Quick Scoop

Catalina Island is best for a mix of outdoor adventure, beach time, and easy day-trip fun. Top picks include snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, glass-bottom boat tours, hiking, a golf cart or jeep tour around Avalon, ziplining, and spotting bison in the island’s interior.

Best Things To Do

  • Explore Avalon on foot or by golf cart. It’s the easiest way to see the town, waterfront, shops, and views.
  • Take a boat or glass-bottom tour. These are popular for seeing kelp forests and marine life without getting fully in the water.
  • Go snorkeling or scuba diving. Catalina is known for clear water and sea life, especially around the coves.
  • Try kayaking or paddleboarding. Good if you want a calmer, scenic ocean day.
  • Do the Zip Line Eco Tour. It’s one of the island’s signature thrill activities.
  • Join a bison or interior tour. A classic Catalina experience, especially if you want a break from the beach scene.
  • Hike or bike. Catalina has trails and inland scenery if you want something more active.
  • Visit the Catalina Museum for Art & History. Best for a slower afternoon and a bit of local context.
  • Eat seafood and local favorites. The island has a strong food scene, especially for fresh seafood.

If You Have One Day

  1. Start in Avalon with coffee and a walk by the harbor.
  2. Pick one water activity, like snorkeling or a glass-bottom boat tour.
  3. Do lunch in town.
  4. Spend the afternoon on a golf cart loop, hike, or interior wildlife tour.
  5. Finish with sunset by the waterfront.

Best For Different Travelers

Traveler type| Best picks
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Families| Glass-bottom boat, submarine-style tour, bison tour 410
Couples| Beach time, spa, sunset dinner, scenic boat ride 13
Adventure seekers| Zip line, diving, kayaking, hiking 14
Easygoing visitors| Avalon stroll, shopping, museum, seafood 12

Good To Know

If you want the most “Catalina” experience, combine one ocean activity, one inland tour, and one relaxing meal or sunset stop. For 2026-specific ideas, Catalina listings highlight events and seasonal activities like the Catalina Wine Mixer , art festivals, and special tours.

If you want, I can also give you:

  • a 1-day Catalina itinerary ,
  • a family-friendly version , or
  • a budget-friendly list.