Catalina Island Adventures: 13 Family-Friendly Activities

Fresh off an epic adventure to Catalina Island with my husband and our two kids (7 and 10), I’m so excited to share why this island is hands down the ultimate family playground. Tucked away off the Southern California coast, Catalina is like a hidden gem that’s bursting with jaw-dropping views, wild encounters, and non-stop outdoor fun that kept us all buzzing with excitement. Whether your tribe is into diving into crystal-clear waters, trekking through rugged trails, or diving deep into the island's rich history, Catalina has you covered. Here are thirteen unforgettable activities that made our family trip one for the books.

1. Snorkel at Lover's Cove

We kicked off our Catalina adventure with a snorkel session at Lover's Cove, and let me tell you, it was pure magic. The kids were absolutely thrilled—especially when we spotted bright orange Garibaldi and schools of shimmering fish swimming around us. With the water so calm and clear, it felt like we were floating in our own personal aquarium. Even our 7-year-old, who can be a bit shy in the water, couldn’t get enough.

Highlights:

• Marine Life: We were surrounded by colorful fish, starfish, and so much more—talk about an underwater wonderland!
• Easy Access: Lover’s Cove is just a short walk from Avalon, which made it super convenient.
• Kid-Friendly: The gentle waters here are perfect for little swimmers.

Mom's Tips:

• Rent Gear: No need to haul your own—snorkel gear is easy to rent nearby.
• Bring an Underwater Camera: Trust me, you’ll want to capture these underwater moments.
• Arrive Early: It does get busy, so getting there early helped us snag the best spots.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★★Lover’s Cove gets five stars from us—it’s a must-do for any family that loves the ocean. We were all mesmerized by the underwater beauty, and it’s a memory we’ll cherish forever.

2. Explore Avalon on a Golf Cart

Next up, we decided to explore Avalon in a way that was both fun and totally unique—we rented a golf cart! I didn’t realize how much fun we’d have just cruising around the island, but it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. The kids were beside themselves with excitement as we zipped through town, discovering hidden spots, scenic views, and even some local landmarks. The freedom to explore at our own pace was such a treat.

‍Highlights:

• Scenic Views: The golf cart route offered breathtaking views of the harbor and hills, which made for some great photo ops.
• Family Bonding: It was such a relaxed and fun way to spend time together as a family.
• Easy Navigation: Avalon is small and easy to get around, so this was a stress-free adventure.

Mom's Tips:

• Rent Ahead: Golf carts are super popular, so reserving one ahead of time is key.
• Pack Snacks: We stopped at a few scenic spots for quick snack breaks, which the kids loved.
• Take Your Time: Don’t rush—part of the fun is just enjoying the ride and taking in the sights.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★★Exploring Avalon by golf cart was five-star fun for us. It’s a great way to see the island, and the kids absolutely loved every minute of it.

3. Hike to the Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden

For a mix of adventure and a touch of history, we took a hike to the Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden. The kids were surprisingly into it—the easy hike was just challenging enough to keep them engaged, and they were fascinated by the unusual plants in the garden. The memorial itself was stunning, and the views from the top? Absolutely worth the effort.

Highlights:

• Beautiful Gardens: We explored plants that are unique to Catalina and the Channel Islands, which was pretty cool.
• Historical Insight: The memorial offered us a little slice of Catalina’s history, and the kids loved hearing about William Wrigley Jr.
• Scenic Hike: The hike was just the right length for our crew and the views were spectacular.

Mom's Tips:

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Even though the hike is gentle, good shoes are a must.
• Bring Water: It can get warm, so staying hydrated is important.
• Learn the History: Taking a moment to explain the significance of the Wrigley family made the trip more meaningful for the kids.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★☆We gave the hike to the Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden four stars. It was a lovely way to spend a few hours outdoors, with just enough history and scenery to keep everyone happy.

4. Kayak Around Descanso Beach

One of our favorite family moments on the island was kayaking around Descanso Beach. We rented a tandem kayak, and I have to say, paddling along the calm waters with my husband while the kids marveled at the seals was pure bliss. The scenery was just stunning, and the peacefulness of the water made it such a memorable experience.

Highlights:

• Coastal Beauty: The clear waters and rocky cliffs along the shore were like something out of a postcard.
• Wildlife Encounters: We got up close with seals, sea birds, and even spotted a few dolphins in the distance.
• Family Adventure: Kayaking together was a perfect way to bond while exploring the island.

Mom's Tips:

• Rent Locally: Kayaks are easy to rent at Descanso Beach Club, so no need to bring your own.
• Wear Sunscreen: The sun was strong, even on the water, so we made sure to lather up.
• Take a Waterproof Bag: Keeping our belongings safe and dry was a breeze with a waterproof bag.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★★Kayaking around Descanso Beach was a five-star adventure. It was the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement, and the kids still talk about how cool it was to see seals so close.

5. Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

One of the most unique ways we explored Catalina’s marine life was through a glass-bottom boat tour. The kids were absolutely captivated, watching the underwater world glide by beneath their feet. The guide shared some really interesting facts about the local ecosystem, which made it educational as well as entertaining. Plus, it was a great way to see the ocean without getting wet!

Highlights:

• Underwater Views: The glass-bottom boat gave us an up-close look at the vibrant marine life in the area.
• Educational Experience: The tour guide was super knowledgeable, and we all learned a ton about the ocean environment.
• No Swimming Required: This was perfect for our youngest, who’s not quite as comfortable in the water.

Mom's Tips:

• Book Ahead: These tours are popular, so booking in advance saved us from any disappointment.
• Bring Snacks: Even though the tour was relatively short, a few snacks helped keep the kids happy.
• Enjoy the Ride: It was so nice to just sit back, relax, and take in the underwater sights.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★★The glass-bottom boat tour was a five-star hit with our family. It was such a cool way to experience Catalina’s underwater world, and the kids couldn’t get enough of it.

6. Visit the Catalina Island Museum

A little bit of culture never hurt anyone, and the Catalina Island Museum was just what we needed to break up our outdoor adventures. This place is packed with exhibits that showcase the island’s rich history, including its Hollywood connections and Native American heritage. The kids were surprisingly engaged, especially with the interactive displays, and it felt good to mix in some learning with our fun.

Highlights:

• Engaging Exhibits: The museum had something for everyone, from history buffs to curious kids.
• Cultural Insight: We all learned a lot about Catalina’s past, and the Hollywood connection was particularly fun.
• Interactive Displays: The kids loved the hands-on elements, which kept them entertained and learning.

Mom's Tips:

• Check for Events: The museum often has special events or exhibits, so it’s worth checking the schedule before you go.
• Plan for a Morning Visit: We found that starting our day here was a nice way to ease into more active adventures later on.
• Explore the Gift Shop: We picked up a few unique souvenirs to remember our trip by.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★☆We gave the Catalina Island Museum four stars. It was a great way to learn more about the island’s history, and the kids walked away with a deeper appreciation for where we were staying.

7. Relax at Descanso Beach Club

After all our island adventures, Descanso Beach Club was exactly what we needed to unwind. We rented a cabana, ordered some delicious food, and let the kids splash around in the shallow water while we soaked in the relaxing vibes. The beach club had just the right mix of luxury and laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a family chill day.

Highlights:

• Beachfront Fun: The kids spent hours playing in the water, and we loved having a cabana to ourselves.
• Great Food: The menu at the beach club was a pleasant surprise—lots of tasty options to keep everyone satisfied.
• Laid-Back Vibe: This was the perfect spot to relax and just enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Mom's Tips:

• Reserve a Cabana: Having a private cabana made all the difference in our comfort and enjoyment.
• Pack Light: We didn’t need much since towels and chairs were available for rent.
• Stay for Sunset: Watching the sunset from the beach club was the perfect way to end our day.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★★Descanso Beach Club gets five stars from us for its relaxing atmosphere and family-friendly amenities. It was the perfect place to recharge and enjoy some quality family time.

8. Zip Line Eco Tour at Descanso Canyon

Looking for a little adrenaline rush, we signed up for the Zip Line Eco Tour at Descanso Canyon, and wow, was it a thrill! Flying high above the canyon was exhilarating, and the views were absolutely breathtaking. The kids were a little nervous at first, but by the end, they were grinning from ear to ear and begging to go again.

Highlights:

• Adrenaline Rush: This was the ultimate adventure, with heart-pounding rides and stunning views.
• Educational: The guides did a great job sharing info about the island’s ecology, making it more than just a thrill ride.
• Safe and Fun: Safety was top-notch, and the guides were super friendly, which put everyone at ease.

Mom's Tips:

• Dress Appropriately: Closed-toe shoes and comfy clothes are a must for this adventure.
• Book in Advance: The Zip Line Eco Tour is popular, so it’s best to secure your spot early.
• Encourage the Kids: If your little ones are nervous, just remind them that the guides are there to help, and it’s all part of the fun.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★★The Zip Line Eco Tour was a five-star adventure for us. It was a perfect mix of excitement and education, and those views? Absolutely unforgettable.

9. Visit the Catalina Island Conservancy’s Nature Center

For a quieter, more reflective experience, we visited the Catalina Island Conservancy’s Nature Center. This was a great way to slow down and learn about the island’s unique ecosystems. The kids were fascinated by the exhibits on local wildlife, and we all gained a deeper understanding of the conservation efforts that help keep Catalina so beautiful.

Highlights:

• Educational Exhibits: The center offers a deep dive into the island’s flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.
• Wildlife Viewing: The kids loved learning about Catalina’s unique wildlife, including the island fox and bison herd.
• Peaceful Setting: The nature center is a serene spot where we could relax and learn about the natural world.

Mom's Tips:

• Take Your Time: There’s so much to learn, so we took our time exploring and asking questions.
• Join a Program: The conservancy offers guided walks and educational programs that are perfect for families.
• Support the Cause: We felt good making a small donation to support the conservancy’s important work.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★☆We gave the Catalina Island Conservancy’s Nature Center four stars. It was a peaceful, educational stop that added another layer to our appreciation of the island.

10. Go on a Dolphin and Sea Lion Cruise

If there’s one thing that made our hearts soar on this trip, it was the dolphin and sea lion cruise. We set out on a boat and were treated to the sight of playful dolphins leaping alongside us and sea lions lounging on the rocks. The kids were absolutely delighted, and I have to admit, seeing those dolphins up close was magical for all of us.

Highlights:

• Marine Life: Watching dolphins and sea lions in their natural habitat was a truly awe-inspiring experience.
• Scenic Views: The cruise gave us some of the best views of the island and the surrounding ocean.
• Family-Friendly: The boat ride was smooth and easy, making it a relaxing adventure for all ages.

Mom's Tips:

• Bring Binoculars: Binoculars added to the fun, giving us an even closer look at the marine life.
• Wear Layers: It got a bit chilly on the water, so having a light jacket was a good call.
• Capture the Moment: I made sure to bring my camera to capture these unforgettable moments.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★★The dolphin and sea lion cruise was a five-star experience that gave us a close-up look at Catalina’s vibrant marine life. It was the perfect way to experience the island’s natural beauty.

11. Discover the Undersea Expedition

For an underwater adventure without getting wet, we hopped on the Undersea Expedition, a semi-submersible boat that takes you below the surface for a fish-eye view of Catalina’s marine life. The kids were thrilled to sit in the underwater cabin, where they watched fish darting around the kelp forests just outside the windows. It felt like being inside a real-life aquarium!

Highlights:

• Underwater Viewing: Seeing Catalina’s marine life up close without having to swim was a hit with everyone.
• Interactive Experience: The crew provided fun, informative commentary, which made the experience both educational and entertaining.
• Unique Perspective: The semi-submersible design gave us a unique underwater view.

Mom's Tips:

• Book Early: This is another popular activity, so reserving seats in advance was a smart move.
• Bring a Jacket: It was cool in the underwater cabin, so a light jacket kept us comfortable.
• Enjoy the Views: We made sure everyone had a window seat to fully enjoy the underwater action.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★★The Undersea Expedition was a five-star experience. It was such a fun and unique way to explore Catalina’s marine life, and the kids couldn’t stop talking about it afterward.

12. Explore the Catalina Casino

No trip to Catalina would be complete without checking out the iconic Catalina Casino. I have to admit, I was just as excited as the kids to explore this stunning Art Deco building. We took a guided tour and learned all about the island’s glamorous past, including its connections to Hollywood. The kids were especially impressed by the grandeur of the ballroom and the vintage movie posters.

Highlights:

• Historic Architecture: The Catalina Casino is an architectural masterpiece with a rich history.
• Cultural Experience: The tour provided fascinating insight into the island’s past as a Hollywood hotspot.
• Stunning Interiors: The ballroom and theater were beautifully preserved, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

Mom's Tips:

• Take the Tour: The guided tour was worth every penny, giving us access to areas we wouldn’t have seen otherwise.
• Explore the Museum: The museum inside the casino had exhibits that were both educational and fun for the kids.
• Check the Schedule: We looked into events or movies playing during our visit—such a cool way to experience the casino in action.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★★The Catalina Casino tour was a five-star hit. It was the perfect mix of history, culture, and glamour—something we’ll definitely remember.

13. Dive into the Catalina Dive Park

For the more adventurous members of the family, the Catalina Dive Park at Casino Point was an absolute must. While snorkeling is great, scuba diving offered us an even more immersive experience. The dive park is known as one of the best shore-diving locations in the world, with crystal-clear water and an abundance of marine life. My husband and I took turns diving while the kids enjoyed watching from the surface—this was definitely a highlight of the trip!

Highlights:

• World-Class Diving: The Catalina Dive Park is famous for its excellent visibility and diverse marine life, making it a top destination for divers.
• Accessible Location: The park is located right at Casino Point, so it’s easy to access from Avalon.
• Vibrant Marine Life: We explored kelp forests, colorful fish, and even a few shipwrecks, making for an unforgettable dive.

Mom's Tips:

• Get Certified: If you or the kids aren’t certified divers, consider taking a course before your trip—some dive shops on the island offer beginner lessons.
• Rent Gear: Dive gear is easy to rent nearby, so there’s no need to bring your own unless you prefer it.
• Check Conditions: We made sure to check water conditions before diving and followed the advice of local experts.

Mom's Rating: ★★★★★Scuba diving at the Catalina Dive Park was a five-star experience for our adventure-loving family. It was an incredible opportunity to explore the underwater world and create unforgettable memories.

Our Catalina Island adventure was the perfect blend of excitement, relaxation, and family bonding. We left with hearts full of memories and can’t wait to plan our next island escape.