Santa Catalina Island bursts with adventure and scenery you just can’t find anywhere else. I stumbled onto everything from laid-back boat rides to trails that really got my heart pumping, all with those endless ocean views and wild, rugged hills.
Here are my top five Catalina experiences—think glass bottom boats, epic hikes, and outdoor moments that really show off this California gem.
If you love spotting sea creatures or prefer exploring on foot, Catalina’s got you covered. Let me walk you through the highlights that made my trip something special—maybe they’ll spark ideas for your own adventure.
Glass Bottom Boat Adventure
Drifting over Catalina’s crystal-clear waters in a glass bottom boat, I got a front-row seat to the island’s underwater world. No wetsuit needed—I just kicked back and watched bright fish darting right below my feet.
Discovering Catalina Island’s Marine Life
The glass bottom boat tour took me straight over Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve, and wow, it was clear. I could see big schools of orange Garibaldi, kelp bass, and swaying forests of kelp just inches under the boat.
I didn’t expect to spot so many different fish through those thick glass panels. Once, I even caught sight of a stingray gliding by. Sometimes, an octopus made a surprise appearance. Catalina’s waters are famous for variety, so every tour feels like a new discovery.
Watching all this marine life made me realize how important these waters are for the island’s wildlife. The guides pointed out different species and shared cool facts, which helped me figure out what I was seeing. I love that tours like this support marine conservation.
What to Expect on a Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Booking a glass bottom boat tour is a breeze, and most trips last about 45 minutes. The boats feel stable and roomy, so families or groups fit right in. I just walked up a few steps and found a big, clear panel in the middle of the boat.
The tour sticks close to Avalon’s main harbor, so seasickness wasn’t a worry. I stayed dry but felt so close to the action—fish zipped by right under the glass. The guides answered everyone’s questions and pointed out hidden creatures I’d never spot on my own.
Boat tours come with benches and safety rails for comfort. Bring a camera if you can—snapping photos through the glass is a fun challenge. If you’re curious about Catalina’s sea life but not into snorkeling, this tour is a no-brainer.
Epic Hiking Trails on Santa Catalina Island
Hiking on Catalina is just…wow. There are long coastal trails, easy walks, and some rugged paths that cut through wild, untouched nature.
Some trails stick close to Avalon, giving you city views, while others take you out where it’s just you and the sea.
Top Hikes Near Avalon
Avalon is the starting point for a bunch of great hikes. The Garden to Sky Trail kicks off at the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden. It climbs to a ridge with sweeping ocean views on both sides.
The path is about 2.5 miles round trip—manageable for most.
Another easy favorite is the Hermit Gulch Trail. This loop heads into the island’s hills and links up with the Trans-Catalina Trail. The first stretch is a bit steep, but it evens out up top and there are plenty of wildflowers in spring.
For something super relaxed, try the Lover’s Cove Walkway. It’s flat, runs along the water, and the clear sea makes fish-spotting easy. Perfect for a quick stroll and a few photos.
| Trail Name | Distance | Trail Type | Views |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garden to Sky | 2.5 miles | Out & back | Ocean, Avalon |
| Hermit Gulch | 1.7 miles+ | Loop | Interior hills |
| Lover’s Cove Walkway | 1 mile | Flat/Linear | Coastline |
Scenic Overlooks and Nature Reserves
A bit farther from Avalon, the Trans-Catalina Trail stretches over 20 miles across the island. This one’s for experienced hikers or anyone craving a multi-day trek.
The trail winds through nature reserves packed with rare plants and, sometimes, bison. I hiked a section near Little Harbor—those cliffs and sea views are unreal.
Inland Nature Reserves, managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy, protect a lot of wild land. Some short trails here are quiet and perfect for birdwatching or finding a shady spot under the oaks.
My favorite overlook? Silver Peak. It’s peaceful and you can see almost the whole island from up there.
You’ll need a free hiking permit for many of these areas. It’s easy to get one online or right in Avalon. Wandering these protected spots, I felt miles from city life.
Kayaking Around Catalina’s Coastline
Kayaking on Catalina is one of those “wow, I’m really here” experiences. You get right up close to the blue water, dramatic cliffs, and secret coves.
Rentals are everywhere, and the views? Always worth it.
Best Routes for Beginners and Experienced Kayakers
New to kayaking? Avalon Bay is the place to start. The water is calm, rentals are right on the beach, and the staff will show you the basics.
I also love paddling along Descanso Beach. It’s close to town, and you get awesome views of the coast and sea life. I’ve seen bright Garibaldi fish swimming right under my kayak.
Feeling adventurous? Try the route from Avalon to Frog Rock. It’s about three miles and takes you past sea caves and rocky outcrops. If you push west, Isthmus Cove near Two Harbors offers longer, open-water routes and quiet beaches. I usually pack a lunch and stop for a break on the sand.
Popular Kayak Routes Table:
| Difficulty | Route | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | Avalon Bay / Descanso Beach | Calm water, rentals |
| Moderate | Avalon to Frog Rock | Sea caves, coves |
| Experienced | Two Harbors to secluded beaches | Open water, quiet spots |
Safety Tips and Equipment Recommendations
Whenever I kayak on Catalina, I always throw on a life jacket. The ocean’s beautiful but can surprise you.
Here’s what I keep in mind:
- Always check weather and tides before heading out.
- Don’t paddle alone, especially if you’re leaving the main beach.
- Bring water, snacks, a hat, and sunscreen.
- Keep your phone and valuables in a waterproof bag.
- Carry a whistle or something to signal with in case you need help.
My go-to gear: a sturdy paddle, fitted life jacket, dry bag, and water shoes for rocky spots. Most rental shops give a quick safety rundown. If the weather looks sketchy, I wait it out. Better safe than sorry when you’re exploring Catalina’s coastline.
Boat Tours from Newport Beach to Catalina Island
Starting your Catalina trip with a boat tour from Newport Beach is a classic move. The crossing is easy to plan, and you’ve got a few options.
Planning Your Trip from Newport Beach
I usually leave from the Balboa Pavilion, where the Catalina Flyer heads to Avalon almost daily. The ferry staff always make boarding simple. You don’t need a car—just pack light and get there about 30 minutes ahead.
The Catalina Flyer is the main high-speed ferry, holding up to 600 people. The ride takes about 90 minutes, and it’s pretty smooth. There’s indoor and outdoor seating, restrooms, and a snack bar.
Round-trip tickets sell out fast in summer or on weekends, so I always book online before I go.
There’s usually one departure a day, so check the schedule and plan your return. Parking’s close by but fills up, so arrive early if you can.
Comparing Boat Options and Schedules
The Catalina Flyer is the go-to from Newport Beach for most folks. It’s a big catamaran, which means a steadier ride—less chance of seasickness.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Boat Name | Departure Location | Travel Time | Typical Schedule | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catalina Flyer | Newport Beach | 90 minutes | 1 trip per day | 600 |
Other ports—Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point—have their own ferries, but Newport Beach really just has the Flyer. It leaves in the morning and returns in the evening, so it’s perfect for day trips.
If you want more flexibility, check other ports. But honestly, I like the Flyer’s convenience and smooth ride for my Newport Beach trips.
Unique Adventures and Hidden Gems in Avalon
Avalon, Catalina’s main town, is packed with tiny surprises and local experiences that aren’t always on the tourist map.
Wandering off the main drag led me to peaceful spots and moments I won’t forget.
Charming Spots in Avalon
Avalon’s side streets and hidden corners are perfect for escaping the crowds. Near the waterfront, I walked to the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden and found plants you only see on California’s islands.
Strolling through the gardens and shady paths felt peaceful. On a quiet morning, I wandered down Crescent Avenue. I grabbed coffee at a local café and watched boats drift in and out.
The Green Pleasure Pier is a fun spot to try local seafood and check out the day’s catch. At sunset, I wandered past the Casino along the waterfront, catching those golden reflections on the water.
Local Experiences Beyond the Usual Attractions
One afternoon, I hopped on a glass bottom boat tour—honestly, it felt like the easiest way to check out the sea life without getting soaked. Peering down through the glass, I caught flashes of bright fish darting around and watched the kelp forests sway.
The local guides kept things lively, pointing out different species and sharing quirky stories about Avalon’s past. Their passion for the island really came through.
Later on, craving a taste of daily island life, I wandered over to the local market. I grabbed some fresh fruit and chatted with a few shop owners. They didn’t hold back, sharing what it’s actually like to live and work on Catalina.
At some point, someone insisted I try a Buffalo Milk cocktail—apparently, it’s a bit of a local legend. I was skeptical, but it turned out to be surprisingly good.
Honestly, these little moments—the conversations, the flavors, the offbeat stories—gave me a glimpse of Avalon that you just don’t get from the usual tourist spots.
