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North America

Catalina Island, California

Escape to Californias Mediterranean-style island paradise, just an hour from LA. Come hungry and leave time to wander.

Quick Facts

Weather Range

54-75F (12-24C)

Currency

USD

Language

English

Time Zone

PST (UTC-8)

Overview

Catalina Island floats 22 miles off the Southern California coast like a Mediterranean daydream transplanted to the Pacific. The town of Avalon wraps around a crescent bay, where the iconic art deco Casino building (not a gambling hall—its a ballroom and theater) anchors the waterfront. Most of the island remains undeveloped wilderness, protected and crossed by hiking trails that lead to hidden coves and buffalo herds (yes, buffalo—Hollywood left them here after filming in the 1920s). The crystal-clear waters make for excellent snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours to see the kelp forests below. Golf carts outnumber cars, giving the whole place a laid-back, timeless vibe that feels world's away from LAs hustle. Zip-lining, eco-tours into the islands interior, and sunset harbor cruises round out the options. Catalina delivers that rare California combination: accessible escape with genuine natural beauty intact.

Top Sights

  • Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden
The monument to chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. sits amid gardens showcasing plants endemic to. Californias Channel Islands. The views and architecture make the uphill walk worthwhile.
  • Casino Building
The 1929 art deco masterpiece is a ballroom and theater, not a gambling hall, with stunning murals and ocean views. Tours. reveal the buildings history and you can catch a movie in the historic theater.
  • Two Harbors
The islands smaller village on the opposite end from Avalon, accessible by boat or Jeep tour. The quiet cove, kayaking, and hiking feel more remote and less touristy.

Neighborhoods

Avalon

Local eats and photo spots

Hamilton Cove

Sandy beaches and cafes

Descanso Beach

Sandy beaches and cafes

Shore Things Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.

Catalina Aerial Adventure

120 Hours

ACTIVE

Navigate suspended rope bridges, ladders, and beams in this treetop obstacle course tucked into a eucalyptus grove near Descanso Beach.
View Details
From

$135 USD

Discover Avalon: Scenic Drive

50 Hours

EASY

Ride through the colorful hills, beaches, and backstreets of Avalon on a guided tour packed with Catalina Island charm and stories.
View Details
From

$75 USD

El Rancho Escondido Backcountry Tour

210 Hours

MODERATE

Venture deep into Catalina’s rugged interior for an exclusive visit to historic El Rancho Escondido — where Arabian horses meet island winemaking.
View Details
From

$180 USD

Journey to Island’s End

120 Hours

EASY

Feel the power of a Hummer as you scale Catalina’s steep ridges and descend into canyons on this high-altitude backcountry ride.
View Details
From

$125 USD

Explore all Catalina Island Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Shore Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.
Worry-free excursions powered by Viator

Catalina Aerial Adventure

120 Hours

ACTIVE

Navigate suspended rope bridges, ladders, and beams in this treetop obstacle course tucked into a eucalyptus grove near Descanso Beach.
View Details
From

$135 USD

Discover Avalon: Scenic Drive

50 Hours

EASY

Ride through the colorful hills, beaches, and backstreets of Avalon on a guided tour packed with Catalina Island charm and stories.
View Details
From

$75 USD

El Rancho Escondido Backcountry Tour

210 Hours

MODERATE

Venture deep into Catalina’s rugged interior for an exclusive visit to historic El Rancho Escondido — where Arabian horses meet island winemaking.
View Details
From

$180 USD

Journey to Island’s End

120 Hours

EASY

Feel the power of a Hummer as you scale Catalina’s steep ridges and descend into canyons on this high-altitude backcountry ride.
View Details
From

$125 USD

Explore all Catalina Island Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Map

Quick Facts

Weather Range

54-75F (12-24C)

Currency

USD

Language

English

Time Zone

PST (UTC-8)

Ready to explore Catalina Island?

Discover voyages that visit this amazing destination.
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