Renting a Golf Cart on Catalina Island (2025 Guide) & What You Need to Know
Yes! Renting a golf cart on Catalina Island is worth it. My partner and I rented a golf cart the last time we went to Catalina Island for the day; it was not only worth the expense, but it was the only way to cover all the landmarks quickly.
We have everything you need to know about getting a Catalina Island golf cart rental.
From the Author: We recommend the Private Golf Cart Tour. Make a reservation in advance; they sell out of golf carts. It’s one of the more popular things to do in Catalina.
Cars are restricted on Catalina. You can walk, and we did plenty of that, but after we tooled around in the golf cart for two hours.
Two hours is all you need.
We recommend the Private Golf Cart Tour, but there are also other golf cart rentals on the island.
Catalina Island is a beautiful destination, and renting a golf cart is one of the best ways to explore all it has to offer.
Before you decide, this guide contains a lot of information. But if you don’t have time to read it all, I put the number one way to get around Catalina Island at the top ⤵.
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 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Note: This tour is popular and likely to sell out. Please buy in advance, especially during the summer months.
Renting a Golf Cart on Catalina Island. Why?
California enforces strict regulations on the number of vehicles within the city limits of Avalon, resulting in a limited car presence.
This is one of the reasons that Catalina Island is worth visiting.
Instead, locals predominantly utilize golf carts for transportation, reflecting the unique landscape of this 76-square-mile island.
Uber and Lyft are not permitted in Catalina!
Want a quick list of my top tips before you rent? Read my original post on Catalina Island Golf Cart Rental Tips — it’s packed with insider advice to help you make the most of your time on the island.
Touring Avalon via golf cart is one of the many romantic things to do on Catalina Island.
Best Way To Get Around Catalina Island – Catalina Island Golf Cart Rental
We highly recommend this Private Guided Golf Cart Tour; it’s a low-hassle way to see the island.
You get to sit back and enjoy the ride with a personalized tour and guide.
Explore local hangouts and iconic landmarks like the Inn at Mt. Ada and “three palms,” Avalon Diving History Exhibit, and the Catalina Casino.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Rating: 5/5 for 250+reviews – this tour is likely to sell out
The tour conveniently picks you up off the ferry or anywhere in town with legal street parking.
The reason we recommend this Private Golf Cart Tour of Avalon is to see the town in a fun, zippy way in two hours.
Since Catalina Island is restricted to permitted vehicles and golf carts, it’s a safe way to get around the island on wheels.
We all had a great time…Letti was so informative and knew a lot of history about the Island. Would definitely recommend. Such a fun experience. A+
—GIna (see more reviews)
The town of Avalon is approximately 1 square mile, and all of the sights can be visited during this tour.
One reason we love this tour is that some of the golf cart rental companies are strict.
Island Rentals only takes cash and offers a pre-planned 12-mile scenic route that may be completed in 1 hour without stops.
You may go longer for a pro-rated amount.
It’s more enjoyable to have the time to stop and see the beautiful areas of Avalon with the expertise of a local from Catalina and not have the meter running, it’s a flat fee.
If you stay the night in Avalon, you can return to whichever locale you want to explore further, but with the Private Golf Cart Tour, you can do a bit more than when you rent a golf cart yourself.
15 Reasons Why Catalina Island is Worth Visiting
Where is Catalina Island?
Catalina Island is located off the coast of Southern California in the United States. It lies approximately 22 miles (35 kilometers) southwest of Los Angeles and is part of the Channel Islands of California.
Catalina Island Golf Cart Rental Price
Golf cart rentals start at $60 per hour. The maximum time is 2 hours, $120. There are several places to rent golf carts on Catalina, but most require a deposit. Some a reservation.
We didn’t have a reservation but could get one last minute. However, we visited Catalina in the off-season, so you may want to make one. Catalina gets crowded in the summer.
Best Places for Renting a Golf Cart on Catalina Island
There are two golf cart rental shops: Catalina Island Golf Cart Rental and Island Rentals. Read further for more info about each.
We used Catalina Island Golf Cart Rentals and Tours and went over by 15 minutes. We were charged a prorated amount, so renting a golf cart can be expensive if you keep it all day or don’t want to be rushed.
If you have more people, the cheaper way to go is to take the Private Golf Cart Tour with driver/local guide.
We saw many people taking this tour, so book it in advance, it’s very popular.
You can see the island in under two hours, but we took a hike at Wrigley Memorial because we wanted to see the top of the Memorial, and it’s worth checking out.
If you spend time at the stops, you’ll likely go over two hours and will likely be charged more.
Catalina Island Golf Cart Rental
Renting a Golf Cart on Catalina Island Requirements
Below are the requirements for the two major golf cart rental companies on Catalina. We rented our Catalina Island Golf Cart Rental from Catalina Island Golf Cart Rentals, the first option below. We were satisfied. They prorate the amount if you go over two hours.
Catalina Golf Cart Rentals ⛳️
- Book at least 24 hours in advance
- Drivers must be 25 years or older
- Maximum one child per cart
- 6 passengers per cart
- May pay with credit card
Island Rentals ⛳️
- No reservation required
- Located 500 ft from ferry terminal
- Cash only
- Open at 9:00 am
- $60 for the first hour + $60 deposit
- Toddler and infant seats are available (two per cart)
- Must be 21 years old with a valid driver’s license
Renting a golf cart allows you to explore the charming streets, unique shops, and delightful restaurants at your own pace.
Choose either a 4-passenger golf cart rental or a 6-passenger golf cart rental, depending on the size of your group. Remember that rentals operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, so plan accordingly.
If you want to sit back and relax around Catalina
book this Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon which has a perfect 5-star rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Should You Rent a Golf Cart on Catalina Island?
Yes. It’s so worth it. One of the primary benefits of renting a golf cart on Catalina Island is the freedom to explore the island at your own leisurely pace.
Navigating the island’s rugged terrain and meandering roads becomes significantly more convenient with a rented golf cart, surpassing the effort required for walking or cycling.
While alternative modes of transportation such as taxis or buses are available, the unique experience of traversing an island in a golf cart adds a touch of novelty.
However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks of renting a golf cart on Catalina Island.
One notable disadvantage is the associated cost, as renting a golf cart can be relatively expensive compared to other transportation options, like walking.
Furthermore, it’s worth noting that golf carts may have limited storage capacity, which could pose a challenge if you plan to bring along substantial luggage or other items during your exploration of the island.
Travel Tip: If traveling via the Catalina Express from Long Beach or San Pedro or the Catalina Flyer from Newport Beach, there are lockers for baggage at the ferry drop-off at Avalon Blue Line Baggage.
What’s the cheapest way to get to Catalina?
The Catalina Express Round-Trip Ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro to Avalon is the quickest and cheapest way to get to Catalina Island.
If you are coming to Catalina Island from Los Angeles for the day, which many people do, take this Private Guided Golf Cart Tour with a local and see Avalon in two hours, which gives you plenty of time after the tour to explore the island on your own with friends, have dinner and then head back on the ferry that night. This is doable – I’ve done it!
To maximize your trip’s enjoyment and convenience, I highly recommend booking this tour.
It offers an opportunity to explore more of the island’s attractions, surpassing what you could see on foot or with a private rental.
By joining the Golf Cart Tour, you can devote more time to relaxation and less time to transportation logistics.
Read our Ultimate Catalina Island Travel Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Trip
What I Wish I Knew Before Renting a Golf Cart
I wish I’d done it years ago. My partner and I have visited Catalina plenty of times, but it wasn’t until our most recent trip that we finally rented a golf cart — and we had an absolute blast.
It was one of the most fun, scenic, and freeing ways to explore Avalon. We couldn’t believe we’d skipped it all those visits before.
A Catalina Island Golf Cart Rental is the way to tour Avalon.
Catalina Island Golf Cart Rental Tips
If it’s your first time renting a golf cart in Avalon, these essential tips will help you make the most of your adventure and avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re booking a private golf cart tour or renting one on the spot, here’s what you need to know:
1. Reserve in Advance—Especially in Summer
Golf carts sell out quickly during weekends, holidays, and peak summer months. If you want a guaranteed rental time or a private cart tour, book ahead online. Same-day walk-ups can mean long waits or no availability at all.
2. Bring a Valid Driver’s License
All drivers must be 21+ and carry a current driver’s license. Yes, even on an island. If you’re traveling with teens or international visitors, make sure the driver meets California licensing requirements.
3. Stick to the Two-Hour Time Limit
Most rentals in Avalon come with a strict two-hour window. Don’t lose track of time — late returns can rack up extra fees. Set a phone timer or ask the rental desk what time you need to be back.
4. Go Early for Easier Parking and Quieter Roads
Morning rentals have fewer crowds and better parking near popular stops like the Wrigley Memorial, Botanical Garden, or the Zip Line Eco Tour area. Sunset drives are pretty but streets can get congested.
5. Download a Map or Use Offline GPS
Cell service can be spotty on the back roads. Most rental companies give you a paper map, but you can also pre-load a Google Map route if you prefer to navigate digitally.
6. Don’t Skip the Scenic Upper Loop
The longer route includes panoramic views of Avalon Bay, hillside mansions, and the ocean beyond. It’s worth the climb, even if it means skipping a stop downtown. My partner and I completed the whole route. We went over the 2-hour limit, which resulted in a prorated charge.
7. Know What’s Not Allowed
Golf carts aren’t allowed outside Avalon city limits, and you can’t take them to Two Harbors or on dirt trails.
Also: no parking in red zones, even temporarily — parking enforcement is strict on the island.
✅ Pro Tip: Want a zero-stress experience with pre-planned stops and VIP access to Catalina’s best scenic spots? Book a private golf cart tour through Viator instead — no lines, no stress, just the views.
CATALINA ISLAND GOLF CART RENTAL
Other Modes of Transportation to Get Around Catalina
If golf carts aren’t your thing, there are other ways to get around the island. My second favorite way to see Catalina is via bike (which is my usual mode of transport in Catalina!)
🚲 Bike Rentals
Catalina Island is bike friendly, so this is a great way to see the island. There are several bike rentals:
👣 Walking
Catalina is so small it’s possible to cover a lot of ground on foot. The Island is only 76 square miles.
🚖 Taxi
Ride shares are not allowed on the island, but taxis are. Taxis are located as you exit the ferry terminal and the taxi stand (where Metropole Avenue meets Crescent Avenue).
🚍 Public Transportation
The bus is also available on Catalina Island. Two choices are:
How To Get To Catalina Island
The cheapest and easiest way to get to Catalina Island is via ferry. You can get the ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Newport Beach.
The Catalina Express runs from Long Beach and San Pedro to Avalon (there is one ferry, with fewer time slots, that goes to Two Harbors), and the Catalina Flyer runs from Newport Beach to Avalon.
Book a round-trip ferry to Catalina from San Pedro or Long Beach: Check availability.
🛫 If you’re coming to California and want to visit Catalina, the closest airport to jump on the Catalina Express is Long Beach Airport (code: LGB).
🚘 It’s usually much cheaper to fly into LAX (Long Beach is my favorite airport, but flights are on average $100 – $200 higher) than you’ll need to rent a car to drive to Long Beach or San Pedro to catch the Catalina Express.
🚁 You can always helicopter in for a price if you get seasick like me. For only about $200, you can take a Maverick Helicopter Transfer from Long Beach to Catalina Island in about 15 to 20 minutes.
CATALINA ISLAND GOLF CART RENTAL
Where To Stay on Catalina Island
There are many hotels and accommodations to choose from on Catalina Island, here are some that I recommend:
Best Beach Access: Catalina Island Inn
Best Luxury: Mt. Ada Bed & Breakfast (gorgeous views of Catalina!)
Best for families with little kids: Hotel Atwater
Best Things to Do on Catalina Island
There are many things to do on a small island like Catalina.
If this is your first time, we’ve highlighted some favorite tours that will give you a good taste of Catalina Island life.
⛳️ Golf Cart Tour: As we’ve mentioned, this top-rated 5-star Golf Tour allows you to see a lot of Catalina at once. Since cars are restricted on Catalina, you’ll see many locals and tourists using golf carts to get around. It’s a ton of fun.
Note: this tour (Catalina Island golf cart rental) is very popular and likely to sell out. Please purchase tickets in advance.
⛵️ Glass Bottom Boat Tour: View what’s in the ocean without getting in it! Discover life under the surface of the Pacific Ocean. Board the boat in Avalon and enjoy views of colorful fish, coral, and other sea life while you sail.
🤿 Semi-Submarine Tour: This is a great experience to do with children. The sub dives six feet (two meters) below the surface at Lovers’ Cove in Avalon.
🎰 Catalina Island Casino Tour: This small-group tour gives visitors to Santa Catalina Island a chance to see spaces in the Casino that were long hidden from public view, including the historic projection room and green rooms used by stars including Errol Flynn and Cary Grant.
🚁 Maverick Helicopter Tour: Soar above Catalina’s most iconic sights—from the Catalina Casino and Descanso Beach Club to remote coves, buffalo-dotted hills, and the island’s highest peak. This unforgettable helicopter tour offers sweeping aerial views of Avalon, Two Harbors, Mount Orizaba, and more in just 20 exhilarating minutes. We highly recommend it!
Best Time To Visit Catalina Island
The ideal time to visit Catalina Island varies depending on what type of activities you’re most interested in.
The summer months are recommended if you enjoy water activities because they are warmer.
Conversely, the winter season suits you best if you prefer to avoid large crowds.
CATALINA ISLAND GOLF CART RENTAL
Renting A Golf Cart On Catalina Island: FAQs
Golf Cart Rentals Catalina Island
How much does it cost to rent golf carts on Catalina Island?
Renting a golf cart on Catalina Island can vary in price, but typically you can expect to pay around $60 per hour. It is important to reserve your golf cart at least 24 hours in advance, and note that same-day rentals may only be available onsite.
Can you rent a golf cart for a whole day on Catalina Island?
Yes, you can rent a golf cart for a whole day on Catalina Island. However, availability for whole-day rentals may vary depending on the rental company, so make sure to check with the provider for their specific policies.
You can make an online reservation with Cartopia Golf Cart Rental.
How long does it take to golf cart around Catalina?
The time it takes to golf cart around Catalina Island will vary depending on your pace and the sites you choose to visit. Generally, a two-hour rental should give you enough time to explore and enjoy the scenic views on the island utilizing the designated golf cart routes.
This Private Guided Golf Tour is two hours and a local guide drives you around historic Catalina.
Do you need a license to drive a golf cart on Catalina Island?
Yes, you do need a valid driver’s license to drive a golf cart on Catalina Island. While navigating the island, make sure to adhere to traffic rules and respect the island’s surroundings for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Where can you drive golf carts on Catalina Island?
On Catalina Island, you can drive golf carts on designated roads and routes within the town of Avalon. Be mindful that cars are severely restricted on the island, making golf carts the preferred mode of transportation for visitors.
Are there any age restrictions for renting a golf cart on Catalina Island?
Yes, there are age restrictions for renting a golf cart on Catalina Island. The primary driver must be at least 25 years old, as stated by Catalina Island Golf Cart’s rental policy. Make sure to check with the specific rental company for their age requirements before booking your golf cart rental.
The Wrap-Up: Renting A Golf Cart On Catalina Island
As you can see, there are a few options for getting around car-free Catalina Island; our most recommended one is zipping around in a golf cart.
It’s fun. You can see the whole of Avalon in a few hours and take a tour with a local guide who will share the interesting history of this beautiful island.
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.
