Best Things to Do in Avalon: A Catalina Island Travel Guide
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Avalon, you’re in for a sun-soaked coastal escape with more than just ocean views. Avalon, the charming seaside town on Catalina Island, is brimming with unforgettable activities—from private golf cart tours through lush canyons to cocktails with a view at sunset. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a weekend getaway, there’s no shortage of adventure, relaxation, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
In this guide, I’ll take you through my personal favorite things to do in Avalon, including iconic tours, scenic viewpoints, and must-visit beaches, restaurants, and attractions.
California Girl’s Quick Picks:
Catalina Express: Cheapest Way to Get to Catalina Island
Golf Cart Tour: Best Way to Get Around Catalina Island
Best Place to Stay: Best Hotel on Catalina Island
1. Take a Private Golf Cart Tour Around Avalon
Kick off your trip with the Guided Golf Cart Tour—one of the top-rated experiences in Avalon. This private tour is the best way to get your bearings on the island, and it takes you far beyond what you could see on foot.
Renting a golf cart or taking the highly popular Private Golf Cart Tour is how most get around Catalina Island.
Don’t have time to read the whole article?
Book this Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon which has a perfect 5-star rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tour Highlights:
- Panoramic views of Avalon Bay
- Scenic lookout at Mt. Ada
- Stop at Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden
- Drive past hillside homes and peaceful canyons
- Local guide narrating Avalon’s history and ecology
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Rating: 5/5 for 250+reviews – Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon is likely to sell out
📍 Book the tour on Viator here
🕐 Duration: 2 hours
💲 Cost: Approx. $130 per group
2. Relax at Descanso Beach Club
No trip to Avalon is complete without lounging at Descanso Beach Club, one of the few private beaches in California open to the public.
Here you can:
- Rent a chaise lounge or private cabana
- Sip a Descanso Margarita with your feet in the sand
- Paddleboard, kayak, or snorkel just off the beach
- Enjoy live DJs on weekends
Local Tip: Get there early to grab a waterfront chair—this place fills up fast during summer.
3. Hike Up to Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden
Tucked into Avalon Canyon, the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden is both a historical site and a stunning nature walk.
You’ll find:
- Rare Catalina Island endemic plants
- A hilltop memorial dedicated to chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr.
- Incredible views looking down the canyon toward Avalon Bay
The walk up from town is part of the fun—just 30 minutes each way, or a short drive if you’re on a golf cart.
4. Enjoy Sunset Drinks at Bluewater Grill
After a day in the sun, wind down with a cocktail and fresh seafood at Bluewater Grill, one of the most scenic waterfront dining spots in Avalon.
Order the ahi poke stack or the fish tacos, and don’t miss the sunset views from their outdoor deck. The golden light reflecting off the harbor makes this a photo-worthy dinner spot.
5. Visit the Catalina Casino (Even If You Don’t Gamble)
Despite its name, the Catalina Casino has never been a gambling venue. This Art Deco masterpiece serves as a cultural hub with:
- A historic movie theater
- Ballroom tours
- Stunning murals and architecture
- The Avalon Theatre, home to the first sound movies on the West Coast
Take a guided tour to learn more about its Hollywood-era glamour and connection to the Wrigley family.
6. Go Underwater Without Getting Wet: The Semi-Submarine Tour
One of Avalon’s most family-friendly activities is the Semi-Submarine Tour, which lets you explore Catalina’s vibrant marine life from underwater viewing windows.
This is a highly rated tour; it is likely to sell out. It won Viator’s Badge of Excellence Award.
- Watch bright orange Garibaldi fish, sea bass, and rays
- Great for kids or those who don’t want to snorkel
- 45-minute ride with expert commentary
7. Browse the Shops Along Crescent Avenue
Avalon’s waterfront promenade, Crescent Avenue, is perfect for casual shopping and snacking.
- Unique boutiques and beachwear stores
- Ice cream, saltwater taffy, and coffee spots
- Local artisans and island-themed gifts
Pop into Scoops Catalina for ice cream, and don’t skip Three Palms Avalon Arcade if you’re traveling with teens or just want to play some skee-ball.
8. Snorkel at Lover’s Cove
Lover’s Cove is a protected marine reserve teeming with marine life. It’s just a short walk from the ferry terminal and a perfect place to:
- Snorkel with Garibaldi and kelp bass
- Rent gear nearby
- Enjoy calm, crystal-clear waters
For beginners, this is one of the best snorkeling spots in Avalon.
9. Explore Avalon’s Art Scene
Avalon might be small, but its art scene packs a punch:
- Catalina Island Museum – exhibitions on island history, Catalina pottery, and rotating art shows
- Local galleries along Metropole Avenue
- Art Deco design throughout the city
10. Watch the Sunrise (or Sunset) at Buena Vista Point
If you’re an early riser or a sunset chaser, hike or drive up to Buena Vista Point. It offers panoramic views of the harbor, the town of Avalon, and the Pacific stretching to the horizon.
Bring a blanket, some coffee, and soak in the quiet beauty that makes this one of the most peaceful spots in Avalon.
The Most Popular Catalina Island Tours
Read our Ultimate Catalina Island Travel Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Trip
How to Get to Catalina Island
The best way to get to Catalina Island is via the Catalina Express.
From the Author: I went from LA to Catalina this past October. I tried to book tickets on the Catalina Express 3 weeks in advance, and all the good times slots were booked. Please book in advance.
The fastest way to get to Catalina Island is via helicopter. While the ferry takes about an hour and 15 minutes, not including the drive to Long Beach from Los Angeles, the helicopter is a 20-minute flight from mainland California to Catalina Island.
Skip the traffic and sail lines—arrive in style. Maverick Helicopters offers daily per-seat flights to Catalina Island from Long Beach (via the Queen Mary terminal) and weekend flights from San Pedro. In just 21 to 28 minutes, you’ll be soaring over the Pacific and touching down in paradise.
Catalina Island transfers range from $329 – $599.
Below are my top five hotel picks in Catalina:
FAQs About the Best Things to Do in Avalon
Is Avalon worth visiting for a day trip?
Absolutely. While staying overnight gives you more time to relax, a well-planned day trip can still include a golf cart tour, beach time at Descanso, and a sunset dinner.
Do I need a car in Avalon?
No. Avalon is walkable and car-free for most visitors. The best way to explore is by golf cart or on foot.
What is the best time of year to visit Avalon?
The best time to visit Catalina Island is spring and fall. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is lively and perfect for beach days, while winter is quiet and peaceful.
Are there any free things to do in Avalon?
Yes! Hike the Garden to Sky Trail, stroll the harbor, watch sunrise or sunset, visit public beaches, and window shop along Crescent Avenue.
How do I get to Avalon?
The most common way is by ferry from Long Beach, Dana Point, or San Pedro via Catalina Express. You can also take a Maverick Helicopter ride for a quicker and more scenic arrival.
Final Thoughts: What Makes Avalon So Special?
The best things to do in Avalon aren’t just about sightseeing—they’re about slowing down. Catalina Island offers the kind of escape that feels luxurious in its simplicity. Whether you’re sipping a drink at Descanso Beach Club, watching dolphins from the pier, or gliding through town in a golf cart, Avalon’s charm will stick with you long after you’ve left.
Read More of My Tips About Visiting Catalina Island
- Cheapest Way to Get to Catalina Island
- Wrigley Botanical Garden & Memorial on Catalina Island
- Renting a Golf Cart on Catalina Island & What You Need to Know
- Catalina Island in June
- Catalina Island in July
- Catalina Island in August
California Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for California?
100% YES! – With basic coverage averaging $1.50 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
💦 Can you drink the water in California?
Yes — But I wouldn’t. It doesn’t taste very good and there are contaminants in it. You’ll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters drinking water while on the go (traveling) and helps keep you hydrated.
🚙 Is it safe to rent a car in California?
Yes — Renting a car in California is one of the best ways to explore this vast, awesome state, and kind of a must! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local California companies, so you get the best rates. (read more)
🏨 What’s the best way to book my California accommodations?
For California hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a California Airbnb, don’t forget also to check VRBO, which has better rates than Airbnb.
🧳 What do I pack for California?
Head to the Ultimate California Packing List to get all the information you need about packing for a trip to California.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy airfare to California?
For finding cheap California flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
