Catalina Island with your Kids

Michael recently took a special trip with his Momo and Bo, hopping on a boat and cruising over to Catalina—and he loved every minute of it. The boat ride itself felt like an adventure, the wind in his hair, the ocean stretching out in every direction, that feeling of going somewhere magical.

What makes me smile the most is that even though we’ve taken more exotic trips and traveled farther from home, Catalina is the place he always talks about. He’ll casually say, “I want to go back to Catalina,” like it’s his happy place—because it is.

There’s something so sweet about that. Sometimes it’s not about how far you go or how fancy the destination is—it’s about who you’re with, the memories you make, and the feeling a place gives you. For Michael, Catalina will always be tied to that special time with his grandparents, the boat ride, the laughter, and the magic of a simple, love-filled adventure.

 

Catalina Island is a small, sun-kissed island located about 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, just southwest of Los Angeles. You reach it by boat—most commonly from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point—which already makes the journey feel like part of the magic.

The island is best known for its charming harbor town, Avalon, with its crescent-shaped bay, colorful buildings, golf carts instead of cars, and laid-back Mediterranean vibe. On the quieter side of the island is Two Harbors, a peaceful, nature-focused escape surrounded by crystal-clear water.

Catalina has a rich history—first inhabited by the Tongva people, later used by pirates, fishermen, and traders, and eventually developed in the early 1900s by William Wrigley Jr. as a getaway destination. Over time, it became a beloved retreat for Hollywood stars, families, and adventurers seeking ocean air, wildlife, and simple island living.

Today, Catalina is known for its turquoise waters, abundant marine life, bison roaming the interior, and a slower pace that feels worlds away from the mainland—even though it’s just a short boat ride. It’s the kind of place that leaves a lasting imprint, especially on kids, who remember it not as a “trip,” but as a feeling.

Here are fun and family-friendly things to do in Catalina Island (Avalon), California with kids (great for ages toddlers up through teens):

Kid-Approved Activities & Attractions

Explore & Play

  • Knabe Park – A playground right near the heart of Avalon — perfect for younger kids to burn off energy.

  • City Park – Another open park area great for picnics and play.

  • Kid's Park & Fit Trail – Fun outdoor space for all ages.

Games & Entertainment

  • Escape Room Catalina – Family-friendly puzzle challenge suitable for older kids.

  • Three Palms Avalon Arcade – Classic arcade games and fun.

Mini-Golf & Tours

  • Golf Gardens – Mini-golf in a scenic garden setting — fun and easy for all ages.

  • Catalina Island Company Ticket Booth and Submarine & Land Tours -Catalina Adventure Tours – Book glass-bottom boat, submarine, and other scenic ocean tours so kids can see fish and reefs without getting in the water.

Outdoor & Nature Fun

Beaches & Water

  • Spend time at beach areas like Doc Descanso Beach (calm water, paddleboarding, kayaking rentals).

  • Snorkeling spots (like Catalina Coast) with opportunities to see colorful fish — gear rentals are available.

Creature & Wildlife Experiences

  • Bison & Eco Tours – Explore Catalina’s wildlife on a guided eco-tour (often includes bison sightings).

  • Catalina Falconry Experience – Meet and learn about birds of prey (check age/season availability).

  • Catalina Island Conservancy – Great stop for nature info, kid-friendly programs, and hiking ideas.

Adventure & Thrills

  • Zip Line Eco Tour – Zipline through canyon scenery (age/height requirements apply).

  • Guided Jeep or eco tours around the island’s backcountry are also popular.

Unique & Scenic Experiences

  • Catalina Island Horseback Adventures – Horseback riding through scenic trails (age limits may apply).

  • Scenic walk spots like Lover's Cove Scenic Vista and Buena Vista Point Scenic Overlook for great views and photo ops.

Chill & Easy Options

  • Stroll Avalon’s Crescent Avenue – Shopping, ice cream, and people-watching along town’s main street.

  • Visit Catalina Museum For Art & History for a mix of fun learning and island history.

Tips for visiting with kids:

  • Golf carts are a fun and popular way to explore Avalon (many rentals available).

  • Consider booking ahead for tours and water activities during summer and holidays.