
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.

🎯 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!

Quick Facts
Address
Website
cityofavalon.comHighlights
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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
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!
💰 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!
💰 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.
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.
Yes, keep an eye out for potential discounts. Some travelers have found deals on platforms like Groupon for Catalina Flyer tickets.
Absolutely. Ferry tickets, especially for popular times like weekends, sell out quickly. Booking online well in advance is crucial to secure your spot.
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.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit