Catalina Island isn’t just a pretty face. It offers a variety of tours that let you truly get beneath the surface—whether that’s exploring Avalon by golf cart, sampling local bites, or diving into its mysterious past. I personally love the Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon because it offers a personalized way to see the island’s highlights like the Catalina Casino and Wrigley Memorial with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re a foodie, the Catalina Food Tour is a must, giving you a taste of the island’s culinary scene along with stories that bring Avalon alive.
And for those fascinated by the ocean or the supernatural, Catalina doesn’t disappoint. The Yellow Semi-Submarine Tour offers a dry, up-close look at marine life, perfect for families, while the Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour dives into the island’s spooky tales. Whatever your interests, this list has a wide selection of experiences to make your visit memorable.
1. Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon
Make the most of your time on Catalina Island with this private golf cart tour. It’s a quick, fun way to hit all the major sights, from Pebbly Beach to the iconic Catalina Casino. Your guide will customize the experience, sharing stories about the island’s history and culture as you zip around in your fully private golf cart.
This tour is perfect if you want to see more in less time without the fatigue of walking. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides, praising Dudley in particular for his local insights. The tour lasts about two hours and costs $302.50 for up to five people, making it a good value for a personalized experience. The highlight? Visiting Pebbly Beach, feeding the fish at the Casino, and getting a peek at the Wrigley Memorial, all with your own guide explaining what makes Catalina tick.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private tour ideal for small groups craving a personalized, quick overview of Avalon’s key sights.
2. Catalina Food Tour
Skip the tourist traps and go straight to the good stuff on this foodie walking tour of Avalon. For around $155 per person, you’ll follow your guide along the waterfront to several local hotspots, tasting fresh seafood, sweet treats, and classic Catalina dishes. The tour lasts about two and a half hours and is limited to just ten people, ensuring an intimate experience.
Your guide shares insights into Catalina’s culinary past and present, making each stop more meaningful. Highlights include samples at Topside by NDMK, located with spectacular harbor views, and the Avalon beachfront El Galleon Restaurant. The tour also passes by iconic sites like the Casino and Lloyd’s of Avalon, adding context to your bites. Reviewers love the friendly guides and hearty portions; one critic called it “a great day to get a taste for the town.”
Bottom Line: A delicious way to get to know Avalon’s local flavor and history, ideal for food lovers and small groups.
3. Yellow Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island From Avalon
For just $53, you can enjoy a semi-submarine adventure that takes you 45 feet below the surface without getting wet. Departing from Avalon, this tour offers a close-up view of Catalina’s underwater life, including colorful fish and kelp forests, through a glass viewing port. It’s a hit with families and anyone who prefers a dry adventure but still loves marine exploration.
The boat’s design, inspired by the USS Nautilus, provides a comfortable, stable platform for viewing. Guests report seeing “literally thousands of fish,” and many mention feeding the fish (for a small extra fee) as a highlight. The top deck offers ocean views, making it easy to snap photos of the harbor and Catalina’s coastline.
Bottom Line: An easy, family-friendly way to explore Catalina’s marine ecosystem without snorkel gear.
4. 2 Hour Private Tour of Avalon
If you crave a relaxed, tailored introduction to Avalon, this private two-hour tour is a smart choice. Costing $295 for up to five people, it’s a private experience that covers the city’s must-see sights and hidden corners. Your guide will share stories about the island’s history, culture, and local lifestyles, all while driving you comfortably in a golf cart.
Guests rave about the personalized attention and the chance to explore at your own pace. The tour includes stops at scenic viewpoints and lesser-known spots that most visitors miss. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, this tour can be customized to your interests, making it one of the most flexible options on the list.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a private, in-depth look at Avalon without rushing.
5. Discover Avalon: Catalina Scenic Tour
With just $31 per person, this 50-minute scenic ride offers a quick overview of Avalon’s highlights. It’s a great first stop to orient yourself, traveling along the waterfront, up the hills, and through town. Your guide will point out landmarks and tell stories that bring Avalon’s colorful past to life.
The tour is ideal if you’re pressed for time but want to get a sense of the island’s layout and history. Reviewers mention how much they learned in just under an hour, with one saying, “Laura was so knowledgeable and funny.” It’s a budget-friendly way to kick off your Catalina adventure.
Bottom Line: A short, informative tour that’s perfect for first-timers wanting a quick orientation.
6. 2 hour Inside Adventure Tour on Catalina Island
Venture into Catalina’s less-visited interior on this two-hour tour, priced at $86 per person. It’s a rare chance to explore the island’s protected lands, up to ten miles inland, where wildlife like bison, bald eagles, and Catalina fox roam freely. You’ll visit the Nature Center at Airport-in-the-Sky and see native American gathering sites.
This tour is best suited for nature lovers and those comfortable with a bumpy ride—some reviews mention the ride can be a bit rough but worth it for the wildlife sightings. It offers a different perspective from the typical beachside activities, giving you insight into the island’s conservation efforts.
Bottom Line: Excellent for wildlife enthusiasts and those interested in Catalina’s pristine, rugged environment.
7. Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour
For $30, you can experience some of Avalon’s spooky side with this ghost walking tour. Covering about a mile in 90 minutes, the tour visits haunted spots like the Catalina Casino and explores the ghostly tales that add mystery to the island’s charm. Led by a local historian, you’ll learn the stories behind spirits and paranormal events.
Reviews mention how entertaining and atmospheric the guide Jess is, making the stories come alive. If you enjoy a mix of history and a bit of the supernatural, this tour offers a fun, spooky contrast to the more straightforward sightseeing options.
Bottom Line: A spooky, fun way to explore Avalon’s darker stories, suitable for those who like ghost stories and history alike.
8. Undersea Expedition: Catalina Island Tour
This undersea cruise for $52 takes you 45 minutes beneath Catalina’s waters without getting wet. On a large, climate-controlled boat, you’ll see fish, coral, and marine plants through viewing ports, with live commentary from the captain. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, informative marine experience.
Guests often mention how much they enjoyed observing the underwater ecosystems, with reports of seeing “beautiful fish” and “kelp forests.” The tour departs hourly, making it easy to fit into your schedule. It’s a solid choice for families or anyone who prefers a low-impact, scenic activity.
Bottom Line: An accessible, relaxing ocean experience with plenty of marine life to see.
9. Walking History Tour on Catalina Island
For $40, this walking history tour offers a detailed look at Avalon’s past, led by a local expert. Covering about a mile in 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, it’s great for history buffs or anyone wanting to understand Catalina’s roots. The tour includes stops at notable landmarks like the Holly Hill House, Green Pier, and the Catalina Casino, with stories that bring the town’s colorful history to life.
Guests appreciate the personal touch of a small family-owned business and the opportunity to ask questions. One reviewer called it “a wonderful and informative tour,” praising the guide’s passion and knowledge. It’s suitable for all ages and accessible, making it a good option for families.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, engaging history walk ideal for curious travelers.
10. Glass Bottom Boat: Catalina Island Tour
See Catalina’s marine world from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat for just $29. This 40-minute tour offers underwater views of fish, coral, and kelp, while you enjoy a narrated cruise around Lover’s Cove. It’s perfect for those who want an easy, family-friendly activity that doesn’t involve swimming.
Reviewers rave about the clarity of the water and the beauty of the marine life seen through the glass. It’s a relaxed way to spend part of your day, especially if you’re traveling with kids or prefer a seated experience.
Bottom Line: A quick, affordable glimpse into Catalina’s underwater environment—great for all ages.
11. A 360° Immersive Ocean Movie Experience
This 30-minute virtual dive costs $29.95 and uses full 8K footage to simulate scuba diving through the world’s oceans. It’s a unique, air-conditioned experience with comfortable seating, making it ideal for those who want to see stunning marine scenes without leaving land.
Guests describe it as “excellent and informative,” often mentioning how it makes them feel immersed in the ocean. It’s a relaxing complement to more active tours or a nice way to wind down after a day exploring Avalon.
Bottom Line: A high-quality, virtual undersea adventure perfect for underwater lovers and those with limited mobility.
12. Casino VIP Backstage Tour
Step behind the scenes of the historic Catalina Island Casino with this VIP backstage tour. For $38, you’ll see art deco murals, the grand ballroom, and the historic pipe organ. The tour includes a short film on the building’s Hollywood connection and a walk through the art deco interiors.
Guests praise the guide for being “very knowledgeable,” and the tour provides a rare look at the inside spaces most visitors never see. If you appreciate architecture and history, this tour offers a glamorous glimpse into Catalina’s golden age.
Bottom Line: An elegant, insider tour of a Hollywood-era landmark, ideal for architecture and history fans.
13. Haunted Catalina Golf Cart Tour
For $65, this ghost tour by golf cart combines the fun of a scenic drive with eerie stories. It covers Avalon’s haunted sites in about 90 minutes, including the Pet Cemetery, Wrigley Mansion, and the Wrigley Memorial. The guide weaves paranormal tales that add a spooky twist to your sightseeing.
Reviewers mention the “outstanding” guide and the fun atmosphere, making it a popular choice for those interested in Avalon’s supernatural side. The tour’s nighttime setting enhances the spooky vibe.
Bottom Line: A lively, spooky alternative—perfect for thrill-seekers and fans of ghost stories.
14. Catalina Express: Avalon to San Pedro One-Way Ferry
This ferry ride for $47 is a straightforward way to travel between Avalon and San Pedro. It’s about an hour long, offering stunning views of the Pacific and a relaxing way to start or end your visit.
While not a tour in the traditional sense, it’s an essential part of planning your trip—especially if you’re combining Catalina with other Southern California stops. Reviewers appreciate the easy booking and pleasant ride.
Bottom Line: The practical option for getting to or from Catalina efficiently.
15. Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour
For $40, this evening tour combines history with paranormal investigation. Using EMF detectors, you’ll explore Avalon’s haunted hotspots like the Casino and other locations reputed for ghostly activity. The tour lasts about 110 minutes and is recommended for ages 12 and up.
Reviews mention the “proof of the other side” and how engaging the guide Jesse is. It’s a good fit if you’re interested in the paranormal and want a more interactive experience than just listening to ghost stories.
Bottom Line: An interactive, spooky tour perfect for curious teens and adults intrigued by supernatural phenomena.
16. Private Guided City Tour up to 12 Passengers
This large-group private tour costs $450 for up to 12 people and lasts about 75 minutes. You’ll ride in the uniquely shaped “Gary the Garibaldi,” a fully electric golf cart, exploring Avalon with a local guide. It’s ideal for families or groups wanting a fun, eco-friendly experience with plenty of photo stops.
Guests describe the guide as knowledgeable and friendly, with many appreciating the chance to learn about the island’s landmarks in comfort. The tour’s flexibility makes it suitable for larger groups wanting a personal touch.
Bottom Line: Best for bigger groups seeking a customized, comfortable exploration of Avalon.
How to Choose
When selecting your Catalina tour, consider your interests and travel style. If history and architecture fascinate you, the Casino VIP Backstage Tour or Walking History Tour are excellent. For nature lovers, the Inside Adventure Tour or Undersea Expedition offer immersive experiences. Foodies will love the Catalina Food Tour, while thrill-seekers might prefer the Haunted Ghost Tour or EMF Detection Tour. Budget and time are key—short tours like the Scenic Ride are perfect for quick orientations, while private options suit those wanting a tailored experience.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the Golf Cart Tours or the Food Tour, which fill quickly during peak season. Also, check the tour times and availability to match your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Catalina Island offers a diverse range of tours that suit many tastes. For an all-encompassing experience, the Private Guided Golf Cart Tour and the Inside Adventure give in-depth insight, while shorter options like the Scenic Tour or the Glass Bottom Boat provide quick, memorable highlights. For those with a sense of adventure or curiosity about the island’s darker stories, the Ghost Tours and EMF Detection Walk make for unforgettable experiences.
No matter what you choose, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these top-rated Catalina adventures. So start planning today, and get ready for a trip filled with fascinating sights, tasty bites, and maybe even a ghost story or two.