Catalina Island Trip with Hotel transfers & Optional tours

Experience the Charm of Catalina Island on a Full-Day Trip from Anaheim

This Catalina Island trip offers a well-rounded day escape, starting at $203.08 per person. It includes hotel pickups, round-trip ferry tickets, and a chance to add optional activities such as a scenic Avalon tour, an underwater sub expedition, and ziplining. With about 9 hours of total experience, it balances travel, sightseeing, and adventure.

Designed for travelers seeking a convenient and personalized day on Catalina Island, this tour typically sees bookings around 26 days in advance. While the trip is praised for its scenic ferry ride and friendly guides, a notable limitation is the schedule’s winter restrictions, which may affect timing and availability of certain activities.

This tour suits those looking for a flexible, moderate-paced day with multiple activity options. It’s ideal for visitors who want to explore Avalon’s sights, enjoy marine encounters, or add a ziplining thrill—and all with the comfort of hotel transfers included.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Anaheim or Buena Park, making logistics simple
• Round-trip ferry tickets provide a scenic 1-hour ride to Catalina Island
• Optional upgrades include a scenic Avalon tour, an underwater sub expedition, and ziplining
• Small-group format offers a more personal experience, with a maximum of 9 travelers
• Duration of approximately 9 hours balances travel, sightseeing, and adventure activities
• Booking typically 26 days in advance offers some planning flexibility, but winter schedules may limit options

The Convenience of Hotel Transfers and Ferry Rides

This tour starts early at 8:00 am with hotel pickup in Anaheim or Buena Park, simplifying transportation arrangements. From there, travelers are shuttled to the Long Beach Landing Terminal where they board a ferry to Catalina Island. The ferry ride lasts about 1 hour, offering views of the Southern California coastline and a relaxing start to the day.

The ferry ride is a highlight, with the chance to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and panoramic vistas of the ocean. Upon arrival in Avalon, the largest city on Catalina, travelers find themselves in the heart of the island. The transfer and ferry include all the essential logistics, reducing stress and offering a smooth journey from start to finish.

Exploring Avalon with a Scenic Tour

Once in Avalon, optional upgrades allow for a 50-minute scenic tour of the town. This guided journey takes visitors along the waterfront, through the town center, and up the hillside, providing a quick yet rundown of Avalon’s main sights.

During this drive, guides share stories about Catalina’s history and heritage, helping travelers get an appreciation for the island’s origins and development. The scenic tour is especially useful for first-time visitors, offering a snapshot of Avalon’s charm and layout in a short time.

Marine Encounters with the Undersea Expedition

A key feature of this tour is the undersea expedition, where visitors cruise five feet below the surface in a climate-controlled cabin. Every participant has their own seat and porthole, making it easy to spot marine life and enjoy the vibrant underwater scene.

This 45-minute underwater experience includes a live guide who points out various sea creatures, enhancing the educational aspect. The cruise is a popular add-on, praised for its convenience and the opportunity to see Catalina’s marine ecosystem without getting wet.

The Zipline Adventure Above Avalon’s Hills

For thrill-seekers, the zipline adventure offers a short but exhilarating ride above Descanso Canyon. The activity begins with a safety briefing, followed by participants being fitted with harnesses and helmets.

Travelers zip along five consecutive lines, each above the canyon floor, gaining views of the island’s natural beauty. Along the way, eco-stations provide information about Catalina’s ecology and history, making the experience both fun and educational. The zipline is suitable for those at least 10 years old and weighing between 80 and 240 pounds.

Dining and Leisure at Green Pleasure Pier and Descanso Beach

The Green Pleasure Pier serves as a scenic spot for a leisurely stroll, with many visitors choosing it for a relaxed lunch at one of the seaside eateries. It’s a popular place to soak up the ocean views and enjoy some downtime before continuing exploration.

The Descanso Beach Club offers a relaxing environment where travelers can unwind after their activities or simply enjoy the scenic surroundings. The beach club area is also the starting point for the zipline adventure if the upgrade is selected. It’s a comfortable spot for taking in Catalina’s coastal beauty.

Navigating the Schedule and Activity Options

The tour’s schedule is carefully timed, with check-in and activity start times coordinated to maximize time on the island. For example, the scenic Avalon tour is designed to fit within a 50-minute window, while the underwater expedition lasts about 45 minutes.

Due to seasonal scheduling, especially in winter, boat availability may limit activity options or cause tighter timing. The tour providers advise that most travelers can participate in all activities, but the schedule can be tight, and early planning is recommended.

Considerations for Booking and Flexibility

Booking the tour around 26 days in advance helps secure preferred dates and activities. The tour includes hotel transfers and ferry tickets, alleviating the burden of independent planning.

A useful tip from reviews is that passengers can change their return ferry times at check-in without charge. However, if changes are made after check-in, there is a small $5 fee per ticket. Flexibility is limited if plans change last minute, so travelers should confirm their schedules beforehand.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

Participants should wear closed-toe shoes for the zipline, and note that restrooms are not available on the zipline course. Restrictions are strictly enforced; for example, children aged 5-9 must be accompanied by an adult, and weight limits apply for ziplining.

Since food and drink are not included, visitors should bring snacks or plan to purchase meals on the island, particularly at the Green Pleasure Pier or local restaurants. The tour’s timing may be tight, so arriving on time and being prepared helps ensure a smooth day.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Catalina Trips

This small-group experience offers a more intimate atmosphere with a maximum of 9 travelers, allowing for personalized attention from guides. The inclusion of hotel transfers and ferry tickets simplifies logistics significantly, especially for first-time visitors.

The ability to customize the day with optional adventures like ziplining, underwater expeditions, or the Avalon scenic tour makes this trip versatile. Review feedback highlights the friendly guides and stunning scenery as key positives, though some comments note the winter schedule can be restrictive.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour provides a rundown of Catalina, some travelers express frustration with the tight schedule and limited time for certain activities. In winter, boat schedules can be restricted, potentially affecting the availability of the underwater expedition or scenic tours.

Plus, food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so extra planning is necessary for meals. It’s also important to note that passenger and weight restrictions for ziplining are strictly enforced, which could lead to cancellations if not met.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This trip is well-suited for those who value convenience and personal attention. The small-group format creates a more relaxed environment, perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends.

Adventure lovers will appreciate the zipline and undersea expedition, while those interested in sightseeing enjoy the scenic Avalon tour. Since the schedule can be tight, travelers who prefer a structured yet flexible day will find this tour appealing.

Final Thoughts on the Catalina Island Day Trip

This tour offers a balanced combination of travel, sightseeing, and optional adventures at a reasonable price point. Its hotel transfers and ferry inclusions streamline planning, making it suitable for visitors who want a hassle-free day on Catalina Island.

The highlights—like the scenic Avalon drive, marine encounters, and ziplining—are praised for their quality and entertainment value. However, potential travelers should be mindful of seasonal schedule restrictions and tight timing.

This trip works best for adventurous travelers and first-timers seeking an efficient, curated experience that captures the essence of Catalina Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price of $203.08 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip ferry tickets, and optional activities such as the Avalon scenic tour and undersea expedition if purchased.

Can I change my return ferry time?
Yes, ferry return times can be changed at check-in at no charge. If the change is made after check-in, a $5 fee per ticket applies.

What activities are available as upgrades?
Upgrades include a scenic Avalon tour, an undersea expedition, and a zipline adventure. You can select these options to enhance your day.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride from Long Beach to Catalina Island lasts approximately 1 hour, with scenic views of the coastline.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. Visitors should plan to bring snacks or purchase meals on the island.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 9 travelers for a more intimate experience.

What are the age and weight restrictions for ziplining?
Participants must be at least 10 years old, weigh between 80 and 240 pounds, and wear closed-toe shoes.

Are there any restrictions on the season?
Winter schedules may limit boat trips, affecting activity availability. Most travelers can participate in all activities, but timing could be tighter.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking around 26 days in advance is recommended for availability; however, winter schedules could influence booking flexibility.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund.