Catalina Island Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Avalon
Description
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.
Tour Options
Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- 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
Reviews(1)
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.
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!
