Catalina Island’s 15 Top Tours & Things To Do

Catalina Island offers a surprising variety of tours and things to do that appeal to all interests. Whether you want to explore Avalon’s scenic spots, indulge in local food, or peek beneath the waves, there’s something for all. We love the Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon for its personalized experience and the chance to see iconic sites like the Catalina Casino and Wrigley Memorial.

If culinary adventures are more your style, the Catalina Food Tour provides a delicious taste of local flavors that truly capture the island’s character.

For those curious about the underwater world, the Yellow Semi-Submarine Tour offers a dry but mesmerizing glimpse into Avalon Bay’s marine life. These tours not only entertain but also deepen your understanding of Catalina’s unique charm.

1. Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon

Make the most of your time on Catalina with this private golf cart tour, which offers a flexible, personalized way to explore Avalon’s key sights.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and includes stops at landmarks like the Catalina Casino, Pebbly Beach, and the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden. Your guide will tailor the experience to your interests, sharing stories and historical tidbits along the way.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the convenient private format, which allows for a more intimate and relaxed exploration. The tour is especially good for first-timers who want a rundown without the hassle of navigating on their own.

Expect to see major sites at a quick pace, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions. The cost per group (up to 5 people) is $302.50, offering excellent value for a tailored experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups or families who want a flexible, insider’s view of Avalon’s highlights in just a couple of hours.

2. Catalina Food Tour

For around $155 per person, the Catalina Food Tour is the ideal way to experience the island’s culinary scene firsthand. This 2.5-hour walking tour takes you along Avalon’s waterfront, visiting several local hotspots.

You’ll sample fresh seafood, local sweets, and drinks, all while discovering Catalina’s culinary roots and cultural vibe. The tour’s small size (limited to 10 people) ensures a personal experience and plenty of interaction with your guide.

Guests rave about the generous portions and the friendly, knowledgeable guide, Carol, who shares fascinating stories about the island’s history through its cuisine.

Highlights include stops at spots like El Galleon Restaurant & Bar and Lloyd’s of Avalon, offering a variety of flavors and atmosphere.

Bottom Line: A delicious way to get to know Avalon’s food scene, perfect for foodies or anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with tasting local favorites.

3. Yellow Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island From Avalon

At just $53 per person, the Yellow Semi-Submarine Tour offers an accessible and fun glimpse into Avalon Bay’s underwater environment. Over 45 minutes, you’ll stay dry while viewing marine life through large portholes in the semi-submarine, which dives six feet below the surface at Lovers’ Cove.

The boat cruises through the marine preserve, giving you close-up views of fish, kelp forests, and possibly other sea creatures.

Perfect for families or travelers who prefer to stay dry, this tour often draws praise for its engaging guide and the variety of sea life visible from the comfort of the vessel. Expect to see schools of fish and colorful underwater flora, with brief, lively commentary from your guide.

Bottom Line: A family-friendly and easy introduction to Catalina’s ocean life, especially suitable for those who prefer to watch rather than snorkel.

4. 2 Hour Private Tour of Avalon

If you want a deeper look at Avalon in a short time, this private 2-hour tour is ideal. Costing $295 per group (up to 5), it provides an in-depth exploration of the city’s hidden corners and main attractions. Your guide will customize the itinerary, offering insights into Catalina’s history, culture, and local life.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid tourist traps and get an authentic feel for Avalon’s everyday vibe. Stops include less-visited spots and viewpoints, with plenty of time for photos and questions.

Reviewers appreciate the guide’s local knowledge and the personalized attention, making it a memorable way to familiarize yourself with Avalon’s personality.

Bottom Line: Great for first-time visitors or small groups seeking a tailored, insightful tour with a local touch.

5. Discover Avalon: Catalina Scenic Tour

For a quick, 50-minute introduction for just $31, the Discover Avalon Scenic Tour covers the waterfront, hillsides, and town center. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights and get a sense of the island’s layout. The tour provides interesting facts along the way, delivered by a friendly guide like Laura, who’s known for her humor and knowledge.

Pass by landmarks such as the Catalina Expeditions and Catalina Island Company, gaining a useful orientation for the rest of your stay. It’s an economical option and a good first step in your Catalina adventure.

Bottom Line: A concise, lively snapshot of Avalon, ideal for first-timers or those with limited time.

6. 2 hour Inside Adventure Tour on Catalina Island

For $86 per person, this inside adventure tour ventures into the island’s less explored interior. Over two hours, you’ll travel ten miles toward Airport-in-the-Sky, observing wildlife like bison, bald eagles, deer, and the rare Catalina Island fox.

The tour includes a visit to the Catalina Island Conservancy’s Nature Center and a Native American gathering site. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want a more rugged experience and insight into the island’s protected lands.

Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guide Sergio and the opportunity to see wildlife and scenic views few visitors get to enjoy.

Bottom Line: Designed for active travelers wanting to see Catalina’s wild side and learn about conservation efforts.

7. Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour

At $30, this 1.5-hour ghost walking tour offers a spooky twist. It takes you through Avalon’s streets, including the Catalina Island Casino, sharing tales of haunted sites and paranormal activity. Led by a local historian, the tour is both entertaining and atmospheric, especially if you enjoy local legends and ghost stories.

The use of audio headsets helps everyone catch the spooky details, and reviews mention how fun and chilling the stories are. It’s ideal for those interested in the island’s eerie side or looking for a memorable evening activity.

Bottom Line: A fun, atmospheric tour perfect for night owls and fans of haunted tales.

8. Undersea Expedition: Catalina Island Tour

Priced at $52, this undersea expedition offers a 45-minute underwater cruise for those who prefer to stay dry while exploring marine life. The boat glides just five feet below the surface, providing a clear view of fish, kelp, and other sea creatures in their natural habitat.

The live commentary enhances the experience, making it a great option for families or anyone curious about ocean ecology. The reviews highlight the friendliness of the crew and the impressive variety of fish seen during the trip.

Bottom Line: An easy, engaging marine experience suited for all ages who want a peek beneath the waves without getting wet.

9. Walking History Tour on Catalina Island

For a gentle, informative exploration, the Walking History Tour costs $40 and lasts about an hour to an hour and a half. Led by a local guide, this tour covers landmarks like the Holly Hill House and Marilyn Monroe’s famous photo spot, offering rich stories about Catalina’s past. It’s suitable for all ages, with headsets provided for clarity.

Reviewers mention how knowledgeable and personable the guide was, making the history come alive. Ideal for history buffs or travelers wanting a relaxed but insightful walk through Avalon.

Bottom Line: A relaxing way to learn about Catalina’s past while strolling through its iconic sites.

10. Glass Bottom Boat: Catalina Island Tour

At $29, the Glass Bottom Boat is a budget-friendly option to see the underwater world. The 40-minute cruise takes you over Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve, with views of colorful fish and coral through the glass bottom.

It’s great for families or anyone who prefers a calm, narrated boat ride over snorkeling or diving. Passengers appreciate the vivid views and the lively commentary, making it a relaxing yet educational experience.

Bottom Line: An inexpensive, family-approved way to observe Catalina’s marine life from the comfort of a boat.

11. A 360° Immersive Ocean Movie Experience

For $29.95, this immersive ocean movie is a captivating 30-minute virtual adventure. Filmed in 8K and projected onto a dome theater, you’ll virtually “scuba dive” through kelp forests, alongside whales, sharks, and sea lions.

It’s a unique visual experience, ideal for those who want to feel immersed in the ocean without getting wet or diving in. Reviewers mention the excellent footage and comfortable seating, making it a relaxing yet exciting activity.

Bottom Line: A visually stunning, family-friendly experience that brings the ocean to life indoors.

12. Casino VIP Backstage Tour

Priced at $38, this backstage tour reveals the secrets of the Catalina Casino, including the art deco murals, the historic pipe organ, and the ballroom where big bands played.

It’s a 1-hour glimpse into the glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age and fits well for those interested in architecture and entertainment history. Reviewers commend the guide’s knowledge and the chance to see behind the scenes of this iconic building.

Bottom Line: Excellent for architecture fans and those interested in classic Hollywood glamour.

13. Haunted Catalina Golf Cart Tour

This haunted golf cart tour costs $65 and lasts about 1.5 hours. It combines the fun of a golf cart ride with ghost stories of Avalon’s most haunted sites. The tour visits locations like the Pet Cemetery and Wrigley Memorial, with the guide sharing paranormal tales along the way.

It’s ideal for thrill-seekers or those interested in local legends. Reviewers find it lively and entertaining, with some mentioning the clear storytelling and spooky atmosphere.

Bottom Line: A fun, spooky tour that combines sightseeing and ghost stories, great for night owls and paranormal enthusiasts.

14. Catalina Express: Avalon to San Pedro One-Way Ferry

For $47, this ferry ride offers a straightforward way to travel between Avalon and San Pedro. The one-hour trip features scenic views of the Pacific and is perfect for those planning to explore the mainland or returning home.

It’s a hassle-free, comfortable option for travelers wanting a reliable connection with stunning ocean vistas. Reviewers mention how easy and enjoyable the ride is, making it an essential part of planning your trip.

Bottom Line: Practical and scenic transport for travelers heading to or from the mainland.

15. Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour

This ghost detection tour costs $40 and lasts about 1 hour 50 minutes. It’s specifically for adults (18+) eager to explore Avalon’s paranormal hotspots using EMF detectors. Walk through Avalon with a local guide and learn about the island’s haunted sites, with some proof of spectral activity. Several reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the engaging use of technology to detect spirits.

Bottom Line: Best suited for paranormal enthusiasts seeking a hands-on ghost-hunting experience.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Catalina Island

Picking the perfect tour depends on your interests, mobility, and budget. For a rundown of Avalon, the Private Guided Golf Cart Tour (see here) offers an excellent introduction. If your focus is local cuisine, the Catalina Food Tour (see here) is a flavorful pick.

For those eager to see underwater life without getting wet, the Yellow Semi-Submarine (see here) or the Glass Bottom Boat (see here) are ideal options.

Budget-conscious travelers may enjoy the Discover Avalon Scenic Tour (see here) for a quick overview, while adventure seekers might opt for the Inside Adventure Tour (see here).

Booking early, especially in peak season, ensures availability—Catalina’s tours fill up fast. Consider your physical comfort level, time constraints, and specific interests when choosing, and you’ll find an activity that makes your visit memorable.

Whether you’re into history, food, nature, or just having fun, Catalina Island’s diverse tours have you covered. The key is to match your trip style with the experience that excites you most. Don’t forget to book in advance—these experiences are popular and fill quickly, especially during summer and holiday weekends. Happy exploring!