My views do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
June 18, 2025
In Catalina, I wandered and window shopped. I had a lobster roll at the Lobster Trap and took the picture above so I’d have a picture of my own for this post. The island was charming and touristy, and if I’d had more time I would have followed Selina’s advice and booked a nature tour. Here are some of the other things you can do on Catalina Island:
Catalina Island, California
Welcome to Santa Catalina Island, often simply called Catalina. Just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island feels worlds away from the mainland. With its Mediterranean-style town of Avalon, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed island vibe, it’s a favorite getaway for Angelenos and visitors alike.
Why Are We Here?
Catalina Island offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and charm in a compact, walkable destination. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, wildlife sightings, delicious seafood, or a laid-back day by the sea, Catalina has it all. It’s the kind of place that encourages you to slow down and take it all in.
History:
Before tourists and Hollywood stars set foot on its shores, Catalina Island—known as Pimugna or Pimu to the Tongva people—was a thriving hub of Indigenous culture. The Tongva, who lived both on the mainland and surrounding islands, used Catalina for fishing, crafting, and trading.
Spanish explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo was the first European to visit the island in 1542, claiming it for Spain and naming it San Salvador. Nearly 60 years later, Sebastián Vizcaíno renamed it Santa Catalina in honor of St. Catherine of Alexandria, whose feast day fell during his voyage.
In the 19th century, the island attracted otter hunters, smugglers, and miners. Sea otters were nearly hunted to extinction, but by the late 1800s, tourism began to take hold. Steamships brought visitors from Los Angeles, eager to experience Catalina’s rugged beauty and clear waters.
In 1919, chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. purchased the island and transformed Avalon into a resort town. He brought his Chicago Cubs baseball team here for spring training from 1921 to 1951. Wrigley also built the iconic Catalina Casino—never a gambling hall, but a grand ballroom and movie theater.
Hollywood loved Catalina too. Dozens of early films were shot here, and in the 1920s, a film crew introduced 14 bison to the island. Today, about 150 bison roam Catalina’s interior. In the 1970s, the Wrigley family deeded 88% of the island to the Catalina Island Conservancy, preserving its wild beauty for generations to come.
Itinerary:
Arrival: Wednesday, June 18 8:00am(Please allow time for port clearance).
Tender Schedule: Tenders will run continuously between 8:00am and 6:00pm.
Departure: Thursday, June 19 Last Tender: approximately 5:45pm Sail away: 7pm
(Check departure times when we arrive).
June Weather
- Average Temps: 60°F to 77°F (17–24°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~5:40 AM / ~8:00 PM
- What to Wear:
- Light layers and sun protection by day
- A sweater or light jacket for the evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandal
Address of Cruise Ship Tender Docks:
120 Pebbly Beach Rd, Avalon, CA 90704
Near the Pier:
You’re right in the heart of Avalon when you step off the tender. Nearby, you’ll find:
- Crescent Avenue, the waterfront promenade lined with shops and cafes
- The Catalina Island Museum
- The Green Pleasure Pier, where many tours and water activities begin
- Beaches, bike rentals, and more
Nearest Shop/Pharmacy: Leo’s Catalina Drug Store- 401 Crescent Ave
Nearest ATM: US Bank ATM-303 Crescent Ave
Nearest Supermarket: Vons 240 Sumner Ave, Avalon, CA 90704
Nearest public market: Metropole Market Metropole Ave, Avalon, CA 90704
Nearest beach: Middle Beach & Step Beach
Nearest golf: Catalina Island Golf Course 1 Country Club Dr, Avalon, CA 90704
Getting Around:
Most of the town of Avalon is accessible on foot. Golf carts are a local favorite and available for rent. You can also take taxis, or book tours that include transportation.
Catalina Island Car Rental: Located just steps away from the Catalina Island cruise port, Catalina Island Car Rental offers a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans.
Exploring Catalina Island by bike is a fun and active way to take in the scenery. In Avalon, several local outfitters offer bike rentals, including beach cruisers, e-bikes, and tandems—perfect for a leisurely ride along the waterfront or up into the hills for panoramic views. Keep in mind that bike access is mostly limited to Avalon and nearby roads, as much of the island’s interior is protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy and requires a permit or guided tour. Helmets are typically included with rentals, and e-bikes are a popular option for tackling Avalon’s hilly streets with ease.
Witnessing:
Catalina Island Casino -You won’t get rich here, but you may get fulfilled. This breathtaking, 12-story structure is the backdrop of Catalina Island and the main focus when capturing the coastline on camera. Built in the early 1900’s, the entertainment venue once featured major acts like Duke Ellington and benny Goodman. Today, it plays host to large events like the Jazz Festival and fancy weddings. Within the structure, you’ll also find a 1,200 person movie theater and the Catalina Island Museum.
In Avalon there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore. The island also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and live music venues.
Mt. Ada – The Wrigley Mansion
Perched high above Avalon Bay, Mt. Ada was the cherished summer retreat of William Wrigley Jr. Built between 1919 and 1921, the mansion was named after Wrigley’s wife, Ada, and offered a sunny escape from the harsh Chicago winters.
The Georgian Colonial Revival-style mansion was designed by architect Zachary Taylor Davis, who also created the iconic Wrigley Field in Chicago. Mt. Ada was strategically located to capture the first rays of morning sun and the last golden light before sunset—ideal for the Wrigleys’ island hideaway.
In 1916, Wrigley purchased the Chicago Cubs with a group of investors and became sole owner by 1925. From 1921 to 1951 (with a break during World War II), the Cubs held their spring training on Catalina Island. The practice field, nicknamed “Wrigley Field West,” could be seen from the mansion, and Wrigley was known to observe the team from his hilltop perch. If he thought the players weren’t working hard enough, he’d famously call down and have them run up the hill to Mt. Ada.
Visiting Mt. Ada provides not only a glimpse into Catalina’s glamorous past, but also some of the best panoramic views on the island. Whether you’re staying overnight or simply admiring it from below, Mt. Ada is a testament to Wrigley’s enduring legacy on Catalina Island.
You can visit the Wrigley Mansion but it’s primarily a hotel and not open for general public tours. The hotel, however, also offers lunch reservations for non-guests, allowing you to experience the mansion and its views without staying overnight.
Learning:
The Catalina Island Museum for Art & History showcases the island’s Native American heritage, Hollywood connections, and Wrigley family history.
The Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden is a peaceful and scenic destination just outside of Avalon, dedicated to William Wrigley Jr., the chewing gum magnate who played a major role in developing Catalina Island. The memorial, built in the 1930s using local materials, sits atop a hill offering panoramic views of Avalon and the sea. Surrounding it is a 38-acre botanical garden showcasing Catalina’s native and endemic plant species, some found nowhere else in the world. It’s a beautiful place for a walk, a moment of reflection, and a glimpse into the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
Nature buffs may enjoy the Catalina Island Conservancy and its commitment to preserving local wildlife and habitats. The Trailhead (located near the Cabrillo Mole boat landing in Avalon) serves as the gateway to the Island’s wildlands, providing Catalina Island visitors and residents with information and opportunities to understand and explore the Island’s 42,000+ acres of open space and 62 miles of rugged shoreline.
Or learn about the island’s unique ecology through one of the Conservancy’s guided nature walks.
Discovery:
Catalina Island is a paradise for ocean lovers, offering countless ways to experience its crystal-clear waters and marine life. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline, exploration, or a peaceful paddle, the island’s aquatic adventures are not to be missed.
Top Water Activities:
- Snorkel or scuba dive at Lover’s Cove or Casino Point—both are part of Catalina’s underwater marine park and teeming with colorful fish and kelp forests.
- Certified divers can explore the famous dive park at Casino Point, one of the top shore dives in California.
- Paddle a kayak or stand-up paddleboard through Avalon Bay for a scenic, active experience.
- Try parasailing or jet-skiing for a thrilling spin on traditional sightseeing.
- Prefer to stay dry? Step aboard a semi-submersible submarine tour for a unique “snorkeling without getting wet” experience.
- Take a glass-bottom boat ride for a window into Catalina’s vibrant underwater world—no wetsuit required.
Exploring:
Catalina Island is a haven for outdoor adventure, offering something for every level of thrill-seeker and nature enthusiast. From rugged interior wildlands to serene coastal vistas, the island invites you to explore far beyond its charming waterfront.
For a true taste of Catalina’s untamed side, take a Jeep eco-tour into the island’s interior. You’ll journey deep into protected wilderness where you’ll have the chance to spot American bison, Catalina Island foxes, and bald eagles soaring above. The bison have become one of Catalina’s most iconic sights—14 were brought here in the 1920s for a Hollywood film shoot and never left. Today, a herd of around 100 roams freely, cared for by the Catalina Island Conservancy. Several tour companies offer interior adventures, providing expert commentary and up-close encounters with this unique wildlife.
Zip-lining down Descanso Canyon offers breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush as you soar through the trees at high speed.
Play a round at Catalina Island Golf Course, the oldest operating golf course west of the Mississippi. Once a modest three-hole layout, this narrow, canyon-wrapped course now offers nine scenic holes with dramatic elevation changes and historic charm.
Hiking
If you’re looking to stretch your legs and soak in some of the island’s most breathtaking scenery, Catalina offers hiking opportunities that range from leisurely strolls to rugged treks.
- The Trans-Catalina Trail
The crown jewel of hiking on the island is the Trans-Catalina Trail, a 38.5-mile route that traverses Catalina from Avalon in the east to Two Harbors and Parsons Landing in the west. While most visitors won’t hike the full trail, many sections can be done as rewarding day hikes. Expect panoramic ridgelines, hidden coves, and sweeping ocean views along the way.
Popular Day Hikes from Avalon
- Garden to Sky Trail: Starting at the Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden, this moderate trail leads you up to a viewpoint where, on a clear day, you can see both sides of the island—Avalon Bay and the Pacific. About 2.5 miles round-trip.
- Hermit Gulch Loop: A more challenging option that climbs through canyon terrain and connects to the Trans-Catalina Trail. It’s about 4 miles round-trip and offers excellent chances to spot native plants and wildlife.
- Summit-to-Sea Trails: Several guided hikes or shuttle-supported routes allow visitors to start at higher elevations and hike downhill to the coast—ideal if you want views without the uphill effort.
What to Know Before You Go
- Trails are often exposed with little shade—bring water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes.
- Much of Catalina is managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy, which helps protect the island’s wildlands. Entry to some interior areas requires a free hiking permit, available online or at The Trailhead visitor center in Avalon.
- Watch for wildlife, including Catalina Island foxes, eagles, and even grazing bison in some inland areas.
Whether you’re out for a scenic overlook or an all-day adventure, hiking is one of the best ways to connect with the natural beauty of Catalina Island.
Two Harbors: The Wilder Side
For a more remote experience, head to Two Harbors, located on the quieter, windward side of the island. Known for world-class scuba diving, this area has been voted the “World’s Healthiest Marine Environment” by Scuba Diving Magazine. With fewer crowds and raw coastal beauty, Two Harbors is ideal for those seeking solitude, adventure, and some of the clearest waters in California.
Tasting:
Seafood lovers are in for a treat. Local favorites include:
- Bluewater Grill: for fresh catch and ocean views
- Lloyd’s of Avalon: for saltwater taffy and homemade fudge
- Descanso Beach Club: for a cocktail with your toes in the sand
Don’t miss the famous Buffalo Milk cocktail—Catalina’s signature drink.
Nightlife:
Catalina nights are relaxed and charming. Head to the Marlin Club, Avalon’s oldest bar, for a divey good time, or grab a drink by the firepit at Descanso Beach Club. During summer, look for live music on the waterfront or movies under the stars.
Conclusion:
Catalina Island invites you to slow down and embrace the island lifestyle. Whether you’re discovering the natural wonders of the interior, tasting local treats, or just enjoying the view, there’s something unforgettable here for everyone. Enjoy your stay in this picture-perfect piece of California paradise!