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Three-day weekends call for a trip to Catalina Island! Whether you have a long weekend off from work or a break from school, it’s the perfect time to explore the Island. Spend your days off with some excitement, adventure and relaxation.

Day 1

Hop on one of Catalina Express’s morning departures to begin your weekend on Catalina Island. After the boat ride, you’ll arrive in Avalon just in time for an appetizing lunch at a local’s favorite spot located right on the Green Pleasure Pier. Eric’s on the Pier offers many delicious food options including seafood dishes like their clam chowder served in a bread bowl.

Once you’ve fueled up on food, take a tour of Catalina Islands underwater world on the Glass Bottom Boat Voyage. The 45-minute boat tour will have you exploring everything there is to see in Lovers Cove marine preserve.

Are you seeking for a thrill? Challenge yourself with the Catalina Aerial Adventure courses behind Descanso Beach Club. Enjoy the outdoors with five different self-paced courses which are made up of rope ladders, log bridges, balance beams, zip lines and other elements!

End your first day on the Island with dinner and entertainment at El Galleon! El Galleon is known for their entertainment of visitors singing karaoke after enjoying a meal. Choose from a menu of appetizers, locally caught seafood dishes, or entrees such as the Pulled Bison & Pork sandwich.

Day 2

Time to wake up and head out for a hearty breakfast. Original Jack’s Country Kitchen gives you all the nostalgic feelings of being in the comfort of a diner. Make sure to get a full breakfast, like the Country Breakfast, so you will be energized for the day ahead!

Take a walk through the most iconic landmark on Catalina Island, the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden. The memorial honors the legacy of William Wrigley Jr. and his vision for the future of Catalina Island. The Wrigley Memorial is the centerpiece of the Botanic Garden which is known as Ada Wrigley’s private desert plant collection.

If you want an experience underwater, then take a tour or class with one of the dive shops like Catalina Divers Supply or Diving Catalina. They offer both snorkel and scuba diving activities for all ages. No need to bring gear as well, the dive shops provide snorkel and scuba rentals!

After a long day of adventure, grab a casual dinner at Mi Casita Mexican Restaurant. Mi Casita offers a menu full of authentic Jalisco style Mexican food, such as the Panela Chicken plate. If you are interested in having a drink with your meal, then try the famous Catalina Cazelua.

Day 3

For your last day, grab a quick brunch option from Café Metropole and take in the beauty of Catalina Island along the beach. Café Metropole features a juice bar with cold-pressed juices, smoothies and acai bowls to revive you from an exceptional weekend. Take brunch to the beach and enjoy the views of the Catalina waters.

Before departing on the afternoon Catalina Express boat, shop around at the many local boutiques on Crescent Avenue. You will find many unique and handmade keepsakes that resemble the Island. Don’t forget to buy a souvenir to remember your surreal vacation on Catalina Island!

Where to Stay

With a weekend vacation, you will also need to find the perfect place to rest at night. Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel is a transformed historic landmark overlooking Avalon Bay. The hotel was recently renovated with a modern look in 2019. Catalina Canyon Inn consists of rooms with bunk beds and double beds fitting for families staying the weekend. Catalina Canyon Inn is the only full-service resort available on Catalina Island. To be only 14 steps away from the beach, the Pavilion Hotel is the great accommodation for your getaway. The Pavilion Hotel offers guests a wine and cheese reception on the patio with views of the beach.

Find out more about these hotels and more on the Catalina Express Boat and Hotel packages page for the best Catalina vacation deals. With many different options, discover the right package fit for your trip. Book now for your weekend vacation on Catalina Island!