Avalon: Haunted Golf Cart Tour offers a unique way to explore Catalina Island’s darker corners—if you’re up for some ghostly tales mixed with sightseeing. For $65 per person, you get a 1.5-hour ride through Avalon’s streets aboard a comfortable golf cart, with a knowledgeable guide who brings the spooky stories to life. Starting from a bright yellow building with green awnings at 121 Clarissa Ave., this tour promises eerie sights, fascinating local lore, and a fun, informal atmosphere.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how small group size (limited to just five participants) makes for a more personalized and engaging story-sharing session. Plus, the expert guide Jess (as reviewed by a local participant) seems genuinely passionate about Avalon’s haunted past, making each tale more memorable. The use of headphones during the tour ensures everyone can hear every word clearly, which is sometimes a problem with larger, noisier tours.
A possible consideration is that, since the tour is daytime or evening-only, it might not be as spooky as some expect—although the night version is reportedly scarier. If you seek dark, ghostly encounters, the evening tour might be more your style. This experience is suitable for history buffs, curious travelers, and anyone who enjoys a light-hearted scare combined with sightseeing. It’s especially appealing if you prefer not to drive and want an easy, relaxed way to soak in Avalon’s sights with a spooky twist.
Key Points
- Small Group Setting: Limited to five participants, ensuring more personalized storytelling.
- Expert Guide: Jess is praised for her friendliness and knowledge, making the stories feel authentic.
- Comfortable Transportation: A golf cart provides a relaxed, unobstructed view of Avalon’s sites.
- Historic & Haunted Landmarks: Stops include the Wrigley Memorial, Botanical Garden, and the Steamer Tug Boat House.
- Clear Audio: Headphones enhance the experience, making sure no spooky detail is missed.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with options to reserve and pay later.
An In-Depth Look at the Avalon Haunted Golf Cart Tour
Imagine cruising through Avalon’s streets on a breezy afternoon or evening, with a small group of fellow explorers and a guide who’s eager to tell you about the island’s ghostly lore. That’s exactly what this tour offers. It’s a mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and a dash of spine-tingling fun—perfect for those who want to add a little mystery to their Catalina adventure.
Planning more time in Avalon? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Starting Point and Check-In
The tour begins at 121 Clarissa Ave., a bright yellow building with green awnings. Arriving 10 to 15 minutes early is recommended, so you can settle in and get your headphones. The friendly check-in process sets a welcoming tone, and the small group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd. This intimate environment makes it easy to ask questions or simply listen closely to the stories.
The Ride and Route
Once aboard the golf cart, you’ll glide along Avalon’s picturesque streets, stopping at iconic landmarks. The tour is designed to balance haunted tales with stunning views, so you’re not just listening to spooky stories but also absorbing the island’s beauty. The route includes visits to notable sites like the Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden—places with historical significance that also have their share of ghost stories.
The 1.5-hour duration feels just right—enough time to see and learn without feeling rushed. You’ll find that the comfortable pace allows for taking photos, soaking in the scenery, and listening to the guide’s fascinating commentary.
The Guide and Stories
Reviews consistently praise the guide for her friendly demeanor and vast knowledge. Jess, in particular, seems to excel at weaving together facts and folklore, making each stop feel alive with history and mystery. One reviewer noted that she “made the trip special” with her humor and storytelling skills, which kept everyone engaged.
The stories themselves are a mix of local legends, unexplained phenomena, and ghostly encounters. A reviewer mentioned that the night version is “spookier,” which suggests that if you’re after a more haunted experience, opting for the evening ride is your best bet.
More Great Tours NearbyLandmarks and Highlights
Some of the key sites include:
- Steamer Tug Boat House: A waterfront location with stories of ghostly sightings and maritime mysteries.
- Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden: While known for its beauty, it also has tales of paranormal activity tied to its history.
- Iconic Avalon Streets: As you cruise, you’ll pass historic buildings, old hotels, and lookout points, all with their own ghostly lore.
Audio and Comfort
The use of headphones during the tour is a thoughtful touch—especially helpful when the group is quiet during storytelling or when background noise might otherwise drown out the guide. The golf cart itself offers a smooth ride, with enough space for comfortable seating and an unobstructed view of Avalon’s sights.
The Value
At $65 per person, the tour offers good value. For the price, you get a guided experience, transportation, and a welcome kit—which likely includes some fun extras or souvenirs. The small group size and personal storytelling make it more intimate than larger bus tours, enriching the experience with personal touches.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour suits:
- Travelers interested in local legends and haunted history.
- Those who prefer small group experiences over large, noisy tours.
- Visitors who want to avoid driving and relax while exploring.
- People looking for a fun, lighthearted way to learn about Avalon’s dark past.
- Anyone who appreciates stunning views alongside stories of ghostly encounters.
Final Thoughts
The Avalon Haunted Golf Cart Tour strikes a great balance between entertainment, education, and sightseeing. It’s a relaxed way to uncover Avalon’s spooky side without the need for long walks or strenuous activity. The small group format and knowledgeable guide make for a personalized, engaging experience that’s perfect for curious travelers and ghost enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, you’ll enjoy the mix of scenic stops and captivating tales. The tour’s flexible booking options and positive reviews point to a well-organized, dependable experience—one that can add a memorable twist to your Catalina adventure.
FAQ
Is there a specific time for the tour?
Yes, the tour is usually available in the afternoon and evening. The nighttime tour is considered spookier and ideal if you want a more haunted experience.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 1.5 hours, providing ample time to see key sites and hear stories without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
Your cost covers the ghost tour, transportation by golf cart, the guide, and a welcome kit. Food and drinks are not included.
Where does the tour start?
It starts at 121 Clarissa Ave., a big yellow building with green awnings. Arriving early ensures a smooth check-in.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the review mentions a “small group,” and the stories are spooky but generally suitable for older children. Parental discretion is advised.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to keep your travel plans flexible.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to five participants, which helps foster a more personal storytelling experience.
In summary, the Avalon Haunted Golf Cart Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic sights and ghostly stories, delivered in an intimate setting with expert narration. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, fun, and slightly spooky way to explore Avalon, especially if you enjoy local lore paired with great views. Whether you’re a history lover, a ghost story enthusiast, or just looking for a different way to see the island, this tour provides good value and memorable moments.
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