tours on catalina island

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
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Helicopter Tours
• 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. Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon

2. 45 Minute Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island From Avalon

3. Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach

4. Discover Avalon: Catalina Scenic Tour

5. Undersea Expedition: Catalina Island Tour

6. Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour

7. 1hr Catalina Express Round Trip Ferry from Long Beach/San Pedro

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

9. Glass Bottom Boat: Catalina Island Tour

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

11. Catalina Crusade Scavenger Hunt

12. Avalon City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

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

14. Catalina Island All Inclusive Sightseeing Tour From Orange County

15. Catalina Island Avalon Highlights Walking Tour

16. Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour - Adults Only

17. Fantastic Catalina Race

18. Catalina Island Trip with Hotel transfers & Optional tours

19. 2 Hour Private Tour of Avalon

20. Mermaid Photo Shoot in Catalina Island

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

22. Catalina Island Ferry Avalon to Newport Beach (RETURN TRIP ONLY)

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

24. Catalina Island Puzzling Adventure

25. Avalon Airport (AVX) to Santa Catalina - Arrival Private Transfer

26. Haunted Catalina Golf Cart Tour

27. Catalina Airport to Santa Catalina - Round-Trip Private Transfer

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

29. Catalina Explorer Helicopter Tour

30. Santa Catalina to Catalina Airport - Departure Private Transfer

What travelers are saying.

• 45 Minute Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island From Avalon
• Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach
• 2 hour Inside Adventure Tour on Catalina Island
• Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon
• Discover Avalon: Catalina Scenic 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
• Wet Spot Rentals
• Afishinados Charters
• Catalina Adventure Tours
• Catalina Falconry Experience
• Glass Bottom Boat Tour
• Diving Catalina
• Catalina Island Golf Cart Rentals and Tours
• Island Water Charters

15 Best Catalina Island Tours To Take In 2024

Catalina Island is a delightful destination in California that offers numerous attractions and fun outdoor activities. If you’re planning a trip to this charming island and are looking for the best Catalina Island tours to take on your visit, I have you covered!

As a California local, I’ve been to Catalina Island many times ranging from quick day trips to weekend getaways and multi-day backpacking trips.

If this lovely destination has caught your eye, you may be looking for some Catalina Island tours to add to your itinerary.

My top pick for a Catalina tour: Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon which visits some of the best locations on Catalina Island!

From underwater submarine excursions to sightseeing tours and wildlife sighting experiences, here is a list of all the best Catalina Island tours to get you started!

Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, may I earn a small commission when you book through these links for which I am very thankful!

15 Best Catalina Island Tours:

1. guided private golf cart tour of avalon.

Tour Highlights:

• Tour length: 2 hours
• Tour rating: 5/5 stars out of 280+ reviews
• Includes: golf cart, guide, water, facility fees

Catalina Island’s quaint town of Avalon offers a charming retreat just a short boat ride from the California Coast.

This 2-hour guided golf cart tour will take you to see all the major highlights in Avalon so you can get to know the town like a local! This includes a handful of iconic landmarks and local hangouts that will make you appreciate the town’s unique flavor.

“ Awesome experience on Catalina Island! Our tour guide, Dudley, was incredible!!! He took us to the best spots!” -Ryan H. (read more reviews on Viator )

The Catalina Casino, an architectural masterpiece is one of the stops along the way. This tour also includes other fascinating destinations such as Pebbly Beach, Wigley Memorial & Botanic Garden , and more!

Riding in a golf cart, you can see all that Avalon has to offer, giving you the perfect opportunity to soak in many attractions without getting too tired from walking around.

You can pick between multiple departure times and enjoy a personalized experience as you explore the historic town. The guide will also inform you of the island’s rich history, enhancing your experience and appreciation.

2. Semi-Submarine Tour Of Catalina Island

• Tour length: 45 minutes
• Tour rating: 4/5 stars out of 200+ reviews
• Includes: submarine ride & guide (fish food is extra)

Dive deep into all that Catalina Island has to offer with this Catalina Island undersea sub experience starting at Green Pleasure Pier, Avalon. When you depart from the pier, the semi-sub will take you 6 feet underwater to explore the mesmerizing marine life within Avalon Bay.

“ It was a fun excursion! You have the option to buy fish food and feed the fish so they come right to your window. We saw lots and lots of fish!” -Bethany W. (read more reviews on Viator )

You will cruise through the Lovers’ Cove Marine Preserve Sanctuary and for an extra fee feed the fish . I’ve personally done this submarine tour on a day trip to Catalina Island and had a blast!

This Catalina Island tour lets you experience the wonderful underwater scenery and marine wildlife without getting yourself wet. After you witness an unforgettable feeding frenzy, you can alight on the sub’s top deck and soak in spectacular views of Catalina Island.

3. Discover Avalon – Catalina Scenic Tour

• Tour length: 50 minutes
• Tour rating: 4.5/5 stars out of 170+ reviews
• Includes: transportation, a guided commentary

If an intimate, comprehensive, and quick excursion is what you’re after, Discover Avalon Catalina Scenic Tour is a great option! Over the course of 50 minutes, you will experience what the biggest city on Catalina Island has to offer in a small group of up to 6 people.

This is a great way to get to know Avalon on your first visit before you explore its charming streets and beaches. It is a non-stop journey along the stunning shores of the city while you remain in a comfortable vehicle.

“This Catalina Tour is an absolute treat for anyone visiting the area. From breathtaking vistas to intriguing historical insights, this tour covers it all.” -Curtis M. (read more reviews on Viator )

It all begins at Catalina Ave & 3rd St. The tour’s itinerary will help you become quickly acquainted with Avalon’s amazing waterfront, hillsides, town center, and all of its fun attractions.

This will help you plan the rest of your visit and pick places you want to explore further. The guide will even provide additional information about the island and the city’s history to help you out!

4. Catalina Island Glass Bottom Boat Tour

• Tour length: 40 minutes
• Tour rating: 4.5/5 stars out of 50+ reviews
• Includes: boat ride

Do you want to discover an array of colorful fish and other underwater creatures in the Pacific Ocean without setting foot in the water? This glass-bottom boat tour will help you do just that! If you’re not a fan of snorkeling but still want to see kelp forests and vibrant fish , this tour is for you.

“Great tour guide! Great trip with the kids to see below the sea. A must-do adventure on your Catalina Island trip!” -Heather H. (read more reviews on Viator )

The tour begins at 22 Green Pleasure Pier in Avalon. Each boat only seats 9 passengers so you can enjoy a small group setting and more attention from your captain as you embark on the adventure.

The captain will tell you about the local ecology as well as the corals and fish you see. It’s a super informative and relaxing experience, especially for families with little kids.

5. 2-Hour Catalina Island Adventure Tour

• Includes: transportation, guide

This is an exciting 2-hour-long Catalina Island Tour that’s meant to quench your thirst for adventure. Aside from traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle for maximum comfort, the adventure tour is all about exploring the wild and protected side of Catalina Island.

“ The views were magnificent . Abram, our driver and guide was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. He pointed out the wildlife and we saw a herd of bison.” -Rochelle S. (read more reviews on Viator )

As you head towards Catalina’s Airport-in-the-Sky , you’ll be on the lookout for local wildlife such as bison, deer, and bald eagles. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the endangered Catalina Island Fox (they are the cutest!).

When you reach your destination in the Catalina Island Conservancy’s Nature Center , you’ll get to visit a Native American gathering site that’s perched on the highest point of the island.

This tour is the perfect blend of adventure and cultural history so you can appreciate the rugged side of the island and its captivating past.

Read Next: 15 Best Places For Viewing Wildlife In California

6. Catalina Island Undersea Expedition Tour

• Tour rating: 4.5/5 stars out of 70+ reviews
• Includes: underwater cruise & guided commentary

The waters surrounding Catalina Island are teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for underwater expeditions.

During the Catalina Island Undersea Expedition , you’ll get to enjoy all that the Pacific waters have to offer over 45 minutes. It is an enthralling, safe, and comfortable experience as you glide 5 feet underwater in a climate-controlled cabin.

“ I really enjoyed the expedition . The tour staff were all friendly and informative. It was great seeing all the marine life.” -Ronald A. (read more reviews on Viator )

The expedition begins at Green Pleasure Pier. Once you go under, you will have your own personal porthole to peek out from . Witness the magical world underneath as your guide provides information about marine biology in the area.

You can walk around to enjoy views from different points and angles and visit the upper deck to admire Avalon’s shoreline. This expedition is an unforgettable experience if you’re looking to observe marine life while staying comfortable and dry.

7. Haunted Catalina Ghost Tour

• Tour length: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Tour rating: 4.5/5 stars out of 40+ reviews
• Includes: tour guide, audio headphones

Catalina Island boasts a rich history and cultural heritage. This Haunted Catalina Ghost Tour is designed for those who appreciate the spookier side of things.

“Great tour! Would highly recommend to anyone looking for something fun and off the beaten path when they come Catalina.” -Kristen C. (read more reviews on Viator )

Starting at 7 pm at 1 Green Pleasure Pier, this 1 hour and 30-minute-long tour ends at 1 Casino Way Avalon and makes for an enthralling experience. Your guide will regale you with tales of the Casino as you stand in its entryway, making the experience much more immersive.

Then, you will explore the streets of downtown Avalon as the local historian explains the difference between spirits and ghosts. You will also learn about goosebump-inducing stories and the paranormal mysteries of Catalina Island.

8. 10-Hour Catalina Island Coastal Fishing Trip

• Tour length: 10 hours
• Tour rating: 4.5/5 stars out of 34,600+ reviews
• Includes: boat ride, bait, experienced captain & crew (fishing license, rod rentals, and tackle are available at additional cost)

If you’re enthusiastic about fishing and looking to spend a nice long day at sea, this Catalina Island coastal fishing trip offers one of the most unique experiences you can do in Southern California.

“Crew was amazing! Everyone was professional and helpful making sure my son had a great first time deep sea fishing experience.” -Ryan (read more reviews on Groupon )

The tour includes bait while an experienced captain takes you to the best fishing spots near Catalina Island . As you go fishing, you may just reel in a white sea bass, bonito, barracuda, calico bass, sheepshead, sculpin, or yellowtail.

The boat features a complete indoor kitchen along with an assortment of food items and beverages. It is also equipped with a modern fishing tracking system to help you get a full catch.

If you’re looking to buy or rent a rod or purchase other items such as sunscreen, fishing licenses, apparel, and tackle, including the latest saltwater lures, the on-site tackle shop will hook you up!

9. Behind The Scenes Catalina Island Casino Tour

• Tour length: 1.5 hours
• Tour rating: 4/5 stars out of 10+ reviews
• Includes: tour guide

Take a gamble on this tour because you’ll surely have an incredible experience even if you don’t usually visit casinos! The Behind The Scenes Casino Tour provides an exclusive experience with just nine people in each group.

“ Tour guide was very knowledgeable and personable . She brought the tour to life and made sure that we were able to see everything.” -Linda W. (read more reviews on Viator )

During the tour you will visit the historic Catalina Casino, allowing you to appreciate the town’s old Hollywood glamor and dramatic seaside setting. You’ll also be exploring areas of the casino that have been closed to the public for over 70 years!

See the green rooms that were once used by Errol Flynn and Cary Grant. Stand on the stage where the King of Swing, Benny Goodman once stood. See the historic projection room and first cinema designed for screen talkies, including Cecil B. DeMille’s latest films.

If this sounds like heaven, then reserve a slot for this 90-minute excursion that’s bursting with glamor and infotainment.

10. Fantastic Catalina Race

• Includes: snacks, beverages, goodies, prizes

Blend the excitement of sightseeing with the intrigue of solving mysterious clues and playing detective. The Fantastic Catalina Race and Mystery experience is a unique way to explore the island while challenging yourself to solve clues and enjoying an exciting, interactive 90-minute adventure.

“ Such a fun way to see Catalina! Our kids (young adults) loved it and will always remember this trip. Be sure to wear athletic shoes, a lot of ground to cover.” -Read more reviews on Viator

Whether you’re looking to bond with family or enjoy a memorable adventure with your friends, this is a great way to experience Catalina Island. The race is all-inclusive, offering snacks, beverages, and wonderful prizes.

The adventure begins at 220 Metropole Ave at 11:15 am, so you can start your day on a thrilling note. It ends at the perfect time for an early lunch so you can set off for more adventures on Catalina Island!

11. Escape Room Catalina

• Tour length: 1 hour
• Tour rating: 5/5 stars out of 10 reviews
• Includes: escape room, costumed photo

Can’t get enough of interactive challenges and mysteries? Try Escape Room Catalina , the only escape room on the island! It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible with a 10-person limit so you can readily get cracking on your escape plan with a small group of family or friends.

“ Amazing experience . Never had so much fun and within a small area. Will recommend it to anyone who wants to have fun escaping a room.” -Read more reviews on Viator

The challenge is to get out of venues that look like a submarine or pilot ship in less than an hour, making this a highly unique escape room experience . If that isn’t cool enough, you also get a free costumed photograph so you and your crew can remember your Escape Room shenanigans forever!

The Escape Room’s meeting point is at 220 Metropole Ave, and the Game Master will get you up to speed on all the rules and regulations before checking you in.

12.  Catalina Island Mermaid Photo Shoot

• Tour rating:  4.5/5 stars out of 7 reviews
• Includes: mermaid tail, photographer, online gallery of photos

Catalina Island is a gorgeous destination that looks straight out of a fantasy world. Well, this particular activity capitalizes on its otherworldly feel!

During the Mermaid Photo Shoot , you’ll don a gorgeous mermaid tail that will make you feel like a stunning underwater goddess. With various sizes available for children, women, and men, you can make this a fun experience for yourself, your family, or couples.

“ So much fun being a mermaid on the island! Photographer was amazing and super easy to work with.” -Gabrielle P. (read more reviews on Viator )

Add a bit of whimsy and wonder to your trip and unlock your inner sea princess & prince with this mystical, magical photoshoot at 1 Casino Way. You can wear a top of your choice and be as creative as you like.

The photographer and mermaid tail are all yours for an hour. In the end, you’ll get a set of enchanting photographs!

13. A Self-Guided Audio Tour Of Avalon City

• Tour rating: 4.5/5 stars out of 15+ reviews
• Includes: VoicaMap app, audio, maps, and geodata

Sometimes, you just want to take over the reins and enjoy a walking tour at your own pace . This Avalon City self-guided tour allows you to do just that! You can start, pause, and restart the audio tour at any time so you have full control over your day.

“Loved the Catalina Island stories, history and voices used to tell the tales of Avalon. Loved this and will use for other cities too.” -Dlien (read more reviews on Viator )

Download the VoiceMap application and enjoy lifetime access to the audio tour of Avalon City, along with offline access to all the maps, geodata, and audio content.

This allows you to go at your own pace , customizing your tour and experience however you wish. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Catalina Island while learning all you can about it.

14. Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour

• Includes: zip line, tour guide

If you’re a daredevil and soaring 600 feet off the ground sounds like your cup of tea, this Catalina Island Zipline Eco Tour is what you need! Over the course of two hours, you will speed across multiple zip lines on the island at a speed of 40 miles per hour .

Your tour will begin at Descanso Beach Club with a safety briefing. Then, you’ll take to the skies, soaring high above the canyons and treetops. You can also learn more about the Island’s wildlife and ecology at different stations along the way.

This eco-tour is 2 hours of pure fun and excitement . It is the perfect combination of sightseeing and adrenaline blended into a single adventure.

15. Catalina Island Bison Expedition

• Includes: driver, live commentary

Hop onto a four-wheel drive and explore remote parts of Catalina Island with your expert guide-driver in this bison expedition . This journey will have you aboard an eco-friendly Hummer as you dive into the rugged, rustic, untamed areas of Catalina Island.

You will ride off-road into Cape Canyon, and along Sheep Chute Road in search of American bison while learning all about the local ecology and wildlife. Open skies and mesmerizing views make this a priceless experience!

Starting at 10 a.m., this expedition is an exciting way to begin your day. Over the 2-hour window, you also get to pass through Middle Ranch and enjoy a scenic overlook on Black Jack Mountain.

I’ve been to Catalina Island several times and have seen the bison each time. The bison that reside on Catalina Island is part of a herd that was left on the island in the 1920s by a movie crew.

Catalina Island welcomes over a million visitors each year. With all that it has to offer — adventure, history, wildlife, escape rooms, and fun photoshoots — it’s no wonder that it continues to captivate so many tourists!

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Catalina Island:

How much does it cost to tour catalina island.

Catalina Island tours vary in cost. A more in-depth private sightseeing tour costs around $300 for a group while a shorter submarine underwater tour costs around $50 per person.

On Catalina Island, you can find a variety of excursions and tours for different group sizes and budgets.

What is the best month to go to Catalina Island?

I personally enjoy visiting Catalina Island in the spring and early summer months when the rolling hills are covered in green grass and lush vegetation. But Catalina Island is a wonderful destination to visit year-round due to its mild, temperate weather.

Is it worth going to Catalina Island for the day?

I’ve gone to Catalina Island on day trips and it is so worth it! Due to its close location to the Southern California coast, you can easily plan day trips to Catalina and explore quite a bit within a few hours.

What is the best way to visit Catalina Island?

For visiting Catalina Island you will need to arrange a boat ride through Catalina Express . Catalina Express offers 30 departures daily so you have plenty of options to choose from.

The Catalina Express boats depart from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point . I live the closest to Long Beach so this is where I usually leave from.

As a second option, you can arrange a ride with Catalina Flyer which departs from Newport Beach in Orange County. This is the largest catamaran on the California Coast that also offers multiple round trip options daily.

Looking for more things to do around California? Be sure to check out these posts next:

16 Best Places To Stay In Carpinteria CA On The Coast

• 15 Wonderful Places To Stay In Oxnard Near The Beach
• 26 Best Things To Do In Ventura California (By a Local)
• 15 Best Places To Stay In Ventura CA Near The Beach
• 15 Best Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Tours

This post is written by Laura Sausina . Hi, I’m a California local and the founder of the California Wanderland travel blog. I currently live in Ventura County and help 30,000 readers a month discover things to do in Central California! Read more about me here .

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Catalina Island Tours & Activities

Tour companies in Avalon provide an array of activities, sightseeing, expeditions, coastal and interior drives, boat rides and more. Check availability and book a Catalina Island tour now.

Catalina Island Company

Only in Catalina can you zip across a rugged canyon, go on an underwater sea expedition and explore the pristine wilderness. The Catalina Island Company offers many land and sea activities to help you find your own Island rhythm.

• Chevron down Just a few of the activities offered:
• Zip Line Eco Tour
• Catalina Aerial Adventure
• Bison Expedition
• Casino Tours
• Undersea Sub Expedition
• Cabana/Chaise Lounge Rentals

Catalina Adventure Tours

Catalina Adventure Tours started over 35 years ago with the first glass bottom boat built for the company by its founder. Today, Catalina Adventure Tours operates an array of land and sea tours, excursions and packages.

• Chevron down Just a Few of the Activities Offered:
• Semi-Submarine Tour
• Glass Bottom Boat
• Sunset and Dinner Cruise
• Coastal Eco Cruise
• Inside Adventure Tour
• Enchanted Island Tour
• Safari Adventure Tour

Catalina Island Conservancy

Some of the most beautiful parts of the Island can be explored by guided tours into the interior. The interior is covered with broad valleys, isolated coves, and is home to the Catalina Island Fox, the Beechey Ground Squirrel, North American Bison, Catalina Island Quail and the Bald Eagle as well as many endemic plants and flowers only on Catalina.

• Chevron down More Information

The Catalina Island Conservancy is responsible for the care of this magnificent environment. They have information available and provide unique access to visitors. Ride in an open-air jeep, as a naturalist guide drives you into remote places of Catalina.

Catalina Tours

CatalinaTours.com offers a host of activities and tours that are fun for the whole family. Take a look below for help in planning your trip to Catalina!

• Guided Snorkel and Eco Tour
• Frog Rock Kayak Tour
• Electric Bike Rentals
• Whale Watching Trip
• Land and Sea Combo

Catalina Island Tours

Island Enterprises, Inc. – Your best Island Adventures! Island Enterprises, Inc. has been catering to tourists from around the world for over 25 years, with the best tours, buses, vessels, and staff. We are proud to have you with us to share this experience.

For photo enthusiasts, our tours provide the opportunity to capture those moments with seals, bison, and other animal life. We bring together the best of Catalina for you and your family to enjoy together. Thank you for joining us and we hope you enjoy your adventures.

Ocean Excursions

• 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.

Land Excursions

• Clock 50 minutes

Avalon City Terrace Tour

There are great photo opportunities around every turn as we explore Avalon on a guided tour. View iconic landmarks and famous sites.

• Clock 2 hours

Inside Adventure Tour

Spectacular canyons, a scenic coastline, and an unspoiled countryside alive with native plants and wildlife will take your breath away on this two hour guided eco-land excursion.

See what the hype is about! Book your tour now.

Guided Snorkel Eco Tour

Quick Details

• Users Ages: Ages 8+
• Clock Duration: 2 hours
• Map Marker Location: Casino Point on Catalina Island
• Info Required: Guests should be able to understand basic directions in English.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: Guests must be ambulatory and be able to access the ocean via one set of stairs.
• Heart Restrictions: Must be able to swim and feel comfortable in the water. Please see restrictions below.

Go Snorkeling on Catalina Island

• It’s time to feel the nature! This guided Catalina Island snorkeling tour in the Casino Point Dive Park is a must for anyone who loves the ocean.
• You will be engulfed by local aquatic life, kelp & schooling fish while an informative guide shows off Catalina’s fascinating marine world.
• The Avalon Dive Park is a well-established marine preserve and offers an abundance of local aquatic life like the colorful Garibaldi.
• Look for schooling blacksmith, kelp bass, bat rays, and maybe even a giant black sea bass.

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

• Chevron down What to Expect

Come get close up and personal with the fish and beautiful marine life in our local marine preserve. This guided tour of Catalina’s Avalon Dive Park will take you on a memorable Catalina Island activity as you explore our undersea gardens and learn about the local marine eco-system from our professionally trained instructors. Our kelp forests, clear water and beautiful marine life will make this a great addition to your vacation on Catalina Island.

What is included with my snorkeling tour? All snorkeling equipment is provided: mask, snorkel, fins, and wetsuit. Bring a towel, bathing suit, and your sense of adventure. Plan on a total of 2 hours to complete this experience – this includes time to get fitted for and return gear.

Upon check-in, at the start of your tour time, you will be fitted for a wet suit, fins, and mask. Once everyone is geared up, an orientation will be provided. Then you’re all set to get wet! Enjoy approximately a one-hour guided snorkel experience in the Avalon Dive Park near the majestic Casino.

• Chevron down Restrictions

For your safety, you should be in good health & free from high blood pressure, heart, neck or back problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this tour. Weather may impact this excursion. Please contact us in the event of inclement weather. You must be able to SWIM to partake in this experience. You will be swimming in the open ocean for the duration of the experience and unable to touch the ocean floor with the exception of entering and exiting the ocean via the Dive Park stairwell.

Single Snorkeler Fee:  Guided Snorkel Eco Tour generally requires a minimum of 2 (two) guests to operate. In the event that your purchase does not meet the minimum and yours is the only purchase, there is a $20 individual snorkeler fee/upcharge. The Catalina Tours Reservations Team will contact you should this be the case to advise of the fee and confirm how you would like us to proceed or the Catalina Divers Supply Team will notify you upon check-in.

• Chevron down What to Bring

Wear your bathing suit. Bring a towel, sunscreen, sandals, or flip flops, and sweatshirt. Spending money (gratuities for diving crews are not included in tour cost). This is an open-air excursion. Expect sun exposure! Bring & wear sunscreen. Check the dive shop in the lower level of the Casino Building for items you may want to enhance your experience.

• Chevron down Where to Meet

Casino Point Dive Park CDS Booth Saint Catherine Way, Avalon, CA, United States

GET DIRECTIONS

• Chevron down Refunds, Exchanges, and Cancellations

There is no penalty for cancellations received 7 days prior to your activity.   If you need to cancel between 48 hours and seven days we will attempt to rebook your activity, but you may be assessed a rebooking fee. There will be no refunds for cancellations within 48 hours of your scheduled activity.

No-shows will be charged the full price. If you arrive and your instructor determines that you are not eligible for your activity,   either due to lack of certification or a safety issue, you will not be issued a refund. Anyone who arrives under the influence of drugs or alcohol will not be allowed to participate and there will be no refund.

Customers will receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by email to cancel or inquire about a cancellation.

• Chevron down FAQ

Do I need a reservation for my Catalina Island Guided Snorkel Eco Tour?

While a reservation is not required, it is recommended. There are a limited number of times & guides available and they do sell out.

Where can I put my personal belongings while on tour?

Each location provides an area to store your belongings. It is always best to bring only necessities to your activity as storage space may be limited. Catalina Tours and its vendors are not responsible for the loss, damage or theft of personal property.

Can I take pictures on the Guided Snorkel Eco Tour?

Absolutely! Definitely bring your camera with you. You can purchase an underwater camera upon check-in. Take the memory home by renting a GoPro Hero 3 Silver Edition for $45.00 and you take the memory card with you to share with everyone. (This is sold on site, not through our website.)

How far is the check-in location from certain areas to the Guided Snorkel Eco Tour?

Walking time to common locations:

• Cabrillo Mole Area: 15-20 minutes
• Basketball/Volleyball/Old Ben Park Area: 10-15 minutes
• Green Pleasure Pier/Island Tour Plaza: 10 minutes
• Casino Building: 0 minutes
• Descanso Beach: 5 minutes

Still have questions? Visit our FAQ page.

Related Activities

• Clock 3 hours
• Users Ages 10+

Discover Scuba Diving

Find out what makes scuba divers love Catalina Island! See majestic kelp and schools of colorful fish as you explore Catalina’s underwater world.

• Clock 45 minutes
• Users All ages

Undersea Expedition

Explore the ocean deep on this exciting journey under the sea! Ride in a semi-submersible vessel and stay completely dry while traveling beneath the surface.

Catalina Island Packages

Start your perfect Catalina Island vacation with Extreme Tours. We offer transfers to and from Catalina Island terminals and a variety of tour packages. Start your Catalina Island getaway and reserve Zip Line Eco Tours, Catalina Casino Tours, Scenic Tours of the Island, and more! Check out all of our Catalina Island tour packages.

Tour Options

Roundtrip shuttle & boat transfers from your hotel, home or office.

PLUS Roundtrip Boat Tickets aboard Catalina Express! One Call Books it ALL!

Adults $121.00 / Children 3 to 11yrs $87.00 / Infants 0 to 2 yrs $30.00

Duration: 10 hours

Tour Time: 8:00am to 6:00p.m.

Shuttle transfers are provided from select areas of Orange County and the greater LA County area to the Catalina Express in Long Beach. Karmel shuttle transfers are available from Hotels, Residence & Businesses!

Your trip to Catalina Island and the beautiful city of Avalon begins with:

• Karmel Shuttle hotel pick-up time: Between 8:00-8:30am.
• Catalina Express departure to Island: 9:50am (Seasonal) Enjoy the smoothest 1 hour boat ride to the island.
• Return boat departs Avalon at 3:45p.m. (Optional boat departure times are available. 6:00pm or 7:30pm. Check out the schedule. Leave us notes on the boat return time you want when checking out.

For additional information on Catalina Island boat schedules, please click this link:

Click Here for Catalina Express boat schedule.

Catalina Island Tours

Avalon scenic tour.

$21.00 Adult / $19 Child (2-11)

Duration: 50 min

Tour Time: 12:00pm, 1:30pm and 2:00pm Year-round

If you have not been to Catalina or if you have and never experienced this tour, it is the BEST introduction to the town of Avalon!

Rediscover 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 Catalina tour always receives the highest ratings for customer satisfaction in our visitor surveys. You’ll see picture-perfect views and colorful local attractions as your tour guide shares interesting Catalina Island history and folklore from the comfort of our passenger vehicle. This seven-and-a-half mile journey provides a comprehensive history of Santa Catalina Island’s most dynamic location. Don’t forget your camera.

Reserve the roundtrip hotel transfers, roundtrip boat and Avalon Scenic Tour in one convenient spot. It’s the perfect day in Paradise.

Behind the scenes Catalina Casino Walking Tour

$32 per Adult / $30 per Child (2-11)

Duration: 1 to 1 1/2 hours

Tour Time: 12:30p.m. Year-round

Catalina’s World-Famous Icon

Take a trip down memory lane to the days when bands were big and movies were just beginning to talk. The Catalina Casino tour package epitomizes everything glamorous about Santa Catalina Island. The Casino building is a working theater, ballroom, and concert hall to this day. Focusing on the cultural history of the building, this one-of-a-kind Catalina Island tour brings you unprecedented access to backstage areas that were closed to the public for over 70 years. You’ll see the extraordinary Art Deco murals and a classic 1929 pipe organ inside the Avalon Theatre, which still shows movies on its massive screen. You will get to see brand new video showing the history of this iconic building. Then you’ll continue up to the beautiful, world-famous Casino Ballroom, a masterpiece of design and a long-standing venue for the world’s best musical performers and big bands. You’ll soon understand why many call this one of the most romantic places in the world! This Catalina tour package requires uphill walking and stairs.

Skyline Drive & Airport in the Sky Tour

Adults $59 / Children $56 (2-11)

Duration: 2 hr 15 min

Tour Time: 11:45am

Venture Into The Wilderness

This tour package is an Island favorite. A narrated journey along the scenic “Skyline Drive” takes you ten miles into Santa Catalina Island’s protected wilderness area. Along the trip you’ll see spectacular vistas, deep canyons, quiet coves and an endless blue ocean. Keep your eyes open for the island’s largest inhabitant, buffalo, before you visit the Catalina Nature Center at the Airport in the Sky. Bring your camera because picture-perfect scenes fill the entire Catalina Island tour.

Inland Expedition

$90.00 per Adult / $87 per child (2-11)

Duration: 3 hrs 30 mins

The BEST of the island’s interior (Boat return MUST be on the 6:00pm or 7:30pm boat - Times vary based on seasonality.)

This comprehensive Catalina Island tour package takes you 31 miles through the heart of Catalina’s rugged interior. You’ll travel in a comfortable, ‘50’s Flxible Bus™, restored to its original streamlined beauty. This memorable journey follows the 1800’s stagecoach route then you will continue through Middle Ranch, where you will enjoy the Native Plant Nursery and the Catalina Island Fox habitat. Your journey continues onto the beautiful windward backside of the Island for a view of Catalina’s rugged, unspoiled Pacific shoreline for stunning photo opportunities. Then journey through the Airport in the Sky and Conservancy Nature Center.

You will have the opportunity to look for bald eagles, bison, and mule deer on your scenic drive back into the heart of Avalon.

Remember your Catalina Island tours start from Long Beach with transportation from Extreme Tours Shuttle. For additional information on Catalina Express boat times, please click this link:

East End Adventure Tour

Adults $82 / Children $79 (5-11 yrs)

Duration: 2 hours

Tour Time: 2:00 PM

Tours and times subject to change. Must be five years old or older to participate. Get a bird’s eye view of Catalina! (you must return on the 6:00pm or 7:30pm boat)

Climb into our unique, open-air H1 Hummer for an unforgettable trip to the summit above Avalon. Traveling to 1,500 feet above sea level, you’ll enjoy a birds-eye view of romantic Santa Catalina Island and the ocean beyond. This open-air Extreme Hummer Tour travels five miles up rugged interior terrain, where you will experience spectacular views of the coastline and deep canyons below. Lined by beautiful eucalyptus trees, the adventure tour winds its way back along the Summit Road in to Avalon. This is an EXTREME Tour package…one you will never forget! It’s a romantic adventure!

Undersea Expedition

Adults $41.50 / Children $39 (2-11)

Duration: 45 minutes

Tour Time: Hourly, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm (3pm tour means you MUST depart on the 6:00pm or later boat)

Another World to Explore

Come face-to-face with Catalina’s abundant marine life by cruising five feet under water in a spacious, climate-controlled cabin. Or come back for the nighttime version and we’ll introduce you to a whole other world that only comes out after dark. As we feed the fish from our semi-submersible vessels, you’ll see a wide array of undersea dwellers: bright orange garibaldi, spotted calico bass, urchins, rockfish and bat rays, just to name a few. This is more than a Catalina Island tour; it’s an undersea adventure.

Catalina Island Tours and times subject to change. Extreme Tours Shuttle’s reservation agent will inform you of any changes in time.

Book Transportation

Skip renting a car. Parking and traffic in Southern California is miserable, and a shuttle bus makes your California vacation so much easier. Operated by our sister company, Karmel Shuttle, we can be your ride around town. From the airport or cruise terminals, to your hotel or Los Angeles tour, and everything in betweeen ... we've got your SoCal transportation covered.

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Conservation

We preserve and restore the environment on Catalina, promoting and modeling ecologically sustainable communities to create a healthier future for this Island and our Earth.

• Collaborations
• Habitat Restoration
• Restoration Project
• Research Permits
• Wildlife Programs
• Plants & Animals of Catalina
• Internships

The Conservancy provides formal, classroom lessons and non-formal outdoor experiences designed to deliver nature-based engagement and experiential learning.

• Youth & Family Learning
• Adult Learning

As the oldest and largest private land trust in the state of California, the Catalina Island Conservancy opens its wildlands for the public to enjoy in many ways.

• Airport in the Sky
• Wildlands Express
• Nature Center
• Trans-Catalina Trail
• Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden

Founded in 1972 as a nonprofit organization, the Catalina Island Conservancy is one of the oldest private land trusts in Southern California.

• Strategic Plan
• Annual Reports

Learn more about obtaining required permits, browse through various trail and island maps, and read through our helpful policies and information.

• News & Stories
• Policies & Information

Get Involved

Support a worthy organization dedicated to restoring and protecting Catalina Island’s wildlands – help save animal species on the verge of extinction and maintain unique habitats for all to enjoy.

• Ways to Give
• Conservancy Jobs

RESTORATION PROJECT

The Catalina Island Restoration Project, undertaken by the Catalina Island Conservancy, is a comprehensive initiative aimed at regenerating and safeguarding the natural ecosystem. The project seeks to protect the Island’s biodiversity, mitigate erosion, prevent wildfires, and create a sustainable, thriving environment for both wildlife and humans.

• About the Restoration Project
• Restoration Project FAQS
• Science, Data, and Methodologies
• What Supporters are Saying

Catalina Eco Tour

Wheel into the wildlands with our catalina eco tour.

With access to over 165 miles of paved and unpaved roads, our naturalist-led Catalina Eco Tour allows you to explore parts of Catalina Island no other outfitter can reach. Whether you are hoping to learn more about the Island’s rich history, see some of our unique plants, wildlife and bison, or simply explore parts of Catalina that most people never see, your adventure starts here !

Start your adventure! Book your Catalina Eco Tour online today.

Private and custom tours available, please call (310) 510-2595 x0 to book.

Catalina Eco Tour Seating

The number of seats in a vehicle vary and all seating is assigned by driver at time of tour. Due to vehicle layouts you may be seated away from your party in the same vehicle. Guests may be required to sit 3 across in the back row in the same vehicle to accommodate all parties and any Covid Regulations. Vehicle types include Custom Tundras and Custom Jeeps and vehicle type can change up until tour time. Masks are not currently required in open air vehicles. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Have a wonderful adventure!

Catalina Eco Tour Ride

Catalina Island Conservancy’s Eco Tours travel on unpaved roads and trails where you will experience bumps and jars. Guests with infants and young children, or those with orthopedic, neurological, cardiac or respiratory issues, and pregnant women should consider any risks associated with those conditions should they choose to participate in this tour.

Babies & Young Children

Catalina Eco Tour Babies & Young Children Policy

If bringing babies or young children, please note that we abide by all current California laws with regard to car seat requirements and a separate tour seat must be purchased to accommodate the car seat; babies are not allowed to be seated on laps.

Service Animals

Catalina Eco Tour Service Animals Policy

We also welcome medically necessary service animals; if the animal cannot fit comfortably at your feet you will be required to purchase an additional seat. Please notify Guest Services at 310-510-2595 x0 in advance if bringing a service animal, so we can properly accommodate you and your service animal on the tour.

Cancellation Policy

Catalina Eco Tour Cancellation Policy

Tickets cancelled within 72 hours prior to departure are non-refundable, non-exchangeable. Web convenience fees are never refundable.

Catalina Eco Tour Locker Availability

Please note that we cannot store any personal items or luggage during your Catalina Eco Tour.  There are lockers available at the Catalina Express Boat Terminal and many hotels will hold luggage for their guests.

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Catalina Island & Whale Watching Tour

March 17, 2025 thru march 21, 2025.

Experience the beauty of Catalina Island. This tour will take you on an unforgettable adventure to experience the nature and wildlife of the Pacific Coast, from rugged canyons to serene beaches and from wild bison to blue whales! This wondrous place just a few hours from Tucson will offer us a temperate getaway and the nature-lover’s paradise.

Transportation

Cruise & Ferry

Whale watching cruise included!

5 days, 4 nights

Activity Level 4

• 8 meals (4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner) included

Availability

Pickup/Dropoff

• Roundtrip door-to-door livery service

Tour Highlights

• Welcome Dinner
• Dolphin & Whale Watching Cruise
• Ocean Institute Tour
• Casino Tour
• Bison Expedition
• Farewell Lunch
• Roundtrip motorcoach transportation
• 4 nights lodging
• Tours as described
• Catalina Ferry
• Whale watching cruise
• Baggage handling
• Bus refreshments
• Services of a Tour Director
• Taxes & gratuities for included items

Day 1 - Tucson to Dana Point

Depart Tucson and travel with us to the harbor town of Dana Point , California. Dana Point Harbor provides slips and mooring for over 2,500 boats along with many attractions including shopping, sport fishing, walking, bicycling, parasailing and a host of recreational activities adjacent to Doheny State Park , one of California’s most famous beaches. We will arrive in time to check in to our hotel, see the sun set over the Pacific and enjoy a group dinner.

Meals included: (D)

Day 2 - Ocean Discovery

Today we enjoy Dana Point where we will embark on a dolphin and whale watching cruise! You’ve never experienced anything like this. Dana Point is known as the World’s Whale Capital and March is a prime time to see them in numbers. Likely sightings include gray whales, blue whales, humpback whales, orcas, and large pods of dolphins. Following, we will have a seaside lunch at the harbor.

This afternoon, explore the Ocean Institute on a tour. The Institute includes state-of-the-art teaching labs, the spectacular Maddie James Seaside Learning Center, a historic tall ship, and an oceanographic research vessel. Here you’ll learn about maritime history and ocean life!

The evening is free to explore on your own.

Meals included: (B, L)

Day 3 - Catalina Island

This morning we take an express ferry to Catalina Island , which boasts a year-round “Mediterranean climate” with warm, sunny days and cool evening breezes. Upon arrival in the town of Avalon , we will have an independent lunch. After refueling, we take a casino tour viewing the magnificent foyer with original ceilings and gorgeous hardwoods. Stand in awe at the massive art murals that adorn the 1,100+ seat movie palace. The Catalina Casino has hosted record crowds in it’s 90 years of operation. The evening is yours to explore more in Avalon.

Day 4 - Bison Expedition

Discover enchanting Avalon on this delightful journey along the beachfront, up the hillsides, and through the heart of this friendly and historic town. We climb aboard open-air biofuel Hummers to go in search of Catalina’s world-famous bison on an exciting expedition into the island’s interior. Descendants of a small herd left on the island by a movie crew in the 1920s, Catalina bison now number about 200 and are managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy . The Bison Expedition takes us to Middle Ranch, up Cape Canyon to a scenic overlook on Black Jack Mountain, and then down the original 19th-century stagecoach route back to Avalon. Along the way, we’ll journey through favorite bison grazing grounds, where we’ll have an excellent opportunity to see these majestic animals in the wild. It’s a unique experience we’ll only find on Catalina Island.

After our bison expedition, we enjoy a farewell lunch. You’ll have the rest of the day to dig into what Catalina Island has to offer, from charming shops to beach views.

Day 5 - Departure

Leave your sea legs behind but take your memories as we return to the mainland by boat and then on to Tucson.

Meals included: (B)

Itinerary is subject to change.

Former Baseball Training Site

The Chicago Cubs trained on Catalina Island from 1921 to 1951.

Gray Whales

Can reach lengths of up to 50 feet, with females measuring larger than males.

Hotel Information

Doubletree suites doheny beach.

Dana Point, CA

Atwater Hotel

Avalon, Catalina Island, CA

Package Pricing

$2,595 per person, double occupancy.

Deposit: $200

$2,995 per person

Single occupancy, final payment due:, january 7, 2025.

Deposit: N/A

Price Includes

• Roundtrip motorcoach transportation • Roundtrip door-to-door livery service • 4 nights lodging • 8 meals (4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner) included • Tours as described • Catalina Ferry • Whale watching cruise • Baggage handling • Bus refreshments • Services of a Tour Director • Taxes & gratuities for included items

Booking Policy

Final Payment Due: January 7, 2025

Cancellation Fees

• None through January 7, 2025
• $200 – January 8 – January 21, 2025
• $1,500 – January 22 – February 11, 2025
• 100% after February 11, 2025

We pride ourselves on great service and an enjoyable experience for all and will go over our booking policies after you make your request for booking. If you’d like to learn more about our booking policies before your trip, give us a call at (520) 325-8839, or visit our Booking Policies page.  Click here for more information on our booking policies.

In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to help protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer a Travelex Insurance Services protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected.

Please click here for more information.

ACTIVITY LEVEL RATING

Level 4: Active

Expectations: The tour includes well-paced walking tours with regular breaks. Up to 2-3 hours of walking each day. To fully take advantage of all this tour has to offer, guests need to be able to walk longer distances, climb several flights of stairs and navigate steps and uneven terrain walking for extended periods of time over more difficult terrain (e.g. cobblestones, city hills, stairs without handrails, limited or no access to elevators). Your itinerary can include significant changes in temperature and altitude and may require a higher number of longer travel days with morning and/or evening activities. Most trips will feature long touring days, many full-day excursions and a full and active itinerary with a faster pace and longer distances. Excursions require standing and walking to city centers where coaches are prohibited.

Appropriate for: Travelers who are physically fit, expect a vigorous pace and enjoy participating in two to three hours of physical activity per day.

For your reference, we send to you a detailed itinerary approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the scheduled tour departure. This has day-by-day times and events and hotel information where you can be reached in case of an emergency.

The times listed on the itinerary are all approximate. We cannot be held responsible for schedule changes due to unforeseen circumstances with the weather, transportation agents, highway conditions, hotels or contracting agents.

EMERGENCY CONTACT

It is always a good idea to carry on your person a list of medications that you are taking and an emergency contact phone number while you are traveling. And we suggest making a copy of the itinerary and provide it to a friend or family member.

GRATUITIES/ITEMS INCLUDED IN PRICE

The traditional end-of-tour gratuity to your tour director is included on this tour. All hotel porterage and airport skycap (when available) fees are included. We also include the gratuities for the coach/livery drivers. Hotel housekeeping tips are not included.

For your convenience, we have a (round-tour) door-to-door pickup service with each multi-day tour. (This service is not available to all clients depending on your location.) Approximately 2 to 3 days prior to the departure date you will receive a call from our office and we will tell you your assigned pickup time. (These times can vary up to 15 minutes depending on traffic.)

LODGING REQUESTS

If you would like to request special accommodations at the hotel(s) where we are lodging, please call us as soon as possible and we will forward these requests for you. The phone numbers of the hotel(s) where we are staying are listed on the itinerary.

Many hotels around the country have instituted a "reconditioning fee" of $300 or more that is levied upon a guest that smokes in a non-smoking room. If this occurs during our tour you will be responsible for paying this fee to the hotel prior to check-out.

TRAVEL REQUESTS

We pay close attention to your requests but please realize that these are merely requests and cannot be guaranteed.

RESPONSIBILITY

Pleasurebent Tours acts solely as an agent in arranging hotels, transportation, sightseeing, baggage-handling, and other services and does not assume any liability for injury, damage, loss or delay due to any act or default of any company or person. We, along with our subcontractors, reserve the right to make changes to an itinerary if it is necessary for the proper handling of a tour.

WEATHER AND CLOTHING/MISC. SUGGESTIONS

The average daytime high temperature during our stay in Dana Point and on Catalina Island is typically in the low 70’s and the average night-time temperature is usually lower 50’s. When we are on or close to the Pacific those temperatures drop 5 degrees or more. Please be sure to bring a sweater and/or rain jacket, along with good walking shoes and a hat. There are no dress codes for the areas we take you on this tour.

Inquire About This Tour

Submit your inquiry for more information about a tour. We will get back to you with a (human) response as soon as possible. During the week that’s usually within a couple of hours. Evenings and weekends may take us a little bit longer. Please note that this is an inquiry for tour bookings only and does not constitute or confirm a reservation on a tour.

• Name * First Last
• Tour Name *
• Number of Travelers Select Number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7+
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Call 520.325.8839 to Book Today!

If you aren't ready to inquire by email or would rather call and speak to a team member, we look forward to hearing from you.

Not done exploring?

We have plenty of tours to choose from, so take a look around!

• 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
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• 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
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• 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
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• Boat & Hotel
• Boat & Hotel | Catalina Flyer
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• Third Night Complimentary
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• Bistro at the Atwater
• CHILL at Descanso Beach Club
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• Tickets & Camping

Catalina Island Land Tours

Our exciting land tours are the best way to explore Catalina Island's unspoiled beauty and rugged landscape. Most of our land tours originate from the Tour Plaza in Avalon, between Sumner and Catalina Avenues.

The popular  Bison Expedition takes you on an exciting journey aboard an open-air biofuel Hummer in search of Catalina’s American Bison. First-time visitors enjoy  Discover Avalon , which offers the perfect introduction to the charming seaside town of Avalon. Embark on a  Journey to the Sky , winding along the original 19th-century stagecoach route through the heart of Catalina's interior up to Airport in the Sky, offering incredible views of rugged canyons and endless ocean along the way. 

The top-rated  Zip Line Eco Tour  is a Catalina bucket list adventure that sends you soaring across Descanso Canyon and through a grove of towering eucalyptus on five separate lines at up to 35 mph. Catalina Aerial Adventure  challenges you to new heights on five self-guided ropes courses suspended in the trees.

Venture into Catalina’s interior to view the recently renovated “hidden ranch” known as “El Rancho Escondido” to experience the Arabian Horse Ranch, the Saddle & Trophy Room, The Bishop’s Chapel, and a sustainable vineyard. This new tour launches in March 2024 . 

Be sure to check out our ocean tours  for exciting adventures on the water.

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

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Why Catalina Island Put Its Bison on Birth Control

The contraceptives may actually have worked a little too well.

By Jackie Mead | Mar 26, 2024

Every summer, more than a million people flock to a small California island to relax on sandy beaches, swing golf clubs, and take in the local wildlife—a herd of bison . 

Catalina Island is a rocky speck off the coast of Southern California, lying almost parallel to the city of Los Angeles. Like many islands, it boasts a unique ecosystem with more than 50 plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. But this land of rolling hills, rugged canyons, and beautiful beaches is also prone to invasive species, and its history has allowed for several unconventional introductions. 

A Brief History of Catalina Island

The dawn of pzp , bison on birth control .

Real estate magnate James Lick bought the island in 1867 and offered leases for grazing sheep, cattle, and goats. One of his ranchers, Augustus William Timms , diversified his business by using the boat Rosita to ferry tourists across the channel. These two industries—farming and tourism—continued to shape the island as ownership passed to George Shatto, who established its town of Avalon, and then later to the Wrigley family of chewing-gum fame. 

Bison were brought to the island in 1924 for a Hollywood film, but exactly which director or movie remains a mystery. The large ungulates adapted fairly well to their new environment and became a hit with tourists. In 1934, Wrigley arranged for nine more bison to be brought from the mainland; by 1969, there were approximately 400 bison in the herd [ PDF ]. 

Catalina Island, like all islands, exists in a delicate ecological balance. It’s just 75 square miles, with much of it covered by unique species of native grass. In 1972, Philip K. Wrigley helped found the Catalina Island Conservancy, a nonprofit organization with a goal to preserve and restore the area’s natural habitat after decades of destruction from farm animals. Through private land donations, the conservancy owned 88 percent of the island by 1975.  

Perhaps the newfound Conservancy’s most unusual task was to figure out what to do with the island’s bison herd. It estimated the island could only support between 150 to 200 bison. At the time, the best way to reduce the herd was to ship the animals to the mainland; almost 2000 were relocated between 1969 and 2003. But the operation was costly, as well as potentially dangerous for both the bison and humans. So the Conservancy began looking toward a very different kind of herd management: birth control. 

The search for a birth control option for ungulates began in the American West, where feral horses were running a bit too free: Their populations were doubling roughly every five years. Today, herds are restricted to areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service. Like bison, relocating a feral horse is expensive and dangerous. So the U.S. government began looking into birth control options. 

Porcine zona pellucida, also known as PZP, is a protein found in the ovaries of female pigs . When injected into a female horse, the mare’s immune system produces antibodies that bind to their eggs. These antibodies create a wall that blocks fertilization, preventing the sperm from attaching to an egg in a process called “immunocontraception.” 

Prior to the Catalina Island bison, the most comprehensive study of PZP was of the Assateague Island pony herd, which is managed by the National Park Service. In 1965, there were 21 ponies on the Maryland portion of the island; in 1994, there were 167, all munching on endangered seabeach amaranth plants [ PDF ]. A 10-year study of the drug found that it not only reduced the herd to a sustainable 75 equines, but was also a model of NPS and public cooperation.   

In most cases, PZP is temporary and reversible. Mares that were already pregnant when injected had no complications and delivered healthy foals [ PDF ]. But horses aren’t the only animal to be treated with PZP. Tests have also been carried out on elephants in South Africa , bears in New Jersey [ PDF ] and sea lions in California . The Catalina Island Conservancy was confident it was the right drug for the job for the island’s bison herd, too. 

When the Conservancy first proposed using PZP for birth control in 2003, there were about 350 bison on Catalina Island. On average, two-thirds of females would give birth every year. But the effects of living in coastal California were visible —the Catalina bison were smaller than their mainland counterparts, and had open sores from nutrient deficiencies. The Conservancy hoped that reducing the herd size would improve their overall health. 

Scientists began injecting female bison with PZP using a long-range dart gun in 2009. The results were immediate. In 2011, only about 10 percent of females gave birth; in 2012, the birthrate dropped to 3.3 percent. And in 2013, only one calf was born. The Conservancy named him Uno.  

But the birth control might have worked too well. No calves have born following Uno, even after the Conservancy scaled back its darting in 2015. For an island selling bison tours, bison knickknacks, and “buffalo milk” cocktails, a herd that’s dwindled to below 100 animals is worrying. The Conservancy even considered bringing two pregnant bison to the island in 2020, but was unable to due to the pandemic. 

The lack of calves might be the result of forces much larger than PZP. Climate change has been especially evident in Southern California, with rising temperatures and increased fire risk. During the state’s most severe drought on record, which lasted from 2012 to 2016, the Conservancy began to supply the herd with troughs of water . The bison may have stopped reproducing because of the birth control, but the trend could be continuing because of the ongoing drought conditions. Perhaps the Catalina Island herd ultimately doesn’t need birth control, and the bison have simply made the decision that now isn’t the right time to start a family. 

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