One Day Itinerary: City Experiences in Avalon, California

• Catalina Island Museum (10:00am) - Learn about the island's history and culture in this museum. The museum displays artifacts from the Native American, Spanish colonial, and early American periods. Visitors can also find exhibits on whaling, Catalina Island's movie history, and the creation of the island's iconic tile work.
• Avalon Scenic Drive (12:00pm) - Take a drive around the city to see the beautiful historic landmark and numerous scenic views of the island. The journey will begin on the Pebbly Beach Road where the tourists can find many places to pull over, relax and have a good time around the city.
• Casino Point Dive Park (02:00pm) - Known as the top spot for diving experiences on the island, the avid diver can go underwater here to view beautiful and vibrant marine life. The area is designated as a Marine Protected Area, so make sure to follow the rules while diving.
• Catalina Island Botanic Garden (04:00pm) - The garden showcases plants endemic to the island and Channnel Island's indigenous flora. Visitors can take the nature loop trail to explore the habitat exhibit and see the native foxes and eagles in their natural environment.
• Descanso Beach Club (07:00pm) - End your day with one of the most beautiful sunsets in Southern California. Descanso Beach Club is the only beachside restaurant and bar on Catalina Island. Relax on a lounge chair in the sand, order a signature Descanso sunset with appetizers, and watch the sun set over the ocean.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Catalina Island Museum (1 hour, $17.95)
• Avalon Scenic Drive (2 hours, free)
• Casino Point Dive Park (2 hours, $35 for snorkel and fins rentals)
• Catalina Island Botanic Garden (1.5 hours, $15)
• Descanso Beach Club (2 hours, $20 for sunset drink)
• Total Estimated Costs: $87.95

Transportation

To reach Avalon, visitors must take a ferry to Catalina Island from Long Beach, San Pedro, Newport Beach, or Dana Point. The ferry can take about an hour and costs $58 per adult roundtrip. You can also take a helicopter to reach the island from Long Beach or San Pedro which approx takes 15 minutes and costs $825. To get around the island, visitors can walk, bike, or rent a golf cart or electric bike. A golf cart rental costs around $70-$90 per hour, while an electric bike rental costs around $20-$30 per hour.

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, try the Zip Line Eco Tour, an adventurous experience that takes you over five different zip lines with spectacular views of Avalon. If you have less time, remove Catalina Island Botanic Garden or Avalon Scenic Drive from the itinerary.

Airports

The Catalina Airport (AVX) in Avalon hosts multiple daily flights from Southern California. The airport is merely four miles from the city center and ideal for those who want to avoid ferries. However, tickets for the flight can be expensive and must book in advance. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and John Wayne Airport (SNA) are the nearest major airports to catch a flight to AVX.