What to do in Catalina island for a one day trip?

For a one-day trip to Catalina Island, here are the top things to do:
  • Explore Avalon – Stroll the charming town, visit shops, and enjoy the beach views.
  • Take a golf cart tour – A fun way to see the island’s scenic spots quickly.
  • Visit the Catalina Casino – Not a gambling spot, but a historic art deco landmark with tours.
  • Snorkeling or kayaking – Head to Lover’s Cove or Descanso Beach for water fun.
  • Try local seafood – Enjoy fresh fish tacos or clam chowder at waterfront restaurants.
  • Hike the Garden to Sky Trail – A short hike with beautiful island views.
  • Relax at Descanso Beach Club – Rent a chair and soak up the sun.

It’s a perfect island escape packed with nature, charm, and adventure—even in just one day!
 
  • Ferry Options: Catalina Express (from Long Beach, Dana Point, or San Pedro) – ~1 hour
  • Arrive in Avalon (the main town): most ferries get in by 8:30–10:00 AM
 
For a one-day trip to Catalina Island, take a morning ferry to Avalon, explore the town by golf cart, and enjoy lunch by the waterfront. Hike the Garden to Sky Trail or take a semi-submarine tour to see marine life. Visit the historic Catalina Casino, then relax or try paddleboarding at Descanso Beach Club before heading back.
 
For a peaceful one-day trip to Catalina Island, start by exploring Avalon, the charming waterfront town filled with boutique shops and cafés. Visit the Catalina Casino for its history and gorgeous architecture. Then take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the marine life without getting wet. Spend your afternoon relaxing at Descanso Beach Club, where you can rent cabanas or try kayaking. End the day with a stroll along the harbor before catching the ferry back.
 
If you want an active trip, begin with the Zip Line Eco Tour, offering incredible ocean views. Rent a golf cart to explore the island’s hills, gardens, and overlooks at your own pace. Head to the Catalina Island Conservancy trails for a short hike with great photo spots. In the afternoon, try snorkeling at Lover’s Cove, famous for its clear water and colorful fish. Wrap up your day with a waterfront meal before returning by ferry.
 
Concentrate on Avalon for the ideal one-day excursion to Catalina Island. Take a Bison Expedition, explore the historic Catalina Casino, or rent a golf cart for picturesque views. Enjoy the renowned Buffalo Milk cocktail while unwinding at Descanso Beach Club.
 
For a one-day trip to Catalina Island, explore Avalon, relax at the beach, take a glass-bottom boat tour, go snorkeling or kayaking, ride the Descanso Beach zip line, and enjoy seaside dining before heading back.
 
On a one‑day Catalina Island trip, explore Avalon’s charming town and beaches, take a golf cart tour, visit the historic Catalina Casino, enjoy water activities like snorkeling or kayaking, hike scenic trails, and savor local seafood while soaking up nature and island views.
 
On a one-day Catalina Island vacation, discover Avalon's quaint town and beaches, take a golf cart tour, visit the famous Catalina Casino, enjoy water activities like snorkeling or kayaking, climb gorgeous trails, and sample local seafood while soaking up nature and island vistas.
 
To have an excursion tour to Catalina Island, visit Avalon, rest at the Descanso Beach, go on a tour in a glass-bottom boat, snorkel, or have a zip-lining adventure. Take a stroll around the scenic harbor, the Catalina Casino, local area seafood, and ideas of shopping and taking the ferry).
 
On a one-day trip to Catalina Island, explore Avalon, relax at Descanso Beach, take a glass-bottom boat tour, snorkel in clear waters, ride the Scenic Sky Ride, visit the Catalina Casino, enjoy coastal dining, and shop local boutiques before returning by ferry in the evening.
 
Ride to Avalon and rent a golf cart to enjoy the scenic beauty, visit the old Catalina Casino and unwind at the Descanso Beach Club. Snorkel, zip-line or a bison adventure.
 
Back
Top