Catalina Island Day Trip
Looking for a fun day trip or some island adventure during your stay in Dana Point? Whether you are looking for some fun in the sun, seeking adventure, or relaxing by the coast, Catalina Island has it all! Let us guide you through the perfect day trip all just a short boat ride away!
Taking the Catalina Express
Start your day by boarding the Catalina Express which takes off right out of Dana Point Harbor. A quick ride, or walk, from your stay at one of our Dana Point resorts and hotels. You can easily purchase tickets online or call the number on their site to reserve dates and takeoff times. The Catalina Express is just over an hour’s ride out of Dana Point and offers comfortable accommodations for a smooth ride over.
Being the “Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World®”, you may catch a glimpse of some ocean friends on the way. The Catalina Express also offers snacks and drinks on your rides to and from, and seats outside to enjoy the sun and fresh air.
Getting Around Catalina Island
Getting around the island is fairly simple, you can walk just about everywhere, but for a bit of further exploring, there are a few options for getting around.
Rent a beach cruiser, electric bike, mountain bike, or tandem bike at Brown’s Bikes for a fun way to explore the town and a quick way to get to the beach!
Rent a golf cart and drive up to the historic Wrigley Mansion, Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Gardens, the Catalina Island Golf Course, or one of the many beautiful scenic routes leading you to a stunning look out over the ocean!
You can also take the shore boat if you plan on visiting the other side of the island such as Two Harbors, which provides a quiet beachside atmosphere.
Things To Do On Catalina Island
There are countless activities to choose from on the island, many within walking distance or a quick golf cart ride away.
The Catalina Express drops you in Avalon Harbor, the heart of the island, where you can then walk over to the many shops, adventure and rental companies, restaurants, and more.
Descanso Beach Club is an absolute must when visiting Catalina Island and is a quick walk from Avalon Harbor. The most relaxing spot to lay out and enjoy Catalina Island’s signature cocktail, Buffalo Milk, it’s not what it sounds like trust us! We recommend reserving chairs ahead of time as they sell out quickly.
Channel your adventurous side and rent snorkel gear, kayaks, or paddle boards and explore the crystal blue waters surrounding the island. All are easily accessible at Descanso Beach Club and Avalon Harbor. You will most likely spot our state fish, the Garibaldi, you won’t miss their neon orange coloring! You can also catch some exhilarating ocean views parasailing or jet skiing and can easily book times online before you go. There are fun tours on land too, such as the bison expedition, yes there are bison on Catalina, zip line eco-tours, and the challenging aerial adventure!
Check out Catalina Island Company’s website for more information and everything you need to know before your trip is over!
Follow us on Instagram and Pinterest for more photos of Catalina Island and tips for your next trip! Don’t forget to tag us and use our hashtag #mydanapoint to be featured on our socials.
