Catalina Island Golf Course
Tee off at the historic Catalina Island Golf Course, the oldest west of the Mississippi, for a unique 9-hole island golfing adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tee time options
Catalina Island Golf Course
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tee time options
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tee off at the historic Catalina Island Golf Course, the oldest west of the Mississippi, for a unique 9-hole island golfing adventure.
"Playing golf at this course was the highlight of our trip."
Bring Cash for Rentals
Golf cart rentals are often cash-only. Have bills ready to avoid missing out! :moneywithwings:
Book Ferry Early
Secure your ferry tickets in advance, especially for weekends. Arrive early for boarding. :ferry:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Catalina Island Golf Course
Avalon
Play a round at the oldest operating golf course west of the Mississippi. Enjoy scenic views and a unique island golfing experience.
+1
Golf Cart Exploration
Avalon
Cruise around Avalon in a rented golf cart to discover hidden gems and scenic viewpoints. A fun way to see the island!
Submarine Adventure
Avalon Harbor
Dive beneath the waves on a submarine tour and witness the vibrant marine life of Catalina Island. A magical underwater journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King for Golf Carts
Book Ferry in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Rentals
Golf cart rentals are often cash-only. Have bills ready to avoid missing out! :moneywithwings: +1
Book Ferry Early
Secure your ferry tickets in advance, especially for weekends. Arrive early for boarding. :ferry: +1
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Consider E-bikes
E-bikes offer a fun alternative to golf carts for exploring the island with shorter lines. :electric_plug:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Rentals
Golf cart rentals are often cash-only. Have bills ready to avoid missing out! :moneywithwings: +1
Book Ferry Early
Secure your ferry tickets in advance, especially for weekends. Arrive early for boarding. :ferry: +1
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Consider E-bikes
E-bikes offer a fun alternative to golf carts for exploring the island with shorter lines. :electric_plug:
Pro Shop Staff
The staff at the pro shop can enhance your experience and offer local transport tips. :star:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Catalina Island Golf Course for its unique charm, historical significance, and beautiful island setting, making it a highlight for many trips. While the 9-hole layout might be shorter than some prefer, the scenic views and friendly staff create a memorable experience. Some minor issues with customer service at the pro shop have been noted.
"One of the jewels of the island, and easily the least crowded course in the country on July 4th. Who cares if it isn’t 18 holes? It’s a wonderful place to golf. My favorite course in SoCal."
andy flick
"Checked off a bucket-list item. Beautiful 9-hole island course with challenging, scenic par 4 & 3 holes. Played 18 because 9 holes feels like foreplay. Staff was extra helpful even finding me local transport from my room to the pro-shop steps. Top notch, a must play for golfers. Thank you"
Jon Hudson
"Playing golf at this course was the highlight of our trip. We rented clubs and a cart and it wasn’t very expensive. The best part though was the man at the pro shop. He made our whole experience great from the moment we walked in the door. I wish I remembered his name. If you’re spending a couple of days on the island you should definitely take a couple of hours to play 9."
Patrick Egan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Catalina Island is by ferry. Major departure points include Long Beach, San Pedro, Newport Beach, and Dana Point. The ferry ride typically takes about an hour.
Catalina Express is a popular ferry service with round-trip tickets costing around $80. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
No, private vehicles are not allowed on Catalina Island. You'll need to rely on walking, golf carts, e-bikes, or local transportation once you arrive.
Yes, most ferry terminals offer parking, though it may come with an additional fee. Check with your chosen ferry operator for specific details.
Avalon is very walkable. For longer distances or to explore further, consider renting a golf cart or an e-bike. +2
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While not always mandatory, booking tee times in advance for the Catalina Island Golf Course is highly recommended, especially during busy periods, to secure your preferred time.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Catalina Island Golf Course website or call their pro shop for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
Green fees for the 9-hole course are generally reasonable. Rental clubs and carts are also available at an additional cost, which reviewers found not to be very expensive.
Yes, golf clubs and carts are available for rent at the pro shop. This is a convenient option if you're traveling light. +1
While specific dress codes can vary, typical golf attire is generally expected. It's always a good idea to check with the pro shop if you're unsure.
🎫 ⛳ Golfing Experience
It's the oldest operating golf course west of the Mississippi and offers a unique 9-hole island golfing experience with scenic views.
The course features challenging, scenic par 3 and par 4 holes, offering a good test for golfers of all skill levels.
The course is a 9-hole layout, but many visitors choose to play it twice to complete an 18-hole round.
Yes, the course is great for walking or using a push cart, offering a more traditional golfing experience.
The course offers beautiful scenic views, making it a picturesque place to play golf.
📸 📸 Photography
Beyond the golf course, popular spots include the iconic Avalon Casino, the colorful streets of Avalon, and scenic overlooks accessible by golf cart or e-bike. +1
Absolutely! The Catalina Island Golf Course offers stunning backdrops for photos, especially during the golden hour.
Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. However, always be mindful of other visitors and private property.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both the golf course and the island's landscapes. Don't forget your phone for quick snaps! :iphone:
Look for elevated viewpoints around Avalon or along the coast for breathtaking sunset shots over the Pacific Ocean.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more active family outing, consider exploring the island on e-bikes, which can be a fun way for older children and adults to cover more ground.
⛳ Golf Enthusiasts
+1 The 9-hole layout provides a good challenge, and many players enjoy playing it twice for a full round. Don't worry if you can't bring your clubs; rentals are available and reasonably priced.
📸 Photography Buffs
The Catalina Island Golf Course itself provides beautiful backdrops, especially during the golden hour.
Beyond the greens, explore Avalon for colorful architecture and picturesque harbor views. Consider renting a golf cart or e-bike to access elevated viewpoints for panoramic island shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Avalon by Golf Cart
Important Tip: Be prepared to pay in cash for golf cart rentals, as many vendors operate on a cash-only basis. It's also wise to book your cart in advance or arrive early, especially during peak tourist seasons, as they can sell out quickly.
Beyond the golf course, a golf cart allows you to easily access attractions like the Avalon Casino, the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, and various scenic overlooks, making it an essential part of many visitors' itineraries.
The Historic Catalina Island Golf Course
+1Many golfers describe playing here as a bucket-list item, appreciating the blend of challenging play and stunning island vistas. Reviewers consistently praise the helpfulness of the pro shop staff, who often go above and beyond to assist visitors, even helping with local transport.
Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a casual player, the Catalina Island Golf Course provides an enjoyable and picturesque round. It's a perfect addition to any Catalina Island itinerary, offering a break from the usual island activities and a chance to soak in some history and beautiful scenery.
Getting to Catalina Island: The Ferry Experience
+1It's crucial to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially if you plan to travel on weekends or during holidays. Arriving at the terminal at least 15 to 60 minutes before your scheduled departure is recommended to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Once you arrive in Avalon, the main port town, you'll find that the island is largely car-free. This means your primary modes of transport will be walking, renting a golf cart, or utilizing e-bikes, all of which contribute to the island's relaxed and unique atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit