Catalina Island Avalon
Catalina Island offers a Mediterranean-like escape just off the coast of Southern California, known for its charming Avalon town, scenic beauty, and u...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier rentals
Catalina Island Avalon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier rentals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Catalina Island offers a Mediterranean-like escape just off the coast of Southern California, known for its charming Avalon town, scenic beauty, and unique activities.
"This island getaway is just 1 hour from LA and feels like a Mediterranean dream!"
🎯 Book Ferry Early
Secure your Catalina Express tickets online in advance, especially for weekend trips, as they sell out fast!
💰 Bring Cash for Carts
Some golf cart rentals in Avalon only accept cash, so be prepared!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Avalon Casino Building
Avalon
An iconic Art Deco landmark, this non-gambling venue offers stunning architecture and panoramic ocean views. Take a tour to learn its history.
Golf Cart Exploration
Avalon
Cruise through Avalon's charming streets and scenic neighborhoods on a rented golf cart for a unique island perspective.
Snorkeling at Casino Point
Casino Point, Avalon
Discover vibrant marine life in the clear waters of Casino Point, a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ferry Tickets in Advance
Golf Cart Rentals & Cash
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ferry Early
Secure your Catalina Express tickets online in advance, especially for weekend trips, as they sell out fast! +2
💰 Bring Cash for Carts
Some golf cart rentals in Avalon only accept cash, so be prepared!
🤢 Seasickness Solutions
The ferry ride can be rough. Consider acupressure bands or patches if you're prone to motion sickness.
🚗 Golf Cart Rental Tip
Rent your golf cart early in the day to avoid long lines and ensure availability.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ferry Early
Secure your Catalina Express tickets online in advance, especially for weekend trips, as they sell out fast! +2
💰 Bring Cash for Carts
Some golf cart rentals in Avalon only accept cash, so be prepared!
🤢 Seasickness Solutions
The ferry ride can be rough. Consider acupressure bands or patches if you're prone to motion sickness.
🚗 Golf Cart Rental Tip
Rent your golf cart early in the day to avoid long lines and ensure availability.
🚶♀️ Avalon is Walkable
Most hotels and restaurants in Avalon are within walking distance of the ferry terminal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Catalina Island's unique charm, often comparing it to Mediterranean or Hawaiian locales. The scenic beauty, the iconic Casino building, and the fun of exploring via golf cart are frequently praised. However, some find the island to be quite expensive, and the ferry ride can be challenging for those prone to seasickness.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Catalina Island from Los Angeles is by taking the Catalina Express ferry. Departures are available from ports in Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. The ferry ride typically takes about an hour.
The ferry ride to Catalina Island from the mainland ports generally takes around one hour.
Currently, you cannot drive your personal car to Catalina Island. The primary mode of transport is the ferry.
Yes, Catalina Express offers different classes of service. The Commodore Lounge is a premium option with more comfortable seating and priority boarding, though some travelers find it not worth the extra cost if they don't get seasick. +1
Catalina Express operates from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. Choose the port that is most convenient for your location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Round-trip ferry tickets to Catalina Island typically range from $84 to $92 per adult, depending on the port and any promotions. It's recommended to book online in advance.
You can purchase ferry tickets directly from the Catalina Express website. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend travel. +3
Yes, keep an eye out for potential discounts. Some travelers have found deals on platforms like Groupon for Catalina Flyer tickets. +1
Absolutely. Ferry tickets, especially for popular times like weekends, sell out quickly. Booking online well in advance is crucial to secure your spot. +1
Ferries to Catalina Island typically run from early morning until late evening, with departures staggered throughout the day. Check the Catalina Express schedule for specific times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most popular way to explore Avalon is by renting a golf cart. They offer a fun and convenient way to see the town and surrounding neighborhoods.
Golf cart rental prices can vary, but expect to pay for hourly or multi-hour rentals. Some places may only accept cash, so it's good to be prepared.
Don't miss the iconic Avalon Casino building for its history and views, explore the charming streets via golf cart, and consider snorkeling at Casino Point for underwater exploration.
Yes, Avalon is a very walkable town. Most shops, restaurants, and hotels are conveniently located near the ferry terminal.
A day trip can include exploring Avalon, renting a golf cart, visiting the Casino building, enjoying water activities like snorkeling or jet skiing, and dining at local eateries.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Avalon offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants with ocean views. Local favorites include Jack's Country Kitchen and Luau Larry's.
While specific menus can change, most restaurants in Avalon offer some vegetarian options. It's always a good idea to check with the restaurant directly for vegan choices.
Yes, you can find more affordable options like cafes and delis for a budget-friendly meal in Avalon. Packing snacks is also a good strategy.
📸 📸 Photography
The Avalon Casino building, the Casino Terrace with its views of Avalon, the colorful streets, and the scenic coastal drives via golf cart offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography in Avalon. Midday can be bright, but offers clear views of the turquoise waters.
Drone usage on Catalina Island is generally restricted, especially in Avalon and within the protected areas of the island. Always check current regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider activities like visiting the Avalon Aquarium or taking a glass-bottom boat tour to see marine life without getting wet. The Catalina Casino building tour can also be engaging for older children interested in history and architecture.
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Consider booking a sunset ferry ride for a picturesque journey back to the mainland. For an overnight stay, look into boutique hotels like the Hotel Metropole or the more secluded Mt. Ada for a luxurious and romantic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to Catalina Island: Ferry vs. Other Options
For those seeking a quicker arrival, helicopter services are available, cutting down travel time significantly to about 15 minutes.
While this is a more luxurious and expensive option, it offers breathtaking aerial views of the island and the Pacific Ocean. Jet skiing is another way to arrive, though this is more of an activity than a primary transport method. +1It's important to note that the ferry ride can be quite rough for some individuals. Packing motion sickness remedies like acupressure bands or patches is a common tip from experienced travelers.
Exploring Avalon: Golf Carts and Beyond
Beyond golf carts, Avalon itself is a highly walkable city. Many of the main attractions, shops, and restaurants are clustered within a short distance of the ferry terminal, making it easy to explore on foot.
When planning your exploration, consider the Catalina Casino building as a must-visit. This historic Art Deco landmark is not a gambling hall but a stunning venue with a rich history and spectacular views from its terrace.
Taking a tour of the Casino offers a deeper insight into the island's past and its architectural significance.Accommodation Options in Avalon
Other notable accommodations include the Glenmore Plaza Hotel, providing a historic stay, and the Pavilion Hotel, often praised for its amenities and proximity to attractions.
When booking your stay, consider the type of experience you're looking for. Whether it's a historic charm, modern comfort, or a secluded getaway, Avalon offers options to suit various preferences. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred hotel.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit