The 4 Best Walking Tours in Catalina Island
Catalina Island’s charming streets, colorful history, and stunning landscapes make it an ideal place for walking tours. Unlike many destinations, Catalina’s relatively flat terrain and compact size allow visitors to explore comfortably on foot, uncovering stories that are best told by local guides who truly know the island’s secrets. Whether you’re interested in history, paranormal mysteries, or just a fun way to see Avalon, there’s a walking tour tailored for you. These tours offer an authentic look at Catalina’s past and present, all while keeping your steps light and your curiosity piqued.
From lively ghost stories to scenic scavenger hunts, the tours below highlight the variety of experiences available. For a taste of local history, the Walking History Tour provides a deep dive into Avalon’s colorful past. If spooky stories are your thing, the Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour offers an eerie adventure. For those seeking a playful exploration, the Catalina Scavenger Hunt makes sightseeing feel like a treasure hunt. Last but not least, the Catalina Island Avalon Highlights Walking Tour combines scenic views, history, and local flavors into one comprehensive walk. Here’s a detailed look at each.
1. Walking History Tour on Catalina Island
At number one, the Walking History Tour on Catalina Island offers an authentic glimpse into Avalon’s past, led by a local resident with 19 reviews praising its quality. For $40 per person, you’ll enjoy approximately 45 minutes to 1.5 hours of storytelling, walking about a mile over flat terrain that’s easy for most visitors. The tour’s highlights include landmarks like the Holly Hill House, the Green Pier, and the iconic Catalina Casino, all rich with stories that bring Avalon’s history alive.
What makes this tour stand out is its personal touch. The guide’s local knowledge and enthusiasm turn a simple walk into a lively, educational experience. The tour also includes a headset system for clear narration, especially useful in busy areas. Reviews mention how relaxed and informative the tour is, with many appreciating the opportunity to see important sites without feeling rushed. The stop at Marilyn Monroe’s photo spot adds a Hollywood flair, connecting Avalon’s history to its entertainment roots.
Bottom line: If you want an engaging, accessible tour that balances history and scenery, this is a top choice. It’s especially good for families and first-timers who want a comprehensive intro to Catalina.
2. Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour – 12 years and older
Second on our list, the Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Walking Tour offers an eerie 1 hour and 50 minutes exploring Avalon’s haunted history. Costing $40 per person, this tour is specifically for adults 18+ and features EMF detection devices for spotting spectral energies. It begins at the Catalina Casino’s grand entryway, where stories of paranormal activity and ghostly legends are shared by a knowledgeable local historian.
During the nearly two-hour walk, you’ll uncover why Catalina is considered one of the most haunted places in the country. The guide’s proven proof of ghostly phenomena adds excitement and credibility to the tales. The tour’s structure, including headphones, ensures you catch every spooky detail even in noisy environments. Among the highlights are stories about the casino’s haunted past and other spectral sightings around Avalon, making it perfect for those interested in supernatural mysteries.
Reviewers praise Jesse and John for their storytelling and engaging approach, with one noting the tour felt like spending time with an old friend sharing ghost stories. The combination of history and paranormal evidence makes this a unique experience, especially if you like your walks with a side of mystery.
Bottom line: This tour is best suited for curious adults looking for a spooky, interactive experience. It’s a perfect way to combine history with a dash of supernatural fun.
3. Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
Third, for those who want to explore Avalon in an active, playful way, the Catalina Scavenger Hunt offers a two-hour adventure through the city’s streets. Priced at $24.50 per person, this tour turns sightseeing into a game, guiding you to discover the Avalon Veteran’s Memorial, the Avalon Casino, and overlooked gems at your own pace.
What makes this tour different is its flexible format. Instead of a traditional guided walk, you follow clues and complete challenges that lead you to key landmarks and hidden corners of Avalon. It’s suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers who enjoy interactive experiences. The reviews indicate that it’s an engaging way to see the sights without feeling rushed, and it encourages participants to notice details they might otherwise overlook.
Bottom line: If you’re competitive or enjoy self-guided adventures, this scavenger hunt is a fun and different way to experience Catalina. It’s ideal for those who want to add a bit of play to their sightseeing.
4. Catalina Island Avalon Highlights Walking Tour
Finally, the Catalina Island Avalon Highlights Walking Tour offers a comprehensive two- to four-hour exploration covering both natural beauty and local flavors. With a price of $20 per person, this tour is rich in content, including stops at the Catalina Express terminal, scenic drives along Pebbly Beach Rd, and visits to well-loved eateries like Pancake Cottage and Avalon Grille.
This tour combines sightseeing with tasting, making it suitable for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Its itinerary features stunning views, historical sites, and gourmet stops, providing a well-rounded experience that appeals to those who want to sample Catalina’s scenery and cuisine in one walk. The reviews mention how easy and enjoyable it is, with some emphasizing the relaxed pace and diversity of sights.
Bottom line: If you want an all-in-one experience covering highlights, nature, and food, this tour offers excellent value. It’s great for travelers who want a flexible, flavorful introduction to Avalon.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour for You
Choosing the right walking tour in Catalina depends on your interests, budget, and fitness level. If history fascinates you, the Walking History Tour provides a relaxed, informative walk. For a spooky thrill, the Haunted Catalina EMF Detection Tour is unmatched for paranormal stories and interactive ghost-hunting. If you prefer a playful exploration, the Catalina Scavenger Hunt makes sightseeing feel like a treasure hunt, ideal for families or groups with a competitive streak. For a broader experience incorporating sights, tastes, and natural beauty, the Catalina Island Avalon Highlights Tour offers a flexible, comprehensive option.
Think about your time constraints—if you only have 45 minutes, the history tour fits well. If you’re in Avalon for a longer stay and want a mix of fun and food, the highlights tour is perfect. Budget-wise, all options are reasonably priced, but consider the value: the haunted tour offers a unique paranormal experience, while the scavenger hunt adds interactive fun.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months or during cruise ship visits. Each tour is designed for different tastes and activity levels, so choose the one that best matches what you want from your Catalina walk.
Catalina Island’s varied walking tours give you a chance to connect with its history, mystery, and lively streets in a memorable, personal way. Whether you opt for storytelling, ghost hunting, scavenger challenges, or a scenic highlights route, these tours provide a fantastic way to see Avalon without the hassle of transportation or overly structured schedules. Consider your interests and time, and secure your spot early—these experiences tend to fill up fast!