Catalina Island Trip With Hotel Transfers & Optional Tours

Catalina Island, a picturesque gem just off the Southern California coast, beckons travelers seeking a unique day trip experience. Conveniently accessible via a scenic ferry from Long Beach, this charming island offers a Mediterranean-inspired ambiance and a wealth of activities to explore. From the iconic Catalina Casino to thrilling water adventures and exhilarating ziplines, the island promises a well-rounded excursion tailored to diverse interests. With hassle-free hotel transfers and a range of inclusive options, the Catalina Island trip provides an opportunity to take in the island’s captivating allure. But the true magic lies in what awaits those who venture beyond the ferry dock and discover the hidden gems that make this destination truly remarkable.

Key Points

• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from Anaheim or Los Angeles to the Long Beach Landing Terminal for the scenic 1-hour ferry ride to Avalon.
• Explore the charming town of Avalon with its quaint streets, Mediterranean-inspired ambiance, and top attractions like the Catalina Casino and Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden.
• Enjoy optional activities like the semi-submersible Undersea Adventure Tour, the high-speed Ocean Runner Tour, and the exhilarating Zipline Adventure.
• The comfortable and spacious ferry provides opportunities to spot marine life and enjoy views of the rugged coastline and Avalon skyline.
• The tour package includes round-trip ferry transfers, while gratuities and food/drink are excluded, with a maximum group size of 9 travelers for a personalized experience.

Getting to Catalina Island

Travelers begin their Catalina Island adventure by boarding a smooth ferry ride along the Gulf of Santa Catalina from the Long Beach Landing Terminal. After a convenient hotel pickup in Anaheim or Los Angeles, they’re whisked away to the ferry departure point.

The scenic 1-hour boat ride across the waters offers stunning views of the island’s rugged coastline.

Upon arrival in the charming town of Avalon, guests have the option to explore the island further through a variety of adventures, including a scenic tour, zipline, undersea expedition, or ocean runner tour.

With round-trip ferry transfers included, the journey to Catalina Island is seamless and stress-free, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Exploring Avalon

Upon arriving in the charming town of Avalon, visitors can stroll through the quaint streets and soak in the island’s Mediterranean-inspired ambiance. They’ll find a variety of local shops, restaurants, and attractions that showcase Catalina’s unique culture and history.

Some of the must-see sights include:

• Catalina Casino, a stunning art deco landmark that hosts live music and movies
• Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, honoring the island’s former owner and offering panoramic views
• Avalon Scenic Drive, a scenic route that winds through the hillsides and offers stunning ocean vistas

Whether it’s browsing local art galleries, dining on fresh seafood, or simply taking in the laid-back island lifestyle, Avalon provides the perfect gateway to experience the best of Catalina.

Undersea Adventure Tour

The Undersea Adventure Tour allows visitors to explore the vibrant underwater world surrounding Catalina Island.

Guests board a semi-submersible vessel that descends several feet below the ocean’s surface, offering unparalleled views of the diverse marine life and colorful kelp forests.

The tour provides an immersive experience, with a knowledgeable guide pointing out the unique species of fish, sea lions, and other marine creatures.

Participants can observe the island’s natural underwater ecosystem in a safe and comfortable setting, without having to don scuba gear.

This tour is a fantastic option for those seeking a deeper understanding and appreciation of Catalina’s stunning marine environment.

Ocean Runner Tour

For those seeking a thrilling and high-speed adventure on the waters surrounding Catalina Island, the Ocean Runner Tour is an exhilarating option. Guests board a high-powered, custom-built boat and zip across the waves, with the potential to reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.

The tour offers:

• Breathtaking views of Catalina’s rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters
• The chance to spot wildlife like dolphins, seals, and sea lions in their natural habitat
• An adrenaline-pumping experience that’s sure to leave participants with lasting memories.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply looking for a unique way to explore the island, the Ocean Runner Tour is an excellent choice that’s sure to exceed your expectations.

Zipline Adventure

Ziplining across Catalina Island’s rugged terrain offers an exhilarating way to experience the island’s natural beauty from new perspectives.

Participants glide through the air on a series of secure cable lines, soaring over the island’s lush canyons, towering cliffs, and sparkling waters below.

The zipline course features multiple platforms and spans, with the longest line measuring over 1,000 feet.

Thrill-seekers are securely harnessed and guided by experienced instructors, ensuring a safe and unforgettable adventure.

With panoramic ocean views and a scenic forest backdrop, the zipline tour provides an unparalleled vantage point to appreciate Catalina Island’s stunning landscapes.

It’s an exhilarating activity perfect for adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts alike.

Ferry Ride Details

A smooth and scenic ferry ride across the Gulf of Santa Catalina takes visitors to Catalina Island, providing a peaceful and relaxing start to the day’s adventures.

The ferry is comfortable and spacious, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy the stunning ocean views.

During the ride, passengers can:

• Spot marine life like dolphins, seals, and seabirds
• Take in the rugged coastline and picturesque cliffs of the island
• Snap photos of the iconic Avalon skyline as the ferry approaches the harbor

The ferry transports guests directly to Avalon, the main town on Catalina, setting the stage for a day filled with sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the unique charms of this island oasis.

Hotel Pickup and Drop-off

The tour package includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service, allowing travelers to start and end their Catalina Island adventure with ease. Guests are transported from their Anaheim or Los Angeles hotel to the Long Beach Landing Terminal, where they board the ferry to the island. After a day of exploring Avalon and participating in optional activities, the shuttle service returns travelers back to their original hotel, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Departure	Pickup Location	Pickup Time	Drop-off Location
Morning	Anaheim/Los Angeles Hotel	8:00 AM	Long Beach Landing Terminal
Afternoon	Avalon, Catalina Island	4:30 PM	Anaheim/Los Angeles Hotel

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package’s inclusions encompass hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip ferry transfers, and optional activities like a scenic tour of Avalon and an undersea adventure.

However, some expenses are excluded from the package. These include:

• Gratuities
• Food and drink

Travelers should also note that there may be additional requirements or restrictions for certain activities, such as the zipline tour, which mandates closed-toe shoes and adheres to age and weight limitations.

With a maximum group size of 9 travelers, this tour provides a personalized experience on the idyllic Catalina Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Ferry?

Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the ferry. However, the tour operator may have restrictions on the types of items allowed onboard, so it’s best to check with them in advance.

Are There Any Wheelchair-Accessible Options Available on the Island?

Yes, there are wheelchair-accessible options available on Catalina Island. The island offers a variety of accessible tours, including a scenic tour of Avalon and an undersea adventure with a submersible vessel.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Undersea Adventure Tour?

The undersea adventure tour on Catalina Island does not have a minimum age requirement. However, participants must be able to comfortably fit in the small undersea vehicle and follow safety instructions provided by the tour guides.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Catalina Island Trip?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Catalina Island tour. The tour provider’s policy prohibits bringing any animals, for the safety and comfort of all passengers. Only service animals are permitted to accompany guests on the trip.

Is It Possible to Extend My Stay on the Island After the Tour?

Yes, it’s possible to extend your stay on Catalina Island after the tour. The tour package includes round-trip ferry transfers, so you can choose to stay longer on the island and return on a later ferry.

Recap

Catalina Island offers a unique day trip experience from the Southern California mainland, with convenient hotel transfers and round-trip ferry rides.

Travelers can explore a range of optional activities to suit various interests, including the charming town of Avalon, undersea tours, high-speed boat rides, and exhilarating zipline adventures.

This provides a well-rounded and hassle-free Catalina Island excursion.