catalina tours

THE 10 BEST Catalina Island Tours & Excursions

Catalina island tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Private Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Photography Tours
• Helicopter Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 45 Minute Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island From Avalon

2. Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon

3. Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach

4. 2 hour Inside Adventure Tour on Catalina Island

5. Discover Avalon: Catalina Scenic Tour

6. Undersea Expedition: Catalina Island Tour

7. Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour

8. 2 Hour Private Tour of Avalon

9. Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

10. A 360° Immersive Ocean Movie Experience (Catalina Island)

11. Catalina Crusade Scavenger Hunt

12. Glass Bottom Boat: Catalina Island Tour

13. Avalon City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

14. Catalina Explorer Helicopter Tour

15. Catalina Island Trip with Zipline Eco Tour and Hotel Transfers

16. Catalina Island w/Discover Avalon Scenic Tour & Hotel transfers

17. Catalina Island Trip with Hotel transfers & Optional tours

18. Catalina Island Avalon Highlights Walking Tour

19. Mermaids and Mimosas Half Day Group Tour in Catalina Island

20. Mermaid Photo Shoot in Catalina Island

21. Fantastic Catalina Race

22. Catalina Island Day Trip from Anaheim Hotels with Discover Avalon Tour

23. Catalina Island All Inclusive Sightseeing Tour From Orange County

24. Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour - Adults Only

25. Casino VIP Backstage Tour

26. Haunted Catalina Golf Cart Tour

27. Catalina Island Ferry Avalon to Newport Beach (Return Trip Only)

28. Catalina Island Day Trip from LAX area hotels with Undersea Adventure

29. Catalina Island Puzzling Adventure

30. All Inclusive Day Trip to Catalina Island for a Mermaid Filmshoot

What travelers are saying.

• 45 Minute Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island From Avalon
• Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach
• Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon
• 2 hour Inside Adventure Tour on Catalina Island
• Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour
• Catalina Food Tours
• Catalina Island Company
• Catalina Divers Supply
• Catalina Adventure Sailing
• Catalina Coastal Tours & Fishing
• Catalina Taxi and Tours
• Catalina Backcountry - Your Adventure Concierge
• Catalina Falconry Experience
• Afishinados Charters
• Catalina Adventure Tours
• Glass Bottom Boat Tour
• Diving Catalina
• Catalina Island Golf Cart Rentals and Tours
• Island Water Charters

• Request for Proposal
• Avalon Grille
• Banning House Lodge
• Catalina Casino Virtual Tour
• Catalina Country Club
• Descanso Beach Club Virtual Tour
• Harbor Sands
• Hotel Atwater Virtual Tour
• Island Spa Catalina
• Pavilion Hotel & Waterfront
• Mt Ada Virtual Tour
• Villa Santa Cruz and Villa Santa Rosa
• Catalina Casino
• Catherine's Terrace
• Country Club
• Descanso Beach Club
• Hotel Atwater
• Venue Capacity Chart
• Avalon Catering
• Off Site Venues
• Picnic Sites
• Catalina Event Guide
• Casino Weddings
• Country Club Weddings
• Descanso Beach Club Weddings
• Banning House Lodge Weddings
• Special Occasions
• Employment Opportunities
• Bison Expedition
• Catalina Aerial Adventure
• Catalina Falconry Experience
• Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour
• Discover Avalon
• Explore El Rancho Escondido
• IMMERSED: Ocean Wonders
• Journey to the Sky
• Ridgetop Eco Adventure Tour
• Hiking / Walking

Discover Two Harbors

• Flying Fish Voyage
• Glass Bottom Boat
• Undersea Sub Expedition
• Descanso Beach Ocean Sports
• Exclusive Tours
• Cabana Rentals
• Beach Parties & Live Music
• Trans-Catalina Trail
• Catalina Wine Mixer
• Two Harbors Wine Fest
• Independence Day Celebration in Two Harbors
• Buccaneer Days
• Two Harbors Brew Fest
• Oktoberfest
• REI Multi-Sport Adventure
• Casino General Admission
• Casino VIP Backstage Tour
• Avalon Theatre
• Catalina Island Gift Cards
• Catalina Island Golf Course
• Golf Gardens Mini Golf
• Visitor Services
• General Store
• Hiking & Backpacking
• Dive & Recreation Center
• Fishing Skiffs
• Two Harbors Mooring Special
• Mooring Sites
• Mooring Info & Rules
• Mooring Reservations & Fees
• Ripper's Cove
• Paradise Cove
• Cabrillo Beach
• Gibraltar Beach
• Goat Harbor
• Italian Gardens
• Willow Cove
• Land & Marine Services
• Course Settings
• Marine Preservation
• Pavilion Hotel
• Guest Rooms at Mt Ada
• ADA Features
• Villa Santa Rosa
• Villa Santa Cruz
• Hermit Gulch
• Hermit Gulch Campground Rules
• Two Harbors
• Brisa Del Mar
• Little Harbor
• Parson's Landing
• Boat In Camping
• Camping Guidelines & FAQs
• Rental Gear Supplies
• Trans Catalina Trail
• Kayak Camping
• Boat & Hotel
• Boat & Hotel | Catalina Flyer
• Boat & Banning House Lodge
• Catalina Romance Package
• Third Night Complimentary
• Catalina Wine Mixer Hotel Packages
• Mooring Offers
• Bistro at the Atwater
• CHILL at Descanso Beach Club
• Flx Biergarten
• Harbor Reef Restaurant
• Harbor Reef Saloon
• West End Galley
• Isthmus Picnic Sites
• Things to Do
• Catalina Island Avalon Harbor Webcam
• Descanso Beach Club Webcam
• Two Harbors Webcam
• Catalina Island Casino
• Historical Information
• Pleasure Pier
• Getting Here
• Getting Around
• El Rancho Escondido
• Catalina Island Museum
• Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Gardens
• Civil War Barracks
• Airport in the Sky
• Press Releases
• About Catalina Island Company
• Social Media
• Sign Up For Special Offers

Book Your Trip

• Tickets & Camping

Activities & Adventures

Find your adventure on catalina island.

Adventure is waiting for you about an hour off the Southern California coast on Catalina Island. 

Land Expeditions

See and learn about the charming and historic Avalon on a Discover Avalon  tour. Or hop aboard a Hummer and explore Catalina’s pristine wilderness on our exciting  land tours , like the popular  Bison Expedition  or  Ridgetop Eco Adventure . Experience our newest tour, a chance to explore El Rancho Escondido , Philip K. Wrigley's ranch.

Ocean Excursions

See dolphins, sea lions and other aquatic life in the crystal clear waters of Catalina’s world-renowned marine environment on our many  ocean tours , including the  Undersea Sub Expedition  and everyone's favorite  Glass Bottom Boat Voyage . Seasonally, also experience the Flying Fish Voyage . 

Descanso Adventures

Tucked away in Descanso Canyon behind Descanso Beach Club you'll find TripAdvisor’s top-rated  Zip Line Eco Tour , the challenging Catalina Aerial Adventure , as well as the seasonal Catalina Falconry Experience .

Outdoor Fun

Catalina Island Golf Course  in scenic Avalon Canyon is the oldest course west of the Mississippi, offering nine challenging holes with spectacular ocean and city views. Avalon’s  Golf Gardens Mini Golf  has been a favorite family destination for nearly 50 years. Experience the oceans like never before with  IMMERSED: Ocean Wonders ! This truly unique immersive experience takes you on a thirty minute virtual "scuba dive" through the world's oceans.

REI offers two popular experiences on Catalina Island, a 4-day  Guided Trans Catalina Trail Expedition and a 3-day Catalina Island Multi-Sport Adventure  which involves hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and cycling.

Catalina Casino 

Everyone who visits Catalina should visit the iconic  Catalina Casino . The Catalina Casino is open daily for General Admission . Visitors can also take part in the VIP Backstage Tour , or take in a feature film on weekends at the Avalon Theatre .

Looking for a little outdoor adventure? Hop aboard the Cyclone powerboat in Avalon and  Discover Two Harbors  on Catalina's west end. There you can rent kayaks, mountain bikes, stand-up paddleboards, snorkel gear and more at the  Dive & Recreation Center . 

Whatever activities and adventures you choose, we hope you enjoy your experience on Catalina, California’s Island Escape TM .

For more information, check out our  Catalina Island Activities Brochure  and Activities Map . Know that pets are not permitted on any Catalina Island Company tour. Dogs are allowed on Discover Two Harbors. Each dog must be secure in a muzzle, leash and collar or a muzzle and harness sufficiently strong and tight fitting to securely hold the dog and remain leashed and muzzled throughout the trip.

*Please note: Food and beverages are not allowed on Catalina Island Co. Tours & Activities.

Tour and Activity Maps

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Catalina Adventure Tours

Catalina island tours in avalon, ca.

Catalina Adventure Tours is the premier tour company on Catalina Island.

Catalina Adventure Tours is happy to welcome you back to Catalina Island. To contact us please call (562) 432-8828 or email  [email protected]  during normal business hours. We thank you for choosing Catalina Adventure Tours and look forward to your visit to Catalina Island.

Our Popular Tours

Catalina Adventure Tours is the premier tour company on Catalina Island. Our tours include the semi-submersible submarine, glass bottom boat, safari island adventure, coastal eco-cruise, and the inside adventure tour.

• Our most popular tour!
• Clock 45 minutes

The Nautilus Semi-Submarine Excursion

Amazing undersea garden sights await adventurers aboard the semi-submersible Nautilus, designed after America’s first nuclear-powered submarine, the USS Nautilus.

• Clock 1 hour

Summit Vista Tour

The Summit Vista tour is part city tour/part interior tour and offers passengers a taste of what is beyond the Conservancy gates.

Find Your Catalina Island Excursion

Ocean excursions, land excursions, give in to pier-pressure...book a 5-star island excursion.

"My husband and I took my brother's family on the safari ride to see the bisons and had 5 sightings. We then took the kids on the nautilus submarine ride to see the fish and the kids had a blast. It was an awesome New Year weekend stay at the Catalina thanks to Catalina Adventure Tours."

"It was a wonderful day with safari island adventure tour. The truck took us all the way around the island to the top of the mountains. The road was full of turns but the driver was very professional. If you have fear from hight it is better not try this. Otherwise it is very great exciting experience"

"I was worried when I read the negative review and still decided to go on the trip as I thought my grandson would enjoy it. It turned out to be a wonderful trip. I had taken the glass bottom boat trip years ago and it was not great. This is a huge improvement. There are large glass viewing areas with seating all around and lots of things to see clear down to the seabed. Highly recommend."

"My husband and I did the Skyline Drive Tour with the Activities and Adventures of Santa Catalina Island Company. The biggest problem, there were 20 tours to choose from. We had a wonderful guide, Cindy Lowe, who was informative, humorous, personable. Will plan for more of these tours with our next visit."

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Discover Avalon

Quick Details

• Users Ages: All ages
• Clock Duration: 50 minutes
• Map Marker Location: Avalon
• Calendar Available: This Catalina tour operates year-round.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: Guests must be able to transfer from their chair and navigate several stairs within the vehicle.
• Heart Restrictions: This tour is available for most guests. Please see restrictions below.

Avalon Scenic Drive Tour

• Journey through the heart of Avalon and up along the foothills above town.
• Discover great ideas for places you want to visit after the Avalon tour has completed.
• Experience some of the best coastal views and scenic vistas on Catalina Island.
• Learn about classic Santa Catalina landmarks along with fascinating Catalina Island history.

*Refunds & exchanges are subject to availability. Click here to read our cancellation policy.

• Chevron down What to Expect

Discover the enchantment of Avalon on this delightful journey along the beachfront, up the hillsides, and through the heart of this friendly and historic town. This tour always receives the highest ratings for customer satisfaction and is one of the most popular things to do on Catalina Island. You’ll see picture-perfect views and colorful local attractions from the comfort of our passenger vehicle as your driver & guide shares interesting Catalina Island history and folklore. This seven-and-a-half-mile journey provides a comprehensive history of Santa Catalina Island’s only city, Avalon.

• Chevron down Restrictions

For your safety, you should be in good health & free from back problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by a bus tour. Guests who are pregnant are welcome on this tour. Participants must be able to transfer to and from the vehicle (several steps up to and down from the seating area).

• Chevron down What to Bring

Wear comfortable clothes based on the season. Sunscreen & sunglasses are recommended for the warmer summer months. While a gratuity is not expected, it is always appreciated.

• Chevron down Where to Meet

Avalon Scenic Tour Island Tour Plaza Avalon, CA 90704

GET DIRECTIONS

• Chevron down FAQ

What kind of bus is used on the tour?

This tour takes place either in an open-air tram or a new touring e-bus with a built-in sound system, which makes it great for seeing the views from the island valley of Avalon.

Can I take pictures on tour?

Absolutely! Don’t forget your camera or phone. Just be cautious if you are holding your phone or camera out the open sides or windows of the bus.

Can infants & children enjoy the Discover Avalon tour?

Yes – this is a great Catalina Island tour for infants and children. It’s just under an hour in duration, it travels by scenic areas and is narrated so that everyone on the bus can hear the information. Due to the nature and speed of this bus, boosters or car seats are not required.

Do I need a reservation for the Discover Avalon tour?

Yes. While reservations are not required, they are recommended. There are a limited number spots on each tour.

Are there restrooms available on the Discover Avalon tour?

While there are no restrooms on the bus, they are available in the Island Tour Plaza. Please make sure to use them before you go on tour or plan to use them upon your return to the Plaza.

How far is the Discover Avalon tour starting point from certain areas?

Walking time to common locations:

• Cabrillo Mole Area: 7-10 minutes
• Basketball/Volleyball/Old Ben Park Area: 5-7 minutes
• Green Pleasure Pier/Island Tour Plaza: 2-3 minutes
• Casino Building: 10-15 minutes
• Descanso Beach: 15-20 minutes

Is there food provided on the Discover Avalon tour? Can I eat and drink while on tour?

Due to the brevity of this tour (50 minutes), this tour does not have any food or beverage included. To keep the bus clean, food and beverage, with the exception of bottled water, are prohibited on the tour.

How is the Discover Avalon tour different from the local city bus (Garibaldi)? Am I able to hop on and off the tour?

The Discover Avalon tour is a guided narrated tour, while the tour bus does stop at several scenic locations, guests will not be permitted to leave the vehicle.

Still have questions? Visit our FAQ page.

Related Activities

• Clock Up to 7 hours (10 AM - 5 PM)
• Users All ages

The Catalina Casino

Take a trip down memory lane, when bands were big and movies were just beginning to talk. Discover the famous Catalina Casino!

Catalina Island Tours

Here is a list of the Catalina Island tours available for booking through Tour Catalina:

Aerial Adventure

Avalon Scenic Drive

This is a short bus tour just under an hour that will give you a great ride around Avalon.  The over 7 mile journey includes commentary about the history of the area and a touch of folklore to make things even more interesting.  Above all, traveling along trails and hills as well as the city, this tour consistently receives the highest marks from visitor surveys.

Behind the Scenes Casino Tour

Discover the Casino Tour

Learn all about the historic and world famous Catalina Casino.  See everything there is to see in the building including the Casino Ballroom and the classic 1929 pipe organ inside the Avalon Theatre.  Another feature is the “Romance Promenade” which offers what many consider the most romantic view in all of Catalina Island.  Included in the tour is a short film which highlights the history of this fascinating building.  Catalina Island tours of the Casino are always interesting and informative.

Cape Canyon Expedition

East End Adventure

Travel 1,500 feet above sea level in the open-air “Green” Hummer on yet another fabulous journey.  This Catalina Island tour will give you a birds-eye view of the area while traveling to the summit overlooking Avalon.  Experience great views of the coastline and canyons on this trip.  You will travel five miles to the interior of the island and return via Summit Road into Avalon.

Electric Bike Rental

Escape Room

This popular 1 hour activity allows you to experience working as a team to escape a series of interactive rooms.  Beat the Pirate to the finish as you use a variety of clues, mysteries, and puzzles.  This is a really fun-filled group experience that has gained extreme popularity everywhere.  This venue will provide you with a great experience and give lasting memories.

Glass Bottom Boat

Ghost Tours

This very cool night walking tour is a legend in Catalina Island.  The Original Ghost Tours of Catalina ™ provide the best in experiencing the ghostly history of the island.  The stories included in the Catalina Island tour are based on true and verified encounters with ghosts.  Don’t be afraid, there is actually nothing to fear on this tour.  It’s just a lot of great fun to experience!

Little Harbor Trip

Inland Expedition

This is a classic inland motor tour which lasts over 3 hours.  This is a comprehensive tour for those who want to see as much as possible of the island.  You will travel along the rugged interior roads and also the Pacific coast areas of the island in this memorable expedition.  Catch a glimpse of the famous bison that roam the island.  Catalina Island tours need to always include a chance to see this amazing animal.

Ridge Route to Avalon

Mini Golfing

This leisurely golf activity is fun for the whole family.  The 18 hole “Golf Gardens” has been a fixture on the island for over 40 years.  Less than a block from the beach, the course meanders through beautiful garden areas.  The classic style and award-winning design is second to none.  Get  your game on with this enjoyable activity.

Ocean Runner

Known as the “Ocean Runner Dolphin Tour”, this tour features a ride in a “Navy Seal” type boat.  This vessel moves a great speeds with 500 horsepower.  The tour gives you a chance to see dolphin and seal in their native habitat.  These fun-loving creatures are a joy to experience up close and personal.  This is a truly exhilarating excursion you won’t forget.

Submarine Tour

Skyline Drive Tour

This is 2 hour tour on a totally refurbished 1950’s Flexible Bus.  It explores the highest reaches of the island by traveling along the scenic “Skyline Drive”.  Be on the lookout for the world famous bison that roam the area on this enchanting drive.  You will enjoy the panoramic views and the tour includes a visit to the Catalina Nature Center and Airport in the Sky.

Zipline Eco Tour

This is one of the most popular of all Catalina Island tours.  Get strapped in for an exciting ride as you traverse from station to station.  This tour definitely gives a a new meaning to “Birds-Eye View”!  Most noteworthy is that there are 5 different zip lines traveling from a starting point 600 feet above sea level.

No matter which tours you choose, you are sure to have a great time.  Catalina Island tours are legendary and give everyone a chance to truly experience all the island has to offer.  Make your stay a memorable one and take part in the wide variety of excursions.  You will make memories that last a lifetime!

Check out all the tours by visiting Tour Catalina today!

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