Itineraries for Your Trip to Catalina Island
3 Days in Catalina Island for First Timers
I first visited Catalina Island with my husband and young daughter, and we were all immediately entranced by its beauty. I was born and raised on an island, and I always find peace in the unique communities that spring up in places like this. Catalina—with its quaint downtown, harbor full of boats, and picturesque hikes—felt unexpectedly homey. Conveniently close to the mainland, the island is perfect for a long weekend getaway for those who want to bask in the peace of the Pacific. If you’re not sure how exploring a small island can fill three days, or this is your first trip here, follow my itinerary to experience the best of Catalina Island.
Catalina Island has a mild climate but it can get windy; pack a windbreaker and don’t forget good walking shoes.
If you only have time for one thing, take a tour on the Nautilus.
Start off your adventure with a golf cart tour of downtown Avalon—the main village on the island. Due to the island’s size, most locals use golf carts for transportation, and there are several companies that offer rentals or tours.
You can take Pebbly Beach Road, which leads you along the coastline to Lover’s Cove—a popular spot for snorkelers and swimmers—or head up to Tremont Scenic Overlook for stunning views over the island. In the evening, wander along Crescent Avenue to find a waterfront restaurant featuring fresh seafood or learn about Avalon’s spooky secrets on a ghost tour.
Explore the ocean from the comfort of a semi-submarine that lets you see the wildlife in Catalina Island’s marine sanctuary while staying dry. The Nautilus started giving tours in 1999, and special fish-food torpedoes ensure you get the best possible view of the fish in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, spend some time at the Catalina Museum for Art & History. Take the chance to learn about the unique history of the island and let the collection of early Hollywood memorabilia transport you to a more glamorous time.
Catalina Island boasts over 165 miles (265 kilometers) of hiking trails. The 1.3-mile (2-kilometer) hike from Avalon to Descanso Beach is an easy option, while the 3.4-mile (5.5-kilometer) Hermit Gulch Trail offers a more challenging climb. (Get a free online permit from the Catalina Island Conservancy before setting off.) Or, if you’d prefer a slower pace, you can explore the town with a scavenger hunt.
In the afternoon, visit the art deco Catalina Casino—a reminder of the island’s glamourous history. The casino’s cinema once hosted premieres for stars including Marilyn Monroe, and Charlie Chaplin.
