Just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, Santa Catalina Island—better known simply as Catalina Island—feels like a Mediterranean escape without leaving the United States. With crystal-clear water, colorful harbor towns, beach clubs, and rugged wilderness, Catalina is one of the best quick island getaways in California.
1. Explore the Charming Town of Avalon
The main town on the island, Avalon, is where most visitors arrive. The harbor is lined with sailboats, colorful buildings, palm trees, and waterfront restaurants.
Stroll along the scenic waterfront promenade, browse boutique shops, and grab a drink overlooking the harbor. Avalon has a relaxed resort-town feel that makes it perfect for wandering.
Don’t miss the island’s most iconic landmark: the historic Catalina Casino. Despite its name, it’s not a gambling casino—it’s a beautiful Art Deco building that houses a movie theater and the world’s largest circular ballroom.
Things to do in Avalon
- Walk Crescent Avenue along the waterfront
- Rent a golf cart to explore the hills above town
- Visit the Catalina Island Museum
- Take photos of the harbor from the hilltop viewpoints
2. Relax at Descanso Beach Club
For a true island vibe, head to Descanso Beach Club, one of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California.
You can rent a private cabana or lounge chair, swim in the crystal-clear water, enjoy tropical cocktails, or simply relax on the beach with incredible ocean views.
This is one of the top things to do on Catalina Island if you want a relaxing vacation day.
Highlights include:
- Beachside dining and cocktails
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Snorkeling in clear turquoise water
- Live music and weekend events
3. Snorkel or Scuba Dive at Lover’s Cove
Lover’s Cove is one of the best snorkeling spots in California.
Because it’s a protected marine preserve, the water is incredibly clear and full of marine life. Even beginners can easily see bright orange Garibaldi fish, sea stars, and kelp forests.
You can rent snorkeling gear right near the cove and walk straight into the water.
Activities here include:
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- Glass-bottom kayak tours
- Underwater photography
4. Take a Scenic Golf Cart Tour of the Island
One of the most unique ways to explore Avalon is by renting a golf cart.
Cars are limited on Catalina Island, so golf carts are the most popular way to get around. The scenic loop road above Avalon offers stunning views of the harbor and the Pacific Ocean.
Popular stops include:
- Buena Vista Point
- Mount Ada viewpoint
- Bird Park
- Catalina Canyon
You can usually complete the loop in about 1–2 hours.
5. Visit the Quiet Village of Two Harbors
While Avalon gets most of the visitors, the small village of Two Harbors offers a completely different experience.
Located on a narrow isthmus about 18 miles from Avalon, Two Harbors is quieter, wilder, and surrounded by beautiful nature.
Top things to do in Two Harbors:
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard
- Hike scenic coastal trails
- Relax on the beaches at Isthmus Cove
- Camp under the stars
It’s perfect for travelers looking for nature and adventure.
6. Zip Line Across Catalina Canyon
For an adrenaline rush, try the famous Zip Line Eco Tour.
This thrilling zip-line adventure lets you soar high above Catalina’s canyon landscapes with incredible ocean views.
The course includes five zip lines that span over 1,000 feet each and reach speeds up to 35 mph.
It’s easily one of the most exciting activities on Catalina Island.
7. Go on a Wild Bison Safari
Many visitors are surprised to learn Catalina Island is home to American bison.
The animals were originally brought to the island in the 1920s during the filming of a movie and have lived there ever since.
The Catalina Island Conservancy runs guided bison safari tours that take visitors deep into the island’s rugged interior.
You may also see:
- Bald eagles
- Island foxes
- Deer
- Unique native plants
8. Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
One of the most classic Catalina experiences is a glass-bottom boat tour.
These boats allow visitors to see underwater marine life without getting wet. It’s a fun activity for families and great for spotting colorful fish and kelp forests around the island.
9. Try Ocean Adventures
Catalina Island is one of the best places in California for ocean activities.
Popular options include:
- Kayaking along the coastline
- Paddleboarding in Avalon Harbor
- Parasailing above the Pacific
- Deep-sea fishing trips
- Dolphin and whale watching
The calm water around Catalina makes it ideal for water sports.
10. Hike Catalina’s Scenic Trails
If you love hiking, Catalina has more than 165 miles of trails.
The most famous is the Trans Catalina Trail, a multi-day trek that crosses the island from Avalon to Two Harbors.
Even short hikes offer spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, wildflowers, and rugged island terrain.
How to Get to Catalina Island
Most visitors travel to Catalina via ferry from Southern California.
The most common ferry operator is Catalina Express, which runs boats from:
- Long Beach
- San Pedro
- Dana Point
The ferry ride takes about 1 hour.
Best Times to Visit Catalina Island
Catalina is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is:
Spring (March–May)
Wildflowers bloom and temperatures are mild.
Summer (June–August)
Peak season with warm weather, beach clubs, and lively events.
Fall (September–November)
Warm ocean water and fewer crowds.
I absolutely loved visiting Catalina and I hope this guide was helpful to plan your trip there!
Enjoy your trip to Catalina!