Sun, Sea, and Unexpected Adventures on Catalina Island

There’s a particular kind of magic in escaping to an island by sea, and the journey to Catalina Island delivers that magic in just under an hour. Departing from Long Beach aboard the Catalina Express, we began our day trip the way all good getaways should, with a hot coffee, a savory snack, and panoramic views of the Pacific glinting in the morning light from the Commodore Lounge. This quiet upgrade offers priority check-in and boarding, plus spacious leather-trimmed seats and complimentary refreshments, well worth the extra $20 each way.

Part of a fleet of high-speed vessels operated by Catalina Express, the boat skimmed across the water at speeds nearing 43 mph. The company’s four high-tech catamarans, including the Starship Express, Catalina Jet, Cat Express, and Jet Cat Express make up to 30 departures daily year-round. With service departing from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point, the trip to Avalon is as convenient as it is scenic. Designed specifically for comfort and speed, the vessels boast airline-style seating, large viewing windows, and ample space for passengers to relax before arriving at the island’s picturesque harbor.

By the time we stepped off the boat and onto the sunlit streets of Avalon, the buzz of the mainland felt worlds away. Our first stop was lunch at Pier 24, a new waterfront restaurant paying tribute to Catalina’s maritime legacy. Located on the site of the historic Steamer Pier once the landing point for William Wrigley’s famed S.S. Catalina, Pier 24 blends history with contemporary coastal cuisine. With harbor views through massive picture windows and a salty breeze on the outdoor patio, we tucked into a flavorful meal of lobster sliders, a chicken and date chopped salad, and one of the best burgers we’ve had in a while each bite a reminder of how good island life can taste.

From there, we were scooped up outside the restaurant for a two-hour private tour with Avalon Local Tours in a golf cart. Our guide, Carol, an island native with decades of stories and a wealth of local knowledge, navigated Avalon’s hills and winding roads in a golf cart, pointing out hidden murals, architectural gems, and more than 25 sightseeing landmarks. It was a laid-back, insider-style tour that felt both personal and immersive, with photo stops at the island’s most Instagram-worthy vistas, all while learning the tales that give Catalina its unique spirit.

Next up: a change of pace and elevation with Catalina Island Horseback Adventures. Riding trails that meandered above Avalon, our group trotted past rugged hillsides and sweeping ocean overlooks while our guide pointed out local flora and fauna along the way. This scenic ride felt like a journey back in time, offering the same perspective once enjoyed by early island explorers. And the highlight? Meeting Peanut, their adorable one-year-old mini horse, who stole our hearts with one playful nudge.

As the sun dipped low on the horizon, we turned up the excitement with the Zip Line Eco Tour, a two-hour adrenaline rush that began 600 feet above Descanso Beach Club. We zipped across five lines that sent us soaring through eucalyptus trees and across canyons, our speed topping 35 mph with the Pacific sparkling far below. Equal parts thrill and natural immersion, this tour gives a bird’s eye view of Catalina’s terrain and its diverse ecosystem plus a new appreciation for just how stunning this island really is.

Still buzzing from the zip line, we took some time to stroll through Avalon’s charming shops before heading to Bluewater Avalon for dinner. Located at 306 Crescent Avenue and part of the respected Bluewater Grill family, this seafood spot delivers serious flavor with a laid-back island attitude. We started with a coconut margarita, followed by panko-crusted shrimp so perfectly crisp it demanded a second round. For dessert, their legendary Java Mud Pie towering with chocolate, coffee ice cream, and whipped cream, was the decadent finale we didn’t know we needed.

As twilight settled in, casting a golden shimmer across the water, we made our way back to the dock to catch the 7:45 p.m. ferry home. Once again opting for the Commodore Lounge, we sipped wine in the upper deck’s quiet comfort as Catalina faded into the distance behind us. With spacious seating, overhead storage, and complimentary snacks, the ride home offered one last dose of indulgence, a perfect bookend to a day that balanced adventure and ease with effortless charm.

From start to finish, Catalina proved to be more than just a convenient island escape it was a day full of vibrant flavors, unforgettable sights, and meaningful moments. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline, relaxation, or a little of both, a day trip to Avalon aboard the Catalina Express feels like a mini-vacation that recharges the soul. And the best part? It’s just an hour and a world away.