Thinking about adding a little mystery to your Catalina Island visit? The Haunted Catalina Golf Cart Tour offers a unique way to explore Avalon’s eerie side while enjoying the island’s scenic charm. While it’s not a full-blown ghost hunt, this tour combines storytelling, history, and some fun spooky vibes—all from the comfort of a cozy golf cart.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how knowledgeable guides bring the tales alive, making the stories of Avalon’s haunted spots feel both fascinating and chilling. Plus, the stunning views you get during the ride add a magical touch to the eerie atmosphere. On the flip side, it’s a quick tour—lasting about an hour and a half—and with limited spots (only five per cart), you might want to book early to secure your place.
This tour is perfect if you’re curious about Avalon’s spooky side, enjoy engaging storytelling, and want a relaxed, scenic experience without heavy walking or long rides. It’s especially suited for those who love a good ghost story but prefer a comfortable, guided experience that doesn’t take up your whole day.
Key Points
- Intimate Experience: With a maximum of five travelers per tour, it’s a personal, small-group outing.
- Expert Guide: Guides are praised for being outstanding and very informative.
- Scenic and Spooky: Combines beautiful views of Avalon with tales of its haunted sites.
- Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
- Cost-Effective: At $65, it provides a fun, entertaining way to learn about Avalon’s haunted history.
- Limited but Detailed: The itinerary covers several interesting spots, each with its own story.
The Ride Through Avalon’s Haunted Spots
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Starting Point: 121 Clarissa Ave
The tour kicks off from a cheerful yellow building with green awnings, just a block from the beach. It’s a convenient starting point, especially if you’re wandering around Avalon’s charming streets beforehand. From here, your guide will set the tone for the adventure, blending history with ghostly tales.
Exploring the Eerie Sites
The tour takes you through several notable locations, each with its own spooky backstory or ambiance. For instance, the Catalina Island Casino is the first stop—a grand building with a reputation for ghostly sightings. The guide will share stories that make you look at the historic site with new, spookier eyes.
Other stops include the Steamer Tug Boat House, Conservancy Trail Head Center, and the Helicopter Port in Pebbly Beach. Each site whispers its own ghostly history or local legend. The Wrigley Mansion and Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden are also on the route, offering not just tales of hauntings but also breathtaking views that make the spooky stories even more captivating.
The Pet Cemetery & Wrigley Memorial
The Pet Cemetery adds an extra layer of curiosity—what spirits might linger where beloved pets are laid to rest? Meanwhile, the Wrigley Memorial, perched on the hillside, offers a panoramic backdrop, blending natural beauty with the thrill of ghost stories.
What Makes the Tour Stand Out?
The Guides: Several reviews highlight how outstanding and informative the guides are. Patricia_R, one recent reviewer, mentioned how the guide was “outstanding and extremely informative,” which really elevates the experience beyond just spooky stories. Having a knowledgeable guide means you learn about Avalon’s history and legends, making the stories more meaningful.
The Views: Since the tour involves a drive through Avalon’s streets and hillsides, you get some seriously good vantage points. The scenery helps set an atmospheric mood, especially as the sun sets or twilight falls.
The Personal Touch: With only five travelers in each golf cart, this experience feels intimate and personalized. You’re not just another face in a huge crowd—your guide can tailor the storytelling a bit more, answer questions, and make it feel special.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $65 per person, this tour offers a good value considering its small-group size, the storytelling, and the scenic stops. It’s a fun way to learn a little about Avalon’s haunted reputation without shelling out for a full-day or more intensive tour. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers some flexibility if plans change, which is nice in unpredictable travel times.
Practical Details & Considerations
Duration: About 1 hour and 30 minutes—just enough time to soak in the stories without feeling rushed or exhausted.
Availability & Booking: Most travelers book about 8 days in advance, so if you’re set on doing it, it’s wise to reserve early.
Accessibility: The tour starts and ends at the same point, making logistics straightforward. It’s near public transportation, which is a plus if you’re exploring Avalon without a car.
Group Size: Limited to five people per cart, which enhances the experience, but also means spots fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
The Haunted Catalina Golf Cart Tour offers a charming blend of spooky storytelling, scenic views, and intimate group size. If you’re someone who enjoys a good ghost story, appreciates a knowledgeable guide, and wants a relaxed way to experience Avalon’s haunted spots, this tour could be just right. It’s not overly intense or gory—more of a spooky adventure that’s accessible to most.
While it’s a quick jaunt, it’s packed with interesting tales and beautiful vistas, making it a memorable part of any Catalina trip. Just keep in mind that with only five spots per run, planning ahead is essential. Overall, it’s a fun, atmospheric tour that adds a little thrill to your island visit.
Haunted Catalina Golf Cart Tour
“The guide was outstanding and extremely informative. Loved the tour. Graciously awaited our boat which was greatly appreciated.”
FAQ
How long is the Haunted Catalina Golf Cart Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable and enjoyable experience without taking up your whole day.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 121 Clarissa Ave in Avalon and ends back at the same meeting point, which is convenient if you’re exploring nearby attractions.
Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a relaxed tour, so it’s accessible to a wide range of visitors.
How many people are on each tour?
With a maximum of five travelers per golf cart, the experience remains intimate, allowing for personalized storytelling.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility for unforeseen plans.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour itself; there are no additional charges for admission, as sites like the Catalina Island Casino are free to explore from the outside.
Is there any special gear or preparation needed?
No special gear is required. Just wear comfortable clothing, and bring a sense of curiosity and maybe a camera for the scenic stops.
If you’re looking for a fun, slightly spooky way to see Avalon and hear some of its stories, this tour offers a good mix of entertainment and scenic beauty. It’s a charming way to add a dash of mystery to your day on Catalina Island.