Los Angeles family guide
Things to Do in Avalon with Kids
Curated by Simir Shah
Reviewed & updated August 2026 · we check listings regularly, but hours and prices change — confirm before you go.
Avalon on the map
📍 Where Avalon is
Avalon sits in Los Angeles, Southern California. Nearest major airport: Long Beach (~34 mi / 55 km). It's roughly 49 mi (79 km) from Downtown LA and 80 mi (129 km) from San Diego — SoCal traffic can make a drive take far longer than the distance suggests, so plan around it.
Visiting? See SoCal at a glance, getting around and which airport.
Things to do in Avalon
Parks & Hiking
Beaches & Coast
Lover's Cove Marine Preserve
A protected marine area and the island's best easy snorkeling. The entry is rocky, so bring water shoes; the Wet Spot rental booth is a three-minute walk away.
Free (gear extra, e.g. snorkel set ~$15 for 2 hrs at Wet Spot)Descanso Beach Club
A private beach facility just past the Casino with a full-service bar and restaurant, cabana rentals and calm water. Outside food and drink are prohibited.
Reported small beach-access fee (~$2/day per Love Catalina); cabanas and lounges extraDescanso Beach Ocean Sports (Kayak & SUP)
At 5 Saint Catherine Way, the entrance to Descanso Beach Club: rent kayaks, paddleboards and snorkel gear, or join a guided paddle listed separately.
Kayak from $40/hr single, $60/hr double; SUP from $40/hr; mask/snorkel/fins $30/day (2026)Casino Point Dive Park
A marine protected area off the Casino with marine-rich water right in town, better for confident swimmers. Rentals are available at Catalina Divers Supply.
Free to snorkel; gear and guided tours extra
Avalon Beach & Green Pleasure Pier
Avalon's public beaches (South, Middle and Step Beach) run free along Crescent Ave; alcohol, animals and smoking are prohibited. The pier houses ticket booths for tours, parasailing and dive rentals.
FreeWet Spot Rentals (Snorkel & Kayak)
A rental booth at the Boat Landing, a three-minute walk from Lover's Cove. All rentals include life vests and instruction; online bookings have a two-hour minimum.
Single kayak $20/hr, double $30/hr, paddleboard $25/hr; snorkel gear $15 for 2 hrs or $30/dayGuided Kayak Tours (Frog Rock & Willow Cove)
Guided paddles from Descanso Beach Ocean Sports. Willow Cove is a half-day trip of about 2.5 miles each way with snorkel gear and lunch included — a long day for young kids; ask about age minimums when booking.
Journey to Frog Rock from $79.95; Willow Cove Expedition from $159.95 (2026)Animals & Nature
Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden
A garden of cactus and rare island plants leading up to a grand memorial monument, 1.7 miles up Avalon Canyon Rd from the ferry terminal. It's uphill: walk, bike, taxi or golf cart, or take the free round-trip shuttle from the Trailhead Visitor Center with a ticket.
$13.58 adult; $8.15 child 5–12; under 5 free (2026 — re-confirm)
Catalina Island Conservancy Eco Tours
Open-air tours into the protected interior departing the Trailhead Visitor Center (708 Crescent Ave), where families may spot bison, deer and the Catalina Island fox. Minimum age 3; no infants under 2; cancellations inside 72 hours are non-refundable.
Wildlands Discovery Tour ~$98 (about 2 hr); Hidden Catalina Expedition ~$147 (about 3 hr), incl. tax/fees (2026)Bison Expedition (Hummer)
A 12-passenger biofuel Hummer through Middle Canyon and Cape Canyon to a Black Jack Mountain overlook in bison country. Minimum age 5; it's bumpy and dusty with no restroom, and not wheelchair accessible.
From $109.95 (2026)Catalina Falconry Experience
Kids learn basic falconry, wear a glove, cast a trained raptor and call it back. Minimum age 7; meets in Descanso Canyon at 1 Saint Catherine Way.
From $94 (2026)Conservancy Trailhead Visitor Center
At 708 Crescent Ave: pick up free hiking permits, browse exhibits and the gift shop, and climb to the third-floor observation deck and native plant garden. It's also the departure point for Eco Tours and the Wildlands Express.
Free (tours and shuttle extra)
Arts & Culture
Catalina Casino (Building & Tour)
The round 1929 Art Deco landmark is a theater and ballroom — not gambling. General admission includes the Avalon Theatre, Marine Bar, Wrigley Ballroom and Ocean Promenade; the one-hour VIP tour involves 90+ steps. Wear comfortable shoes.
General admission from $19.50; VIP Backstage Tour ~$42 adult / ~$40 child 2–11 (2026)Avalon Theatre (Casino)
A 1929 movie house with 1,184 seats, a 50-foot domed ceiling and Art Deco murals, one of the first theaters built for talkies. Films run from current to classic — check the rating before you go.
Ticket price not publishedDay Trips
Glass Bottom Boat Voyage
A 45-minute cruise from the Green Pleasure Pier into Lover's Cove Marine Preserve, where kids press their faces to the glass to watch bright-orange garibaldi in the kelp. Best for kids 3 and up; reservations recommended, required for groups.
From $29.95 (2026); ~$34 adult / ~$31 child 3–11 all-in via catalinatours.comUndersea Expedition (Sea Wolf Semi-Submersible)
A climate-controlled cabin about five feet below the surface with individual seats and portholes — good for little ones who can't snorkel yet. Boarding involves stairs and ramps, and no food is allowed.
From $49.95 (2026); ~$57 adult / ~$51 child 2–11 all-in via catalinatours.com; infants free but need a ticketCatalina Zipline Eco Tour
Five zip lines at 35–40 mph over Descanso Canyon. Minimum age 10, weight 80–240 lb and height at least 55 in, weighed clothed at check-in; closed-toe shoes required. There is no refund if a child misses the limits.
From $149.95 incl. tax/fees (2026)Catalina Aerial Adventure
Five self-paced ropes courses (two beginner, two intermediate, one advanced) at 1 Saint Catherine Way. Minimum age 7, height at least 55 in and weight 50–270 lb, so it is not for younger siblings. Closed-toe shoes required.
$69.95 incl. tax/fees (2026)Golf Cart Rentals (Avalon)
Renting a golf cart is the classic Avalon adventure — putter up to the scenic overlooks and the Botanic Garden with kids riding open-air. Call ahead for rates and seating.
Hourly; price not published — call Catalina Island Golf Carts 310-510-2550Golf Gardens Miniature Golf
An 18-hole, par-51 course on Sumner Ave across from the library, run by Catalina Island Company for nearly 50 years. It takes about an hour, and Glow Golf uses light-up balls after dark.
From $15 (2026); Glow Golf at night from $20Parasailing (IWC Parasail)
Tandem parasailing from the Green Pleasure Pier (ticket office at 18 Green Pleasure Pier) with a dry launch and landing. Fliers must be 6 or older, ride-alongs 5, with combined-weight limits — confirm with the operator.
600 ft $69, 800 ft $79, ride-along $25 (2026)Skate the Wrigley Ballroom (Casino)
Roller skate on the Casino's circular ballroom floor for one session of about an hour. Socks are required and not included, so pack a pair; age limits aren't published.
From $28.50 incl. Casino admission and a one-hour skate (2026)Speed Boat & Sea Lion Tour
A high-speed Cyclone boat ride from the Green Pleasure Pier to Seal Rocks for seals, dolphins and seasonal whales; sightings aren't guaranteed. Minimum age 4; boarding involves steep steps and it's bumpy.
From $49.95 (2026)Catalina's Adventure HQ
A locally owned hub at 1202 Avalon Canyon Rd (the old Nature Center building) with guided backcountry tours including a family-friendly Picnic Tour, snorkel rental and shuttle service. The former Nature Center no longer operates here.
See site (prices not verified)
Airport in the Sky
A mountaintop airfield about 10 miles from Avalon with a restaurant known for buffalo burgers and cookies. Reach it on the Conservancy's Wildlands Express (advance reservations required), or by bike or hike. Plan a full half day.
No admission listed; Wildlands Express fare extra; hiking permit free
Cyclone Boat: Avalon to Two Harbors
A quick way to spend a day in quiet Two Harbors without a long ferry from the mainland. Outside food and drink aren't allowed on Catalina Island Company tours; confirm the last return before you go.
From $29 each way (2026)Discover Avalon Motor Tour
A 7.5-mile narrated motor tour of the beachfront and hillsides with local history — the cheapest way to see town from a seat, which suits little ones and a hot afternoon.
From $29.95 (2026)Festivals & annual events in Avalon
What Avalon is known for — the events locals plan the year around.
Shop Catalina Holiday Kick Off & Community Tree Lighting
The 33rd annual holiday kickoff, with a week of island shop discounts. The Christmas tree lighting and Santa photos are held on the Wrigley Stage. Tip: it falls on the same night as Long Beach's Belmont Shore parade, so pick one, and book Catalina ferries and rooms early.
No cost listed
Holiday Concert with the LMU Choir (Catalina Museum)
A free holiday concert by the Loyola Marymount University Choir at the Catalina Museum for Art & History, with gallery access included. Tip: arrive early for seats, then walk the lit-up Crescent Ave waterfront after.
Free (complimentary concert)
Catalina Polar Bear Plunge (New Year's Day)
New Year's Day cold-water swim (about a mile, 7:30am at Casino Dive Park) and a family-friendly 11:30am plunge at Middle Beach. Tip: bring towels and warm layers, and check the ferry schedule, since holiday sailings sell out.
See organizer
Catalina Island Marathon, 10K, 5K & Kids Run
The 49th annual trail race on Catalina Island Conservancy land, with a 5K, 10K and Kids Run at 9am that suit families (marathon start at 7am). Prices rise Dec 29, 2026 for the 10K/5K. Tip: book the Catalina Express and lodging early, since race weekend fills up.
Kids Run $27.50; 5K $53; 10K $66.60; marathon $188.75
Avalon Halloween Parade & Party (Nightmare on Front Street)
A family costume parade down Crescent Ave, starting from Old Ben Park on Pebbly Beach Rd at 4pm, with an after-party at the Wrigley Stage. Tip: the last ferries back leave early evening, so book a hotel or an evening return before committing.
Día de los Muertos Family Festival (Catalina Museum)
The Catalina Museum for Art & History hosts a Día de los Muertos festival with a kids' art project, food vendors, and live music and dance. Tip: the 2025 edition ran in the evening, so plan an overnight stay.
Catalina Island Chili Cook-Off (10th Annual)
Presented by the Rotary Club of Avalon on South Beach, with judging for Judges' Best Chili and People's Choice Chili. The organizer's search listing describes a beer garden, games and live music. Tip: The boat over takes about an hour, so book the Catalina Express early for a fall weekend.
Avalon Fall Carnival
The City of Avalon lists the Fall Carnival on Crescent Avenue (Front Street) for Friday, October 16, 2026, 5-8pm, and it is free. The city describes classic games, seasonal treats and community fun with the harbor as the backdrop. Tip: It is a Friday evening, so plan an overnight stay or check the last boat back to the mainland.
Local restaurants in Avalon
Luau Larry's
Tropical, Polynesian-themed bar and restaurant across from the beach, famous for Wiki Wacker and Buffalo Milk drinks. It has a kids menu (burger, grilled cheese, chicken strips) and open-air harbor views. No reservations, so go early with little ones.
Maggie's Blue Rose
Oceanfront Mexican restaurant on Crescent Ave known for seafood enchiladas and skull-glass margaritas. Kids plates include cheese enchilada, tacos, quesadilla and chicken strips.
NDMK Fish House
Casual Catalina fish house on Claressa Ave with oysters, nigiri and fresh fish, plus a 'Little Grom' kids menu. Closed Wednesdays.
Topside by NDMK
Italian-Spanish-American rooftop restaurant on the second floor of the Conservancy Trailhead, with a fire pit and harbor views. Kids items include butter noodles, grilled cheese, chicken tenders and breakfast pancakes. First come, first served; closed Wednesdays.
Original Antonio's Pizzeria & Deli
Cozy neighborhood pizzeria on Sumner Ave serving pizza, pasta, salads and subs. Dine in or take it to the beach.
Original Jack's Country Kitchen
Old-fashioned diner on Catalina Ave with a dozen kinds of eggs Benedict, macadamia-nut French toast, pancakes and waffles. Lines form on weekends; hours vary by day.
The Pancake Cottage
Waterfront breakfast and lunch spot on Crescent Ave with hearty pancakes, omelets and waffles, and one of the few places open at 7am. No reservations, so expect a short wait on weekends.
The Lobster Trap
Casual seafood restaurant with fresh lobster and locally caught fish, serving breakfast from 7am. Walk-ins only, with an open kitchen and counter seating.
Coney Island West
Flame-broiled burgers, hot dogs and chicken or fish sandwiches, plus milkshakes, floats and soft-serve cones, with a patio overlooking the harbor. A quick, budget-friendly bite.
Coyote Joe's
Family-run Mexican restaurant a block off the waterfront, open daily from 11am, with takeout and small kids plates (tender, burrito, quesadilla, taquito).
Eric's on the Pier
No-frills counter on the Green Pleasure Pier serving buffalo burgers, fish and chips, Baja fish tacos, breakfast burritos and ice cream. A low-cost way to eat over the water.
Scoops Catalina Creamery
Avalon's house-made ice cream and gelato shop on Crescent Ave, about two dozen flavors plus chocolate-covered bananas and coffee.
Sailor's Delight Ice Cream Shop
Waterfront ice cream shop next to Step Beach with waffle cones, Italian ice and sugar-free options, and several years of 'best dessert in town' wins at Taste Around Avalon.
Lloyd's of Avalon
Old-time candy shop on Crescent Ave with salt water taffy made in the window, caramel apples, fudge, baked goods and ice cream.
Catalina Cones
Tiny pink ice cream shop near the ferry at Pebbly Beach with 12 rotating scoop flavors, soft serve and the Catalina Split. Hours are flexible ('island time'), so check its Instagram first.
Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co.
Coffee and bakery in the Metropole Marketplace with cookies, brownies, cinnamon rolls, build-your-own breakfast sandwiches all day, vegan and gluten-free options, and Avalon's only fro-yo bar. Order online to skip the line.
Catalina Island Brew House
Coffeehouse in the morning and brewery in the afternoon, with pastries, sandwiches and handmade pizzas across from the Green Pier. Parents get coffee at 7am, and pizza works for the kids.
The M Restaurant & Events
Coastal Italian waterfront restaurant on Crescent Ave with handmade pasta, flatbreads and fresh seafood, plus weekend brunch. Kids options include penne, chicken tenders and flatbread.
Pier 24
Waterfront restaurant at 230 Crescent Ave with pizzas, pasta, burgers and milkshakes, two ocean-view patios and a kids menu (cheeseburgers, tenders, grilled cheese, pizza). Cards only.
Local shops in Avalon
Afishinados Gallery Store
Fish-themed art and gifts (paintings, ceramics, jewelry, prints, pillows) in the Metropole Marketplace. A fun stop for kids who like fish, and the owner will tell you the story behind most pieces.
Catalina Museum Store
Gift shop in the Catalina Island Museum lobby with books, toys, tile and pottery, mini surfboards, jewelry and Catalina-history goods. Proceeds support the museum.
Catalina Pottery & Tile Co.
Shop in a former bank building where the vault now holds pottery. It sells Catalina pottery collectibles, locally produced tile, and handmade jewelry, candles and art by island artisans.
Catalina Conservancy Trailhead Store
Retail shop on the ground floor of the Conservancy's Trailhead visitor center with nature and Catalina books, plush toys, clothing and gifts. Proceeds fund island conservation.
Catalina Kids
Small kids' shop in the Metropole Marketplace with children's clothing, shoes, toys, beach wear and ocean-themed items. Good for forgotten swimsuits and souvenir outfits.
The Steamer Trunk
Long-running Crescent Ave shop with Catalina history books, a selection of children's books, Catalina tiles, jewelry, cards and gifts.
Catalina Seashell Co.
Seashell shop selling natural shells, sand dollars and sea horses by the cup, plus shell ornaments, chimes, lamps and jewelry. Kids can pick a cupful to take home.
Peggy's Gifts & Souvenirs
Long-running souvenir shop on Sumner Ave with hats, bags, shirts and Catalina keepsakes, open year round.
Seasonal & outdoors near Avalon
The closest splash pads, patches, lights and more — distances from Avalon.
More Los Angeles family guides
Avalon family FAQ
What are the best things to do in Avalon with kids?
Family favorites in and around Avalon include Glass Bottom Boat Voyage, Undersea Expedition (Sea Wolf Semi-Submersible), Lover's Cove Marine Preserve and Descanso Beach Club, and more. Our guide lists 29 spots, each with a price note and practical tips where we have them.
Are there free things to do in Avalon?
Yes — free family spots near Avalon include Lover's Cove Marine Preserve, Casino Point Dive Park, Avalon Beach & Green Pleasure Pier and Conservancy Trailhead Visitor Center. Our free things to do page lists more across Southern California.
What can kids do in Avalon on a rainy day?
Indoor options in and around Avalon include Catalina Casino (Building & Tour), Catalina Museum for Art & History, Skate the Wrigley Ballroom (Casino) and Avalon Theatre (Casino), and more. Each listing in our guide is marked indoor or outdoor, so you can filter for the weather.
How can families spend a day in Avalon?
One easy plan: start outside at Glass Bottom Boat Voyage while kids have the most energy, break for lunch at Luau Larry's, then head indoors to Catalina Casino (Building & Tour) for the afternoon. Our guide has prices and tips for each stop, plus 27 more ideas to swap in.
Where can families eat in Avalon?
Local, family-friendly spots in Avalon include Luau Larry's, Maggie's Blue Rose, NDMK Fish House and Topside by NDMK, and more — independent, SoCal-only eateries, never national chains.
What does the YourSoCal Avalon guide cover?
Our Avalon family guide includes 29 things to do, 19 local eats and 8 local shops — with independent, non-chain eats and shops.
Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.
Where to stay in Avalon
Hotels & rentals via Stay22 · we may earn a commissionCompare hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals near Avalon on one map — then book on your favorite site.