Just off the coast of Southern California lies the picturesque Catalina Island, a haven for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re drawn to its crystal-clear waters, rugged terrain, or quaint charm, Catalina offers an array of activities to suit every taste. From thrilling outdoor adventures to indulgent dining experiences, there’s no shortage of things to do on this enchanting island. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the top-rated activities, best beaches, day trips, restaurants, hotels, and more that Catalina has to offer.
Fun Attractions & Activities
- Zip Line Eco Tour: Soar above Catalina’s stunning landscapes on a thrilling zip line adventure.
- Undersea Expedition: Explore the vibrant marine life beneath the waves aboard a semi-submersible vessel.
- Hiking: Discover Catalina’s scenic trails, offering breathtaking views of the island’s rugged terrain.
- Snorkeling: Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish and marine creatures.
- Catalina Island Museum: Immerse yourself in the island’s history and culture at this fascinating museum.
- Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden: Wander among native plants and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
- Descanso Beach: Relax on the pristine shores and indulge in beachside dining and cocktails.
- Two Harbors: Escape the crowds and discover secluded beaches perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Avalon: Explore the charming seaside town, stroll along the waterfront, and savor fresh seafood.
- Catalina Island Conservancy: Take a guided tour to learn about the island’s ecosystems and wildlife.
- Bluewater Avalon: Indulge in fresh seafood and waterfront views at this popular restaurant.
- Steve’s Steakhouse: Enjoy a mouthwatering steak dinner in a cozy atmosphere.
- Glass Bottom Boat Tour: See Catalina’s underwater wonders without getting wet on a glass-bottom boat.
- Parasailing: Soar high above the island for a thrilling bird’s-eye view of the coastline.
- Golf Cart Tour: Explore Avalon and beyond at your own pace with a self-guided golf cart tour.
Outdoor Adventures
- Hiking: Lace up your hiking boots and explore Catalina’s network of scenic trails, ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging treks through the island’s rugged interior.
- Snorkeling: Dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Catalina to discover a colorful world of marine life, including vibrant fish, playful sea lions, and majestic kelp forests.
Scenic Hiking
Catalina Island boasts a network of scenic hiking trails that wind through its rugged terrain, offering hikers stunning views of the coastline and interior landscapes. Here are some of the best hiking trails to explore on Catalina Island:
- Trans-Catalina Trail: This iconic 38.5-mile trail traverses the entire island, from Avalon to Two Harbors, offering hikers a challenging but rewarding trek through diverse landscapes. Along the way, you’ll encounter sweeping ocean views, rugged canyons, and scenic ridgelines.
- Hermit Gulch Trail: Located just outside of Avalon, the Hermit Gulch Trail is a popular choice for hikers looking for a shorter, scenic hike. This 6-mile loop trail takes you through lush canyon scenery and offers panoramic views of Avalon and the surrounding coastline.
- Skyline Drive Trail: For breathtaking views of Catalina’s interior, embark on the Skyline Drive Trail. This 2.5-mile trail starts near the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden and ascends to a ridge overlooking Avalon and the Pacific Ocean.
- Garden to Sky Summit Trail: Beginning at the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, the Garden to Sky Summit Trail leads hikers on a challenging ascent to the island’s highest peak, Mt. Orizaba. Along the way, you’ll pass through diverse plant communities and enjoy stunning vistas of the island below.
- East End Loop Trail: Explore the remote eastern end of Catalina Island on the East End Loop Trail. This 11-mile loop trail takes hikers through rolling hills, coastal bluffs, and secluded coves, providing opportunities to spot wildlife such as bison and bald eagles.
- Airport Loop Trail: Starting near the Catalina Airport, the Airport Loop Trail offers a moderate hike with panoramic views of the island’s interior and coastline. This 2.5-mile loop trail is particularly scenic during sunrise or sunset.
- Ben Weston Beach Trail: Located near Two Harbors, the Ben Weston Beach Trail is a leisurely hike that follows the coastline, offering stunning ocean views and access to secluded beaches. Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life along the way.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking a challenging trek or a casual adventurer looking for scenic views, Catalina Island’s hiking trails offer something for everyone to enjoy. Just be sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear before setting out on your island adventure!
Best Indoor Attractions
- Catalina Island Museum: Immerse yourself in the island’s rich history and culture at the Catalina Island Museum, home to fascinating exhibits showcasing everything from Native American artifacts to Hollywood memorabilia.
- Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden: Explore the tranquil beauty of the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, where you can wander among native plants and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
Nearby Beaches
- Descanso Beach: Relax on the pristine shores of Descanso Beach, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the azure waters, and indulge in beachside dining and cocktails.
- Two Harbors: Escape the crowds and discover the secluded beauty of Two Harbors, a charming village with two picturesque beaches perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Memorable Day Trips
- Avalon: Explore the quaint seaside town of Avalon, where you can stroll along the waterfront, shop for unique souvenirs, and savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
- Catalina Island Conservancy: Embark on a guided tour of the Catalina Island Conservancy, where you can learn about the island’s unique ecosystems and spot native wildlife in their natural habitat.
Best Restaurants
- Bluewater Avalon: Indulge in fresh seafood and waterfront views at Bluewater Avalon, a beloved restaurant known for its delicious fish tacos, clam chowder, and cocktails.
- Steve’s Steakhouse: Treat yourself to a mouthwatering steak dinner at Steve’s Steakhouse, where you can savor perfectly grilled cuts of meat and decadent sides in a cozy atmosphere.
Top Hotels
- Hotel Atwater: Experience old-world charm with modern amenities at the Hotel Atwater, conveniently located in the heart of Avalon and offering comfortable accommodations and friendly service.
- Pavilion Hotel: Relax in luxury at the Pavilion Hotel, where you can unwind in stylishly appointed rooms, enjoy complimentary breakfast and evening wine receptions, and take in stunning ocean views from the courtyard.
Catalina Island beckons visitors with its diverse array of activities and attractions, promising unforgettable experiences for all who venture to its shores. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or laid-back relaxation, Catalina has something to offer every traveler. So pack your bags, and get ready to explore this enchanting island paradise.
