Whether you are craving a day expedition or a weekend escape- Santa Catalina Island is the best place to explore this summer!
The blue sky and the turquoise sea make Santa Catalina the perfect place to unwind and relax. There is something so soothing and calming about this island that it has become a paradise for both adventurous souls and nature lovers alike.
Located just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island offers adrenaline-pumping activities, as well as soul-satisfying endeavors to keep it exciting for all types of travelers.
It doesn’t matter if you are into diving, snorkeling, or just want to enjoy the serenity; here are some of the things that you can try on Catalina Island for an unforgettable experience.
Your Ultimate Guide To The Best Things To Do In Santa Catalina Island On A Day Trip
Going to Santa Catalina Island for a day trip isn’t unconventional; many people visit this island for just one day yet enjoy it to the fullest. Here is a 1-day itinerary to Santa Catalina Island for your convenience.
Go For Parasailing
Don’t miss the fun of parasailing when you are in Santa Catalina!
Witnessing the turquoise sea from 800 ft. in the air is thrilling and adrenaline-soaring. The blue water, colorful boats, the stunning shore, and the occasional sight of dolphins are truly magical. If you are not afraid of heights, contact Parasail Catalina for an unforgettable experience.
Address:105 Pebbly Beach Rd, Avalon
Timing: 9 Am to 6 PM (Thursday close)
Fees: $25 – $80
Experience Catalina Undersea Expedition
Santa Catalina is famous for its water activities. However, if you don’t plan to get wet yet and want a sneak peek at the diverse sea life, the Semi-Submarine excursion will save your day.
During this expedition, you will go five feet underwater in a special cabin. As this cabin is transparent, you can see an array of undersea creatures moving in front of you without even getting wet. For a day tour, this is a must-try adventure for you!
Address: Green Pleasure Pier 90704 Avalon United States
How to Reach: Using a buggy or rent a cab.
Fees: $38 – $50
Try Some Buffalo Milk
Even though it is called “Buffalo Milk,” this beverage is more of a cocktail than actual “milk.” This famous Catalina Island cocktail has a creamy texture and is made from a blend of vodka, Creme de Banana, Kahlua, and Creme de Cocoa with ice. It’s then topped with whipped cream, nutmeg, and a slice of banana to add more flavor to the drink.
As it is the most famous drink in Santa Catalina, you should try it when you visit the island. We bet you will love the taste of this “beach beverage.”
Fun Things To Do In Santa Catalina Island During The Weekend
Going for a weekend in Santa Catalina? Here are all the fun things that you can do to make your stay even more meaningful and fun.
Spend Time Snorkeling
When in Santa Catalina, why hesitate to take a dip into the beautiful blue sea? The water is clear and clean and offers excellent visibility so that you can explore the underwater world perfectly. The combination of all these factors, along with Santa Catalina’s serenity, makes snorkeling an experience that you will cherish.
So, what’s holding you back from going deep down the ocean to witness the most wonderful ecosystem along the California coastline?
Address:1 W Banning House Rd, Avalon
Timing: 8 am – 4:30 pm
Fees: $40 and up
Go For A Bison Tour
Santa Catalina is not only known for its scenic beauty but also for its herd of Bisons. And when you are on this island, even for a day, don’t miss out on the Bison Expedition with Catalina Island Conservancy Eco Tour.
The 2-hour tour allows you to witness the beauty of the wild as well as the famous American bison in their most natural form.
Moreover, the tour guide also shares interesting facts about Santa Catalina’s history that add to your island experience even more.
Address: Trailhead Building, 708 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704
Timing: 8 am-5 pm (Everyday)
Fees: $99 – $149
Camp By The Beautiful Beach
Spend your fun Santa Catalina weekend by the bright and beautiful beach. Even though there are several high-class hotels on the island, don’t miss your chance to camp by the shore, at least for one night.
Camping by the Santa Catalina beach will be an unforgettable experience for you. The beauty of nature, the fun sea activities, relaxing by the campfire, and stargazing at night will give you a true island vibe.
However, when it comes to where to camp, the Two Harbors Campground should be your choice, unlike the other campsites, Two Harbors offers traditional tents as well as unique tent cabins so that you can enjoy your stay to the fullest. They also provide upgraded amenities to make your stay even more comfortable.
Address: Catalina Isthmus, Two Harbors, CA 90704
How to Reach: You can rent a car from your hotel or the ferry to reach the site.
Fees: Flat $50 plus $21 per adult
Spend A Fun-Filled Day At The Two Harbors
If you are in Santa Catalina for a weekend, remember to reserve a day to discover the gems of the Two Harbor.
Also known as “The Isthmus,” this town is surrounded by stunning turquoise water and mountains to welcome you to a land of pure bliss and serenity. Even though there are a few high-quality hotels in the town, to explore the natural beauty fully, you can always camp near the shore.
As there are several campsites in Two Harbors, settling yourself under the stars won’t be a problem.
Besides camping, this city offers a basket of interesting things to visitors; it’s considered the Paradise of Outdoor Activities. From hiking, mountain biking, boating, fishing, snorkeling, and world-class SCUBA diving in crystal-clear water, this town has no shortage of activities. A day here might not be enough for you.
How to Reach: Passenger ferry, rented boat, or rented car
Timing: Anytime you want (without Tuesday and Thursday during winter)
Fees: $34 (one way through Ferry)
Reserve A Day For Avalon Tour
If you are staying in Two Harbours during your weekend staycation, don’t forget to reserve a day for the amusing Avalon!
Being the only city on Santa Catalina Island, Avalon has all the amenities and adventures you want as a tourist. From luxury guest houses and hotels to outdoor activities and picturesque beauty, you get everything you want from an island holiday.
It doesn’t matter if you want a calm, relaxing stay or are looking for some adrenaline rush, Avalon has it all. You can sit on the shore, sip on buffalo milk, and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings or go for adventurous activities like snorkeling or parasailing; the choices are never-ending.
How to Reach: Passenger ferry, rented boat, or rented car
Timing: Anytime you want
Fees: $25 and above
Don’t Miss An Exciting Time At The Casino
Don’t get confused with the “Casino” title. Even though the Catalina Casino is titled as a “casino,” it’s actually a historical establishment with oh-so-amazing architectural beauty.
Established in 1929 (quite an old building), this Casino is a high building (approx. 12 stories) surrounded by the blue sea on three sides. It features a magnificent foyer with a gorgeous ceiling that will never cease to attract your attention.
While in Catalina Casino, don’t forget to catch a show at the classic Avalon Theatre. This movie theater has multiple shows every day to ensure you don’t miss the fun of this historic place.
Address: 1 Casino Way 90704 Avalon, United States
How to Reach: Take a boat from Long Beach or Dana Point to reach Avalon. Then walk to the Casino building.
Timing: 10 AM – 5 PM
Fees: $20-$22 (Infant Free)
Indulge In Mouthwatering Cuisine
One thing you should never miss when visiting this island is its mouthwatering cuisine. From an abundance of fresh seafood to casual dining and even fine dining overlooking the ocean, the options of foods are “never-ending” here.
There are several seafood stalls and restaurants all over Catalina Island. You can indulge in fresh fish, shellfish, and other ocean fare anytime you want.
Go For Your Retail Therapy
Even though Catalina Island is a natural paradise, don’t forget to spend some time satisfying your shopaholic soul. The shops and boutiques of this Island have some fascinating gifts and souvenirs that you can bring home as a sweet memory of your amazing time there.
Romantic Things To Do In Santa Catalina Island
Santa Catalina is a lover’s paradise. The picturesque beauty of this place overlooking the deep blue sea will make even the most unromantic person romantic. Here are some of the romantic things that you can do with your partner on this island.
Try Your Hands At Tile Making
Making your own tile has to be one of the most unique experiences on the island. Even though you have to get your hands dirty, the tile-making process is truly interesting and inspiring at the same time.
Visit the Catalina Tile Experience Center in Avalon to get into action. They not only offer a tile-making session but also walk you through the history of tile-making to make it even more interesting.
Address: Downtown Avalon
How to Reach: You can walk from your hotel or rent a car.
Duration: 90 minutes
Fees: $80 – $95
Go For Boat Tours
Take a boat ride to spend some quality time with your partner while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the island.
Santa Catalina offers various types of boats for their visitors to make their experience even more delightful; from glass-bottom boats and semi-submersible submarines to motor boats to fishing charters, you can hire any one of your choice to witness the stunning view of the California Coastline.
Duration: 45 minutes
Fees: $30 and above (depending on the type of boat you choose)
The Best And Most Fun Things To Do In Santa Catalina Island
Santa Catalina is so full of fun activities that it is quite tough to just name a few. However, here is a list of some of the things that you must not miss while on the island to make the most of your visit.
- Snorkeling
- Parasailing
- Drinking buffalo milk
- Making your own tiles
- Semi-submarine tour
- Visiting the Catalina Casino
How To Reach Santa Catalina Island?
Going to Santa Catalina is quite easy and quick. As this island is nestled in the southwest corner of Los Angeles, you can take a high-speed ferry or chartered helicopter to reach this nature’s heaven.
If you want to go to Avalon, take a Catalina Express Ferry from San Pedro, Long Beach, or Dana Point to reach your destination. You can also take the same ferry service from San Pedro to Two Harbours.
As this company operates 30 departures daily, you don’t have to rush to reach the island.
If you want quicker and more luxurious travel, you can also charter a helicopter service from Long Beach or San Pedro to Avalon.