While Los Angeles and Orange County offer plenty to do, you won’t find anything like Catalina Island. The unique charm of this special island comes from dedication to preserving the land and protecting wildlife, lack of cars, small- business- only economy, and so much more. Here you will find how to make the most of one day on Catalina Island.
Ferry Trip- Catalina Express ferry
To get to Catalina Island, you’ll take the Catalina Express Ferry. You can leave from San Pedro, Long Point, or Dana Point and arrive at Two Harbors or Avalon. This guide will take place in Avalon. Tickets are about $85 roundtrip and you can (should) book them beforehand. For a full day in Avalon, plan to take the 9:50 boat out, and the 7:45 boat back. Leave some time to park at the ferry, there’s a garage for $20. The boat ride is about an hour with snacks and drinks for sale. I took a copy of their “Guide to Catalina Island” magazine which kept me entertained for most of the trip.
Breakfast- Catalina Coffee and Cookie CO.
When you get to Avalon, it’s about a quick walk from the ferry port into town. As you walk in, you’re greeted by clear blue water, a harbor full of boats, colorful houses up on the hill, artistic tiles decorating the town, and the pristine beach. Catalina Coffee and Cookie Company is your destination for breakfast. Tucked into a complex with other stores and restaurants, there is a refreshing courtyard feel. Here you can get a breakfast sandwich, avocado toast, a frittata, a croissant, and of course a coffee.
Adventure Activity- Zipline or Hummer Tour
Catalina Island is known for showing dedication to the environment, wildlife, and local ecosystems. While you’re visiting, you have to check out of of the eco- tourism opportunities they offer. After choosing between Ziplining through Descanso Canyon and the Hummer Eco- Tour, I chose Ziplining. After meeting at the Descanso Beach Club to check in and receive a quick safety briefing, a shuttle takes everyone to the top of the canyon . The experience consists of 5 ziplines, zig- zagging down the canyon. I was a bit disappointed as you don’t see much of the island, just the same view getting closer as you go down. For $150 and a 2 hour experience, I would’ve like a little more of an adventure. The Ridgetop Eco Adventure Hummer Excursion is only $100 and takes you up high in the canyons to see the land and sea, as well as hopefully some wildlife.
Go For a Swim- Descanso Beach Club
The crystal clear water will be irresistible, so be sure to bring a bathing suit, towel, and change of clothes. At the Descanso Beach Club they have chairs for rent, but anyone can sit down at the rocky beach. Whether you just want to sit and listen to the little waves slide off the rocky beach or go for a swim and explore the coves of the island, I would highly recommend taking some time to sit and enjoy the water.
Water Activity- Nautilus Semi- Submarine Excursion
After spending the morning up high in the canyons, it’s time to spend some time in the water. The Nautilus Semi- Submarine Excursion is a 45 minute ride through the local kelp forests, where as a passenger you are fully submerged. Bring a little bit of cash because the Nautilus features a fish feeding system launched by torpedo buttons. The guide will go around at the beginning and ask everyone if they want to buy food, and then load however many rounds as you bought into your seat. You go to 3 different stops, learning about the wildlife and ecosystems on the island. Of course you see tons of beautiful fish including the California State Fish, the Garibaldi. If you take only one recommendation from me-please let it be this one!
Shopping
Once you have returned to the dock from the Nautilus, you will have the perfect opportunity to check out all of the local shops that Avalon has to offer. This is great time to grab a t-shirt, a snack and a coffee, some jewelry, or any gifts you want to bring home. I got some gifts at Catalina Bath and Body, and bought clothes at Buoys and Gulls.
Dinner and Sunset- Bluewater Grill
Based on the position of the island and where the sun sets, you probably won’t be able watch the sun sink into the horizon, however the sky is still painted beautifully as the sun is setting. For dinner you’re going to check out the Bluewater Grill. This is what I found to be the best option for eating on the water in Avalon. You might recognize the name as Bluewater Grill is a California franchise. The restaurant is on a dock that stretches out over the water giving amazing views of the harbor and sky. They have great food and drink specials at happy hour and something on the menu for everyone. This will be the perfect way to unwind as you enjoy your last bit of time on Catalina Island before you head back to the boat.
