THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Catch When Harry Met Sally (1989) at The Avalon Theatre — a single-screen island screening that turns a classic romantic comedy into a local evening ritual. Read on for what to expect, ticketing details, and tips for timing your Catalina visit around showtime.
Catch When Harry Met Sally (1989) at The Avalon Theatre — a single-screen island screening that turns a classic romantic comedy into a local evening ritual. Read on for what to expect, ticketing details, and tips for timing your Catalina visit around showtime.
Book with The Avalon Theatre
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Operated by The Avalon Theatre · Avalon, California
The Avalon Theatre - 1 Casino Way, Avalon CA, offers a rare chance to see When Harry Met Sally (1989) on a single-screen moviehouse stage where the island slows to the beat of the projector. This Columbia Pictures romantic comedy (Rated R) runs about 1h 39m and arrives like an evening waypoint between harbor light and ocean air. The program is straightforward: general-admission seating, clear accessibility (Wheelchair Accessible | Assistive Listening Device Available), and a local house rule set that prioritizes courtesy and focus. Settling into the auditorium, you’ll notice the economy of a classic small theater: a single screen, a close-up view from nearly every seat, and a marquee that makes the night feel like an event. The film tracks decades of friendship and questions whether sex will undo a deep bond—perfect cinema for couples, longtime friends, or visitors who want an intimate, communal viewing outside of multiplex anonymity. The theatre enforces a respectful environment: photography and videography are not allowed during presentations and outside food or beverages are not permitted. Under-18 guests must be accompanied by a qualified adult chaperone. Practical details matter on an island schedule. Ferries and local shuttles dictate timing; arrive early to claim good seats, enjoy light pre-show conversation on the waterfront, and leave room for the post-credits stroll along Avalon’s harbor. Admission pricing varies by age and residency; the listing includes general, child, senior, and Avalon resident fares. Note also the box-office policy: no refunds or exchanges, so plan accordingly. Why this screening stands out is less about the print on the poster and more about where you watch it. In a place defined by short distances and a pedestrian rhythm, a single-screen evening becomes a social ritual—a way to plug into local life after daytime exploration of beaches, coves, and cliffside trails. For first-time visitors, the Avalon Theatre transforms a classic film into a local occasion: a shared laugh in a room that knows its regulars and welcomes travelers. If you’re timing a Catalina visit around a screening, pair the movie with a pre-show dinner on Crescent Avenue or a sunset walk near the casino pier. Bring a light layer for seaside breezes, a charged phone for arrangements before the show, and an eagerness for a communal moviegoing experience unlike a mainland multiplex. Tickets are sold at the box office and online through the booking link; check showtimes, age restrictions, and fares in advance. Accessibility services are available on request; ask staff for assistive listening devices before the performance. The theatre’s small scale means late seating may be limited, so plan to arrive 20–30 minutes early if you want aisle access or to settle in without interruption. Enjoy the film, island evening.
easy.
1h 39m.
No special fitness required; minimal walking and short stairs possible depending on seat location
The scheduled runtime is approximately 1h 39m.
The box-office policy is no refunds or exchanges, so confirm plans before purchase.
Yes. The Avalon Theatre lists Wheelchair Accessible seating and Assistive Listening Device availability.
No. Photography and videography are not permitted during the feature presentation.
Under-18 guests must be accompanied by an adult chaperone; chaperones must meet the theatre’s age and supervision requirements.
Tickets are available at the box office and online via the booking/referral link; check showtimes and pricing in advance.
Avalon developed as a coastal resort community in the early 20th century, and its single-screen theatre remains a landmark of local cultural life.
Support island sustainability by minimizing waste, using refillable containers, and patronizing local businesses to reduce ferry and supply impacts.
The Avalon Theatre is a historic movie palace located in Avalon, California on Santa Catalina Island. The theatre programs classic and contemporary film screenings, special events, live scores, and expert discussions that celebrate cinema and local history. Housed in the Avalon Casino complex, the venue hosts curated showings such as 3D screenings of Universal Monsters, centennial presentations of The Phantom of the Opera, modern blockbusters like Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and community-oriented documentary screenings. The Avalon Theatre presents unique cinematic experiences with attention to film history and presentation quality. Guests can attend screenings that include rare archival footage and live musical accompaniment; the Phantom of the Opera event features live music from Michael Mortilla and commentary from Academy executive Randy Haberkamp. The 3D Screening includes a world premiere score, rare 3-D photos, and expert discussions. Other programmed titles have included Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Hollywood's Magical Island, and Frankenstein, demonstrating a range from genre classics to local history. Located in downtown Avalon, the theatre is accessible to visitors arriving by ferry or private boat and serves island residents and tourists. Programming emphasizes preservation, education, and entertainment, partnering with historians, musicians, and film professionals when possible. The Avalon Theatre maintains a reputation as a cultural hub on Catalina Island, offering memorable film events in a historic setting. Visitors should check event listings and ticketing information for specific screening dates, times, and special presentations. Concessions, local exhibits, and accessible seating improve visitor experience during screenings.
Book with The Avalon Theatre