Escape the mainland for a full-day loop to Avalon: a one-hour ferry, a 45-minute undersea cabin tour and several hours to explore beaches, shops and short coastal walks. This practical day trip includes hotel pickup from the LAX area and round-trip ferry transfers.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The morning ferry peels away from the Long Beach terminal and the mainland retreats into a silver strip on the horizon. Salt air and a steady swell set the rhythm; within an hour Avalon’s low hills and pastel buildings come into focus, palms turning like punctuation along the promenade.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–12 hours
Fitness Level
Basic mobility needed for boarding, walking Avalon’s flat promenade and optional short uphill walks; suitable for most fitness levels.
Wildlife
History
Catalina has been home to the Tongva people for millennia and later became a leisure escape in the early 20th century, shaped by tourism and the mining era.
Conservation
Catalina’s marine and island ecosystems are protected through state and private programs; visitors are asked to avoid touching kelp or marine life and to pack out all waste.
Reserve your spot on the Catalina Island Day Trip from LAX area hotels with Undersea Adventure today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Reconfirm pickup
Call the operator 48 hours before departure to confirm hotel pickup time—failure to reconfirm can risk cancellation.
Prepare for the ferry
Bring a light windproof layer and secure loose gear — the ride can be breezy and spray reaches the upper decks.
Plan your free time
Schedule at least 2–3 hours on Avalon to eat, walk the promenade and, if desired, tackle the short uphill hike to Wrigley Memorial.
Seasickness precaution
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding and sit midship where motion is least felt.
Windproof jacket
Shields you from on-deck spray and sharp afternoon breezes during the ferry crossing.
fall
Sunscreen & sunhat
Avalon’s promenade and beaches offer little shade—protect exposed skin during midday.
summer
Comfortable walking shoes
Support for cobbled streets and short, rocky trails if you hike to viewpoints like Wrigley Memorial.
Motion-sickness medication or wristbands
Helpful for the ferry crossing if you’re sensitive to swell or choppy conditions.