one of the top beaches in Southern California, Descanso Beach, where you can try your hand at kayaking or sunbathe on the pristine sand. As the sun sets, get ready to experience the vibrant nightlife by exploring places like the Avalon Theatre and dining at the Descanso Beach Club.
Start the day by visiting the Avalon Cultural Center, where you can see exhibits that celebrate the island's history and culture. Next, rent a watercraft and explore the pristine waters surrounding the island. If the water's not your thing, try a tour of the Catalina Island Museum, which features the only permanent exhibition anywhere showcasing the lives of Marilyn Monroe and other celebrities who spent time on Catalina Island. End the day at the Casino Ballroom, where you can dance the night away in a glamorous setting.
Getting to Avalon is done by a 90-minute ride on a catamaran ferry from San Pedro or Long Beach. Alternatively, make a 15-minute helicopter ride that leaves from Long Beach. Once on the island, you can rent a golf cart or take a taxi to get around.
Total travel time to Avalon would be around 2-3 hours, with costs ranging from $75-150 each way depending on the mode of transportation.
If you have more time, consider taking a trip to explore the uninhabited interior of the Catalina Island. Also, visitors should make sure to try the island's signature flavor, the Buffalo Milk, a creamy cocktail that's served everywhere. If you have less time, consider visiting Avalon for a day trip, but keep in mind that you won't have enough time to experience everything available on the island.