Mermaid Adventures at Catalina Island Mermaids in Avalon - Long Beach

Mermaid Adventures at Catalina Island Mermaids in Avalon

Long Beachmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic swimming ability and moderate physical fitness for breath control and underwater movement.

Overview

Step into the water and become a mermaid on Catalina Island with expert photo shoots and freediving courses designed for all skill levels. Discover how Catalina Island Mermaids brings aquatic fantasy and skill-building together in Avalon’s pristine coastal setting.

Details

Avalon, California, on Catalina Island, serves as an extraordinary setting for a unique kind of outdoor adventure—becoming a mermaid. Catalina Island Mermaids offers immersive, hands-on experiences where visitors don authentic mermaid tails to glide through the Pacific waters or pose for vivid photo shoots both above and below the surface. Located on the island’s picturesque coast, known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, this business stands out by combining aquatic artistry, freediving instruction, and environmental appreciation.

The centerpiece of the adventure is the Catalina Island Mermaid Underwater Photoshoot. Here, participants receive expert guidance to swim gracefully in custom mermaid tails while skilled photographers capture spectacular images and videos to take home. These sessions accommodate a range of swimming abilities, including beginners, with an emphasis on safety and comfort. The photo shoots are complemented by souvenir prints and professionally edited highlight reels to preserve the magic of the day.

For those ready to deepen underwater skills, Catalina Island Mermaids offers PADI-certified Mermaid and Advanced Mermaid courses, alongside freedive training and spearfishing workshops. These programs emphasize breath-hold diving and underwater locomotion techniques tailored specifically to fin use and aquatic performance. Supporting a vibrant Mermaid Community Meetup, the operation fosters connection and skill-building among enthusiasts.

Avalon’s marine environment is shaped by rocky reefs and kelp forests, home to colorful fish and marine mammals, making the freediving and spearfishing workshops particularly compelling. Catalina’s history as a fishing and boating hub blends with new-age aquatic performance art at this one-of-a-kind business. Visitors of all sizes and skill levels find welcoming, inclusive options here, supported by custom-fit gear.

Whether you want memorable photos, freediving training, or a spirited underwater celebration, Catalina Island Mermaids infuses each experience with professionalism and local knowledge, enriching your connection to Catalina’s vibrant coastal waters.

Adventure Tips

Bring waterproof sun protection

Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the marine environment during outdoor shoots and freedive sessions.

Arrive early for tail fittings

Tail sizes vary, so arriving early helps ensure proper fit for comfort and movement underwater.

Be honest about swimming skills

Inform the guides of your swimming ability to receive tailored safety instruction and support.

Maintain hydration

Hydrate before and after water sessions, as freediving and swimming can be physically demanding.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Little Harbor for quieter snorkeling away from Avalon crowds
  • The Botanical Gardens on Catalina for coastal plant species

Wildlife

  • Garibaldi fish, California’s state marine fish
  • Sea lions commonly spotted near coves

History

Catalina Island has a rich history as a fishing and recreational destination since the early 20th century, transforming into a hub for marine-based recreation.

Conservation

Catalina Island actively manages marine protected areas to preserve kelp forests and launch educational programs promoting responsible ocean recreation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Mid-morning for soft light
Golden hour before sunset
Calm overcast days for even underwater lighting

Best Viewpoints

  • Avalon Harbor coastline
  • Descanso Beach cliffs
  • Underwater kelp forests off the coast

What to Photograph

Mermaid tails and shells
Local marine life such as Garibaldi fish
Underwater poses and surface reflections

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin while preserving Catalina's delicate marine ecosystems during extended water exposure.

summer specific

Wetsuit (2–3mm)

Essential

Provides thermal protection in cooler water temperatures for comfort during freediving and photoshoots.

fall|winter|spring specific

Waterproof camera case or dry bag

Keeps personal belongings safe and dry while on the water.

Swim goggles or mask

Essential

Enhances underwater visibility during freedive training and photoshoots.

Reviews