Begin your journey with Descanso Beach Club, a secluded paradise that offers a range of activities from sunbathing to snorkeling. After soaking up the sun, take a scenic hike to Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden for spectacular views and a chance to learn about the island's history. Finally, visit the Catalina Island Conservancy and explore the protected wilderness area with various hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Get beneath the waves with the Catalina Island Undersea Expedition and see a variety of marine life and kelp forests. In the afternoon, play a round of golf at the Catalina Island Golf Course, which boasts gorgeous ocean views. Finally, take a scenic hike along the Hermit Gulch Trail and enjoy the lush vegetation and wildlife.
Start the day with the Wildlands Express Shuttle which takes you through a scenic tour of Avalon canyons with stunning views of the island. Then, visit the Airport in the Sky, which offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean. Finally, experience the thrill of the Zipline Eco Tour, which takes you through five lines of varying lengths and heights for a unique perspective of the island's landscape.
To get to Avalon, travelers can take the Catalina Express from Long Beach or San Pedro. The ferry takes approximately one hour and costs around $75 round trip for adults. Once on the island, transportation options vary from taxi services to rented golf carts. Travelers should budget for transportation costs as it can add up quickly.
If you have more time, consider taking a glass-bottom boat tour of the island for more underwater viewing options. For those with less time, consider prioritizing the attractions that interest you the most and creating an itinerary that works for your schedule. Additionally, be sure to pack sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and waterproof gear for a fun and comfortable experience.
Catalina Island does not have its own airport, but travelers can fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or John Wayne Airport (SNA). From there, they can take a shuttle service or drive to Long Beach or San Pedro to catch the Catalina Express to Avalon. LAX is approximately 27 miles away from Long Beach, while SNA is approximately 30 miles away.