Catalina Food Tour

The Catalina Food Tour offers a flavorful journey through Catalina Island, combining delicious tastings with captivating stories about the island’s culture and history. Priced at $154.96 per person, this 2-hour 30-minute tour is ideal for those eager to explore local hotspots without the crowds, as it limited to just 10 participants. The tour begins at Old Ben Park and moves along Avalon’s charming streets, making stops at six different locations to sample seafood, sweets, and traditional Catalina dishes.

Known for its informative guides, this tour boasts a top rating of 5.0 with 459 reviews, and 97% of participants recommend it. While the tour includes alcoholic beverages at multiple stops, it’s suitable for adults 21 and over. Travelers should plan to arrive hungry, as portions are generous, and be prepared for a leisurely walk through picturesque Avalon.

Key Points

• Limited to 10 guests for a more intimate experience
• Multiple food stops with seafood, sweets, and drinks
• Knowledgeable guides share stories about Catalina’s culture and history
• Tour duration of 2 hours 30 minutes starting at Old Ben Park
• Includes alcoholic beverages at several locations
• Perfect for adults 21+ who want a relaxed, flavorful overview of Avalon

Starting Point at Old Ben Park

The tour departs from Old Ben Park, located at 105 Pebbly Beach Rd. The meeting time is 11:45 am, giving you plenty of time to arrive and settle in. The initial moments introduce Avalon’s charm and the history of Catalina Island before heading out on the walking route.

This starting location offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for meeting your local guide before setting off along Front Street. From here, you’ll be introduced to the island’s historic tiles and the vibrant waterfront area, setting the scene for the culinary adventure ahead.

Scenic Walk Along Avalon’s Waterfront

As the tour progresses, you’ll enjoy a walk along Avalon’s water’s edge, viewing notable architecture like the Inn on Mt Ada—a mansion once owned by the Wrigley family—and the famous Casino Building. The route showcases the charming streets and beautiful harbor views, providing excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Catalina’s scenic setting.

This walk not only highlights visual attractions but also gives context to the island’s cultural landmarks, enriching the tasting experience with stories about local history.

First Tasting at Topside by NDMK

Your culinary journey kicks off at Topside by NDMK, where spectacular harbor views serve as a backdrop for your first savory tastes and cocktails. The location offers a perfect blend of delicious food and breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal spot for your first stop.

At this point, you’ll sample delicious foods in a relaxed outdoor setting, setting the tone for the rest of the tour. The guide shares insights into Catalina’s culinary traditions, making each bite part of a larger story about the island’s food culture.

The Catalina Island Casino from the Outside

While you don’t enter the Catalina Island Casino, you will pass by and learn about this art deco masterpiece. The guide discusses its history as a movie palace and ballroom, adding flavor to the walk and offering context about Avalon’s entertainment heritage.

Stopping outside allows for photo opportunities and a quick overview of this famous landmark, which contributes to the island’s distinctive character.

Beverages and Bites at El Galleon Restaurant & Bar

Next, the tour takes you to El Galleon Restaurant & Bar, where more savory tastes and refreshing cocktails await. This beachfront spot captures the relaxing vibe of Avalon, making it a highlight for many on the tour.

At this stop, expect to sample homemade recipes and enjoy the scenic water views. The alcoholic drinks—included in the tour—are a popular feature, enhancing the leisurely atmosphere.

Sweet Treats and Coffee at Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co

A change of pace comes with a visit to Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co, housed in the Metropole Market Place. Here, beverages and sweet treats provide a delightful break.

This quick stop is perfect for sampling local baked goods and refreshing drinks, giving you a chance to relax and soak in Avalon’s vibrant shopping area. It’s also an opportunity for some souvenir browsing.

Old-School Sweets at Lloyd’s of Avalon

Passing by Lloyd’s of Avalon, the tour offers an extra special taste of classic confections in an old-fashioned setting. The whimsical atmosphere makes it a memorable stop for sweet tooths and those curious about Catalina’s sweet traditions.

This stop provides a nostalgic flavor and an insight into downtown Avalon’s charming dessert scene.

Final Tastes at Catalina Charlie’s

Your last food stop is at Catalina Charlie’s, a local favorite known for its savory dishes and well-crafted cocktails. The relaxed environment makes it a fitting place to wind down and reflect on the tour.

Expect to sample more flavorful bites and enjoy friendly service. The guide shares fun stories and local tips, making this a fitting conclusion to your Catalina culinary experience.

Sweet Finale and a Beer Float at Marlin Club

The tour wraps up at the Marlin Club, the oldest dive bar in Avalon. Here, visitors are treated to one last taste—a beer float—a unique and memorable local favorite.

The Marlin Club’s historic ambiance and friendly vibe leave a lasting impression, and it’s a great spot to continue exploring Avalon on your own after the tour ends. The end point is conveniently located just a block from the tour’s starting point, simplifying logistics for further sightseeing.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

The Catalina Food Tour is designed for adults 21 and over, as alcoholic beverages are included at multiple stops. The tour operates with a small group of up to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience and more interaction with the guide.

Participants should arrive hungry to enjoy generous portions, and those with food allergies should communicate their needs in advance, as some stops may not be suitable for guests with significant food restrictions. The tour is near public transportation, making it convenient for visitors staying in Avalon.

The meeting point is Old Ben Park, and the tour begins promptly at 11:45 am. Travelers can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in planning.

Why Choose the Catalina Food Tour

This tour excels in offering an intimate and informative look at Catalina Island’s culinary scene. The small group size fosters personalized attention and engaging storytelling from guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.

The variety of stops—from historic landmarks to seaside restaurants—makes it an immersive experience that combines delicious food with local history. The inclusion of alcoholic drinks adds to the relaxed, social atmosphere that many reviews highlight as a big positive.

One of the tour’s most appreciated features is the generous portions, which often leave participants full and satisfied. The scenic walk and stunning harbor views make it a well-rounded activity for those wanting a taste of Avalon beyond the typical tourist spots.

Final Thoughts on the Catalina Food Tour

For anyone looking to sample Catalina Island’s best local foods while learning about its culture and history, this small-group walking tour delivers a lot of value. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach make the experience memorable, and the variety of tasting locations keeps things interesting.

While the alcohol inclusions may not suit all guests, most will appreciate the relaxed, social vibe. The generous portions and beautiful waterfront scenery make it a worthy choice for food lovers and history buffs alike.

This tour is especially suitable for adults who enjoy walking, tastings, and storytelling about Catalina Island’s unique cultural landscape. It offers a delicious, engaging, and scenic way to explore Avalon in a relaxed group setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is only for adults aged 21 and over due to the inclusion of alcoholic beverages at multiple stops.

How long does the tour last?
The Catalina Food Tour runs for approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, starting at 11:45 am.

Do I need to make dietary arrangements ahead of time?
Yes. Guests should inform the tour provider of food allergies or restrictions in advance, though the tour may not be suitable for those with significant food allergies.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the tour start point at Old Ben Park is near public transportation, making it easy to access.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What type of foods are served during the tour?
Participants enjoy fresh seafood, sweets, and traditional Catalina foods, including homemade recipes and classic confections.

Are beverages included?
Yes, cocktails and beer floats are included at several stops, in line with the adults-only policy.

How many stops are there during the tour?
There are six main stops plus pass-by points, covering various restaurants and landmarks around Avalon.

Is the tour recommended for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. The guide shares stories and insights that help orient guests to Catalina’s culture and history, making it perfect for newcomers.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
Guides are praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging, offering stories and background at each stop to enrich the tasting experience.