Walking History Tour on Catalina Island
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Avalon History Tours is a small family-owned business located on Catalina Island. We offer an authentic and immersive experience led by knowledgeable guides who are local residents. Our hour-and-a-half-long tour covers approximately one mile of the island's charming and predominantly flat terrain, making it accessible to most guests. For extra convenience, guests aged 6 and over are provided with a headset to wear during the tour, ensuring they can hear the tour guide clearly.
Get ready to delve into the rich history of Catalina Island, with a focus on iconic landmarks such as the Holly Hill House, the scenic Green Pleasure Pier, and the renowned Catalina Casino. Guests will discover the origins of the island's name, the visions of Shatto, the Banning Brothers, and how the Wrigley family transformed the island into its current state. Wander through the heart of Avalon, connecting the past with the present, one step at a time.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Headset
What To Expect
Catalina Island
Step into the past on a captivating walking history tour of Catalina Island, guided by a local expert who brings authenticity to every step. This leisurely stroll ranges in time from 45 minutes to a hour-and-a-half depending on the size of the group and covers approximately a mile of flat terrain, perfect for all ages. Explore famous landmarks like the Holly Hill House, the Green Pier, and the iconic Catalina Casino, while learning about the island's storied past. Pause for a photo op at the spot where Marilyn Monroe posed for an iconic shot, adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to your experience. Guests will discover the origins of the island's name, the visions of Shatto, the Banning Brothers, and how the Wrigley family transformed the island into its current state. Wander through the heart of Avalon, connecting the past with the present, one step at a time.
Green Pleasure Pier
The Green Pier is a fascinating stop on our walking tour, steeped in history and significance for the city. We will uncover the stories behind this iconic landmark, how it got its unique green color, exploring its role in shaping the community and the traditions that once thrived there. We will delve into the rich history of the pier sharing intriguing stories about the old traditions that would take place when a big fish was brought in, adding a touch of excitement and nostalgia to our tour.
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Walking History Tour on Catalina Island
Reviews
22 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Best tour company!!!!
nicolettejohnson,
Aug 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I went on the Gary the Garibaldi city tour with my family. Our tour guide was Taylor and he was so funny and entertaining! You can tell he really enjoys his job and loves the island. Come to find out he is a fishing captain and drives a fish golf cart on the side! It was a great experience and I can't wait to take my mom next time I visit Catalina.
Tour July 17, 2025
Jeannine F,
Jul 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Wonderful tour! Beautiful and interesting! Tour Guide, Bre, was very knowledgeable. Good walking pace, responsive to a member of our group with mobility issues.
Nice Walking Tour of Avalon
JohnA D,
Jun 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.001.5 hr. Walk around Avalon town. Guide Brie was very pleasant and well informed. Talked about important homes and places.
Great Catalina walk.
Nate J,
Apr 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This is a great way to learn the history of Catalina Island in a relaxed environment. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and you could tell she loved living on the Island.
Wonderful tour!
Aaron W,
Mar 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Wonderful and informative tour! No one else had signed up so we got a private tour. Very nice way to learn about the history and see the important sites in town by foot.
Thanks, Bre!
travisv750,
Feb 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We really enjoyed learning more about this interesting place! This walking tour is a perfect compliment to the Bison tour. I’m really glad that we did both. Overall I think we learned a ton about Catalina and it made the trip more special.
Bri cheese ?! No Bri Tours !
I6584QIneilf,
Dec 31, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Bri was awesome. You could tell she absolutely adores where she lives and has an intimate knowledge of the island , its history and the people that live here. Incredibly interesting to hear the history of the island and her recommendations made our stay even better. Perfect host in the perfect job 👍🏼🥂
Excellent walking tour
JeanPaul R,
Dec 17, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00We arrived on a cruise ship and pre booked tour through Viator.. Bre was awesome! Highly recommend! She was so knowledgeable & personable. Very informative
Great Intro to Catalina Island!
DaphneS635,
Nov 30, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00On my first visit to Catalina Island I wanted to get an overview more than what I could read on Wikipedia. I was lucky that my tour guide Bri was not only knowledgeable in all areas of the island but lives here, so I got a perspective from a local. I would definitely recommend this walking tour to everyone. Totally well worth it!
The walking history tour of Avalon.
Tina H,
Nov 2, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00My guide was amazing. Very knowledgeable, eager to talk to, and eager to answer any questions I had. Really enjoyed the whole experience.
From $40.00
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Operated by Avalon History Tours