Jetski Adventure: Guided Trip from Long Beach to Catalina Island

Travelers seeking a high-energy, scenic day on the water might find this jetski trip from Long Beach to Catalina Island intriguing. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the detailed reviews and tour info paint a picture of an adventure packed with excitement and picturesque moments.

Priced at $640 per person, this guided tour promises a six-hour escapade that combines adrenaline, wildlife spotting, and some well-deserved leisure time on one of California’s most charming islands.

What we love about this tour are the opportunity to spot dolphins and sea lions along the way, and the chance to enjoy free time on Catalina’s shores—whether to relax, explore, or grab a bite. The guide service and top-quality jet skis ensure safety and fun, regardless of your experience level.

However, potential participants should also consider that the trip is described as “not beginner friendly,” and some reviewers have noted that sightings of dolphins and whales are not guaranteed. Still, if you’re looking for a thrilling, scenic, and memorable day on the water, this tour might be exactly what you’re after—especially for those willing to accept some unpredictability.

This experience made our article of Which Long Beach Jet-Ski Experiences To Choose? We Rank The 3 Best.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views and the chance to see dolphins, seals, and possibly whales.
• Guided experience suitable for most skill levels, with safety and professionalism emphasized.
• Three hours on Avalon to enjoy beaches, restaurants, and activities like golf cart rentals or parasailing.
• Cost reflects an all-inclusive experience with jet skis, snorkeling gear, wetsuits, guides, and photos.
• Weather-dependent, with cancellations offering full refunds or alternative dates.
• Group size limited to 50 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Overview of the Jet Ski Tour

This adventure begins at Long Beach’s Queensway Drive, with an early start at 8:00am. You’re transported to the starting point where, after a quick safety briefing, you’ll hop onto your own state-of-the-art Seadoo jet ski. The ride across California’s open ocean is where the real excitement begins. You’ll feel the wind in your hair and the spray of saltwater as you make your way toward Catalina Island—a journey that can be as fast-paced or relaxed as you want, thanks to the option to ride at your own pace.

The Route and Experience

The journey is dock to dock, meaning you’ll never be required to swim or get into the water unless you choose to. The route itself is designed to maximize views and wildlife encounters. As you glide across the water, keep an eye out for playful dolphins—which are frequently sighted—along with sea lions basking on rocks and, occasionally, whales during the right season. One traveler noted, “We went August 23 and saw no dolphins or whales,” highlighting the variability of wildlife sightings. Still, the thrill of being out on the water is undeniable.

Arrival at Avalon

The highlight of the tour is arriving in Catalina’s charming town of Avalon, after approximately 3 hours of riding. Once docked, you’re free to explore for a few hours—whether it’s renting a golf cart to tour the island, enjoying a meal at one of the many seaside restaurants, or just lounging on the beach.

Some options during this stop include parasailing, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the coast, or simply wandering through shops and soaking in the relaxed island vibe. The tour does not require you to get into the water at this point, but ocean plunges are always an option if you’re feeling adventurous.

What’s Included and Not

The price covers essential gear like snorkel equipment, wetsuits, and safety gear, plus the fuel and guides. Photos taken during the trip are shared with you roughly 48 hours afterward, allowing you to relive the adventure. What it doesn’t include is lunch, golf cart rental, accommodation, or shopping, giving you flexibility to plan your perfect island day.

What to Expect During the Trip

The six-hour duration balances high-energy jet ski riding with relaxing downtime. The first part of the experience is the thrill of navigating the open water, with your guide ensuring safety and helping manage the group. The ride itself is quite exhilarating and best suited for those comfortable on a jet ski, though the guides claim to accommodate all skill levels. Keep in mind, some reviews suggest the experience might be challenging for complete beginners or those unprepared for the elements.

Once in Avalon, the atmosphere shifts to leisure. You’ll find beaches to relax on, shops to browse, and restaurants to enjoy a meal. The island’s small size makes it easy to explore on foot or by golf cart, which you can rent if desired.

While wildlife sightings are a highlight, they are not guaranteed, and some travelers have expressed disappointment if no dolphins or whales appear during their ride. Still, the breathtaking coastlines, the sensation of skimming across the water, and the possibility of spotting marine life make this experience worthwhile.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Reviewers offer mixed but insightful impressions. One noted, “This was an EXTREME experience and I would say it was not beginner friendly and not friendly for anyone who isn’t fit, prepared to deal with harsh elements, and adequately dressed.” This points to the physical demands and the importance of proper attire.

On the upside, many praise the scenic beauty—“The views along the way are stunning,” said a traveler. Others appreciated the professional guides and safety measures in place, making the adventure feel secure even for those with limited experience on watercraft.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $640 per person, this experience isn’t cheap, but it does include many essentials—jet skis, safety gear, snorkeling equipment, photos, and guided support. For participants seeking adventure and wildlife viewing combined with island exploration, the value can be quite high, especially given the six-hour duration and the personalized experience.

It’s worth noting that the tour is booked an average of 16 days in advance, so early planning is recommended. The small group size adds to the sense of an intimate, well-organized outing, enhancing the overall value.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress appropriately for the weather—layers and quick-drying clothing are recommended.
• Be prepared for the physical nature of the ride—some reviews mention it’s more challenging than it looks.
• Bring your own snacks or plan to purchase in Avalon, as lunch isn’t included.
• Book early to secure your preferred date, especially in peak season.
• If wildlife sightings are a priority, consider visiting during seasons when whales are more likely to be seen, though sightings are never guaranteed.

The Sum Up

This jetski adventure from Long Beach to Catalina Island offers a lively mix of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and island relaxation. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience California’s coastline from an exciting perspective, coupled with ample time to enjoy Catalina’s charms. The tour’s emphasis on safety and quality gear ensures a positive experience, while the opportunity to see dolphins and sea lions makes it especially memorable for wildlife lovers.

While not suited for complete beginners or those unprepared for an active water adventure, it provides a fantastic way to add a splash of excitement to your California trip. If you’re seeking a unique, exhilarating day on the water with the chance to explore one of California’s most iconic islands, this tour could become a highlight of your travels.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
The tour is designed to be accessible for most skill levels, but some reviews suggest it’s more intense than a typical beginner ride. It’s best suited for those comfortable on a jet ski and prepared for some physical activity.

What wildlife might I see?
Dolphins and sea lions are common sights during the ride, and whales may be visible during certain seasons. However, sightings are not guaranteed, and some travelers have noted they saw none on their trip.

How long is the total experience?
The entire trip lasts approximately six hours, including the ride and time on Catalina Island.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price includes jet ski use, snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, safety gear, fuel, guides, and photos afterward.

Are food or shopping included?
No, lunch and shopping are not included. You are free to explore Catalina and choose your own dining options.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at 700 Queensway Drive, Long Beach, CA, at 8:00am.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. It requires good weather; cancellations due to poor weather will be rescheduled or refunded.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation from your hotel isn’t included, but the meeting point is accessible via public transit.

Is there an age restriction?
Yes, riders and passengers must be at least 12 years old.

Will I get wet during the tour?
While the ride is dock to dock and doesn’t require swimming, expect to get splashed and possibly wet due to the open water conditions.

This guided jet ski trip promises an energetic, scenic day that balances adrenaline with island leisure. For those willing to accept some unpredictability and physical activity, it offers a memorable way to experience California’s stunning coastline and Catalina’s welcoming shores.