Catalina Island offers more than just picturesque views and ocean breezes; its compact size and walkable streets make it a perfect place for walking tours. Whether you’re interested in uncovering ghostly mysteries, exploring local history, or just enjoying a leisurely stroll through Avalon’s charming neighborhoods, Catalina’s tours deliver authentic experiences that go beyond the typical tourist spots. We especially love the Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour for its spooky storytelling and the Walking History Tour for a deep dive into the island’s past. If you’re eager to combine history with some paranormal thrills, the Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour is a must. For more family-friendly exploration, the Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game offers a fun way to see Avalon’s sights at your own pace.
Quick Overview
On this list of best walking tours in Catalina Island, you’ll find options suited to different interests and travel styles. From ghost hunts with paranormal equipment to historical overviews with local guides, each tour offers a unique perspective. The Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour is ideal for those who enjoy spooky stories and nighttime thrills, while the Walking History Tour provides a relaxed, informative exploration of Avalon’s landmarks. The Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Tour is perfect for thrill-seekers willing to investigate paranormal energies with high-tech gadgets. For a more playful experience, the Catalina Scavenger Hunt adds an interactive twist, and the Avalon Highlights Tour blends nature, history, and local gastronomy.
1. Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour
This tour takes you through Avalon’s spookiest spots, including the renowned Catalina Island Casino, to uncover the island’s paranormal secrets. With a duration of about 1 hour 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those who want a condensed, spooky experience. Led by a local historian, you’ll visit hotspots known for ghostly activity and hear stories behind each location. The tour includes audio headsets so you won’t miss a single ghostly whisper, and you might even capture some unexplained phenomena on camera.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the haunted history of Avalon while providing an entertaining narrative. The guide, Jess, is praised for her knowledge and storytelling ability, making the spooky tales come alive. The tour is suitable for those interested in stories of spirits and hauntings and wanting a more atmospheric experience than a typical sightseeing walk. At $30 per person, the price is reasonable given the immersion and storytelling quality. Reviewers consistently praise Jess for her entertaining and informative style, with some describing it as “bone-chilling” and “highly recommended.”
Bottom Line: If you’re after a fun, spooky experience with a local guide, this ghost tour is a great choice, especially if you enjoy a good ghost story with a side of Avalon’s history.
2. Walking History Tour on Catalina Island
For those interested in history without the ghostly chills, this history-focused walking tour offers a relaxed but insightful look at Avalon’s past. Led by a dedicated local guide, the tour lasts between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours and covers approximately a mile of mostly flat terrain. It’s an ideal option for travelers who want to see key landmarks like the Holly Hill House, Green Pier, and the iconic Catalina Casino while learning their stories.
What makes this tour special is its personalized approach—the guide is a local resident who shares authentic insights and lived experiences. The use of headsets ensures everyone can hear clearly, which is helpful in a busy town. Reviewers highlight the guide’s passion and knowledge, calling it a “wonderful and informative experience,” and noting that it’s a great way to understand Avalon’s development. The modest price of $40 makes it a good value, especially considering the small group size and personal touches. It’s suitable for all ages and those interested in local lore and historic sites.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive, easy-to-follow introduction to Catalina’s history with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
3. Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour – 12 years and older
If you’re curious about the paranormal energy that some say haunts Avalon, this tour combines history, storytelling, and high-tech ghost hunting tools. It lasts about 1 hour 50 minutes and is designed for adults and older teens (12+). Led by a local historian, you’ll visit Avalon’s most haunted sites, including the Casino’s Grand Entryway, without going inside. The standout feature is the EMF detection devices provided to participants, allowing you to measure ghostly energies and explore whether the stories of Avalon’s hauntings hold any scientific weight.
This tour is unique for its blend of history and paranormal investigation. The EMF readings and tips from the guide make it an interactive experience for thrill-seekers eager to test the waters of the supernatural. Reviewers mention that Jesse and John both provide engaging stories and personal experiences, which enhance the tour’s credibility and fun. The $40 price tag is a fair deal for a more immersive, investigative experience that appeals to those who like gadgets and a bit of mystery. Note that the tour starts late at 9:30 pm, making it perfect for nighttime thrill-seekers.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for adults and older teens interested in paranormal phenomena, especially if you want to use technology to explore ghost stories firsthand.
4. Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
Looking for a fun, interactive way to explore Avalon? This scavenger hunt-style tour combines walking, problem-solving, and discovery over roughly two hours. It’s perfect for families, groups, or anyone wanting a less traditional experience. You’ll visit popular sights like the Avalon Casino and some lesser-known spots, such as the Avalon Veteran’s Memorial, at your own pace. The game format encourages you to solve clues and complete challenges while soaking in the sights.
While the rating is 3.5/5, many reviewers enjoy the engagement and flexibility it offers, especially if you prefer self-guided adventures over scheduled tours. The price of $24.50 makes it an affordable option for a lighthearted day of exploration. Keep in mind, it’s less about storytelling and more about interactive fun. Suitable for families or groups seeking a casual, unique experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a playful, self-paced exploration of Avalon’s streets, this scavenger hunt provides a lively and memorable way to discover Catalina.
$24.50 per person
5. Catalina Island Avalon Highlights Walking Tour
This comprehensive walking tour offers a mix of nature, history, and local cuisine. Over 2 to 4 hours, you’ll see key sites like the Catalina Express terminal, Pebbly Beach, and the Pancake Cottage, with plenty of opportunities to sample local flavors and enjoy scenic views. The tour includes golf cart rides and visits to iconic locations, making it suitable for those who want a more relaxed, all-encompassing experience.
What sets this tour apart is its balance of natural beauty, cultural insights, and culinary delights. The itinerary features stops at the Avalon Grille and Pancake Cottage, giving travelers a taste of the island’s gourmet offerings. Reviewers mention it’s a great way to see the city at a comfortable pace, especially for those who enjoy combining sightseeing with food and fun. At $20 per person, it’s an affordable way to get a broad overview of Avalon’s best.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a full-day experience that blends sightseeing, food, and light adventure.
$20.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Catalina Island
When selecting a walking tour, consider your interests, fitness level, and the kind of experience you seek. If ghost stories or paranormal investigations excite you, the Haunted Catalina Ghost Tour or the EMF Detection Tour will satisfy that craving, especially if you enjoy nighttime adventures. For a deeper understanding of Avalon’s past, the Walking History Tour offers a relaxed, informative stroll.
Families or groups looking for some interactive fun might prefer the Scavenger Hunt, which combines exploration with problem-solving. Meanwhile, travelers short on time but wanting a broad overview should consider the Avalon Highlights Tour, which provides a balanced mix of sights, tastes, and stories.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the ghost walks. Think about the best time of day—some tours are more atmospheric at night, while others are better in the morning or afternoon when you’re fresh and ready to explore.
Final Thoughts
Catalina Island’s walkable layout and variety of tours make it easy to tailor your visit to your interests. For an adventure with a thrill, the Haunted Catalina Ghost Tour or EMF Detection Tour are top picks. For a more relaxed, cultural experience, the Walking History Tour or the Avalon Highlights Tour are excellent options. And if you want something playful and interactive, the Scavenger Hunt adds fun to sightseeing.
Whatever your style, Catalina’s compact, walkable streets reward curiosity with stories, sights, and surprises. Book your favorite tour early and get ready to enjoy Avalon on foot—there’s no better way to experience this charming island.