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Things to do on Catalina Island in the afternoon

a person standing next to a body of water

Whether you are looking to sleep in, have a leisurely vacation brunch or are just here for the day, sometimes it’s afternoon activities you are looking for. Here are a dozen afternoon and evening activities on Catalina Island.

Catalina Island Museum: Plan on at least an hour or so to explore the Catalina Island Museum. This architectural marvel houses an extensive collection of island memorabilia as well as compelling exhibits chronically the island’s diverse history. You’ll also find temporary exhibits that explore a wide range of art and culture, as well as an irresistible museum store.

a piece of cake sitting on top of a wooden table

Catalina Happy Hour Tour: Get your drink on and the party started on the Catalina Happy Hour Tour, a two-hour party on the move that explores Avalon’s best bars and most creative cocktails.

Kayaking: Afternoons on Catalina are an ideal time to explore Catalina’s coastline in a kayak. Check out the Frog Rock Kayak Tour or rent a kayak and explore on your own.

a small boat in a large body of water

Parasailing: Get swept away by the beauty of the island as you soar high above it on a parasail ride.

Snorkeling: Plunge beneath the surface of the sea and get up close and personal with the denizens of the deep, including colorful garibaldi, plentiful calico bass and playful sea lions.

a hand holding a fish

Golf Cart rentals: Hit the road on your own terms with a Catalina golf cart rental. These autoettes are the preferred mode of transportation for local residents and are the perfect vehicle in which to explore Avalon’s charming streets and stunning seascapes.

Eat & drink: Catalina dining options abound and afternoons are the perfect time for appetizers and few beverages of the over-21 variety. Check out the view from the new Toyon Grille, try the beer flights at the Catalina Brewhouse or have a glass and bite at the Island Spa’s sundeck from 5 to 8 Thursday to Sunday. You can also get your wiki wacked at Luau Larry’s, relax with a margarita – or two – at Maggie’s Blue Rose and check out happy hour at the Bluewater Avalon. If you’d rather indulge your sweet tooth, head over the Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co. and taste test the cookies.

a man flying through the air over a body of water

Zipline: One of the most popular activities on Catalina is the Zip Line Eco Tour. This high-octane adventure whisks you through Descanso Canyon at speeds up to 45 mph and is the ideal way to put a little zing in your afternoon on Catalina Island.

Massage: Prefer things a little more relaxing? Spend an afternoon hour or so with a skilled massage therapist at one of the many spas on Catalina.

Casino: Afternoons on Catalina are the perfect time to explore the architectural wonder of the Catalina Casino. There are several ways to explore the building, which brims with culture and history. Both the Discover the Casino Tour and the Casino Behind-the-Scenes Tour are offered in the afternoons. On weekends, you can also experience the Twilight at the Casino Tour.

a boat is docked next to a body of water

Avalon’s lingering twilight is irresistible

Shopping: Catalina’s many shops and boutiques are an ideal afternoon destination. From high-end apparel to kitschy souvenirs to gorgeous local art, you’ll discover treasures galore.

Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden: Located at the top of Avalon Canyon, this 13-acre garden offers a fascinating glimpse at both the island’s flora as well as succulents from around the world. After you’ve explored the garden, don’t miss the Wrigley Memorial, a stunning edifice that honors the entrepreneur and visionary who transformed Avalon into the seaside retreat we know today.

Leaving town too early to explore all that an afternoon on the island has to offer? Reach out to our friendly reservations team and we’ll make it easy for you to extend your stay.