A Catalina Day Trip: Ocean Views, Island History, and Memorable Stops
We recently took a day trip to Catalina Island, and we’re already looking forward to our next visit. With sweeping ocean views, fascinating local history, and a true sense of escape just an hour from the mainland, this island getaway delivered from start to finish.
Getting There: Catalina Express
We started the day with Catalina Express, departing from the Downtown Long Beach terminal. The ride to Avalon takes about an hour, and we upgraded to the Commodore Lounge—which was absolutely worth it. With priority check-in and boarding, roomy leather-trimmed seats, panoramic windows, and a complimentary beverage and snack, it was an easy and relaxing way to begin the day.
Catalina Express offers departures from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point, with excellent safety protocols and chances to spot dolphins, sea lions, and marine birds en route.
More info at CatalinaExpress.com
A Local’s Take: Avalon Local Tours
To explore Avalon, we joined Avalon Local Tours for a two-hour guided golf cart tour that gave us an insider’s look at island life. Our guide Carol was incredible—she’s a true local and knew just about every boat in the harbor, every trail, and every piece of island history. We saw more than 25 sights and learned about Catalina’s wild buffalo, native plants, and even the story behind the iconic Catalina Casino (which we admired from the outside).
The tour also touched on the Wrigley family’s legacy, John Wayne’s Catalina adventures, and what life is really like for residents. It was scenic, personal, and a highlight of our day.
Lunch with a View: Pier 24
For lunch, we headed to Pier 24, Avalon’s newest waterfront restaurant located at the historic Steamer Pier. It’s a nod to the vessels that brought generations of visitors across the channel—and it quickly became one of our new favorites.
We enjoyed a fresh and flavorful Berry Salad, rich and flaky Baked Cheddar Biscuits, and a standout Crab & Shrimp Boil that we’re still talking about. With huge windows looking out over the harbor and outdoor patio seating, it’s a great place to relax, take in the view, and enjoy some truly delicious food.
Back in the Saddle: Catalina Island Horseback Adventures
After a 17-year absence, horseback riding has officially returned to Catalina Island—and it’s not to be missed. Our scenic ride with Catalina Island Horseback Adventures was peaceful, informative, and absolutely beautiful. Most rides range from 45 to 90 minutes and travel through hills, valleys, and clifftops with ocean views. We even spotted deer and a couple of island foxes along the way.
Our guide shared plans for the stables’ future—soon to include live music, cornhole, and a relaxed outdoor hangout space that’s set to launch later this summer. It’s part of a bigger revival that ties back to island tradition: in the 1930s, the Wrigley family established El Rancho Escondido, a working ranch and Arabian horse-breeding operation about 12 miles outside Avalon. The ranch continues today and is often open for Saturday tours.
Dinner to Remember: M Restaurant
We ended our day with dinner at M Restaurant, located on the waterfront and adjacent to the Hotel Metropole. It’s newly remodeled with an elegant, coastal atmosphere and a commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients.
We especially loved the Manilla clams with Whidbey Island clams, pinot grigio, oregano, crushed red peppers, and garlic ciabatta bread—a dish that perfectly captured the flavor of the island. We also enjoyed the Stuffed Manicotti and Panko-Crusted Sand Dabs, all made from scratch and beautifully presented. The wine list includes biodynamic and organic selections, and the cocktails were equally impressive.
From the comfort of the Catalina Express to the unforgettable sights and flavors of Avalon, this Catalina day trip reminded us just how close paradise really is. Whether it’s your first time visiting or a long-overdue return, there’s always something new to see—and plenty of reasons to go back.
