About the Port
Santa Catalina Island rises off the coast of Southern California, its harbor town wrapping a curved bay beneath dry, chaparral-covered hills. Golf carts and bicycles outnumber cars, and the low-key waterfront, dotted with a landmark round casino building, stays within easy walking distance of the pier for those arriving by tender. Clear, calm water around the harbor makes it a popular spot for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides.
Beyond the town, the island's interior offers a wilder side, with hiking trails, native plant life, and small herds of bison descended from a 1920s film shoot. Visitors can while away a day on the waterfront or venture up into the hills for sweeping views back across the channel toward the mainland, making the island an easy, relaxed contrast to nearby city stops.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Santa Catalina Island.
Tour the Casino Ballroom
Step inside Avalon's iconic round landmark to see its Art Deco ballroom and small museum on the island's history; a short stroll from the tender pier, with guided tours available.
Ride a Glass-Bottom Boat
Glide over the harbor's clear water to spot garibaldi fish and kelp forests without getting wet; tours depart frequently from the waterfront and run under an hour.
Explore the Interior by Jeep or Golf Cart
Head into the chaparral hills for panoramic views of the channel and a chance to spot the island's free-roaming bison herds; book an eco tour ahead, as vehicle access beyond town is limited.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Santa Catalina Island
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 2, 2027 | Crystal | Crystal Serenity | 7 | $4,730 | |
| Aug 2, 2027 | Crystal | Crystal Serenity | 32 | $13,870 | |
| Jun 10, 2028 | Crystal | Crystal Symphony | 33 | $14,710 | |
| Jun 25, 2028 | Crystal | Crystal Symphony | 8 | $3,910 | |
| Jun 25, 2028 | Crystal | Crystal Symphony | 18 | $9,130 |