Santa Catalina Island

California · CA

When to go

BestGoodBusyPeak crowdsClosed

Time: Take the earliest practical ferry; beaches and water activities are best from late morning through mid-afternoon. · Late afternoon to golden hour is best for Casino, harbor, and cliffside views. · For hiking, start early and do not plan a demanding route before an afternoon return ferry.
Avoid: Avoid exposed backcountry during high heat, strong wind, rain-related closures, wildfire restrictions, or rough-channel conditions.

About 9 hours

Start
Cabrillo Mole and Crescent Avenue waterfront45 min
Arrive on an early Avalon ferry; walk the harborfront before choosing your main activity.
+45 min
Conservancy Trailhead Visitor Center15 min
Get the free required hiking permit and ask about same-day trail closures before entering Conservancy land.
+1 h
South or Middle Beach, or continue to Descanso Beach120 min
Use South/Middle Beach for the simplest swim; choose Descanso for a more developed beach setting.
+3 h
Avalon lunch60 min
Eat in town or at Descanso; Avalon has the island's broadest restaurant choice.
+4 h
Choose a water activity or Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden120 min
For the garden, allow travel time: it is 1.7 miles from the ferry terminal; the free Trailhead shuttle runs about every 40 minutes when staffed.
+6 h
Casino exterior, harbor views, and final Crescent Avenue walk75 min
This is the best late-afternoon window for harbor and cliffside views.
+7 h 15
Return to Cabrillo Mole for departure60 min
Collect bags and be ready well before your assigned ferry; Catalina Express asks passengers to arrive one hour before departure.

Bring

Windproof layer
Sun protection
Refillable water bottle and extra water for hikes
Motion-sickness medication if needed
Sturdy walking shoes or trail shoes
Swim gear and dry bag
Offline maps and portable battery"],"food":["Avalon has plentiful restaurants and waterfront toilets.
Two Harbors has limited choices; bring a card or mobile payment.
Carry food and much more water than expected for backcountry hikes.