Avalon on Foot Self-Guided Audio Tour of Catalina Island

If you’re looking for a way to explore Catalina Island’s jewel, Avalon, without the crowds or rigid schedules, the Avalon on Foot Self-Guided Audio Tour might just fit the bill. Offered by Drives & Detours, this tour promises an immersive walk through Avalon’s lively streets, scenic overlooks, and protected wilderness — all at your own pace. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who enjoy a mix of urban charm and natural splendor, with the flexibility to tailor their adventure.

What we love about this experience are the affordable price of just $9.99 per person and the ability to enjoy it anytime within the open hours—no need to stick to a fixed schedule. Plus, the offline audio guide means you won’t be left stranded without cell service, giving peace of mind in this somewhat remote location. On the flip side, a consideration is that since it’s a self-guided tour, you’ll need to be comfortable navigating on your own, and you’ll have to bring your own smartphone. This tour suits curious travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting an authentic feel of Avalon without the typical crowded tours.

Key Points

• Cost-effective: Priced at just $9.99, offering excellent value for a flexible, self-paced adventure.
• Flexible timing: Use the tour any day or time during open hours, with lifetime access once downloaded.
• Rich variety of stops: From scenic overlooks and historic landmarks to wildlife spots and lively marketplaces.
• Self-guided convenience: No group to coordinate with, and the GPS-triggered audio plays automatically.
• Authentic experience: Discover Avalon’s stories, natural beauty, and community spirit at your own pace.
• Ideal for nature lovers: The tour includes scenic walks into protected wilderness areas, perfect for wildlife watching.

This tour is a thoughtfully designed walk that balances key sights with hidden gems, providing a well-rounded look at Avalon’s coastal allure and wilderness. We’ll break down what you can expect at each stop, what makes it meaningful, and some practical tips to make the most of the experience.

Starting Point: Old Ben Park

Your adventure begins at Old Ben Park, a charming spot named after Avalon’s mascot, a playful sea lion. It’s a fitting place to get a sense of the town’s maritime character. From here, you’re set to explore at your own pace, with the convenience of an app that guides you seamlessly along.

Descanso Bay: The Perfect Coastal Rest

Just beyond Avalon Harbor lies Descanso Bay, a peaceful, sheltered cove with gentle waters and sweeping views of the coast. It’s an excellent spot to breathe in the salty air and soak up the island’s slower rhythm. Ideal for a quick pause, the bay offers a calm setting away from the busier parts of town, perfect for photos or just some quiet reflection.

Catalina Casino: More than a Gilded Gabling Hall

Most visitors associate Avalon’s iconic Catalina Casino with entertainment, but it’s also a cultural landmark. While the tour highlights its Art Deco architecture and grand ballroom, the Casino’s perch at the harbor makes it a must-see for its sheer presence. This stop reminds us that Avalon isn’t just a tourist spot but a community with roots in entertainment and social gathering.

Avalon Diving History Exhibit: A Pioneering Spirit

A short walk takes you to the Avalon Diving History Exhibit, which showcases Catalina’s role in popularizing scuba diving. The exhibit is tiny but packed with stories of early diving pioneers. Adjacent to it, the Dive Park offers access to some of the island’s best underwater experiences, so if you’re inclined, this is a nice teaser for further aquatic adventures. Visitors have appreciated the exhibit’s concise yet engaging storytelling.

Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel: Hollywood’s Connection

Perched above the harbor, the Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel reflects Catalina’s Hollywood ties. Named after the famous novelist and angler Zane Grey, this hillside property provides a glimpse into Avalon’s glamorous past. Its pueblo-style architecture and stunning vantage point add a distinctive flavor to the skyline, making it a memorable visual stop.

Catalina Chimes Tower: The Town’s Melodic Landmark

Since 1925, the Catalina Chimes Tower, gifted by the Wrigley family, has pealed its bells every hour, marking time and adding a soothing soundtrack to Avalon’s daily life. Visitors love the sound, describing it as an endearing part of the town’s character. Standing here, you get a sense of Avalon’s community heartbeat—timeless and welcoming.

Metropole Market Place: Sights, Snacks, and Local Vibes

Next, the lively Metropole Market Place offers a chance to browse shops, grab a snack, or just soak in the local atmosphere. The market’s blend of modern charm with island style makes it a favorite for many visitors, including one who called it “an inviting stop to browse, snack, or simply soak up Avalon’s energy.” It’s a good spot for a quick refresh before heading into the wilderness.

Green Pleasure Pier: The Classic Harbor Walk

Extending into Avalon Bay since 1909, the Green Pleasure Pier is a fixture of Avalon’s waterfront. It’s lined with outfitters and snack stands, making it a perfect place to enjoy harbor views and watch the boats. The pier captures the town’s nautical spirit and offers great photo opportunities, especially at sunset.

Avalon’s Wilderness: Gateway to Protected Lands

One of the tour’s highlights is the brief exploration into Avalon’s nearby protected wilderness. While the tour stops short of full hikes, it hints at the vast 42,000 acres of wild landscapes that surround the town. With a permit, you could venture into these areas, which are home to rare wildlife and stunning scenery. It’s a reminder that Avalon isn’t just a seaside town but a gateway to untouched nature.

Old Ben Park & William Wrigley Jr. Memorial

Named after the beloved sea lion mascot, Old Ben Park is a whimsical spot that recalls Avalon’s maritime history. Nearby, the William Wrigley Jr. Memorial, surrounded by a botanical garden, honors the man who helped shape modern Avalon. His influence is still felt today, and the setting provides a quiet moment to appreciate both the natural beauty and cultural history.

Wrigley Stage & Scenic Overlooks

The Wrigley Stage overlooking Avalon Bay is a lively community hub, hosting concerts and events. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the harbor, soaking up the lively scene. A short climb to Buena Vista Point offers sweeping vistas of Avalon and the Pacific, while Lee’s Scenic Overlook provides a quieter, more contemplative perspective—ideal for photos and reflection.

The tour’s design makes it easy for you to enjoy the best of Avalon at your own pace. The GPS-triggered audio guide is straightforward to use, and once downloaded, it works entirely offline—no cell reception needed. This means you can wander into areas where cell signals are weak without losing your guide’s narration.

The stops are well-chosen, balancing historic sites, scenic vistas, and wildlife spots. Each point offers new insights, whether it’s about Avalon’s Hollywood connections, its maritime past, or its ecological treasures. The price point of under $10 makes it an accessible way to spend several hours exploring, especially compared to guided tours that can cost significantly more.

Some visitors have remarked that the views from scenic overlooks are among the best on the island, offering sweeping pictures of Avalon Bay and beyond. The tour’s flexibility is especially appreciated—people can take extra time at favorite spots or skip parts that don’t appeal.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Bring your own smartphone and ensure it’s charged. The tour requires a device to run the app.
• Download the tour in advance during your stay or before arriving, to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the route covers a variety of terrain and includes some uphill sections at the overlooks.
• Allocate around 3 hours for the full experience, but don’t feel pressured—since you’re in charge, you can pause or extend as you like.
• If wildlife interests you, be sure to bring binoculars for potential sightings like island foxes or eagles.

This self-guided tour is perfect for independent travelers who prefer to set their own schedule and explore at a relaxed pace. It’s especially suited for nature lovers and those interested in local stories, as it combines scenic beauty with cultural insights. Families, solo travelers, or couples who enjoy a bit of adventure and discovery will find this tour ticks many boxes.

It’s less ideal for visitors who prefer a group experience with a guide, as it’s entirely self-guided. However, for those who value flexibility, affordability, and a personalized experience, this tour offers excellent value.

The Avalon on Foot Self-Guided Audio Tour stands out as a practical, affordable way to explore Catalina Island’s most charming town. It marries scenic overlooks, historic landmarks, and natural wilderness into one flexible package, perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of urban and outdoor experiences. With its easy-to-use app and offline capability, it puts you in control while still delivering plenty of fascinating insights.

If you’re eager to see Avalon’s stunning views without the hassle of large groups, and if you love discovering the stories behind a place, this tour is a smart choice. It offers a thoughtful balance of cultural and natural sights, all within a manageable three-hour window.

Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or a family looking for an authentic taste of Catalina, this tour helps you create your own adventure, one scenic stop at a time.

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
While booking 7 days ahead is typical, you can buy it and start anytime during the open hours, from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily.

What do I need to bring?
You’ll need your own smartphone to download and run the app. Make sure it’s charged, as the tour is offline once downloaded.

How long does the tour take?
The estimated time is around 3 hours, but you can take longer if you wish, or skip some stops.

Can I do the tour with kids?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families, especially since it’s flexible and easy to navigate.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Old Ben Park on Pebbly Beach Road and ends at Descanso Beach Ocean Sports on St. Catherine Way.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops are accessible by walking, but some overlooks involve short climbs. Check your mobility needs accordingly.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the app, downloadable audio guide, and unlimited access once purchased. It does not include your smartphone.

In sum, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, flexible way to experience Avalon’s scenic beauty and local stories, this self-guided tour offers a well-balanced, authentic adventure. Just remember—bring your device, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy discovering Catalina at your own pace.