Plan a CruiseAvalon Cruise Port Guide
Cruise ships tender ashore to Santa Catalina Island, arriving at Dock Four or Five at the Avalon Landing (also known as Cabrillo Mole), conveniently located in the center of downtown Avalon. Santa Catalina Island is a small destination, measuring 21 miles long and less than a mile wide at its narrowest point, with elevations reaching up to 2,000 feet. The island is primarily known for its main town, Avalon, which has a population of approximately 3,000. The only other settlement is Two Harbors. Much of the island's interior is preserved in its natural state by the Catalina Island Conservancy, established by former owner William Wrigley. While most beaches are somewhat rocky, there are plenty of activities beyond sunbathing.
Getting Around from the Port
Avalon is very walkable, making it easy to explore on foot directly from the tender drop-off point. For those preferring not to walk, a trolley service operates, connecting Pebbly Beach and the Casino to the Botanical Garden. Golf carts are also available for rent if you wish to cover more ground independently.
Attractions and Activities
- Snorkeling at Lover's Cove: A short 10-minute walk to the left from the Green Pleasure Pier (where tenders arrive) will bring you to Lover's Cove. This protected marine preserve is teeming with fish accustomed to human interaction, especially if you bring old bagels from the ship to feed them. Snorkel equipment, including wetsuits, can be rented directly on the pier. Be aware that the water temperature might be chilly.
- Catalina Island Conservancy & Nature Center: Explore the diverse habitat of the island's interior, preserved by the Conservancy. They operate a nature center in Avalon Canyon, offering hands-on exhibits focused on local wildlife, particularly engaging for children. The Conservancy also leads nature walks every evening.
- Botanical Garden: Accessible via the local trolley service, the Botanical Garden offers a chance to see some of the island's unique flora.
- Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: These tours explore Lover's Cove, providing an underwater view of the marine life and often including fish feedings.
- Hiking: Given Avalon's walkability and the island's natural beauty, numerous nature trails are available for those who enjoy hiking.
- Consider comparing prices and offerings between independent operators and your cruise line's organized tours for the best value.
Dining & Shopping
As part of the United States, prices for goods and services typically do not include sales tax or gratuities. Sales tax usually ranges from 2.9% to nearly 10% (commonly 4-6%) and will be added to your total at checkout. Tipping is widely expected in the U.S.:
- Full-service restaurants: 15-20% is standard; check your bill as some restaurants might include an automatic service charge.
- Taxi drivers, hairdressers: 10-15%.
- Bartenders: $1 per drink for inexpensive drinks, or 15% of the total bill.
- Bellhops: $1-2 per bag (minimum $3-5).
- Tour guides: $5-10 per person for half-day tours, $10-20 per person for longer tours. Most stores in resort areas like Avalon operate with similar hours to major metropolitan areas, generally open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and shorter hours (11 a.m. or noon to 5 or 6 p.m.) on Sundays. Major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas Day usually see stores closed.
Currency and Language
The official currency is the United States Dollar ($). ATMs are readily available throughout Avalon. Major credit cards, including Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted for most transactions, even small ones. English is the standard language, and for emergencies, dial 911.