Catalina Island offers more than just beautiful beaches and clear waters; it’s a place rich with historic landmarks and scenic vistas that make exploring on a guided tour worthwhile. Whether you’re interested in learning about Avalon’s iconic sites or enjoying sweeping views from Mount Ada, these tours provide a practical way to see the best highlights without the stress of planning. The island’s compact size and diverse scenery make guided city tours an efficient choice for travelers eager to maximize their time. From engaging narrations to panoramic drives, each experience offers a uniquely memorable perspective on Catalina’s charm.
We’ve narrowed down the options to two standout city tours, each delivering a mix of history, stunning views, and local stories. Whether you prefer a quick, comfortable ride with in-depth narration or a more extended scenic drive that takes you to Mount Ada’s lookout points, these options cover different tastes and budgets.
1. Catalina Island City and Scenic Mt Ada Tour
At number 1, the Catalina Island City and Scenic Mt Ada Tour offers a 50-minute ride aboard the newly introduced safari tram, The Eagle. This tour is perfect for those who want a comfortable, narrated overview of Avalon’s most famous sights. The naturalist guides keep the ride lively with stories about Catalina’s landmarks, including the Catalina Casino, Lover’s Cove, and the Wrigley Mansion. A highlight is the stop at Mt. Ada, the former Wrigley estate, where you’ll get sweeping views of Avalon Bay and Descanso Beach—ideal for snapping memorable photos.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of historic landmarks and scenic vistas in a short amount of time. The Catalina Casino, often mistaken for a gambling hall, is actually a massive entertainment venue from the 1930s, with the world’s largest circular ballroom that can host 5,000 dancers without a single pillar. Reviews note the engaging narration—Tim’s enthusiasm and Phillip’s local insights add a genuine touch—and the comfortable ride makes it easy for most visitors to enjoy. At $45 per person, it’s a good value considering the proximity and scope. The tour’s small group size and scenic stops mean you won’t feel rushed.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a quick, engaging overview of Avalon’s iconic sites with excellent photo opportunities and expert narration.
2. Avalon City Terrace + Mt Ada
Number 2 is the Avalon City Terrace + Mt Ada tour, which lasts about 1.5 hours and combines a scenic drive through Avalon with a visit to Mount Ada. This tour emphasizes breathtaking panoramic views and a more in-depth exploration of the island’s past. The journey begins with a drive through Avalon’s charming streets, lined with shops and cafes, providing a taste of the town’s lively atmosphere. Then, you’ll ascend to Mount Ada, the former Wrigley estate, where the vistas of Avalon Bay and the Pacific Ocean are spectacular.
The tour uses a jeep, which offers a different experience from the tram ride—more intimate and closer to the scenery. Travelers have appreciated the stops for photos, even if they mention that the jeep can be a little loud. The guide’s friendly and knowledgeable approach makes the drive enjoyable, helping you appreciate Catalina’s story and natural beauty. At $49.50, this tour offers a longer experience and more extensive sightseeing, making it a good option for those who want a deeper look at Avalon and Mount Ada.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who enjoy a slightly longer, more immersive drive with ample photo stops and a chance to learn about Avalon’s growth from a fishing village to a seaside resort.
How to Choose
When selecting between these tours, consider your budget, time, and interests. The Catalina Island City and Scenic Mt Ada Tour is perfect for visitors short on time who want a quick yet rundown of Avalon’s most famous landmarks. Meanwhile, the Avalon City Terrace + Mt Ada provides a longer, more relaxed experience with more scenic stops and a closer look at the island’s landscape.
If you’re traveling with family or a group that prefers a comfortable ride, the tram tour’s narrative and quick pace fit well. Conversely, for those who want a more personalized exploration with better photo opportunities, the jeep tour offers a more engaging experience.
Booking early is advisable—these tours fill up, especially in peak seasons. Think about your preferred pace and whether you want a quick overview or a longer, more detailed outing before making your choice.
In summary, Catalina Island’s city tours offer two great ways to see the highlights while soaking up the island’s history and scenery. The Catalina Island City and Scenic Mt Ada Tour provides a swift, narrated ride with superb photo stops, making it a practical choice. The Avalon City Terrace + Mt Ada appeals to those wanting a longer, more scenic journey with ample opportunities for viewing and snapping photos. Both options are worthwhile depending on your schedule, budget, and how much time you’d like to spend exploring Avalon’s sights. Be sure to book ahead to secure your spot and enjoy your island adventure!