Long Beach isn’t just about beaches and boardwalks—it’s also a fantastic place to get out on the water and experience California’s coast in a fun, active way. The city’s calm, protected waters and stunning shoreline make it a prime spot for Jet-Ski experiences.
Whether you’re after a quick coastal cruise or a full-day expedition to Catalina Island, Long Beach has options for all kinds of water lovers.
We especially like the Guided Two Hours Jetski Coastal Tour, which offers a perfect balance of scenery and dolphin sightings without needing a full day. It’s a great way to see the coast up close while feeling the thrill of riding a jet ski.
For those craving a more ambitious adventure, the guided trips to Catalina Island—like the Jetski Adventure: Guided Trip from Long Beach to Catalina Island—bring the excitement of crossing open water and the chance to relax on the island’s beaches afterward.
If you want something even more adventurous, the Guided Jet Ski Adventure in Two Harbors Catalina Island includes a swim at the famous Blue Cavern and exploring rugged coastline, perfect for active travelers.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find three top Jet-Ski experiences in Long Beach:
– A short but scenic coastal tour ideal for a quick thrill (Guided Two Hours Jetski Coastal Tour)
– A half-day trip to Catalina, combining ocean crossing with island leisure (Jetski Adventure: Guided Trip from Long Beach to Catalina Island)
– An all-day exploration of Catalina’s Two Harbors, including a swim through the Blue Cavern and hiking (Guided Jet Ski Adventure in Two Harbors Catalina Island)
Now, let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Guided Two Hours Jetski Coastal Tour
At number one on our list, this guided coastal tour offers a fantastic introduction to California’s shoreline. Starting from Long Beach’s marina, your guide will take you along the coast from Palos Verdes to Huntington Pier. This route provides stunning views of the coastline’s cliffs, beaches, and urban highlights, all while keeping within easy reach of shore.
What sets this tour apart is the frequent dolphin sightings and the chance to see other marine life up close—perfect for nature lovers.
The tour lasts about two hours, which makes it manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed. The boatmen are experienced, and the route is carefully chosen for safety and scenery. It’s a guided experience, so you don’t need to worry about navigation or directions—just focus on the thrill of riding and enjoying the views.
The price is $335 per person, which is fair given the quality and the length of the trip. Many reviewers give this a 5-star rating, praising the smooth ride and abundance of wildlife.
Bottom Line: This tour fits well for those wanting a quick, scenic jet-ski ride close to shore with plenty of wildlife and no need to commit a whole day. It’s especially suitable if you’re new to jet skiing or short on time but still want a memorable experience.
2. Jetski Adventure: Guided Trip from Long Beach to Catalina Island
At number two, the Jetski Adventure to Catalina is perfect for those who want to combine excitement with a sense of adventure. This 6-hour guided trip kicks off from Long Beach, with your guide leading you on a sea-worthy Seadoo across the open water to Avalon on Catalina Island.
It’s a “dock-to-dock” trip, meaning you don’t have to get into the ocean unless you want to, and it’s designed for travelers comfortable with at least some riding experience.
The journey offers chances to spot dolphins, sea lions, and even whales—a treat for wildlife enthusiasts. Once you arrive in Avalon, you get about three hours of free time to explore, relax on the beach, or try activities like parasailing or golf cart rentals.
The tour costs $640 per person, and reviews highlight its smooth organization and scenic crossing, which is considered “an exhilarating ride.” Since you’re on your own for a few hours on Catalina, it suits those who like a mix of adventure and leisure.
Bottom Line: This trip is ideal for experienced jet skiers who want the thrill of crossing the channel and enjoying Catalina’s charms. It’s a full-day adventure that balances riding with downtime, making it a good value for the experience.
3. Guided Jet Ski Adventure in Two Harbors Catalina Island
Number three is the Guided Jet Ski Adventure in Two Harbors, which offers an immersive day of exploring Catalina’s rugged coastline. This full-day trip starts with a 1.5-hour jet ski ride to Two Harbors, a small but charming village on the island. Along the way, you’ll encounter dolphins and vibrant marine life, making the crossing as lively as it is scenic.
One of the highlights is a visit to the famous Blue Cavern, where you can swim or snorkel through the sea cave (gear included). Afterward, you get three hours to relax, hike, or snorkel at your leisure.
The tour’s price is $640 per person, similar to the Catalina trip, but it offers more varied activities during your time on the island. The guided swim through the Blue Cavern is a particular favorite among adventure seekers.
The tour includes all necessary snorkel gear and is well-rated for its combination of riding, exploring, and natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want to combine jet skiing with swimming and hiking. It’s a full-day, high-impact experience that gives you a taste of Catalina’s wild side.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, available time, and interests. The Guided Two Hours Jetski Coastal Tour is perfect if you want a quick, scenic ride with wildlife viewing. If crossing open water to Catalina excites you, the Catalina trip offers a balance of adventure and relaxation suitable for intermediate to advanced riders.
For those wanting a full-day exploring the island’s natural features and engaging in activities like swimming and hiking, the Two Harbors adventure is the best choice.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months. Consider your fitness level and comfort with open water; the longer trips involve crossing the channel, which can be choppy at times.
In summary, Long Beach offers a range of jet ski excursions for every taste—from quick coastal spins to full-day island explorations. Two great picks are the short coastal tour for an easy introduction, and the Catalina trips for those seeking more action and scenery.
No matter which you choose, these adventures promise a memorable way to experience California’s coast from the water. If you’re eager to make the most of your trip, book early to secure your spot on these popular excursions.