Catalina Island

Making the Most of a Day-Trip to Catalina Island

By Teri Conrad, Freelance Writer

July 2007

A scenic view of Catalina Island's legendary Casino where many well-known musicians have performed since 1929.

Twenty-six miles to Catalina! Maybe you’ve heard the song recorded by the Four Preps in 1958 that helped make Catalina Island famous? Accessible by boat from Newport Beach, Dana Point, San Pedro and Long Beach ports, one can even reach the beautiful historic island by helicopter. Once you embark from the ferries (the most common way to get there) it’s just a few minutes walk along the pedestrian walkway before you reach the town of Avalon—the heart of Catalina Island. You can easily navigate the one square mile of island on foot while enjoying the views. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket—it gets pretty chilly on the boat ride over and back.

Take a day trip and see the town’s historic district, shop at one of the many specialty stores or galleries, relax on the beach, or grab a bite to eat while enjoying a peaceful ocean view. Keep in mind that cruise ships do dock in Catalina on various days of the week and bring with them many other tourists. The town relies on these tourists to survive. It’s good to note that you will be competing for space on the guided tours offered, as well as seating in restaurants on these days. This is where a little prior planning can prove helpful.

Things to do

There are numerous tours available when you get there. You may even purchase tickets in advance aboard the Catalina Express and the Catalina Flyer while en route to the island. Other than saving time standing in line to purchase tickets later on the island, there is no price advantage in buying tickets on the ferries. However, if you’re unsure of what you’d like to do and see while visiting Avalon, it’s suggested that you wait until reaching the island first before making your decision. Tickets for tours are non-refundable. There are plenty of other things to do for those who prefer the do-it-yourself approach of a non-guided tour (we’ve included some suggestions below). A few minutes spent getting familiar with the island will ensure that you make the most out of your day trip. Be prepared to do a lot of walking, bring comfortable shoes and a light sweater or jacket, a camera and sunscreen.

Suggested day trip activities

Casino Tour – Experience the thrill of big band entertainment with a tour of one of Catalina’s world-famous landmarks. Learn what went into building the Casino—which really wasn’t a casino by modern day standards. This tour requires a lot of walking so comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

Tour the Museum – If you’re short on time, or looking for entertainment on a budget, the Catalina Museum (located next to the Casino) is a great place to learn about the history of the island and the rich and famous who’ve lived there. You will find numerous well-preserved displays of Catalina history and art here. The museum gift shop also makes a great place to purchase a souvenir or two.

Scenic Tour – A popular favorite with visitors, this seven-and-a-half mile drive provides a picturesque view of the heart of Catalina, the island exterior and local attractions. You’ll want to bring your camera to take advantage of the spectacular photo opportunities all from the comfort of your seat on the open air bus. Advance reservations are recommended as this tour fills up quickly.

Botanical Garden Tour – Get an up close view of extremely rare endemic plants (those that grow only on Catalina Island and thrive in its coastal climate), and see what makes up the original California Desert Plant collection. Some of these plants are even on the endangered species list. This is not your typical garden color variety.

Ride the Trolley – For about the price of a cup of coffee, tourists can enjoy a short ride aboard the trolley which departs from various marked locations in downtown Avalon. The trolley is also another means of transportation en route to the Botanical Gardens.

Rent a Bicycle – Avalon is a great place to take a self-tour by bicycle. You can quickly get the lay of the land while enjoying the views and getting exercise. Rentals are available at Brown’s Bikes and Catalina Auto & Bike Rental (helmets are provided with rental). Or bring your own bicycle. You’ll need a bicycle permit to ride on the island’s interior which can be purchased through the Catalina Island Conversancy. Daily permits cost $20 and are good for two consecutive days. Annual permits are also available for an additional charge.

Places to eat

There are many eateries to choose from to match almost anyone’s budget and time constraints. A Tourists enjoy views of the downtown area from an open air bus as the Avalon Scenic Tour gets underway. favorite of mine for a home-style breakfast is The Cottage—formerly the Pancake Cottage, although they are also open for lunch and dinner. Armstrong’s is a popular tourist favorite serving fresh seafood for lunch and dinner with an ocean view. Coney Island West is a great sidewalk café that offers tasty fish & chips, pizza, burgers and corn dogs to go, or to enjoy in their patio area. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert from Olaf’s where ice cream served up in giant homemade waffle cones is their specialty.

More information

Chances are that once you’ve enjoyed getting to know the island during your day trip excursion, you’ll want to come back for a longer stay. For additional information, visit www.catalinachamber.com.

**All photos by Teri Conrad