Catalina Island , United States

Avalon City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

(36 reviews)

50m

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take a self-guided GPS audio tour through the streets of Avalon with me. My name is Matthew and I am one of the 4000 residents of Avalon. Being a local I get asked a lot of questions. Do you live here full time? How expensive is it? What is that large house up on the hill? Why does everyone drive around in golf carts? How can you have a casino that doesn't allow gambling?

Along with historians, authors, and other passionate locals, we will walk the streets of Avalon to answer these questions and more. You'll learn the stories behind our town and its famous landmarks from the people who live here.

The tour is ready whenever you are and the audio plays automatically at exactly the right time and place using your smartphone's GPS and the VoiceMap mobile app, which also works offline.

Available options

Avalon City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to Avalon City tour

VoiceMap Application

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

Green Pleasure Pier is the geographical center of town and a main stop for many activities. Wanna jump on a glass bottom boat, see some flying fish, grab some bait, or even rent your own skiff? Then this is the place to begin.

Stop 2 Pass by

The Catalina Express is ferry service between Santa Catalina Island and mainland California. Their fleet includes eight high speed vessels than can make the journey in under an hour. They offer up to 30 departures a day with boats leaving from ports in San Pedro, Long Beach and Dana Point.

What's not included

Smartphone

Transportation

Food/Drink

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.2

20 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed instructions to the starting point are in the app.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE

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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE

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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Catalina Island

Catalina Island, often referred to as 'The Island,' is a picturesque destination located just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California. Known for its pristine beaches, clear blue waters, and unique wildlife, Catalina offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The island's charming town of Avalon and the rugged beauty of Two Harbors provide distinct experiences for visitors.

Top Attractions

Avalon

Avalon is the main town on Catalina Island, known for its charming streets, beautiful beaches, and vibrant atmosphere. It's the heart of the island's activity and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Town Full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Two Harbors

Two Harbors is a quieter, more rugged part of the island, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning natural beauty. It's a great place for hiking, camping, and enjoying the island's wilderness.

Town Full day Free to explore, camping fees apply

Catalina Casino

The Catalina Casino is an iconic landmark on the island, known for its beautiful architecture and historic significance. It hosts various events, concerts, and movie screenings.

Historical/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, event tickets vary

Descanso Beach

Descanso Beach is a beautiful, family-friendly beach in Avalon, offering a relaxing atmosphere with clear waters and soft sand. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities.

Beach Half day Free

Trans-Catalina Trail

The Trans-Catalina Trail is a scenic hiking trail that spans the length of the island, offering stunning views and a challenging adventure for hikers. It's a great way to experience the island's natural beauty.

Nature/Adventure 1-3 days Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish and Chips

Freshly caught fish, battered and fried to perfection, served with crispy fries. A local favorite.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten and allergens

Lobster Bisque

Creamy and rich soup made with fresh lobster, a must-try for seafood lovers.

Appetizer/Soup Contains dairy and shellfish

Catalina Salad

A refreshing salad made with local greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy dressing.

Salad Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Snorkeling Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset cruises Visiting museums Attending local events

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's the best time for water activities, beach visits, and exploring the island's natural beauty.

20-28°C 68-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Catalina Island is generally safe with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when swimming in the ocean
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun
• Keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) • 80 miles

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, making it easy to get around the island. Buses run frequently and are a convenient option for visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Avalon Two Harbors

Day trips

San Clemente Island

60 miles • Full day

San Clemente Island is a remote and rugged island located southwest of Catalina. It's a great destination for those looking for a more adventurous and secluded experience.

Channel Islands National Park

Varies • Full day

Channel Islands National Park is a group of eight islands located off the coast of Southern California. It's a great destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Festivals

Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival • June Catalina Island Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Book accommodations, transportation, and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak season
Pack layers as temperatures can vary, especially in the evenings
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated and protected from the sun
Explore the island's natural beauty by hiking, biking, or kayaking
Try local seafood dishes, especially lobster and fish and chips