Summer and vacation go together like sea and sand—especially when your destination is Santa Catalina Island. Known for its ideal weather, warmer waters, and stunning natural scenery, Catalina Island offers endless opportunities for summer fun and unforgettable memories. Here are ten activities you won't want to miss this summer on Catalina Island.

  1. Catalina Food Tours: Explore Catalina’s culinary scene with Catalina Food Tours. This guided tour will take you to the island's best eateries, where you can taste a variety of delicious dishes while learning about the island’s history and culture.

  2. Dine at Local Restaurants: Savor the flavors of Catalina Island with a diverse range of dining options. Enjoy fresh seafood at NDMK on Claressa Avenue, gourmet meals at the M Restaurant, or a delightful dinner at the newly opened Sunset Bar & Grill. From casual fish and chips on the pier to sophisticated culinary creations, Catalina has it all.

  3. Enjoy Live Concerts: Experience the vibrant music scene with the Summer Music Concerts on Wrigley Stage. These family-friendly, free concerts provide the perfect backdrop of Avalon Harbor, making them ideal for dancing in the streets and singing along under the stars.

  4. Parasailing: Get a bird’s-eye view of Catalina Island by going parasailing. Feel the thrill as you glide above the crystal-clear waters, taking in breathtaking views of the island and its coastline. This exhilarating activity is perfect for adventure seekers looking for a unique way to experience Catalina’s natural beauty.

  5. Take an Ocean Wildlife Tour: Explore Catalina’s diverse marine life with an ocean wildlife tour. Spot dolphins, sea lions, and various seabirds as you cruise along the island’s coast. These tours offer a thrilling and educational way to experience Catalina’s aquatic wonders.

  6. Experience a Flying Fish Tour: Witness the magical sight of flying fish leaping out of the water on a nighttime flying fish tour. Illuminated by spotlights, these tours offer a unique and mesmerizing look at one of Catalina’s most extraordinary natural phenomena.

  7. Snorkel or Scuba Dive: Dive into Catalina Island’s underwater world, which is home to a vibrant marine ecosystem. With its clear waters and abundant sea life, snorkeling and scuba diving are perfect summer activities. Local dive operators offer experiences for all levels, ensuring a memorable underwater adventure.

  8. Paddleboard and Kayak: Enjoy the calm waters and scenic coastline of Catalina Island with paddleboarding or kayaking. Rent equipment and explore sheltered coves at your own pace, soaking in the island’s natural beauty and possibly encountering some marine life along the way.

  9. Bike Through Scenic Trails: Catalina Island offers fantastic biking opportunities for everyone. Rent a bike and pedal through Avalon’s picturesque streets or take on the rugged trails of the island’s interior. Mountain biking enthusiasts will find challenging paths with breathtaking views. Bike rentals are available, and permits for the interior trails can be easily obtained.

  10. Catch a Movie: Step back in time and enjoy a classic movie experience at the Catalina Casino. This historic venue, with its stunning Art Deco architecture, offers a unique movie-watching experience on weekends that you won't find anywhere else. Check out a free movie on the beach each Wednesday night through the summer. Or for a completely different experience, see Immersed Ocean Wonders at the Tour Plaza and go on a 360 degree virtual ocean dive.

Make this summer unforgettable with these exciting activities on Catalina Island. Whether you’re soaring above the island, dining at local restaurants, or exploring the underwater world, there’s always something new and thrilling to experience!