We are lucky to have a place as naturally diverse as California as part of the United States. From the mountains to the redwoods to the beaches to islands that feel like you’ve landed in Italy. If you’re looking for a family-friendly good time look no further than this darling island off the California coast. Scroll down to see what to do on Catalina Island for a day – from the best hikes and beaches on Catalina to the most delicious ice-cream and fun history. We guarantee you will love it all. Plus, you can do a lot of it on a day trip from Orange County or LA with kids.

Be sure to check out these other places in California that look like Europe, too!

Where is Catalina Island?

Catalina Island is about 30 miles off the California coast and is part of Los Angeles County. Back in the day, it was a popular place for pirates, smugglers, missionaries and hunters. To this day, it is owned by the Wrigley family (gum, baseball field) and is a resort destination.

When to Go to Catalina Island

The best time to go to Catalina Island is during summer and early fall (June-October) when the water is calmer and the weather is warmer. In the winter, the waves get choppy so the ferry ride is not as pleasant. There is also a Jazz Festival and marathon during the summer and fall months.

Weather on Catalina Island

Catalina Island has an average year-round temperature of 68 degrees, but hovers around 72 in the summer. In June, it gets a little overcast so be aware of the marine layer not burning off until around noon. Bring a sweatshirt as nights and cloudy days get a little chilly.

What we loved about the weather: The temp was perfect as we went in June. It was around 70 degrees all day and there was no June gloom marine layer. It felt like the perfect amount of humidity and sun. But you can count on mostly sunny days in the summer.

How to get to Catalina Island

The only way to get to Catalina is by ferry boat unless you are brave enough to paddle board or swim. Ferry boats operate out of Newport Harbor, Long Beach and Dana Point. You can often find deals on them via Groupon. We took the Catalina Flyer. For most boats, expect to pay $70 round trip for adults and $53 round trip for kids.

What we loved about the ferry ride: We took the Catalina Flyer out of Newport beach. After grabbing donuts at Balboa Bakery and Donuts, we boarded the boat.

The Catalina Flyer ferry is fun with the cafe style seating, the open concession and bar and the sea world like show you get as the dolphins play in the ferry wake for the 30 mile trip. Our kids had a blast just watching them follow us behind the boat.

When you see the island, it feels like another country–rolling hills, turquoise water and stacked colorful homes. My kids thought it felt like we were in Disney‘s newest movie, Luca! Welcome to the Amalfi Coast of California!

How to get around on Catalina Island

Catalina Island only allows golf carts as the primary mode of transportation as the island is too small to have any other infrastructure to suit cars. The line for the golf cart was not our favorite so make sure you get there early if you want to snag one. They are $50 per hour but so worth it if you want to explore the island and take in spectacular views or go on hikes.

What we loved about the golf carts: We got our golf cart for only an hour from Cartopia. It was so refreshing to not have to haul around kid’s car seats! Cartopia provided and installed them which was such a game changer and made for a more relaxing trip. We got a 6 seater and were able to fit all our kids.

What to Do in Catalina Island For a Day – Cheap Things with Kids

If you’re reading this, you are probably planning for a day trip to Catalina. There are a lot to of options, so make sure you have an idea of what to do in Catalina Island for a day ahead of time so you’re not racking your brain with indecision.

Play at Knabe Park

As soon as you get off the boat, enjoy the views of the main harbor and the famous Casino at the swings just off the ferry dock. Knabe Park is pirate themed located on Pebbly Beach road so it makes for the start of a great adventure.

Play at the beach

Middle Beach is the closest to the ferry dock along Crescent Ave and near the clear waters of Avalon Harbor. We loved getting whiffle ball and sand toys at the general pharmacy. If you want a more luxurious experience, go to Desacanso Beach Club for $2. We loved the energy of being in the middle of Avalon.

Paddleboard or Kayak

If you and your kids are fans of being on the water, consider renting some kayaks or paddleboards and exploring the 52 miles of Catalina shoreline. The water is pristine! We recommend staying on the leeward side of the island where it is more sheltered and safe from large currents and strong winds. Wetsport Rentals has kayaks and boards for $22 per hour.

Take a golf cart ride

It takes about an hour and $50 for a self-guided tour of the island with Cartopia. The golf cart rental places can give you a map. The views, the wildlife, the giggles and the fun makes it worth every penny! If you get lucky, you might see some bison.

Hike

The best hike with kids is free! Try Country Club Loop/Descanso Moderate (flat to uphill climb). Difficult start uphill but the views of Avalon will make the battle worth it. Then, it’s smooth sailing back down to Island Spa Catalina. 1.4 miles round trip.

Visit the Library and Catalina Museum

Kids are free with a paid adult admission of $17. Explore the fascinating Catalina history, settling of the island and migration of bison. Finish off with a the colorful Chulily sculpture garden.

Walk and Shop in Avalon

If you have never been to the Amalfi coast then this is the closest thing to a Mediterranean get away. The European style mosaics are in the bathrooms, on the streets and buildings. They even have water fountains tiled in colorful mosaics. Make sure to visit the darling gift shops and get views of the famous Blue Atwater hotel.

Get Ice cream and Gelato

If you want fresh Italian gelato or creamy ice cream, look no further than Scoops. Conveniently located right across from Green Pleasure Pier, you can expect to pay $4 for an ice cream cone but the smiles and memories are worth it.

Eat Lunch on Green Pleasure Pier

From fish n chips to clam chowder bread bowls and funnel cakes to churros, it is hard to beat eating delicious food in a spectacular place. Plus, the pier is turquoise and oh, so charming.

Eat an Early Dinner on the Beach

Blue Avalon and Naughty Fox will give you the tastiest food with A+ scenery to boot. You can walk right onto the sand after a nice meal. For an Italian feel, grab some pizza or pasta.

Tour the Casino

Yes, the iconic building with the orange dome. Not to be mistaken with a Vegas casino full of gambling and booze, this casino stems from the Italian word for “gathering place.” It was built in 1929 for events and dances. In fact, there is not a single slot machine. For free admission, step back into the 1960’s golden era of large painted mural and gawdy grand ballrooms. Enjoy a narrated 45-minute tour of the history of the casino at its entertainment peak.

Make Memories

No matter what you do with your kids on your Catalina Island day trip, remember that they will always remember the simple things; the boat ride, the ice cream cone, playing in the sand and swinging at the park. You are an amazing parent and as long as your heart is filled with love, your kids will feel that no matter where you vacation. Time is love. But if I were to narrow down what do in Catalina Island for a day, I’d say rent the golf cart, eat good food, and chill at the beach. That plus the ferry ride over are plenty to make for an incredibly memorable day!

For more information and ideas of affordable and fun family travel in California, check out our California Bucket List!

Happy travels!

xoxo
Brittany