What is the best group itinerary for Catalina Island?

A strong group itinerary for 10 or more people covers two afternoons and one morning. It starts with a guided Avalon tour, a Casino backstage tour and a food tour, adds a 4x4 interior tour and an escape room, and ends with the Catalina Museum and an Undersea Expedition semi-submarine ride.

How many days do groups need on Catalina Island?

This itinerary fits two afternoons and one morning, which leaves room for meetings and free time. Groups that want more can add golf, a scavenger hunt or a Cyclone ride to Two Harbors.

How do groups get to Catalina Island?

See getting your group to the island on lovecatalina.com for transportation options and planning tips.

Can groups combine meetings with activities on Catalina Island?

Yes. The itinerary includes time to return to meetings between activities. Browse meeting and event venues and event services on lovecatalina.com to build out your agenda.

What group activities can you do on Catalina Island?

Popular options include a guided bus tour, a Casino backstage tour, a food tour, mini golf, an escape room, a 4x4 interior tour, a scavenger hunt, golf and a semi-submarine expedition.

Where can large groups eat on Catalina Island?

Avalon has restaurants and venues that host groups. Start with the group dining page on lovecatalina.com, then check restaurant operating hours before you finalize your plans.

Catalina Island Group Itinerary

The best way to plan a romantic Catalina Island getaway is a three-day stay in Avalon: one day to settle in, one for adventure and relaxation, and one for the water and island history. Palm-lined streets, a harbor full of boats, quiet coves and trails with ocean views make it easy to slow down together. Every stop below links to the details you need to plan it.

Catalina Island Couples Trip at a Glance

Best for: Anniversaries, honeymoons, proposals and romantic weekend escapes
Suggested length: 3 days, or a long weekend
How to get here: Ferry or helicopter to Avalon
Getting around: Avalon is easy to explore on foot, and you can rent bikes or golf carts
Where to stay: Hotels, bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals

Day 1: Arrive in Avalon and Explore the Waterfront

Morning

Cross the channel by ferry or helicopter and step off in the heart of Avalon.
Check in or drop your bags at your Catalina Island hotel or rental.

Afternoon

Wander Avalon's waterfront and browse the shops at your own pace.
Tour the round, Art Deco Catalina Casino, one of the island's most photographed landmarks.
Walk out onto the Green Pleasure Pier, then settle in at one of Avalon's beaches.

Evening

Have a candlelit dinner at a waterfront spot. Browse Catalina Island restaurants and check restaurant operating hours before you go.
Finish with a moonlit walk along the bay.

Day 2: Hiking, Spa Time and a Sunset on the Water

Morning

Head out on one of Catalina's hikes, walks and trails, or explore by bike or golf cart.
Stop at the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden for quiet garden paths and sweeping views.

Afternoon

Book a couples massage at one of the island's spas and wellness studios.
Lounge on the sand or at a hotel with a pool.

Evening

Watch the sky turn gold from the water on a Catalina boat tour.
Linger over dinner with live music, or explore more things to do after 3 PM.

Day 3: Snorkeling, Museums and a Scenic Tour

Morning

Slip into the clear water for snorkeling, or try diving and scuba if you are certified.

Afternoon

Learn the island's story at one of Avalon's museums.
See more of the island on a guided Catalina Island tour.

Evening and Departure

If your return trip is later in the day, share a farewell dinner and catch a movie in the Casino's historic theatre. Check the Catalina Casino page for current showtimes.
Confirm your ferry or helicopter departure time before your final day. See Getting Here for options.

More Romantic Things to Do on Catalina Island

Zipline: Glide above the canyon for a different view of the island. Catalina zipline details
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Paddle the coastline and slip into quiet coves. Kayaking and paddleboarding
Pedal boats and jet skis: Stay in the harbor on a pedal boat for two, or head out on a jet ski for open-water fun. Watercraft rentals
Parasailing: Take in the island and the ocean from high above. Parasailing
Heli-picnic: Fly into the island's interior for scenery and a gourmet picnic for two. Helicopter tours
Horseback riding: Explore scenic trails on a guided ride. Things to do by land
Golf: Play a round together with ocean views. Golf on Catalina
Virtual dive movie: Explore the world's oceans and Catalina's kelp forests in a 30-minute immersive film. More things to do
Stargazing: Avalon's evenings are made for looking up. Walk down to the water after dark and see what you can spot.

Tips for a Romantic Getaway

Look for couples deals on our Island of Romance page and boat and hotel packages.
Pack a picnic and find a scenic spot, or book a special dining experience.
Plan a surprise, whether it is a small gift or a sunset activity. Thinking bigger? See our Catalina Island proposal ideas.
Check the Catalina Island weather before you pack so you are ready for cool evenings on the water.
Build your own plan with Trip Builder and save your favorite stops.
Put the camera down for a few minutes. The best moments are the ones you are in.

Romantic Catalina Island Getaway: Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need for a romantic trip to Catalina Island?

Three days gives couples time to explore Avalon, enjoy one active day and spend time on the water without rushing. A long weekend also works well for a shorter escape.

How do couples get to Catalina Island?

Most visitors arrive in Avalon by ferry or helicopter. See Getting Here and By Air for options.

What are the most romantic things to do on Catalina Island?

Popular choices include a boat tour at sunset, a couples massage, a waterfront dinner, a walk through the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden, and a helicopter picnic. Browse all things to do on Catalina Island.

Where should couples stay on Catalina Island?

Couples can choose from hotels, bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. If you want pool time, see lodging with pools.

Do you need a car on Catalina Island?

No. Avalon is easy to explore on foot, and bikes and golf carts are available to rent.

Can you propose on Catalina Island?

Yes. Catalina is a popular place to propose. See our proposal ideas for inspiration.

Ready to book? Browse places to stay, check events happening this week, request the Visitors Guide or sign up for the newsletter for more island inspiration.

Meetings & Groups

Collaboration begins when you take the square room out of the equation. Sparks of creativity fly when you gather in a place fostering togetherness and team camaraderie.