Did you know you can escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities and transport yourself to a serene island paradise? Located approximately 22 miles south-southwest of Los Angeles is the majestic Catalina Island.

Catalina Island is the southernmost island of California's Channel Islands and is made up of two towns: the village of Two Harbors and the city of Avalon. Catalina Island is 22 miles long and 8 miles wide, encompassing approximately 76-square miles.

From the island's rugged backcountry to its glistening shores, there is so much to do on Catalina Island!

Explore Two Harbors

When planning a trip to Catalina Island, Two Harbors is a must-add to your bucket list! Two Harbors is a picturesque destination on Catalina Island that attracts travelers seeking thrilling outdoor experiences. Its location on the western coast offers visitors unique opportunities to delve into the island's natural beauty and resources.

Two Harbors is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The Dive & Recreation Center at Two Harbors offers travelers everything they need to enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, camping, kayaking, boating, fishing, snorkeling & scuba diving.

Check Out Catalina Island Casino

Catalina Island Casino has been one of the main focal points on the island for over 8 decades. It is important to note that it is not an actual gambling facility but a place of entertainment and gathering.This notable landmark is where millions once congregated and made the 26-mile trip across the sea to enjoy dinner, a movie, and a night of dancing.

Today, Catalina Island Casino is still admired by many for its decadence, stunning artwork, and architecture. Catalina Island Casino offers 2 experiences, the General Admission Tour and the Casino VIP Backstage Tour. Both give visitors an unparalleled perspective of this Art Deco masterpiece, from its historic theater to the world’s-largest circular ballroom.

Experience Descanso Beach Club

The breathtaking Descanso Beach Club is just a stroll away from Catalina Island Casino. Descanso Beach Club is home to Catalina Island's only beachside restaurant and bar and is one of the last private beaches in California that is open to the public.

Descanso Beach Club is a popular destination because it is among one of the rare places where visitors can lawfully savor a cocktail or two while relaxing on the sand! The club offers delicious food and drinks, all of which can be delivered to your private cabana, chaise lounge, beach towel, or ocean-view table. Descanso Beach Club is great for those looking to sit back, unwind, and enjoy the tranquil island ambiance.

Embark on a Bison Expedition Tour

Catalina Island boasts an array of extraordinary wildlife, with the American Bison being particularly notable. Catalina Island's American Bison are descendants of a small herd left on the island by a movie crew in the 1920s. They are well protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy, which is why one of the top activities to do on Catalina Island is embarking on a Bison Expedition Tour!

This unique experience takes travelers on an epic 4-wheeling adventure through the island's hillsides. Get up close and personal with these remarkable creatures and the island's flora and fauna as you journey through the historic Middle Ranch and up Rugged Cape Canyon to a scenic overlook on Black Jack Mountain.

Soar Over Catalina Island

You can witness the best of Catalina Island from the ultimate perspective – the sky! With our Catalina Explorer helicopter tour, depart from Pebbly Beach and discover the mostly untouched natural beauty of this 22-mile-long island sanctuary.

Fly high above iconic landmarks, including Avalon, Catalina Island Casino, Descanso Beach Club, and more, as you look out for bison, eagles, and dolphins on this 20-minute aerial adventure. Upon your return to Pebbly Beach, fly past the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden, the historic Catalina Island golf course, and Mount Orizaba, the island's highest peak.

Visit Wrigley Memorial & Roam the Botanic Garden

The Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden stands out as among the most stunning attractions on Catalina Island. The Wrigley Memorial was established in honor of William Wrigley Jr., who sought to protect Catalina Island for future generations. The structure features Catalina stones and tiles and offers astonishing views of Avalon Canyon and the mainland.

The roots of the Catalina Botanic Garden date back to Ada Wrigley's private plant collection from 1935. Moving from private ownership to more public access, the Botanic Garden was reborn in the 1970s with an emphasis on the native and endemic flora of Catalina Island. In addition, this 38-acre Botanic Garden showcases succulents from around the world.

Transportation to Catalina Island

The best way to travel to Catalina from the mainland is by helicopter! With helicopter transportation to Catalina Island, you can journey to California's island paradise in as little as 15 minutes. Helicopter transportation to Catalina Island is available from picturesque Long Beach, San Pedro, Orange County, and more Southern California hotspots!

We hope these top activities to do on Catalina Island make it to your itinerary!