Catalina Island is a great place for walking tours because the small, walkable town of Avalon packs a lot of character into just a few streets. Whether you’re interested in spooky stories, local history, or fun games, there’s a tour that will suit your style.
We especially appreciate tours like the Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour for its mix of ghostly tales and historic sites—perfect if you love a little thrill with your sightseeing.
Plus, the island’s compact size makes walking both practical and scenic, giving you a chance to really soak in Avalon’s unique charm.
In this guide, we’ll look at the five best walking tours available on Catalina, with options ranging from spine-chilling ghost walks to historical explorations, and even a scavenger hunt. Each offers a different perspective on Avalon, so whatever your interest, you’ll find a memorable way to explore the island on foot.
1. Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour
At number one, the Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour offers a spooky but fun way to see Avalon. This 1.5-hour tour takes you through the small town’s most haunted spots, including the iconic Catalina Island Casino. Led by a local historian, you’ll hear ghost stories, paranormal legends, and maybe even catch a glimpse of something unexplainable.
The tour includes audio headsets, so you won’t miss a single chilling detail, even if your group gets a little loud or distracted.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on paranormal mysteries intertwined with Avalon’s historic sites. Reviewers praise guide Jess for her engaging storytelling and in-depth knowledge. My personal take: this tour is perfect if you want a mix of history and ghostly fun—especially in the evening when Avalon feels a little more mysterious.
The tour is accessible for most, and at just $30 per person, it offers good value for a memorable hour and a half of spooky entertainment.
Bottom Line: If you’re curious about Avalon’s haunted reputation or love ghost stories, this tour provides a fun, immersive experience that’s well-reviewed and reasonably priced.
2. Walking History Tour on Catalina Island
The Walking History Tour on Catalina Island is a great choice for those interested in the real stories behind Avalon’s sights. Led by a local resident, this tour offers an authentic look at the island’s past, visiting landmarks like Holly Hill House and the Green Pier. It covers approximately one mile on mostly flat terrain, making it suitable for most walkers.
This tour lasts from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and group size. It provides insightful commentary on Avalon’s origins, Hollywood connections, and local legends. The guide’s personal experiences add a genuine touch, and the tour includes stops at iconic spots like Marilyn Monroe’s photo location.
Reviewers love how relaxed and informative it is, with some mentioning their guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge as highlights.
For around $40, this tour offers a rich, accessible experience that’s perfect for those wanting to learn without feeling rushed. The inclusion of headsets ensures everyone hears clearly, making it enjoyable even in a crowd.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history lovers who want a laid-back but detailed look at Avalon’s past, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
3. Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour – 12 years and older
At number three, the Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour combines ghost stories with technology. It’s a 1 hour 50-minute journey designed for those 12 and over who want a more scientific take on the paranormal. The tour includes EMF detectors—special tools used by ghost hunters—to explore Avalon’s haunted spots, such as the Catalina Casino and other eerie corners.
This tour is unique because it blends storytelling with actual ghost-hunting equipment, adding a layer of interactivity. Led by a knowledgeable guide, Jesse, who shares 25 years of experience, you’ll learn the difference between spirits and ghosts while testing for spectral energies.
Rated highly, it’s the only ghost tour in Catalina to include EMF detection, which adds a fun, investigative dimension. Evening starting at 9:30 pm, it’s ideal for those who want to combine a ghostly experience with a dash of science.
While it’s slightly longer and more expensive at $40, the interactive element makes it worth it. Reviewers mention the headphones and personal stories as highlights, creating an engaging atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Great for curious adults and older teens who want a hands-on ghost experience with a scientific edge.
4. Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
For a fun, interactive way to explore Avalon, the Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game mixes sightseeing with a lively scavenger hunt. Over two hours, you’ll follow clues and complete challenges while exploring the harbor, Avalon’s shops, and landmarks like the Avalon Veteran’s Memorial. It’s a flexible, self-guided experience that gets you moving at your own pace.
This tour is perfect if you enjoy puzzles, games, or just want to discover Avalon in a playful way. With a rating of 3.5 stars from four reviews, it’s not as polished as some others, but it offers a unique, engaging approach to sightseeing.
It’s suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers looking for a break from traditional tours. The price of $24.50 makes it one of the more budget-friendly options, and it’s designed to be flexible and fun.
However, because it’s a scavenger hunt, it may not appeal if you prefer a structured guided walk or detailed history. That said, reviewers say it’s a great way to see overlooked parts of Avalon and enjoy some friendly competition.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active, puzzle-loving travelers who want a playful way to explore Avalon’s streets and sights.
5. Catalina Island Avalon Highlights Walking Tour
Rounding out our list, the Catalina Island Avalon Highlights Walking Tour offers a comprehensive look at Avalon’s most famous spots. It’s a longer, more flexible experience lasting 2 to 4 hours, which makes it perfect for those who want to take their time.
You’ll visit key sites like the Catalina Express entrance, Pancake Cottage, and historic viewpoints, all while enjoying the island’s natural beauty.
This tour emphasizes a mix of scenery, history, and local flavors. The itinerary includes a ride in a golf cart to see the landscape, a visit to the Pancake Cottage for a breakfast stop, and a walk through town’s highlights. It’s suitable for those who want a leisurely pace and a variety of experiences in one tour.
With reviews noting its simplicity and relaxed feel, it’s a good introduction to Avalon for first-timers or those with limited time.
At $20 per person, it’s also quite affordable, though the length means you should plan for a flexible schedule to enjoy all the stops. It’s best for travelers wanting a mix of sightseeing and light exploration, without rushing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for casual explorers wanting an all-in-one tour with scenic views, local eats, and the chance to go at their own pace.
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour
Choosing among these options depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend. If ghost stories and paranormal investigations excite you, the ghost tours and EMF detection tour are excellent choices. For history lovers, the Walking History Tour offers a relaxed, informative experience.
If you prefer a playful, active outing, the Scavenger Hunt provides a fun challenge. Lastly, for a comprehensive sightseeing experience, the Avalon Highlights Tour combines scenic spots with local flavor.
Think about your fitness level, your curiosity about Avalon’s legends, and how much time you want to dedicate. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred tour and time slot.
Final Thoughts
Catalina Island offers a diverse set of walking tours that fit a range of interests—from spooky ghost stories to detailed history walks and interactive scavenger hunts.
For a spooky night adventure, the Haunted Catalina Ghost Tour is a top pick, while the Walking History Tour is ideal for those wanting to learn about Avalon’s past without the chills. If you’re traveling with family or friends who love games, the Scavenger Hunt offers a lively, fun experience.
Whether your interests lie in the supernatural, history, or just exploring at your own pace, Catalina’s compact size and welcoming atmosphere make walking tours a fantastic way to see the island. Be sure to book ahead if visiting during busy months, and most importantly, enjoy every step of your Catalina adventure.