Snorkeling in Catalina Island: Best Spots, Rentals, and More!
Are you dreaming of exploring a wild, exotic paradise? If so, then snorkeling in Catalina Island might just be the perfect activity for your next getaway. A stunning island located off the coast of southern California, Catalina is known for its spectacular marine life and stunning views – making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore a unique and diverse environment from beneath the waves. Read through this complete guide to find everything you need to know about snorkeling in Catalina Island.
Is There Good Snorkeling in Catalina Island?
Absolutely! Catalina Island should be on your radar if you’re looking for a good snorkeling experience. From its world-renowned status as a premier snorkeling destination to its phenomenal kelp forests (which are some of the best in the world!), this southern California island offers an unforgettable journey under the sea.
Plus, the island has iconic white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. With so much to discover, it’s easy to see why Catalina Island is beloved by all snorkelers who visit.
What Can You See While Snorkeling on Catalina Island?
You will have plenty to see while snorkeling around Catalina from an assortment of fish to marine mammals and all sorts of underwater creatures!
A few things you might see while snorkeling here:
Are There Coral Reefs in Catalina Island?
No, there are some corals but not a coral reef. The corals that do exist on the island are small and few and far between. You will instead see magnificent kelp forests while snorkeling here!
The kelp forests in Catalina Island are some of the best in the world. Made up of Giant bladder kelp, it’s the largest and fastest-growing species of algae known. The kelp is most prominent during the summer months and dies off in the winter months.
Are There Sea Turtles on Catalina Island?
While you can sometimes catch a sea turtle swimming around the island – if you’re lucky! they do not frequently or consistently visit Catalina Island.
Are Sharks Common?
Nope! Don’t worry about sharks while snorkeling on Catalina because they very rarely come close to the island. You might see little, harmless sharks such as leopard sharks, but not any of the big and dangerous ones.
Can You See Whales and Dolphins on Catalina Island?
While you won’t see whales while snorkeling, it’s very likely you could see some on the boat ride to and from Catalina Island. From January to April you might catch a humpback whale or grey whale and from May to September be on the lookout for blue whales and finback whales.
You will likely see some dolphins on the boat ride as well. They are often swimming up and down the coast of southern California!
>>> 🐬 Can you swim with dolphins in Los Angeles? Find out HERE!
Will There Be Sea Lions While Snorkeling?
Yes, there is a good chance you will catch some sea lions while snorkeling around Catalina. They are pretty regular, year-round inhabitants of the California coasts.
How Much Does It Cost to Snorkel in Catalina Island?
There are a few different ways you can go about snorkeling in one of California’s favorite getaways – from free to over $100. If you’re just looking for a quick dip and to save money, you can rent gear (or bring your own) at any beach along the island and set off on your own.
However, if you want the full experience and to learn more about what lies beneath the ocean surface, then take part in one of the guided snorkeling tours – most of which provide all the necessary gear included in their prices. No matter your budget or diving style, you will be able to get out and enjoy the beautiful waters of Catalina Island!
Best Snorkeling Tours in Catalina Island
Catalina Tours – Guided Snorkel Eco Tour
This tour is the best all-around for instruction, time in the water, and price point.
🕝 1-hour in-water
💲Starts at $60 pp
📍Location: Casino Point
Diving Catalina – Power, Night, or Traditional Snorkel Tours
This tour company is best for those looking to add a unique flare to their snorkeling whether that’s going at night or adding on an underwater hand scooter.
🕝 35 to 45 minutes in-water
💲Starts at $59 pp
📍Location: Casino Point
Where to Rent Snorkeling Gear on Catalina Island
If you’re not planning on joining a tour, you will likely need to rent your own snorkel gear. Here are the top places to rent snorkel gear.
Wet Spot Rentals
Located in Avalon at the Boat Landing, open daily from April through September. Their current pricing starts at $12 for two hours of mask, snorkel, and fin rentals and $15 for a short wetsuit or $20 for a full wetsuit.
Catalina Divers Supply
You can arrange to pick up your gear from their two locations: Casino Point Dive Park and/or the Green Pleasure Pier. Open daily from 8am to 4pm.
They offer a full snorkel package rental or you can choose per item you need. Pricing starts at $8 for 2 hours of snorkel and mask rental, $6 for fins, and $15 for a 3mm wetsuit.
Top 3 Best Spots to Snorkel in Catalina Island
There is no shortage of great places to snorkel around Catalina Island, but if you’re looking for the most popular and top spots to snorkel, here they are!
1. Casino Point Dive Park
Located on the northern end of Avalon Bay, this dive park is a haven for marine life and sea adventures. Its easily accessible stairs into the water and roped-off area make it an ideal spot to take a plunge.
Once you get down there, you’ll appreciate what has affectionately been termed an “underwater garden,” complete with vibrant fish and other water critters, as well as fascinating shipwrecks begging to be explored.
Casino Point Dive Park is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience that will give you the opportunity to discover a bit more about the captivating underwater world!
2. Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve
Located off Avalon Bay in the southeastern portion of Catalina Island lies the beautiful Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve. Though it may not have a sandy beach like its more popular counterpart, this secluded spot offers some of the most stunning underwater views and encounters with sea life.
If you’re brave enough to take the plunge you’ll find giant kelp forests galore along with some calico bass, garibaldi, and the occasional lobster. So if you’re looking for a more private snorkeling experience, then Lover’s Cove is the perfect spot!
3. Two Harbors
If you’re looking for a serene and unspoiled snorkeling spot that offers a more exclusive experience, then Two Harbors is the place for you! Located on the more remote northern end of Catalina Island, this snorkeling sanctuary offers a peaceful escape from Avalon and is a worthy destination that’s worth the trip.
Most of the snorkeling action happens at Isthmus Cove Harbor with underwater visibility of up to 100 feet. In fact, this Catalina Island snorkeling spot in particular has been named one of the “World’s Healthiest Marine Environments” by Scuba Diving Magazine.
Catalina Island Snorkeling Map
Best Time of Year for Snorkeling in Catalina Island
Summertime (June to September) is the best time of year for snorkeling in Catalina Island, as it offers the warmest weather for a more enjoyable experience. However, due to its popularity, it can be quite crowded and more expensive.
If you’re looking for the island to be a little less busy, try coming in the spring (April to May) instead. While temperatures may not reach the same heights as in summer, the kelp will be coming back to life and sea critters will start to be more active again.
Whichever season you ultimately choose, you can look forward to beautiful views and abundant marine life!
Average Daily Temperatures
The daily high temperature ranges from a low of 59°F (15°C) to a high of 71°F (22°C) throughout the year, while the daily low temperatures range from a low of 43°F (6°C) to a high of 57°F (14°C).
Average Water Temperature
The average annual water temperature off Santa Catalina Island is 62°F (17°C).
Winter averages 59°F (15°C), spring 60°F (15.5°C), summer 66°F (19°C), and autumn 65°F (18°C). The minimum water temperature in Santa Catalina Island is 56°F (13°C) and happens in January, the maximum is 69°F (20.5°C) and happens in June.
Do You Need a Wetsuit to Snorkel in Catalina Island?
It depends on the time of the year, but yes, you will likely want to snorkel in a wetsuit. During the summer, when the water has warmed up and it’s warm out you will be fine swimming without a wetsuit.
However, at any other time of the year, you might want a spring suit to keep you warm or at the very least a rash guard or a long sleeve swimsuit to keep you from burning in the sun and protected from brushing up on any rocks or spikey critters such as sea urchins.
During the winter months, you will need at least a 3mm wetsuit, but if you want to stay in the water longer you could use up to a 4/3mm wetsuit. Of course, it also depends on how sensitive you are to the cold as well.
Most rental places will provide a wetsuit if you would like one. However, if you live in California or just kind of get the ick with borrowing wetsuits that other people have worn, here are some good standard options that I use to swim year-round in the California ocean.
How to Get to Catalina Island
Catalina is located about 22 miles off the coast of southern California near Los Angeles. The most common way to get to and from the island is on the Catalina Express ferry with year-round boat transportation and up to 30 departures daily.
Best Places to Stay on Catalina Island
💸 Budget-Friendly: Seacrest Inn
If you need an affordable and quaint beach-style place to stay in Catalina, Seacrest Inn will work great for you. What it’s lacking in amenities, it makes up for in charm and location. It’s close to Avalon Bay, shops, and restaurants plus it’s clean and the beds are comfortable.
❗️CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS & TO CHECK AVAILABILITY❗️
⭐️ Best All-Around: Bellanca Hotel
This gorgeous hotel overlooks Avalon Bay and is close to all the best things to do from the Descanso Beach Club to the best snorkeling spots and is just one minute from the Catalina Island Golf Course. The staff is exceptionally friendly and accommodating.
❗️CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS & TO CHECK AVAILABILITY❗️
💎 Luxury: Hotel Atwater
Known for its superb service and quality of care for its guests, Hotel Atwater is an exceptional place to stay. The resort includes property beach club access as well as spa services and special touches like a bottle of champagne upon your arrival.
❗️CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS & TO CHECK AVAILABILITY❗️
What Else Can You Do?
While snorkeling is definitely going to be a highlight of your trip, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy on Catalina Island! Here are a few of the best things to do:
✔️ Take a Catalina Island Undersea Expedition
This tour is perfect if you were hoping to snorkel, but can’t go during the warmest months of the year. You will cruise around Catalina 5 feet underwater to take in the sea life without having to get wet.
❗️CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & BOOK❗️
✔️ Relax at Descanso Beach Club
Catalina’s only beachside restaurant and bar and one of the last private beaches in California open to the public. Rent a cabana, lounge on the shore, swim in the water, and enjoy a cocktail with your toes in the sand!
✔️ Take a Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon
What better way to explore and familiarize yourself with the island than to start with a golf cart tour? This is a popular way to get around the island, and you will see many infamous landmarks such as the Catalina Casino, Pebbly Beach, the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden, and more. Plus, the guides are both informative and entertaining!
❗️CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE & BOOK❗️
✔️ Visit and Learn About the Catalina Island Casino
History buffs will love learning the unique history of the Catalina Island Casino with this brief tour. Dating back to 1929, the casino has a rich history of mirroring Hollywood and the glamor of the early 1900s. View the beautiful art deco murals and explore the Avalon Theatre and Casino Ballroom.
Additional things to do:
SUMMARY: Snorkeling in Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a place worth snorkeling in. The sights are simply amazing and you are guaranteed to see some incredible marine life. If you’re looking for a unique stop on a trip to California or live local and just need a break from the city, I highly recommend heading on over to Catalina for a day or two of snorkeling fun!
👉🏽 Make sure to save this post to refer back to when you’re ready to book your Catalina Island trip!
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☀️ California FAQs ☀️
✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to California?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal
❗Is Travel Insurance Required in the U.S.?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing. It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care.
>>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO
☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit California?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).
🏠 Where Should You Stay in California?
Hotels, vacation rentals, and house-sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Vrbo
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)
🌴 Where Can You Find Tours?
I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.
🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California?
I very highly recommend renting a car in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option.
>>> Best car rental rates and deals
