5 Perfect Days on Catalina

Here's a 5-day “perfect island getaway” itinerary for Catalina Island that weaves together culture, adventure, water sports, and relaxation! Some tours and activities operate seasonally - check with operators for availability.  .

Day 1 – Avalon Culture, History & City Exploration

Morning (9:00 AM –12:00 PM)

• Discover Avalon Tour: Begin your day with a guided tour through Avalon's charming streets, learning about its rich history and vibrant local culture. Postcard views abound on this seven-and-a-half-mile journey through scenic Avalon. Or rent a golf cart to explore Avalon on your own or book a guided golf cart tour.
• Bike Ride: Rent bicycles to cruise around Avalon and soak in the seaside ambiance. As an option, download a self-guided app Scavenger Hunt and discover hidden corners of Avalon. 

Lunch (12:00–2:30 PM)

• Catalina Food Tour: Savor local flavors at five different restaurants and specialty food shops as you hop between eateries and sample the island’s culinary delights.

Afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM)

• Catalina Island Museum for Art & History: Dive into the island’s art and history with a visit to this cultural gem.
• Avalon Diving History Exhibit: Check out one of the most unique collections of vintage dive gear in the USA. Focused on the education and preservation of dive related history, this museum is a must. 
• Catalina Casino Tour: Take a behind the scenes tour of the historic Avalon Casino and see areas of the Casino once closed to the public for 70+ years. 

Evening (6:00–9:00 PM)

• Dinner: Try one of Avalon’s restaurants – Al Fresco. 
• Mini Golf: Enjoy a round of mini golf for a light-hearted break.
• Karaoke at El Galleon or enjoy live local entertainment at one of Avalon’s bars or venues

Day 2 – Ultimate Water & Land Adventures

Morning (8:00 AM–12:00 PM)

• Scuba Diving/Snorkeling: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Casino Point Dive Park and State Marine Conservation Area for an up-close look at the island’s stunning kelp forests. No boat needed. 
  If you’re not up for getting wet, explore the ocean with a virtual scuba at “Immersed Ocean Wonders”. 

Lunch (12:30–2:00 PM)

• Waterfront Dining: Refuel with a leisurely lunch by the ocean.

Afternoon (2:00–4:00 PM)

• Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty and adventure of Catalina Island on a guided horseback journey. Our experienced wranglers and friendly horses will guide you on an unforgettable ride up and around Avalon Canyon that showcases a spectacular ocean view of Avalon Harbor and the Casino.

Evening (5:30–9:00 PM)

• Dinner followed by a Flying Fish Tour at Night: Cap off the day with a magical nighttime boat tour to spot flying fish and other nocturnal marine wonders (tour operates seasonally June - September). 

Day 3 – Explore Two Harbors 

Morning (8:00 AM–12:00 PM)

• Cyclone Power Boat (operates seasonally) From Avalon to Two Harbors: Located on Catalina’s west end, enjoy a 40-minute high speed voyage to Two Harbors. A rustic village on the narrow strip of land that separates Isthmus Cove from Catalina Harbor, Two Harbors offers hiking, biking, kayaking and ocean activities. Catalina Taxi & Tours also offers transportation to and from Two Harbors. 
• Paddle boarding and kayaking Try your hand at balancing on the waves with a paddleboard session or glide along the crystal clear waters on a Kayak. 

Lunch (12:00–1:30 PM)

• Seaside Meal: Enjoy lunch on the sand at Harbor Sands  or enjoy ocean views at the Harbor Reef Bar & Restaurant. Both restaurants offer great food and drinks, including the signature "Buffalo Milk" cocktail (born in Two Harbors).

Afternoon (1:30–5:00 PM)

• Walk across the isthmus of Catalina Island: The isthmus is a 770-meter (842 yards) section of land that joins the northwestern portion of Santa Catalina Island to the main part of the island.
• Return to Avalon on the Cyclone Power Boat

Evening (6:00-10:00 PM)

• Dinner: Enjoy a dinner at one of Avalon’s many restaurants
• Movies on the Beach: End your island getaway with a magical outdoor movie screening under the stars. (Outdoor movies during summer months. Throughout the year, see a flick at Avalon Theatre on weekends.)

Day 4 – Land-Based Thrills & Scenic Hiking

Morning (8:00 AM–12:00 PM)

• Hike the Hermit Gulch Trail: Trek to the summit and return via the historic Wrigley Memorial and enchanting Botanic Gardens for a truly scenic hike.

Lunch (12:00–1:00 PM)

• Picnic in Nature: Enjoy a relaxed picnic amid the island’s natural beauty.

Afternoon (1:00–4:00 PM)

• Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour Adventure: Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling zip line experience.
• Undersea Expedition: Embark on a guided undersea adventure to marvel at Catalina’s vibrant marine life.

Evening

• Shop for unique souvenirs and gifts at one of the many stores.
• Beach Bingo: Join in a fun game of bingo on the beach.(available during summer months)
• Local Dinner: Unwind with a satisfying meal at a local restaurant after a day full of activity.

Day 5 – Leisure, Luxury & Beachside Fun

Morning (8:00–10:00 AM)

• Golf: Start your day with a round of golf on Catalina Island’s scenic course. Or try your hand at Pickleball. 

Late Morning to Early Afternoon (10:30 AM–4:00 PM)

• Descanso Beach Club: Head to Descanso Beach Club and luxuriate in a private cabana with ocean views.
• Beachside Lunch: Enjoy refreshing drinks and light bites served right at your cabana.

Afternoon (4:00–5:30 PM)

• Massage: Indulge in a rejuvenating massage at a local spa.

Evening (5:30–9:00 PM)

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at one of a variety of restaurants and indulge in a culinary adventure and savor a delightful dinner at your choice of a wide array of restaurants. 
• Haunted Catalina Ghost Tour: Wrap up your day with a spooky tour, delving into local legends and mysteries.

Additional activities for visitors staying longer than 5 days or planning a return trip. 

• Glass Bottom Boat Ride: Relax and enjoy a tour that lets you admire the underwater world from above.
• Dolphin Tour: Get up close with playful dolphins on a guided boat tour.
• Parasailing: Soar high above the ocean for breathtaking aerial views.
• Jet Skiing (operates seasonally): Feel the adrenaline rush as you zip across the water on a jet ski.
• 4×4 Tour into the Interior: Return to Avalon for an exhilarating off-road adventure through Catalina’s rugged interior.
• Helicopter Tour: Take to the skies for panoramic aerial views of the island’s dramatic landscapes.
• Joe’s Rent A Boat (operates seasonally): Take a relaxed cruise outside of the harbor with a boat rental from Joe’s.
• Escape Room: Put your puzzle-solving skills to the test in an exciting escape room challenge.
• Avalon Theatre at the Catalina Casino: Enjoy a movie or see a show under the twinkling lights of the Avalon Theatre's stunning art deco interior.