Catalina Island Day Trip from LAX area hotels with Undersea Adventure

If you’re considering a day trip to Catalina Island departing from Los Angeles, this tour offers a convenient way to get a taste of the island’s charm without the hassle of planning every detail. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on reviews and the itinerary, we can give you a clear picture of what to expect. It might just be what you’re looking for if you want a flexible, independent day on Catalina, with the convenience of hotel pickup and included activities.

Two things we really like about this experience are the simplicity of the logistics—everything from hotel pickup to ferry transfer is included, so you won’t have to worry about coordinating transportation—and the opportunity to explore at your own pace once on the island, especially with the Undersea Expedition tickets included. However, a potential downside is that this tour can involve quite a bit of waiting—something to keep in mind if you’re not a fan of delays or have tight schedules.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy self-led adventures, are comfortable with a bit of flexibility, and want to combine scenic views with marine life encounters. It’s also a solid option if you’re looking for a straightforward, no-fuss way to visit Catalina without guided tours that might restrict your freedom. Families with older children or anyone interested in marine activities should find it a good fit, as long as you’re prepared for the possible waiting times and the independent style.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package: Includes hotel pickup, ferry rides, and the Undersea Expedition tickets.
• Self-guided exploration: Once on the island, you’re free to explore at your own pace.
• Marine adventure: The Undersea Expedition offers a chance to see Catalina’s marine life up close.
• Timing considerations: The tour involves waiting, especially during pickup and transfer times.
• Cost analysis: At around $253 per person, it’s a fair price for transportation and activities, but you’ll need to budget for food and extras.
• No guided tour of Avalon: The experience is more independent rather than guided sightseeing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from LA: Pickup and Ferry Ride

Your day begins bright and early with hotel pickup around Los Angeles, which is quite convenient. They pick you up at your accommodation, and from there, it’s about an hour’s drive to the ferry terminal. The ferry trip itself is about one hour long, offering you lovely views of Southern California’s coast, which many travelers find relaxing and scenic.

This part of the journey is straightforward, but some reviews point out that the pickup can be a bit chaotic. One reviewer, Martin_J, mentioned that the driver arrived way too early, leading to over an hour of waiting around, which can cut into your precious time on the island. So, if punctuality is important to you, it’s worth confirming the pickup times or preparing for some waiting.

Arrival at Avalon: Exploring Catalina Island

Once you arrive in Avalon, the largest city on Catalina, you get your first taste of island life—beachside scenery, palm trees, and a relaxed vibe that feels worlds away from LA’s hustle. The highlight here is the Undersea Expedition—a 45-minute boat ride that takes you just five feet below the surface for a close-up view of marine life.

The boat is climate-controlled and features a live guide who points out interesting sights along the way. It’s a great way to see Catalina’s underwater world without getting wet or needing snorkeling gear. Several travelers, including JAMEELA_W, appreciated that the experience was suitable for families and that the guide made it engaging.

Free Time to Explore and Enjoy

After the underwater adventure, you’re given some free time to wander around Avalon—or head toward the Descanso Beach Club. This beachside spot is perfect for relaxing, grabbing a snack, or renting kayaks and snorkeling gear if you’re feeling adventurous. Be aware that items at the beach club are at your own expense, so budget accordingly.

One reviewer, JAMEELA_W, mentioned that the beach area allowed her family to enjoy a leisurely lunch and some fun in the sun. However, she also pointed out that the COVID-19 precautions didn’t seem very strict, with little space kept between visitors, which might concern some travelers.

Returning to LA

The day wraps up with a ferry ride back to Long Beach, and from there, a transfer back to your hotel. The entire trip, including transportation and activities, is estimated at around 12 hours, making it a full but manageable day out.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off save you planning logistics.
• Included activities: The Undersea Expedition is a highlight, giving you a chance to see marine life up close.
• Flexibility: No guided tour means you can explore Avalon at your own pace.
• Easy access: Ferry ride offers beautiful coastal views and a smooth trip to the island.

Cons:

• Waiting times: Some reviews, like Martin_J’s, note long periods of waiting, especially with early pickups.
• Limited guided sightseeing: If you prefer a guided tour of Avalon or structured activities, this might feel a bit empty or confusing.
• Additional expenses: Food and drinks are not included, and the beach club activities will be extra.
• Price point: At over $250 per person, it’s not the cheapest day out, especially considering you’ll need to pay for meals separately.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who values independent exploration over guided tours and enjoys marine activities, this trip could be a good fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a straightforward way to visit Catalina without the hassle of planning transportation or coordinating multiple tickets. Families with older children or anyone eager to see underwater marine life will find the Undersea Expedition appealing.

However, if you prefer a tightly scheduled guided experience with minimal waiting, you might find this setup less satisfying. Be prepared for some waiting around and the potential for delays, as noted by some travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Catalina Island day trip offers a practical, no-fuss way to get a taste of island life from LA. The inclusion of ferry rides, hotel pickup, and the Undersea Expedition means you’re getting a fair amount of value for the price, especially if you’re looking for a relaxed, self-directed outing.

The experience shines when the weather is good and the sea conditions are calm, providing beautiful views and a fun marine adventure. However, the potential for waiting times and the lack of guided sightseeing might make it less ideal for travelers who prefer more structure.

Overall, it’s a flexible, accessible way to visit Catalina if you’re comfortable with a bit of independence and don’t mind arranging your own meals or extra activities at the beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your LA hotel, making it convenient and stress-free.

How long does the entire trip last?
Expect around 12 hours from pickup to return, including ferry rides, free time on Catalina, and activities.

Are tickets for the Undersea Expedition included?
Yes, the tickets are part of this package, giving you a close-up view of Catalina’s marine life.

Can I explore Avalon on my own?
Absolutely. Once on the island, you are free to explore at your own pace, whether that’s relaxing at the beach or wandering the shops.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are at your own expense. The tour doesn’t include any food, so plan accordingly.

Is the experience suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the marine adventure and relaxed pace make it suitable for older children and families willing to manage their own time.

What about COVID-19 safety measures?
Some travelers have noted that social distancing measures seemed lax during their visit. Be prepared for crowds and bring your own masks if desired.

What’s the best time to book?
The tour is usually booked about 55 days in advance, and booking early can help secure preferred dates, especially in peak seasons.

If you’re looking for a flexible, straightforward way to explore Catalina Island, this day trip could fit the bill—just keep in mind the potential waiting times and extra expenses. It’s a chance to see marine life and enjoy some seaside relaxation without the fuss of guided tours, making it a practical choice for independent travelers.