Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon
Pick your date
Highlighted days have spots open. Grey days are sold out or not running.
September 2026
Loading live availability
Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.5/5
Based on 2 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon worth booking?
Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon is a 3-hour experience in Catalina Island, United States, from $10 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 2 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 59 / 100
- Rating
- 4.5/5 (2)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $10 per person
Explore Avalon on a GPS-guided audio walking tour that plays automatically as you walk. No groups, no schedules—just put in your headphones and go. Starting along the waterfront, you’ll follow a walkable route along th
What you get
About this experience
Explore Avalon on a GPS-guided audio walking tour that plays automatically as you walk. No groups, no schedules—just put in your headphones and go. Starting along the waterfront, you’ll follow a walkable route along the harbor, up to hillside viewpoints, and past key landmarks. Along the way, you'll visit places like the Green Pleasure Pier, the Tuna Club, and the iconic Catalina Casino, while hearing the stories behind Avalon’s rise as a seaside destination. Explore at your own pace—pause for a drink, take a detour, or linger at viewpoints. The audio resumes whenever you’re ready, so you can move freely without keeping up with a group. This is a self-guided experience (no in-person guide). Download the tour in advance and use it anytime—it works offline and follows your location along the route.
What's included
Included
- Flexible Usage (unlimited access)
- Audio Guide
- App and Tour Download
Not included
- Smartphone (bring your own)
What you'll see and do
Descanso Bay is a sheltered cove just beyond Avalon Harbor, offering calm waters and sweeping coastal views. It’s a perfect spot to pause, take in the scenery, and sense the island’s slower rhythm.
5 minutes here
Catalina Casino
Catalina’s most iconic building isn’t a gambling hall but a cultural landmark, with a grand ballroom and classic Art Deco style. Catalina Casino’s dramatic perch at the harbor’s edge makes it the centerpiece of Avalon.
Pass by without stopping
Learn about Catalina’s pioneering role in scuba diving through this small but fascinating exhibit. Just steps away, the Dive Park offers one of the island’s best underwater experiences.
5 minutes here
Perched high above the harbor, this former home of novelist Zane Grey reflects the island’s early Hollywood ties. Its pueblo-style design and hillside setting make it a unique part of Avalon’s skyline.
5 minutes here
The tile-clad Catalina Chimes Tower was gifted by the Wrigley family in 1925 and overlooks Avalon. It peels the bells daily to mark the hours. The sound has become a beloved part of the town’s character.
5 minutes here
A lively hub of shops, cafes, and local treats, Metropole Market Place blends modern charm with island style. It’s an inviting stop to browse, snack, or simply soak up Avalon’s energy.
5 minutes here
This museum brings Catalina’s rich past to life with exhibits on art, culture, and the island’s famous visitors. It’s a thoughtful stop that deepens your sense of place.
Pass by without stopping
Green Pleasure Pier
Extending into Avalon Bay since 1909, this wooden pier has welcomed generations of visitors. Today, it’s lined with outfitters, snack stands, and classic harbor views.
5 minutes here
This gateway to Catalina’s protected interior opens onto 42,000 acres of wild landscapes. Even a short walk here hints at the island’s unique ecology and rare wildlife. Free permits are required for hiking.
Pass by without stopping
Named after Avalon’s beloved sea lion mascot, this small park recalls the town’s playful maritime history. It’s a charming place to pause and imagine Old Ben’s antics along the waterfront.
5 minutes here
Overlooking Avalon Bay, this open-air stage anchors the town’s central plaza with concerts and community events. The surrounding views capture Avalon’s lively harbor scene.
5 minutes here
A short climb rewards you with sweeping views of Avalon and the Pacific beyond. It’s one of the best spots to appreciate the town’s setting against the sea and hills.
5 minutes here
Tucked above the bay, this quiet vantage point offers a peaceful perspective of Avalon below. This overlook is a favorite for photos and a reflective pause.
5 minutes here
Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden
This striking memorial honors William Wrigley Jr., who helped shape modern Avalon. A botanical garden of rare island plants surrounds the cultural landmark and natural retreat.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Catalina Island
Old Ben Park can be found at the south of Avalon Bay, near the junction of Pebbly Beach Road and Clarissa Avenue. It is immediately opposite Catalina Cones' ice cream shop.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
The tour ends in Descanso Bay on St. Catherine Way. This is on the far side of the Catalina Casino, where the road and sidewalk pass along the seafront.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Drives & Detours
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Works entirely offline once downloaded—no cell service required
- GPS-triggered audio plays automatically based on your location
- Flexible - Buy once, use any day/time—access never expires
- Get the Drives & Detours app download the tour ahead of time
Photos
Traveler reviews
1 verified traveler reviews for Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Self Paced Avalon Walking Tour
Nice self paced walking tour of Avalon flats and the ocean views. We were able to complete at our own pace and stop for a meal. It is nice that the descriptions automatically start when at the appropriate location. One portion the tour got off time when walking to the Chimes Tower. We think that was because that section is an out and back so you are overlapping for a brief period. On the return from the tower we were instructed to take steps back down to the Casino however the stairs were a little way off the road and not clearly marked.
Response from the operator: Thanks for the review, glad it helped you explore Catalina! We really appreciate the heads-up about the directions/instructions at the Chimes Tower, we'll definitely look into making that clearer. Safe travels!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 1
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 59
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Catalina Island.
How much does Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon cost?
+
Prices start at $10 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Catalina Island usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon take?
+
Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Catalina Island is not rushed.
Is Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 2 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Catalina Island, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon?
+
Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Catalina Island can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Catalina Island and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Catalina Island within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Catalina Island?
+
Catalina Island packages ferry transfers with glass-bottom boats, submarine and snorkel tours in Lover's Cove, zip lining, Avalon golf-cart tours and inland bison safaris. On Outty we rank every Catalina Island experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Catalina Food Tour, Catalina Island Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon, Haunted Catalina Walking Ghost Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Catalina Island?
+
May to October, with the calmest crossings in summer. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Catalina Island?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon.
Pick your date
