Top Catalina Island Culture

See the sights of Avalon on a quick tour that takes you along the waterfront, up the hillsides, and through the center of town. The quick, nonstop journey provides views and allows you to get oriented with Avalon and its attractions so you can better enjoy your time on Catalina Island. Learn about the island's history and heritage from a guide as you travel the loop.

Cars are mostly banned on Catalina Island, and trying to see the highlights of the island’s vibrant harbor area on foot is a recipe for blisters. On this express private tour, visit coastal Avalon by chauffeured golf cart, covering more sights in less time than you could on your own. Along the way, learn about the island’s history and unique lifestyles of its few thousand residents.

For those who want to explore Catalina Island's town of Avalon at their own pace, this private app-based self-guided audio tour is a great option. Download the app, then walk around town at your leisure; the commentary will play automatically as you hit each local highlight. The tour answers many questions and provides hidden facts about this exclusive island and town.

Explore Avalon on a GPS-guided audio walking tour that plays automatically as you walk. No groups, no schedules—just put in your headphones and go. Starting along the waterfront, you’ll follow a walkable route along the harbor, up to hillside viewpoints, and past key landmarks. Along the way, you'll visit places like the Green Pleasure Pier, the Tuna Club, and the iconic Catalina Casino, while hearing the stories behind Avalon’s rise as a seaside destination. Explore at your own pace—pause for a drink, take a detour, or linger at viewpoints. The audio resumes whenever you’re ready, so you can move freely without keeping up with a group. This is a self-guided experience (no in-person guide). Download the tour in advance and use it anytime—it works offline and follows your location along the route.

Go back to the days when bands were big and movies were just starting to talk with a guided tour of the Catalina Island Casino. Dating back to 1929, the casino symbolizes the glamorous era of Santa Catalina Island and is home to art deco murals. Watch a brief film about the building's history and connection to Hollywood and see the 1920s pipe organ inside the Avalon Theatre, which still shows movies on its large screen.

Avalon History Tours is a small family-owned business located on Catalina Island. We offer an authentic and immersive experience led by knowledgeable guides who are local residents. Our hour-and-a-half-long tour covers approximately one mile of the island's charming and predominantly flat terrain, making it accessible to most guests. For extra convenience, guests aged 6 and over are provided with a headset to wear during the tour, ensuring they can hear the tour guide clearly. Get ready to delve into the rich history of Catalina Island, with a focus on iconic landmarks such as the Holly Hill House, the scenic Green Pleasure Pier, and the renowned Catalina Casino. Guests will discover the origins of the island's name, the visions of Shatto, the Banning Brothers, and how the Wrigley family transformed the island into its current state. Wander through the heart of Avalon, connecting the past with the present, one step at a time.

✨ Why Travelers Love This Experience Full Mermaid Makeover – Slip into a shimmering tail, shell bra, and ocean-inspired accessories to fully transform into a magical mermaid. Sparkling Details – Enjoy scale makeup, pearls, and gems that make your look photo-ready. Take-Home Treasures – Receive a keepsake 4x6 photo print and a starfish hair clip to remember your day under the sea. Interactive Fun – Kids pick a mermaid name and take home a treasure chest prize, while adults often use the experience to create stunning content for social media. Capture the Magic – Guests are welcome to snap their own photos and videos during the session for even more memories. All Ages Welcome – Designed for kids, teens, and adults alike — the perfect activity for families, friend groups, or anyone who dreams of becoming a mermaid.

Skip the Catalina Island tourist traps and learn to dine like a local on this culinary walking tour. Follow your guide along the waterfront, learning about the island's cultural and culinary history as you go. Stop at several local hotspots to sample fresh seafood, sweets, and other traditional Catalina foods. This small-group tour is limited to 10 people for a more intimate experience.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Catalina Island on the Sunset Summit Tour, a 1-hour guided adventure designed to showcase the island’s most stunning vistas. Starting in the picturesque city of Avalon, this journey takes you through the charming streets and up into the rugged interior of the island, all while riding aboard our safari tram, The Falcon. As you ascend to the Summit at an impressive elevation of 1,500 feet, our expert guide provides a fully narrated experience, sharing fascinating stories about Catalina’s history, wildlife, and unique natural environment. The journey is as enriching as it is scenic, offering a deeper understanding of the island’s charm and ecological significance. Upon reaching the Summit, you’ll have the opportunity to step out of the tram and soak in the awe-inspiring views. Capture stunning photos of the island’s rolling hills, rugged coastline, and sparkling waters below.

Enjoy Avalon without getting lost—make the most of your golf cart with a scenic GPS-guided audio route. Golf cart NOT provided. Make the most of your time on Catalina with a curated route that takes you through Avalon’s most breathtaking viewpoints, hidden gems, and historic landmarks—all at your own pace. This mobile-friendly experience guides you turn-by-turn along a thoughtfully designed route created by locals, so you can skip the guesswork and focus on enjoying the island. No paper maps, no confusion—just a seamless, stress-free way to explore. Along the way, you’ll hear engaging stories, local history, and fun facts that bring Avalon to life while you take in panoramic coastal views and unforgettable photo stops.

See the best of Catalina on this all-encompassing aerial tour over California's island escape! Depart from Pebbly Beach for a 20-minute exploration into the mostly untouched natural beauty of the 22-mile-long island sanctuary featuring a rugged interior and cliffs rising from the ocean.

Unlock the wonders of Catalina Island with your mobile app, your personal guide to self-directed exploration. This immersive experience allows you to uncover hidden gems while listening to captivating stories from local storytellers. Perfect for those who desire flexibility, the Avalon Bay Discovery walk lasts about an hour and enhances your journey through the island's rich history. With GPS audio guiding your way, enjoy a unique and fun-filled adventure at your own pace. - Discover Catalina Island’s history and hidden treasures - Self-guided, GPS-enabled audio tours available via mobile app - Curated by passionate 3rd-generation islanders - Perfect for solo travelers, families, and history enthusiasts

Embark on an engaging scavenger hunt through the historic streets of Avalon California, on the island of Catalina! Explore the quaint and beautiful harbor and waterfront. See the historic sights like the Avalon Casino. See some of the overlooked gems like the the Avalon Veteran's Memorial. Explore and see the many unique shops, restaurants and galleries. Go at your own pace and see the best of what Catalina has to offer. Ready to discover Catalina in a whole new way? Let the adventure begin!

Step into Avalon’s past on Legends, History and Tiles of the Past, a guided walking experience that blends Catalina’s rich heritage with the beauty of its iconic tilework and the allure of old Hollywood. Stroll through historic streets and waterfront landmarks as knowledgeable local guides reveal the true stories behind the island’s most celebrated sites, from classic hotels and colorful murals to Hollywood legends and longtime residents who shaped Catalina’s charm. This family-friendly, leisurely tour offers an easy, flat route and plenty of photo-worthy moments, making it perfect for curious travelers of all ages. Discover the artistry, architecture, and history that make Avalon unforgettable—book now and uncover the timeless stories woven into every step of the island.

Guided by John Boraggina, former museum curator, this tour goes beyond the typical route—shaped around your interests, whether that’s hidden history, stunning viewpoints, or local stories passed down through generations. Whether it’s your first visit or a place your family has loved for years, each tour is thoughtfully customized to create a one-of-a-kind experience just for you.

Hop aboard as we embark on a driving ghost tour through the City of Avalon. Our journey begins at 121 Clarissa Ave, one block from the beach, in a big yellow building with green awnings. Brace yourself as we explore the eerie and haunted sites that have sent shivers down the spines of locals and visitors alike. Prepare to be enthralled by captivating stories, paranormal history and a breathtaking view as we venture through the streets and hillsides of Avalon. Our expert guide will weave chilling tales that will keep you on the edge of your seat! There are limited spots available in the cart, so secure your seat now.

Delve into the mysterious past of Catalina Island on this haunted golf cart adventure. As the sun sets, navigate the eerie streets of Avalon while uncovering ghostly legends and chilling tales of restless spirits. Each stop reveals haunted locations rich with dark history and whispered secrets, bringing you closer to the unexplained. The experience culminates with a unique chance to conduct your own ghost hunt behind the iconic Catalina Casino, equipped with authentic EMF detectors. This immersive journey offers a thrilling blend of storytelling and paranormal exploration for those seeking the island's hidden horrors. - Nighttime golf cart tour through Avalon’s haunted spots - Discover chilling tales of spirits and mysterious sightings - Conduct a ghost hunt using authentic EMF detectors - Perfect for thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts