catalina island conservancy eco tour reviews

Catalina Island Adventures: Best Things to Do on a Day Trip

A popular destination spot off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island will be able to offer you a mix of outdoor activities or just a fun place to relax and soak in the sun. It’s no wonder once you see the natural beauty and embrace that low-key atmosphere that it brings people from all over the world to this coastal hotspot. It’s perfect for a day trip from Los Angeles or longer if you want to spend a weekend here. Our guide will help show you how best to enjoy your time with this island delight.

How to Get to Catalina Island

The most common way to get to Catalina Island is by taking the ferry from the coastal mainland. There are daily round-trip ferries that depart every hour from several departure points along the coast at Long Beach, Dana Point, Newport Beach, and San Pedro. Each ferry ride takes between 60-90 minutes depending on weather conditions.

Another way of getting here is by air if you want to take a more scenic route that is much quicker. You can take a helicopter ride or a small plane that will land at the private airfield (on a mountaintop btw) on the island. If you are renting your boat during this vacation or just happen to own one, enjoy sailing into the harbor yourself and take up one of the open moors for private vessels.

Avalon and Two Harbors

The only city on Catalina Island, it has that small-town local vibe which is in contrast to the mainland. This is why it is such a popular destination as a getaway, making it more of a resort city for travelers. The whole boardwalk as you arrive from the ferry is filled with businesses focused on tourism, delicious food, shopping, and exploring the rest of the island.

It was built around Avalon Bay so your first views of the island are going to be of the harbor and beaches, filled with yachts and boats with glass bottoms to view the marine life below. Once you disembark, start your day just wandering the waterfront without any sort of plan or direction.

On the other end of Catalina Island is the village of Two Harbors. A hidden paradise, it’s even more charming as most people tend to stay around Avalon. So if you can get there even better. The smaller population makes the beachside stay even more enjoyable with its quietness. You can enjoy the same kind of day with outdoor activities and fine dining as you would in Avalon so you won’t be missing out if you only have time for one or the other.

Catalina Island Casino

Take the walking path towards the other end of the bay from where you disembarked and you will find one of the more prominent and historic landmarks of Catalina Island. You can’t miss it as it almost towers over the water and sea vessels. It’s not a place of gambling though.

It is a historic structure, meant as a lure to help showcase the beauty of Catalina Island during the 1920s. Outside you will have some great panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean along with Avalon Bay and the city. Inside you will find a movie theatre, ballroom, and museum. You can purchase a ticket for the museum where you can learn about the history of its construction, Hollywood’s famous clientele, and it’s significance as a cultural hub here.

Catalina Island Conservancy

The island’s popularity is mostly in part due to the conversation efforts here. And it’s also the best way to explore the acres of untapped wildland here. They have well-placed unpaved trails for hiking at all levels. You can even go through windy hills and preserved valleys on the Trans-Catalina Trail to see the entire island. The same applies to mountain biking at different elevations. Or you can rest and relax with a guided tour inside an off-road vehicle.

Be aware though that you are required to have permits to explore the conservancy areas. Hiking is free but to bike ride you need to become a conservancy member, with the minimum being a one-year membership. You can apply for your chosen permits on the Catalina Island Conservancy website . This helps fund the organization’s efforts but if you aren’t planning on coming again in the future, it may not be worth it.

The wildlife consisting of bison, deer, foxes, eagles, and falcons mostly roam free here and you can see them in their natural habitat as long as you don’t bother them. The conservancy offers educational outdoor experiences.

Glass Bottom Boat Tour

See the Catalina Island marine life in their protected areas with this tour. You’ll be submersed 8 feet underwater in a semi-submarine as you leave the harbor and head out to several coves where the fish congregate. See the open waters as well as the concentrations of kelp. Pay the additional cost for fish food torpedoes and watch the fish swarm around you with every blast. It’s a great way of seeing the deep blue while being able to stay dry.

On the return trip back you will be able to return to the top deck for some great views entering into the harbor again.

Zip Line Eco Tour

If you go up the canyon past the Catalina Island Casino, next to the Descanso Beach Club is a 2-hour high-flying adventure. The zip line tour has multiple lines running above the canyon so you can get some great ocean views.

Your other choice is the aerial adventure, which has multiple obstacle courses suspended between the eucalyptus trees. These courses are at your own pace in different combinations to make sure this outdoor adventure keeps you well entertained.

It is best to book ahead but first read the necessary policies and guidelines so you won’t be refused entry and refund of your purchase.

Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden

Getting here is a fantastic beginner’s hike that takes you through town to the top of Avalon Canyon. Pass by the golf course, and Hermit Gulch campgrounds before you reach the end where the botanical garden is located. Here you can enjoy nature by viewing the diverse selection of native plants from the island and nearby Channel Islands as well.

Walk past the garden to reach the memorial dedicated to the patron of Catalina Island. It’s an impressive landmark built on the hill with a stretch of stone and rock steps leading you up to the top. From here you can see the intricate carvings made for the memorial as well as some panoramic views overlooking the whole garden and canyon.

From here, if you go past the open gate is the Garden to Sky trail. It’s a nearly 3-mile slightly upward hike to the top but the effort is worth the views of seeing the ocean on both sides of the island. Just bring plenty of sunscreen and water before attempting.

Descanso Beach Club

Treat yourself to a private cabana and have a beach club experience. The beachfront location is pristine and private with impeccable service. This is the place to sit in a comfortable lounge chair and just unwind. For those looking to do an activity, you can go paddleboarding or kayaking in a roped-off part of the waters or head behind the beach club for the zip-lining.

The property at night lights up and is perfect for a dining experience or if you want to get caught up in the party scene here with live music or DJs on the weekend before catching the ferry home. Enjoy a little luxury while you are here with this spot.

Where to Stay on Catalina Island

Suppose you decide to extend your trip to Catalina Island or miss the last ferry home. Where are you going to stay? There are plenty of accommodation options to suit your budget and preferences.

In Avalon along the boardwalk are multiple beachfront hotels such as the Bellanca Hotel , Hotel Atwater , and Hotel Mac Rae . These are the ones you want to book for in the center of town just steps away from the sand and ocean views from your room.

Further inside the city, the residential neighborhoods have numerous Airbnb and other rental properties. These are small intimate houses and cottages that make you feel like you are living as a local. And for those looking to stay outdoors, there are multiple campgrounds both public and private with easy access to hiking trails, BBQ pits, water activities, and some quiet seclusion for a more relaxing experience. But you do need to book in advance the camping grounds unless you are lucky and it is not the busy season.

Catalina Island will offer you a wide range of experiences based on your preferences and interests. It’s a great place to just get away, either by yourself or with friends and family. It will captivate you and remain a highlight of your time in Southern California.

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Conservation Corps of Long Beach Honors Catalina Island Conservancy

for Workforce Development Support

Conservation

We preserve and restore the environment on Catalina, promoting and modeling ecologically sustainable communities to create a healthier future for this Island and our Earth.

• Collaborations
• Habitat Restoration
• Restoration Project
• Research Permits
• Wildlife Programs
• Plants & Animals of Catalina
• Internships

The Conservancy provides formal, classroom lessons and non-formal outdoor experiences designed to deliver nature-based engagement and experiential learning.

• Youth & Family Learning
• Adult Learning

As the oldest and largest private land trust in the state of California, the Catalina Island Conservancy opens its wildlands for the public to enjoy in many ways.

• Airport in the Sky
• Wildlands Express
• Nature Center
• Trans-Catalina Trail
• Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden

Founded in 1972 as a nonprofit organization, the Catalina Island Conservancy is one of the oldest private land trusts in Southern California.

• Strategic Plan
• Annual Reports

Learn more about obtaining required permits, browse through various trail and island maps, and read through our helpful policies and information.

• News & Stories
• Policies & Information

Get Involved

Support a worthy organization dedicated to restoring and protecting Catalina Island’s wildlands – help save animal species on the verge of extinction and maintain unique habitats for all to enjoy.

• Ways to Give
• Conservancy Careers

RESTORATION PROJECT

The Catalina Island Restoration Project, undertaken by the Catalina Island Conservancy, is a comprehensive initiative aimed at regenerating and safeguarding the natural ecosystem. The project seeks to protect the Island’s biodiversity, mitigate erosion, prevent wildfires, and create a sustainable, thriving environment for both wildlife and humans.

• About the Restoration Project
• Restoration Project FAQS
• Science, Data, and Methodologies
• What Supporters are Saying

Your Adventure Begins. Our Mission Continues.

The Catalina Island Conservancy, one of California’s oldest and largest private land trusts, opens its wildlands for the public to enjoy in many ways.

Plan Your Adventure Upcoming Events

Our Mission

To be an exemplary steward of Island resources through a balance of conservation , education , and recreation .

Explore the catalina island wildlands.

The Conservancy provides access to Catalina Island’s wildlands with nearly 165 miles of recreational roads and trails and 62 miles of unspoiled beaches and coves.

A leader in conservation programs

The Conservancy believes that effective conservation in the 21st century is by people for people, and on Catalina Island tests solutions to environmental challenges here, and across our Island Earth.

Inspire a lifetime of exploration and stewardship

The Conservancy provides lifelong learning opportunities to help children and adults discover and understand their connections to nature.

Experience Catalina Island as a Conservancy Member

As a Conservancy member you will be contributing to programs in conservation, education and recreation on Catalina Island, which protect, preserve and make accessible for all to explore.

Ways To Give

See how you can help keep Catalina Island beautiful and accessible for all

Partner with the Conservancy and give back to the island you love

Participate in Conservancy events on the Island and Mainland

Conservation Corps of Long Beach honors Catalina Island Conservancy

Restoring the ecological treasure of catalina, discovery through observation, nature on the canvas, upcoming events.

Botany Workshop with Steve Junak

July 6 @ 8:30am

Trailhead Visitor Center

Last Friday Lecture Series – Saving Giant Sea Bass with Andrew Pettit

June 28 @ 5:30pm

Snapshot Cal Coast BioBlitz

June 29 @ 10:00am

Naturalist 1 Training (July 10 morning session)

July 10 @ 11:00am

Naturalist 1 Training (July 10 evening session)

July 10 @ 5:30pm

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Eco Tours By Catalina Island Conservancy

Review Highlights

“ very comprehensive unique facts regarding botany, geography, Native American history, the impact of the bison 's etc. ” in 100 reviews

“ Beth was an amazing tour guide and was very knowledgeable about the plants, animals and all thing Catalina! ” in 41 reviews

“ It was our first time visiting the island and this is a really great way to see the natural beauty and wildlife . ” in 30 reviews

Location & Hours

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708 Crescent Ave

Avalon, CA 90704

Amenities and More

About the business.

Business owner information

Catalina Conservancy I.

Business Owner

With access to over 160 miles of paved and unpaved road, Catalina Island Conservancy's Naturalist-led Eco Tours will drive you to parts of the island no other outfitter can reach. Whether you are hoping to learn more about the island's rich history, see some of our unique plants, wildlife and bison, or simply explore parts of Catalina that most people never see, your adventure starts here! …

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Is this a good activity for 5 and 8 year olds? do we bring carseats?

No they have car seats. The children would love it.

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292 reviews

We booked the three hour tour and it was amazing. Our guide Tom was so knowledgeable and had a genuine interest in conveying the importance of how the conservatory balances, education conservation and recreation to help sustain the islands eco system. I highly recommend the tour and we will definitely do it again because they will create a new route if you let them know where you have already been.

We went on the Bison Tour and saw the big beasts, eagles, beautiful wild flowers, and much more all while enjoying the knowledge shared by our super capable and friendly tour guide Beth. The Bison Tour is highly recommended to see the vast expanses beyond Avalon and learn about the island's natural and political history. Ask questions and you will be rewarded. Beth was outstanding.

Have you ridden on a hummer before? Well, this 2-hour open-air excursion will have you on your toes as you ride through the rugged canyons above the town of Avalon. The journey will take you along a eucalyptus-lined road to see the scenic view of Catalina. With this tour, travelers are seated closely together with a mask on. There isn't much social distancing involved since the hummer can only accommodate about 12 passengers and my tour appointment had about 7 passengers on board. If you're not comfortable about being close together, then I would suggest to book an activity that you feel comfortable. Overall, aside from a topical scenic view, there wasn't much action going on. Perhaps, the Bison tour would have been more engaging to see animals but seeing Bisons' roaming around isn't a guarantee either. Please note this ride isn't for the faint heart or if you have any medical conditions due to its rigorous motion.

My friend and I had a blast with our tour guide Shawn , he was fun , friendly and very informative about the islands history and it's wildlife. Definitely recommend doing the tour to see the other side of the island not many people go too and learning about Catalina Island.

Eco tours was such a great decision! I'm so glad we opted for this tour compared to others.! Driving on the off-road all around the island with a military vehicle is by far way better than driving around the island in a crowded bus on paved streets! We learned so much about the history of the Island! Our driver Halvy was so knowledgeable and shared so much information about the island, we're ever grateful for being scheduled on his tour! The comedic relief helped take away our nervousness, my daughter and I truly enjoyed the experience. Our driver was top notch and his upmost concern was the safety of everyone. The educational value we received was worth every penny spent! Thanks again Halvy and Catalina island!

Tom was an excellent driver and guide, full of information about the flora, fauna, and history of the island. No bison this time, but we did see several foxes. Tom even took us up to the island airport for Thousand Dollar Cookies! You couldn't beat the views - excellent photo ops. Would do again!

My wife and I had a great 3 hour tour with Shaun. He even detoured to accommodate my request to visit the James H Ackerman Nursery and talk with Seth, who oversees ecological restoration efforts on Catalina. As a 4th generation Catalinian, Shaun has a deep understanding and expertise about Santa Catalina Island that made the tour an educational and engaging experience. His passion and love for the island is very clear, and he is a wonderful asset to the Catalina Island Conservancy. By the way, Seth is an awesome part of the Catalina Conservancy as well, so definitely arrange to swing by the nursery if you have any kind of fascination and interest in botany and the endemic vegetation on the island. There are a lot of restoration challenges for the conservancy to figure out, and I wish Seth and the rest of their ecology and horticulture team the best of luck in making progress on those!

We took the three hour tour on July 22, 2022 at 9:45 am. Our driver's name was Tom and he was GREAT! He is very knowledgeable and we learned a lot. We were blessed to see bison, deer, squirrels, birds, and AMAZING views! We are happy we chose the three hour tour as we were able to see a lot more. We highly recommend this tour and we want to do it again. They leave right on time and Tom will even take requests to go to different parts of the island the group has not seen. He provided us each with a bottle of water. Make sure to take a light jacket as it can get chilly. Also, I ended up taking so many pictures and videos that I am glad I took my charger for my phone with me. Great tour to do on the island!!

See all photos from Kim W. for Eco Tours By Catalina Island Conservancy

We took this tour with Andrew Nov 8. It is wonderfully bouncy with beautiful scenery and an amazing driver/guide..Andrew. He thoroughly enjoys his time with you, explaining what you're seeing as you lurch along!! Such a great tour!

Bev took us in a 3 hr tour.. Fox, bison, red tailed hawks.. great history and knowledge.. very enjoyable. Bring a couple layers... we went from 0-1600 feet climb so some light wind.. totally worth the money. She's very thoughtful a total island native!

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