10 Best Things To Do In Avalon, California

things to do in avalon california
Kathy
Kathy 
Updated
| 4 min read

Situated on Catalina Island at the southern tip of Los Angeles County is Southern California’s hidden gem; Avalon. A city that is surprisingly very rich in history and abundant in charm offering a glistening horseshoe-shaped bay along the coast of Southern California. Catalina Island has been inhabited for thousands of years, and the city of Avalon came to be in 1913. The city itself is only 3 square miles, (4.8 km2) but the island is 76 square miles (122.3 km2) and boasts a gorgeous total of 55 miles (88.5 km) of coastline! There are plenty of activities for the adventurous, relaxing beaches for book lovers, and sights to see for all. For an immersive experience, nothing beats a stay at one of the Airbnb vacation rentals in Avalon. To get you even more excited, read on for the best things to do in Avalon, California.

1. Catalina Adventure Sailing

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Embark on an exhilarating Catalina Adventure Sailing in Avalon, California, for a captivating and unforgettable experience on the water. This activity offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation as you sail along the picturesque coastline of Catalina Island.

Led by experienced captains and crew, the sailing adventure allows you to take in the stunning views of Avalon and the surrounding landscape from the vantage point of a sailboat. Feel the thrill of the wind in your hair and the gentle motion of the waves beneath you. During the journey, you may encounter playful dolphins, curious seals, and other marine life, adding enchantment to the experience.

Catalina Adventure Sailing

Address: 1 Green Pleasure Pier, Avalon, CA 90704, United States

Website: Catalina Adventure Sailing

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2. The Avalon Theatre

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The Avalon Theatre in Avalon, California, is a historical and cultural gem that offers an exceptional entertainment experience. Situated on Catalina Island, this iconic venue has captivated audiences since 1929 with its classic art-deco architecture and old-world charm.

The theater hosts a variety of performances, including live concerts, classic movie screenings, theater productions, and special events. Step inside, and you’ll be transported to a bygone era, surrounded by elegant decor and an intimate ambiance that exudes nostalgia. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor to Catalina Island, The Avalon Theatre promises a memorable and enchanting evening of entertainment in the heart of Avalon, California.

The Avalon Theatre

Address: One Casino Way, Avalon CA 90704

Website: The Avalon Theatre

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3. Catalina Undersea Expedition

Aplysia_Juveline_BFC_West_Small
Source: Photo by Flickr user California Sea Grant used under CC BY 2.0

Explore the amazing underwater world of the beautiful Southern California Coastline. Viator Tours offer regular daily trips to the stunning reefs where you can watch tropical sea life in their natural habitat from the semi-submerged vessel. The glass bottom atrium offers a fantastic up-close view during feeding time. Watch while schools of fish swim up to the boat, gliding right next to your own personal window for amazing photo opportunities. Great for families, the Catalina Undersea Expedition is a wonderful way to explore this activity and a quintessential part of Catalina Island.

Catalina Undersea Expedition

Website:

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4. Catalina Island Fishing Tours

The Marina
Source: Pixabay

If fishing is your idea of relaxation then Catalina Island can provide you with the right gear and waters for your perfect catch! The island is surrounded by several schools of fish which in turn bring the larger sport fish as well, such as Yellowtail and Seabass. You’ve heard the fisherman’s tale of how the ‘big one got away,’ well here on Catalina Island the opportunities for landing a great catch are endless. There are several fishing boats to choose from, or if you choose, you can find a secluded location and throw out a line.

Catalina Island Fishing Tours

Address: 105 Pebbly Beach Road, Avalon, CA 90704

Website: Catalina Island Fishing Tours

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5. Catalina Casino

Catalina Island, CA (Unedited)
Source: Photo by Flickr user Blake Carroll used under CC0

Built in 1928, this beautiful architectural gem is a major attraction in Avalon, California. Catalina Casino is a theater and ballroom set right on the Avalon Bay with an Art Deco style that is aesthetically pleasing to the most architecturally discerning guest. This grand building is not, in reality, a gambling location, but a ‘gathering place’ derived from the Italian term Casino.

This site was originally ‘Sugarloaf Casino’ which was a dance hall in 1919, built by William Wrigley, Jr., and then rezoned for a larger building completed in 1929, now known as Catalina Casino. This iconic stature stands the equivalent of 12 stories high and lavishly boasts an interior adorned with sterling silver and gold leaf accents, this ornate building also serves as a shelter for the entire population of Avalon, complete with a 2-week food supply!

Catalina Casino

Address: 1 Casino Way, Avalon, CA 90704

Website: Catalina Casino

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6. Island Water Sports

Parasailing a
Source: Photo by Flickr user Kenneth Hagemeyer used under CC BY-ND 2.0

For those who are looking to enjoy exhilarating yet fun things to do in Avalon, Catalina Island, there are plenty of water sports that you can embark on! Descanso Beach provides kayaks and paddle boards to enjoy the glistening blue waters up close and personal. Scuba diving and snorkeling is a great way for those that love the water to experience the Californian coast in a way that many truly love.

There is nothing a true diver enjoys more than exploring the underwater world! Avalon is a beautiful location for water sports enthusiasts, and the sunny blue skies make this location a dream destination for outdoor activities.

California Water Sports

Website: California Water Sports

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7. Hermit Gulch Trail Hike

Catalina Island, Hermit Gulch Trail, 2015.06.21 (11)
Source: Photo by Flickr user Vahe Martirosyan used under CC BY 2.0

What better way to explore the coast than with some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Southern California! This trail takes you on a 6.2 mile (10 km) hike to Lone Tree Point final destination. This moderate level trail is a favorite among hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The trail loop takes approximately 2 hours to complete through natural wildflowers and stunning Californian ocean, and mountain views and cliffs jutting from out of the sea. If you enjoy picnics, be sure to pack a light lunch that you can enjoy at one of the beautiful outlooks en route to Lone Tree Point.

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8. Wrigley Botanical Gardens

Dracaena draco
Source: Photo by Flickr user brewbooks used under CC BY-SA 2.0

This destination offers the true California in desert style. These gardens are spectacular, and you will truly get a feel for the Southwest when you trek through the well manicured grounds. Quite contrasting from the ocean, the dry heat of the desert only adds to the allure of this destination! There is a large amount of beautiful flora and fauna to admire and breathtaking desert landscapes complete with various forms of cacti. If you love the Southwestern style, then you honestly wouldn’t want to miss this stunning area of Avalon. Bring lots of sunscreen and water!

Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens

Address: 1402 Avalon Cyn Rd, Avalon, CA 90704

Website: Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens

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9. Lover's Cove

For an absolutely stunning retreat, you won’t want to miss Lover’s Cove. Located along Pebbly Beach Road, this scenic stroll is also a popular swimming and snorkeling area. Visitors are awe-inspired by the clarity of the underwater sea life in California’s crystal clear waters. The coastal mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for the glistening waves of Avalon Harbor.

Apart from being just a short distance from Avalon, the exciting things to do in Lover’s Cove make it a top destination that you must add to your itinerary in Southwest California.

Lover's Cove

Website: Lover’s Cove

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10. Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour on Friday, July 22, 2022

Soar through Descanso Canyon 600 feet (182 meters) above sea level with Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour. Safely zip over tree tops with eco-stops along the way and learn about wildlife and the surrounding environment. It’s a great way to increase adrenaline and knowledge at the same time! Hotel shuttles will bring you to this stunning location, and you’ll be amazed by the ocean views and picture opportunities. The guides will ensure you are ready with safety instructions and equipment lessons. Families are welcome, and what better way to learn about wildlife and ecology than this highly recommended zip line tour.

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Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour

Duration: 2 hours

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Explore Avalon on Catalina Island

The fun under the sun is limitless in California, and Avalon beaches are a true testament to that. There is such a wide array of things to do not only in Avalon but also in the surrounding areas of Catalina Island. History and culture for those that love architecture and stories, swimmers and divers, snorkeling and reading, there is definitely something for everyone here.

The views are spectacular, and the island has endless opportunities to explore. If you are thinking of a California destination, then I think Avalon should be on your list!

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Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Avalon, California


  • What thrilling activities can tourists do in Avalon?

    To have an adventure of a lifetime, you can try these activities in Avalon: i) cruise the waters with Catalina Adventure Sailing, ii) explore marine life with Catalina Undersea Expedition, iii) enjoy water sports at Descanso Beach, and iv) hike at Hermit Gulch Trail.

  • What are some romantic things to do in Avalon?

    For an unforgettable time with your significant other in Avalon, be sure to: i) catch a show at The Avalon Theatre, ii) stroll around Wrigley Botanical Gardens, and iii) explore the thrills at Lover’s Cove.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Kathy is an avid solo traveller from Vancouver, BC. She has enjoyed being a travel writer for the past 10 years. As a former flight attendant, she has had the opportunity to visit many amazing...Read more

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