Catalina Island Adventurer 3-Day Itinerary

Below is a sample 3‑day “adventure packed” itinerary on Catalina Island that weaves together water thrills, rugged inland explorations, and heart‐pounding land adventures. (Keep in mind that many of these activities require advance booking and are weather‑dependent, so it’s a good idea to confirm schedules with local operators ahead of your trip.) Enjoy your adventure!

Day 1: Coastal & Aerial Adventures

9:00 AM – Town Bike Ride

Bike in Town: Rent a bike and cruise the scenic and charming streets to get a feel for the island’s relaxed vibe.

11:00 AM – Soar Over Catalina (Helicopter Tour)

Head to the helipad for a 45‑minute helicopter tour that provides breathtaking aerial views of Catalina’s rugged coastline, hidden coves, and interior hills.

12:00 PM – Quick Snack & Transition

Grab a light refreshment in town before heading to the water.

1:00 PM – Underwater Exploration (Scuba Diving or Snorkeling)

Head to the Casino Point Dive Park for a 2–3‑hour snorkeling (or scuba diving) session or lesson. This dive park is a Marine Protected Area where you can marvel at vibrant marine life and kelp forests in Catalina’s crystal‑clear waters.

3:30 PM – Waterborne Thrills (Parasailing)

Experience parasailing for about an hour. Soar high above the ocean for a unique, adrenaline‑pumping perspective of Catalina’s shoreline. Friends and family can ride along if they are not parasailers.

4:45 PM – Kayaking & Paddle Board

Hit the harbor for a relaxed session of kayaking and paddle boarding. Glide along calm coves for about an hour, taking in the final light of day.

7:00 PM – Dinner & Evening Stroll

Enjoy a sunset dinner in Avalon and shop along the waterfront, if you’re still feeling energetic, consider a leisurely bike ride to wrap up your first day.

Day 2: Scenic Hiking & Island History

7:30 AM – Early Breakfast & Prep

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast. Pack water, snacks, and layered clothing for a full‑day hike.

8:00 AM – Summit Adventure (Hiking via Hermit Gulch)

Begin your hike on the Hermit Gulch Trail from Avalon. This challenging trek takes you upward toward Catalina’s highest point, offering expansive vistas along the way.

10:00 AM – Summit Break

Once at the summit, pause to enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific and the island’s rugged terrain. Snap photos and savor a well‑earned snack.

10:30AM - 12:30 PM – Scenic Descent (Botanic Gardens & Wrigley Memorial Route)

Begin your descent on a different path that meanders past the island’s botanic gardens and historic Wrigley Memorial. Learn about Catalina’s unique flora and the legacy of William Wrigley Jr. while you wind your way back to town.

1:00 PM – Return & Relax

Arrive back in Avalon. Take some time to relax and grab a well-deserved beer at the BierGarten—have lunch.

3:00 PM - Take a Dip or Swim a Lap or two in Avalon Harbor

Avalon Harbor is a great place to go for a swim. The water is clear and calm, and there are plenty of places to relax on the beach. Simply walk down Crescent Avenue and select your preferred beach and swimming spot.

6:30 PM – Dinner & Downtime

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in town. After a strenuous day on the trail, take the evening to rest and reflect on the stunning natural beauty you experienced.

Day 3: Inland Adrenaline & Final Water Adventure

Option A: Fishing First (Early Morning Fishing Charter)

6:30 AM – Early Breakfast & Fishing Charter

Start the day with an early, hearty breakfast before boarding a fishing charter (typically a 3–4‑hour trip) to experience Catalina’s deep‑sea fishing. Reel in local species while enjoying the early‑morning calm.

10:00 AM – Return & Refresh

After your fishing adventure, enjoy a light snack and change gears for the day’s inland excitement.

Option B: Alternatively, if fishing isn’t your top priority, you can swap this morning slot for additional land adventures and schedule the charter later in the day (weather and operator availability permitting).

Mid‑Morning: Interior Exploration (4×4 Eco Tour)

10:00–12:00 PM

Join a guided interior 4×4 eco tour that takes you off‑road into Catalina’s rugged backcountry. Learn about the island’s unique ecology and see wildlife and native vegetation up close.

12:00 PM – Lunch Break

Enjoy lunch at a scenic picnic spot or back in town, recharging for the afternoon’s activities.

1:00 PM – High‑Flying Fun (Zip Lining & Aerial Adventure)

Experience an adrenaline‑pumping zip line and aerial adventure course. Glide through the treetops for about an hour as you take in a fresh, bird’s‑eye perspective of the interior landscape.

4:00 PM – Equestrian Excursion (Horseback Riding)

Switch gears with a horseback riding session along a picturesque trail. A 1‑hour ride offers both a thrill and a slower‑pace chance to appreciate Catalina’s diverse terrain.

5:00 PM – Optional: Final Bike Ride

If you still have energy, consider a quick bike ride around Avalon to catch any sights you might have missed, or simply to wind down your adventure‑filled day.

7:00 PM – Farewell Dinner

Cap off your trip with a memorable dinner in Avalon. Celebrate your action‑packed 3 days with fresh seafood and local flavors, and reminisce about the incredible adventures you experienced.

Final Tips:

Pace Yourself: This itinerary is ambitious! Feel free to rearrange, shorten, or substitute activities based on your energy levels and the seasonal availability of each adventure.
Book in Advance: Many of these activities (especially the helicopter tour, eco tours, and fishing charter) have limited availability. Reserve your spots well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Stay Hydrated & Protected: Whether you’re hiking in the sun or out on the water, remember sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.

Enjoy your action‑packed adventure on Catalina Island—a perfect blend of stunning nature, heart‑racing thrills, and island charm!

Additional Activities:

Aerial Adventure: A unique and challenging obstacle course experience in Descanso Canyon
Jet Ski Rental: Enjoy open ocean riding 200 feet off the shores of Catalina Island.
Biking the interior of the island
Hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail (TCT) with pre or post-stay in Avalon