Spring Break 2025 Family Getaway to Catalina Island: Full Week Itinerary & Guide for Families

Planning a Spring Break 2025 family getaway but want to stay close to home? Look no further than Catalina Island, the perfect island escape just off the Southern California coast. Catalina offers a balance of adventure and relaxation that’s ideal for families with kids of all ages. Imagine an island vacation where you can be snorkeling with colorful fish in the morning and building sandcastles in the afternoon – all without hopping on a plane!

In this guide, we’ll explore why Catalina Island is the ultimate spring break destination for California families. We’ll also break down the differences between staying in Avalon vs. Hamilton Cove (and the pros of each for families), provide tips on getting there, suggest kid-friendly dining, and lay out a full 7-day itinerary packed with fun. Get ready for an unforgettable week of family adventure and downtime under the sun!

Getting to Catalina Island

Getting to Catalina Island is half the fun. Most families take a ferry ride from the Los Angeles or Orange County area, which in itself feels like the start of vacation. High-speed ferries zip you to Catalina in about an hour, and kids love watching for dolphins or sea lions along the way.

• Ferry Options: You can catch the Catalina Express ferry from multiple ports including Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point. If you’re in Orange County, the Catalina Flyer departs daily from Newport Beach. San Diego families can drive up to one of these ports (it’s a short road trip up the coast) or even consider a ferry from Dana Point which is the closest to San Diego. Ferries run frequently, but it’s wise to book in advance for Spring Break since this is a popular time.
• Travel Tips with Kids: Ferry travel is generally easy, but come prepared. Pack some snacks, water, and entertainment (coloring books, tablets, or travel games) to keep little ones busy during the ride. If anyone in the family is prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness medicine 30 minutes before departure or using Sea-Bands; sitting on the outdoor deck for fresh air can also help. Strollers are usually allowed on the ferry (often free of charge), making it convenient if you have toddlers. And don’t forget jackets – the ocean breeze can be chilly even in spring.

By planning ahead and keeping these tips in mind, your journey to Catalina will be smooth sailing, kicking off your vacation on a happy note.

Where to Stay: Avalon vs. Hamilton Cove for Families

One of the great things about Catalina Island is the variety of family-friendly accommodations. The two most popular areas to stay are Avalon (the main town) and Hamilton Cove (a private condo community just outside Avalon). Each has its own vibe and advantages for families. Let’s break down the pros of each so you can decide what’s best for your crew.

Avalon: Walkable Convenience for Families

Staying in Avalon means you’re in the heart of the action. This charming seaside town is completely walkable, which is a huge plus when you’ve got kids and all their gear in tow. From your hotel or vacation rental, you can stroll to restaurants, the beach, the arcade, and shops within minutes. No need to worry about loading everyone into a car – in Avalon, everything is at your doorstep.

Why Avalon is great for families:

• Convenience: You’re steps away from kid-friendly spots like the arcade, mini-golf, dessert shops, and the calm waters of Avalon’s main beach. If you have little ones, being able to quickly walk back for nap time or diaper changes is a lifesaver.
• Activities: Avalon’s downtown has tons of family activities. Grab ice cream at Scoops, let the kids play on the beach, or rent pedal boats in the harbor. The town has a safe, small-community feel, so older kids might enjoy a bit of freedom exploring the boardwalk area.
• Accommodation Options: Avalon offers a range of accommodations, from hotels to cottages and vacation rentals. Many families opt for a vacation rental in Avalon so they have a kitchen and extra space. (Insider tip: You can often get the best price by booking direct with local rental companies. For example, Catalina Holiday offers homes and condos in Avalon with all the comforts of home – and booking directly through them means no extra Airbnb fees and personalized local service.)

In short, Avalon is perfect if you want to be in the center of things. You’ll have easy access to dining and activities, which is especially handy after a long day of adventures when the kids (and you) are tired and just want a quick bite to eat and short walk home.

Hamilton Cove: Private & Scenic with Resort-Style Amenities

If your family is looking for a more secluded, resort-like experience, Hamilton Cove is a fantastic option. Hamilton Cove is a gated community of villas and condos just 5 minutes north of Avalon (you’ve probably seen its terraced white villas in Catalina brochures). It offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking ocean views and amenities that make you feel like you’re at a private resort.

Why Hamilton Cove is great for families:

• Space & Amenities: The villas here often come with multiple bedrooms (great for larger families or if you’re traveling with grandparents). You’ll have a full kitchen, which is perfect for cooking some family meals and saving on dining out. Plus, many rentals include access to a pool, hot tub, private beach, BBQ areas, and even golf carts to zip around in. Kids love the novelty of riding in a golf cart, and it makes getting to Avalon fun and easy!
• Peace & Quiet: After a busy day of sightseeing, Hamilton Cove offers a tranquil retreat. Parents can relax on the balcony with a panoramic ocean sunset while the kids wind down with a board game in the living room. It’s away from the hustle and bustle, so naptimes or early bedtimes aren’t disturbed by town noise.
• Scenic Beauty: From Hamilton Cove, your family will enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific. It’s not unusual to spot dolphins from the shore or see boats sailing by. There’s a small private beach cove where kids can splash in the water or search for seashells, practically in your “backyard.” It feels exclusive and safe for families.

Staying in Hamilton Cove does mean you’ll use a golf cart or shuttle to get to town, but many families find that part of the adventure (kids usually think it’s super cool!). If you choose Hamilton Cove, consider booking through Catalina Holiday’s rentals, which specializes in Hamilton Cove villas. Booking direct will ensure you get the best rates (no middleman fees) and a team that can assist you with island tips. They have a range of family-friendly units, so you can pick one with bunk beds or close to the pool, etc., to suit your needs.

In summary: Choose Avalon for convenience and town fun, or Hamilton Cove for a spacious, luxurious retreat – or even do a mix of both during your week! Either way, Catalina Island has family accommodations to fit every style, from budget-friendly to all-out luxury.

7-Day Family-Friendly Spring Break Itinerary

To make the most of your spring break, here’s a full-week Catalina Island itinerary that blends adventure and relaxation each day. Feel free to adjust based on your kids’ ages and interests, but this plan will give you a great starting point. It covers all the must-see spots and activities for a memorable family vacation.

Pro Tip: Consider splitting your stay between Avalon and Hamilton Cove (for example, 3 nights in town, 3 nights in a villa) to experience the best of both worlds on this itinerary.

• Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time in Avalon – Catch a morning ferry to Catalina Island. Upon arriving in Avalon, get settled into your hotel or rental and then stretch your legs by exploring the town. Wander along Crescent Avenue (the beachfront promenade) with the kids – they’ll love spotting bright fish in the clear water by the Green Pleasure Pier. In the afternoon, hit South Beach (a small sandy beach right in town) for some playtime and relaxation. The water by South Beach is calm and shallow, great for wading with young kids or tossing a frisbee on the sand. In the evening, take a leisurely evening stroll through Avalon’s charming streets. You might grab dinner at a casual spot (many have outdoor seating so energetic kids can move around) and enjoy the twinkling lights of the harbor as day turns to night. It’s a low-key start to ease everyone into island life.
• Day 2: Ocean Adventures (Glass-Bottom Boat & Kayaking) + Relaxation – Start the day with a classic Catalina adventure: a glass-bottom boat tour. The whole family can hop aboard a boat with a viewing glass and glide over reefs teeming with garibaldi (bright orange state fish) and other sea life. Kids will be thrilled to see fish swimming right beneath their feet – it’s like an aquarium come to life! Tours usually last about 40 minutes, just perfect to hold young attention spans. After lunch, head to Lovers Cove Marine Preserve (just east of the ferry dock) for a kayaking excursion. You can rent kayaks right in Avalon; opt for a tandem kayak so little ones can ride with a parent. Paddle through the crystal-clear cove, looking for fish and even bright orange garibaldi through the water. (If kayaking isn’t your thing, an alternative is renting pedal boats in Avalon Harbor for some family fun on the water.) By mid-afternoon, reward yourselves with some downtime at Descanso Beach Club. This beautiful beach is a short walk (or golf cart ride) from Avalon and offers cabanas, lounge chairs, and a beachside restaurant. While the kids splash in the gentle waves or build sand castles, parents can kick back on a lounger with a cold drink. It’s the perfect mix of adventure in the morning and relaxation in the afternoon.
• Day 3: Island Thrills and Trails – Get ready for an adrenaline-filled morning! Older kids (and brave parents) will love the Zip Line Eco Tour at Descanso Beach. Soar above canyon scenery and sweeping ocean views on a series of ziplines – an unforgettable thrill for the adventure-seekers in your family. (Note: Kids need to meet minimum weight/age requirements for the zipline, so check in advance – typically ages 5 and up can participate if they meet the weight minimum, often riding tandem with a guide if needed.) If ziplining isn’t suitable for your crew, Catalina also has an Aerial Adventure ropes course in the same area, which is like a forest obstacle course in the treetops, fun for school-age kids. After the excitement, change pace with a nature walk or hike. A great family-friendly hike is the Hermit Gulch Trail. Start at the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden (a short taxi or golf cart ride up Avalon Canyon). From there, the Hermit Gulch trail is a moderate loop that offers stunning views of Avalon and the ocean beyond. It’s about 1.5 miles and does have some uphill, so it’s best for families with older kids or active younger ones. (If you have toddlers, you might opt for a flat stroll through the Botanic Garden itself, which is also lovely.) By the afternoon, everyone will have earned a treat, so head back to Avalon and stop by Scoops, the famous ice cream and gelato shop. They offer unique flavors (and classic ones for picky eaters) – the perfect way to cool down and cap off an adventurous day. Enjoy your cones by the fountain in Metropole Marketplace or on a bench by the waterfront.
• Day 4: Undersea Exploration & Island History – This day combines a bit of education with fun exploration. In the morning, take a ride on Catalina’s semi-submarine tour. Unlike the glass-bottom boat, the semi-submarine (like the “Catalina Adventure” or “Nautilus” submarine ride) lets you sit below deck in an underwater cabin. Through large viewing windows, you’ll feel like you’re inside a submarine, cruising through kelp forests. The tour even lets kids feed fish via special torpedo buttons at each seat – watch in amazement as schools of fish swarm by your window! It’s a hit with kids and adults alike and a great way to stay warm and dry while still seeing the undersea world. After lunch, dive into Catalina’s culture at the Catalina Island Museum in Avalon. This modern museum has exhibits on Catalina’s history (think Indiana Jones-style archaeological finds and old Hollywood glamour when the island was a celebrity getaway). They often have interactive displays or special exhibits that can intrigue kids – plus, it’s a nice air-conditioned break for everyone. In the late afternoon, how about a change of scenery? This could be a great time to relocate to a Hamilton Cove villa if you’re doing a split stay, or at least take a quick golf cart drive up the scenic road toward Hamilton Cove. Sunset at Hamilton Cove is breathtaking – whether you’re watching from your villa balcony or from the scenic overlook on the road above. The sky turns cotton-candy colors over the ocean, and it’s a quiet, peaceful moment for the family to appreciate the island’s beauty. Enjoy a home-cooked dinner in your villa (maybe throw some burgers on the BBQ if your rental has one) or head back to Avalon for a family dinner in town. Today offers a nice balance: a bit of adventure, a bit of learning, and a lot of natural beauty.
• Day 5: Island Tour by Golf Cart & Garden Picnic – One of the most fun ways to explore Catalina Island as a family is by golf cart. Morning of Day 5, rent a golf cart in Avalon (if you’re staying in Hamilton Cove, your rental may already include one). Catalina has very few cars, and golf carts are the main mode of transport – kids get a huge kick out of this! The rental company will give you a map with a scenic driving route that loops around Avalon’s hills. You’ll drive up to the Bayview Drive and Stagecoach Road areas for stunning panoramic views of Avalon harbor (be sure to stop and snap a family photo with the town and ocean as your backdrop). Next, putter up to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden (the golf cart is especially handy because it’s a bit uphill). At the Botanic Garden, park the cart and explore the grounds. The garden showcases Catalina’s unique plants and cacti, and the stone Wrigley Memorial is an interesting landmark to check out (and another spot for a great view if you climb to the top). The kids can run around the garden’s pathways – it’s usually uncrowded and open, so they can burn off energy. Consider bringing a picnic lunch up here: there are picnic tables in the shade where you can enjoy sandwiches amidst the gardens (a very peaceful setting!). Early afternoon, head back down to Avalon. After a chill siesta or some shopping, treat the family to a movie night at the Avalon Theatre. This isn’t just any movie theater – it’s located in the historic Catalina Casino building and boasts beautiful Art Deco architecture. They often play first-run movies on select evenings. Watching a film in this grand, vintage theater is a neat experience (the kids might feel like they time-traveled to the 1930s!). Grab some popcorn, sit back, and relax after your day of exploration.
• Day 6: Snorkeling, Wildlife Cruise & Beach Picnic – Time to enjoy Catalina’s clear waters and marine life! Start Day 6 with snorkeling at Casino Point, which is a marine reserve right next to the iconic Casino building. You can rent snorkeling gear from a nearby shop (they’ll provide fins, masks, snorkels, and even wetsuits if the water is chilly). The Casino Point Dive Park is teeming with friendly fish, and the water is usually super clear. Even from the surface with a snorkel, you’ll likely spot garibaldi, kelp bass, and maybe even a harmless leopard shark or two cruising the bottom (thrilling for kids to see!). For families with very young kids who aren’t ready to snorkel, you could instead visit the small Avalon aquarium or just feed the fish from Green Pleasure Pier in the morning. By late morning or midday, embark on a dolphin and whale watching cruise. Spring is a great time to spot migrating whales (gray whales pass by Catalina in March and April) and year-round pods of dolphins. Several operators offer family-friendly wildlife cruises on comfortable boats. The kids will be excited to scan the horizon for spouts and will squeal with delight if dolphins come ride the bow wave (which they often do in these waters). It’s an educational and fun outing – guides typically share interesting facts about the sea creatures you encounter. After your boat ride, keep the ocean theme going with a family picnic at Descanso Beach. You might have fallen in love with Descanso on Day 2, so why not return? Stop by a local deli (or Vons grocery store in Avalon) to pick up sandwiches, chips, and drinks. Then find a nice spot on Descanso’s grassy lawn or sandy beach to spread out a picnic. The kids can play nearby (there’s usually space for throwing a frisbee or wading in the water) while the adults relax under the palm trees. It’s your last full day, so soak up the sun, maybe take one last swim, and savor the slow pace of island life. In the evening, consider a family game night back at your accommodation – a nice low-key way to wind down and talk about everyone’s favorite parts of the trip.
• Day 7: Farewell Morning and Departure – It’s your final day on Catalina, but there’s still time for a bit more fun before you head home. In the morning, take a bike ride around Avalon. Many hotels and rentals have bikes available, or you can rent bikes by the hour. An easy and scenic route is to pedal along the waterfront from the Casino building over to Lover’s Point and back – it’s flat and safe for kids. Alternatively, you could rent a surrey (four-wheel bike) for the whole family, which is a blast to pedal together along the boardwalk. After the bike ride, indulge in one last treat or last-minute souvenir shopping. Stroll through Avalon’s pedestrian-friendly center to pick up some Catalina keepsakes: maybe a piece of Catalina pottery, a t-shirt, or a bag of the island’s famous saltwater taffy from Lloyd’s of Avalon for the road. The kids will enjoy choosing small souvenirs like seashell keychains or postcards for friends. Finally, it’s time to check out and head to the ferry. The afternoon ferry ride back to the mainland is a great time for the family to relax (the kids might even nap, exhausted from the week of activities!). Wave goodbye to Catalina Island as it recedes from view and start planning your next trip – because one visit to this island paradise is never enough. You’ve created fantastic spring break memories that your family will cherish for years to come!

Best Places to Eat with Kids in Avalon

Feeding hungry kiddos is an important part of any family vacation, and Avalon has you covered with plenty of family-friendly restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a quick budget bite or a nice sit-down dinner, there’s something for everyone (even the pickiest eaters). Here are some of the best places to eat in Avalon with kids:

• Original Antonio’s Pizzeria & Deli – A Catalina classic for pizza lovers. Antonio’s is casual and fun, filled with maritime memorabilia. Kids can munch on pepperoni pizza or spaghetti, while parents enjoy a cold beer and harbor views. It’s right on the waterfront (with tables where you can throw peanut shells on the floor – a quirky tradition kids find hilarious!). If you need a quick meal, you can also get your pizza to-go and have a picnic on the beach.
• Descanso Beach Club Restaurant – Perfect for a laid-back beachside lunch. This open-air restaurant at Descanso Beach has a menu with everything from burgers and fish tacos to smoothies. The best part: while you wait for food, kids can literally play on the sand in view. There’s no traffic, just ocean breeze. Parents can try the famous Buffalo Milk (a local cocktail – nonalcoholic smoothies for the kiddos, of course) and everyone can enjoy the oceanfront scene.
• Three Palms Avalon Arcade (and Grill) – This is a dinner and entertainment combo that’s a hit with kids. The Three Palms Arcade in Avalon has tons of classic arcade games and even mini bowling. Attached is a casual grill that serves crowd-pleasers like pizza, chicken wings, and burgers – ideal for kids who can’t sit still for long. You can eat at a table inside the arcade, allowing the kids to play games in between bites, or sit on the outdoor patio. It’s a win-win: parents get to relax a bit and enjoy their meal while the kids are happily occupied.
• Avalon Grille – If you’re craving a slightly more upscale meal but still need a kid-friendly atmosphere, Avalon Grille is the go-to. This modern American restaurant is right on the waterfront and welcomes families. They have a kids’ menu featuring favorites like mac ‘n’ cheese or chicken tenders, while adults can savor steak or fresh seafood. The staff is accommodating with high chairs and booster seats, and the lively ambiance means a little noise from your table won’t bother anyone. It’s a great spot for a “nice” family dinner to celebrate the end of a fun week (maybe toast with lemonade for the kids and local Catalina wine for the grown-ups!).

Honorable mentions: Coney Island West (for yummy hot dogs, corn dogs, and chili fries in a casual outdoor setting) and Pete’s Plaza Café (quick Mexican food like tacos and nachos, conveniently near the tour plaza) are also solid choices, especially if you’re looking for a quick bite. And for sweet treats, don’t forget Lloyd’s of Avalon Confectionery for saltwater taffy and caramel apples, or a second (or third!) visit to Scoops for ice cream. With all these options, even picky eaters will find something they like, and parents will appreciate the variety of price points – from cheap eats to one nice splurge meal.

Booking Tips: How to Save Money on a Catalina Island Family Vacation

A vacation to Catalina Island can be surprisingly affordable if you plan it right. Here are some insider tips on saving money while still enjoying the best of everything (including a mix of budget-friendly and a few luxury experiences):

• Book Direct for Accommodation: When reserving your hotel or vacation rental, try to book directly with the property or a local rental agency instead of third-party sites. By booking direct, you often avoid extra fees (no big service fees like those on Airbnb). For example, if you find a villa on Catalina Holiday’s website and book through us, you’ll get the best rate guarantee and personalized service. Direct booking can easily save you 10-15% that you’d otherwise pay in booking fees – money you can spend on activities or dining instead!
• Travel Off-Peak or Midweek: Spring Break is popular, but if your schedule is a bit flexible, consider going early in the spring break season or even a Sunday-to-Friday trip. Midweek ferry rides and accommodations are often cheaper and less crowded than weekends. Catalina’s high season is summer, so March/April (excluding Easter weekend) can have slightly better rates. Some hotels or rentals offer “stay 4 nights, get the 5th free” deals in the off-season – it never hurts to call and ask.
• Package Deals for Activities: Look out for bundle deals that package multiple activities at a discount. The Catalina Island Company and other tour operators sometimes offer activity packages (for example, a “adventure package” that includes a glass-bottom boat, a tour bus ride, and a museum ticket at a reduced combo price). If you plan on doing several tours (submarine, zipline, etc.), ask if there’s a family rate or multi-activity discount. Also, check for kids’ pricing – many tours have reduced rates for children under 12, and some even let toddlers ride free on certain excursions.
• Save on Food: Dining out for every meal can add up, so take advantage of that kitchen if you have a vacation rental. Plan to cook simple breakfasts or pack picnic lunches for some days. Groceries on Catalina Island (at Vons or Chet’s) are a bit more expensive than the mainland, so consider bringing a box of snacks, cereal, and easy meal ingredients with you on the ferry. Making PB&J sandwiches for the kids or having a spaghetti night in your rental can be both fun and budget-friendly. Then you can splurge on one special dinner (like the Avalon Grille or a nice seafood meal) without guilt.
• Bring Your Own Gear: Catalina has rentals for everything, but if you have snorkeling gear, beach toys, or even portable strollers for the little ones, bring them along. Renting snorkel sets or boogie boards can cost $15-$20 a day, which adds up. If you own gear and can pack it, you’ll save money and possibly time (no waiting in rental lines). Also, pack refillable water bottles for each family member – the island has clean drinking water and you can refill bottles instead of buying drinks constantly.
• Use Free and Low-Cost Activities: Remember, some of the best Catalina experiences are completely free! Hiking trails, beach days, visiting the playground in Avalon, strolling the piers to spot fish, or exploring the Catalina Conservancy Nature Center (if open) won’t cost a dime. Even a scenic drive in your golf cart (once you’ve rented it) is effectively free entertainment, and kids love it. Balance your itinerary with a couple of tour activities and some free-time exploration. This way, you get a mix of luxury (like that zipline or submarine ride) and budget-friendly fun (like beach play and hikes), keeping overall costs in check.

By mixing and matching splurges with savings, you can enjoy a fabulous Catalina Island spring break vacation that doesn’t break the bank. A little planning goes a long way, and you’ll return home with amazing memories and maybe a little cash left in your wallet!

Conclusion & Call-to-Action

Catalina Island truly is the ultimate family-friendly spring break spot for Californians. It’s close to home yet feels like a world away, offering that island paradise vibe without the hassle of long-distance travel. Over the past week, you’ve seen how Catalina has something for everyone: thrilling adventures for the kids (and kids-at-heart), relaxing beaches and beautiful nature for much-needed downtime, and a charming town that makes everyday errands (like grabbing ice cream or groceries) feel fun and novel.

In Spring Break 2025, give your family the gift of quality time in a stunning environment. Whether your child’s highlight is ziplining at Descanso or simply chasing waves on South Beach, Catalina creates memories that last a lifetime. From the convenient walkability of Avalon to the luxe comfort of a Hamilton Cove villa, you can tailor the experience to fit your family’s style.

Ready to turn this dream trip into reality? Start planning your Catalina Island family getaway now. Check out the great family-ready properties on Catalina Holiday’s website and book direct to snag the best deals for Spring Break. By booking with Catalina Holiday, you’ll get local expertise and the perfect home-away-from-home, be it a cozy Avalon cottage or a spacious Hamilton Cove condo with ocean views.

Don’t wait too long – Spring Break 2025 will be here before you know it, and the island is calling! Pack your bags, grab the kids, and prepare for an amazing week of sun, fun, and family adventures on Catalina Island. Here’s to a spring break filled with adventure, relaxation, and plenty of smiles. Bon voyage and see you on the island!