If you’re dreaming of turning into a shimmering mermaid while visiting Catalina Island, this mermaid dress-up experience offers exactly that—an enchanting 30-minute transformation that’s perfect for all ages. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a memorable activity with friends or family, this tour promises a splash of magic, vibrant accessories, and plenty of photo opportunities.
What we love about this experience is how accessible and fun it is for everyone—no previous costume experience needed—and how the attention to detail makes it feel authentic, from the scale makeup to the shell bra. The second highlight is the opportunity for memorable photos and keepsakes that turn a fleeting moment into a lasting treasure.
One thing to keep in mind is that this activity is quite short, at around 30 minutes, so if you’re expecting a lengthy or in-depth costume experience, this might feel more like a quick, joyful costume session. It’s best suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone with a penchant for fantasy and a good sense of humor. If that sounds like your kind of fun, you’ll likely walk away smiling and with a starfish hair clip as a little reminder of your magical day under the sea.
Key Points

- Quick, fun transformation: A 30-minute mermaid makeover packed with colorful accessories and makeup.
- Photo-ready details: Includes a keepsake 4×6 photo print and a starfish hair clip.
- All ages welcome: Designed for kids, teens, and adults, making it perfect for families or groups.
- Interactive experience: Kids get a treasure chest prize; adults can create stunning social media content.
- Location convenience: Easy to reach at Avalon’s Sumner Ave with a mobile ticket system.
- Great value: At $28 per person, it offers a memorable experience at an accessible price point.
A Playful Journey into Mermaid Glamour
If you’re on Catalina Island and looking for a light-hearted, joyful activity, this mermaid transformation offers a charming escape into fantasy. For just $28, you get more than a costume—you’re offered a chance to fully embrace the magic of the sea, complete with shimmering tails, shell bras, and glittering accessories.
One standout feature is the full mermaid makeover, where you can slip into a sparkling tail and ocean-inspired accessories. The process isn’t just about putting on a costume; it’s about becoming a believable, photo-ready mermaid. With scale makeup, pearls, and gems, you’ll look as if you’ve just stepped out of a fairy tale.
The interactive aspect makes this experience particularly appealing to kids. They can pick a mermaid name and take home a treasure chest prize, adding an element of storytelling to the fun. At the same time, adults often use the session as a perfect chance to snap beautiful photos or videos for social media, making it a versatile activity for different age groups and interests.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Catalina Island.
What to Expect During Your Mermaid Makeover

Once you arrive at the meeting point, located conveniently at 128 Sumner Ave, Avalon, the process begins. Your guide will assist you in choosing your mermaid tail and shell bra, and then help you apply scale makeup, pearls, and gems that make your look truly stand out.
The entire transformation lasts approximately 30 minutes, giving you just enough time to get comfortable in your new look and take plenty of photos. You’ll leave with a keepsake 4×6 photo print—a delightful souvenir—and a starfish hair clip to wear home, so you can channel your inner mermaid anytime.
Kids get a little extra treat: a treasure from the treasure chest, which adds a playful, storybook element to the day. For adults, the focus shifts a bit toward photo opportunities—and you’ll find lots of space to snap shots on your phones, capturing the shimmering tail or ocean-inspired accessories against Avalon’s scenic backdrop.
The Experience in Detail

We’ve heard from past participants that the outfits are gorgeous, and the attention to detail makes it worthwhile. Janet, who surprised her daughter on her 21st birthday, shared that dressing as a mermaid was “so much fun,” and the experience even included opening a clam to find a pearl—a special touch that elevates the fun. That kind of personalized detail makes the activity more memorable and engaging.
The setting, Avalon’s lively waterfront, complements the experience perfectly. After your transformation, you might want to explore the colorful streets or take additional photos with the scenic harbor as your backdrop. The small group size—limited to six travelers—ensures plenty of attention and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for getting those Instagram-worthy shots without feeling rushed.
While this isn’t a lengthy or in-depth costume workshop, it excels at providing a whimsical, light-hearted escape from everyday routines. It’s designed for all ages—kids love the fantasy, while adults enjoy the creative photos and shared giggles.
Practical Details for Planning Your Visit

Booking is straightforward, with tickets priced at $28 per person. Most travelers book about 11 days in advance, so if you’re planning a trip to Catalina during peak season, it’s wise to secure your spot early. Confirmations are received immediately upon booking, and the activity is accessible with a mobile ticket, adding convenience.
The activity is near public transportation, making it easy to incorporate into a day of exploring Avalon. Service animals are permitted, and the activity is suitable for most travelers, providing a fun, inclusive experience for families, couples, or groups of friends.
The session ends back at the starting point, so it’s easy to continue your day exploring Avalon’s shops, restaurants, or scenic spots afterward.
In terms of value, this is a budget-friendly, memorable activity that leaves you with tangible souvenirs and plenty of fun photos. At $28, it’s an affordable splurge that makes a perfect addition to a family day or a special celebration. The short duration means it won’t take up your entire day, but it’s enough to create a lasting memory—especially if you love vibrant costumes, playful photos, or fairy-tale fantasy.
The experience’s appeal is broad—kids adore dressing up, adults enjoy the photo ops, and everyone leaves with a little piece of mermaid magic. If you’re visiting Avalon and want a light, fun activity that adds a splash of whimsy to your trip, this is a charming choice.
Who Should Consider This Experience?

This activity is ideal for families with children, couples looking for a quirky photo opportunity, or groups of friends seeking a fun, memorable outing. It’s especially suited for those with a playful spirit or a love for fantasy. If you’ve ever dreamed of being a mermaid or simply want a cute story to tell, this experience will delight you.
It’s not for travelers seeking a serious costume workshop or long-lasting makeup. Instead, it’s about the joy of pretending, the thrill of a quick transformation, and capturing that magic in photos. The activity’s affordability and accessibility make it perfect for a lighthearted break during your visit to Catalina Island.
This mermaid dress-up experience on Catalina Island offers a uniquely charming way to add some magic to your trip. For just $28, you gain a sparkling transformation, a keepsake photo, and plenty of opportunities to snap photos for social media. It’s a playful activity that caters to all ages, making it ideal for families, friends, or anyone who loves a bit of fantasy.
While brief, the experience is thoughtfully designed—visual details like shimmering tails and ocean-inspired accessories create an authentic, photo-ready look. The inclusion of a treasure chest for kids and the chance to become a mermaid for a day is a delightful touch that keeps the activity light and engaging.
If you’re visiting Avalon and want a fun, budget-friendly activity that leaves you with memories and photos, this mermaid experience is worth considering. It’s simple, cheerful, and just the right dose of fantasy to make your day under the sea truly special.
FAQ

- How long does the mermaid experience last?
Approximately 30 minutes, offering enough time for transformation and photos without taking up your whole day.
- Where does the activity take place?
At 128 Sumner Ave, Avalon, within easy reach of other attractions and public transport.
- What’s included in the price?
A full costume makeover including tails, shell bras, makeup, accessories, one 4×6 photo print, and a starfish hair clip.
- Can kids participate?
Absolutely, all ages are welcome, and kids receive a treasure from the treasure chest.
- Is this activity suitable for adults?
Yes, adults often use the time to take photos and enjoy the playful transformation.
- What if I want to cancel?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 6 travelers ensures more personalized attention and relaxed fun.
- Are there options for social media content creation?
Yes, adults and teens usually take advantage of the photo opportunities for social media.
- Is the costume authentic-looking?
Yes, the outfits and makeup are designed to be visually stunning and photo-ready.
- Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted during the activity.
This mermaid adventure offers a delightful blend of fantasy, fun, and memorable keepsakes—perfect for making your Catalina Island trip truly sparkle.
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