Island of Adventure

Catalina Island's Best Adventures

1) Glamp in the Backcountry

You love the outdoors but you want a hot shower, a good meal, and a comfy bed? Done! Glamp in Catalina’s vast interior, where your room opens to the stunning scenery, and itineraries cater to your main interests, from hiking to yoga and private tent massages.

2) Discover Remote Beaches

You can’t go wrong beach-hopping on Catalina. The crystal clear aqua-blue water is reason to try out a clear-bottomed boat or just play in the waves. Some of the best beaches are only accessible by hiking or kayaking, including remote boat-in campsites along the coast of the island.

3) LA County's First Zipline

Los Angeles County’s first zipline is also the most scenic in California. Fly above the Pacific and under the moon and the stars. The Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour features five consecutive zips high above Descanso Canyon and through a grove of eucalyptus, with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. Go during the day or try it at night.

4) Do the Grand Traverse

The Trans-Catalina Trail is a must-do hike across the wilder side of the island. Traverse up hills and down valleys, gaining fantastic coastal views and seeing the island’s 42,000-acre Nature Preserve (aka, Catalina’s “Interior”). Tackle the whole thing over multiple days or just hike a section of it.

5) Just Say Spa

Well, well, wellness! Melt away stress with a heavenly massage or facial or body scrub. Unwind at one of Catalina’s four day spas where eucalyptus steam rooms delight and “spa bubbles” means champagne!

6) Food Tour, Cocktails, Places to Stay

Catalina Island’s signature cocktail? Buffalo Milk (i.e., like a Mudslide, island-style!). You’re a foodie? Sample everything from fresh seafood to waffle-cone ice creams on a guided food tour (or opt for a quiet sundown dinner overlooking the harbor in Avalon). Check out the bars and try to figure out which one inspired Crosby, Stills & Nash.

Where to stay? From sophisticated and swanky to cozy and romantic, or rustic upscale, find your perfect lodging and deals in Catalina.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman with her arms outstretched to the rolling hills scenery while on a rock outcrop at Barnabe Peak in Samuel P Taylor Sate Park in Marin

    Barnabe Bonanza

    Sure, there are higher mountains in Marin (Mount Tam) and easier ascents (Mount Burdell), but is there a more expansive North Bay view? Barnabe Peak in Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers a glorious panorama including Mount Tam, Mount Diablo, and Mount St. Helena.

    View
  2. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

    View
  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

    View
  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View
  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

    View