Boating in Santa Catalina is unavoidable.  Boats are to Catalina what cars are to Los Angeles!  Whether you are traveling by ferry, going on an evening cruise or exploring the sea with a glass-bottom boat tour, you are going to go boating sometime on your vacation.

In approaching the Catalina boating scene, understand that Avalon is its own entity.  Avalon is where you will find the many tourist attractions and most mainstream fun.  This is also the main access point that interacts with the mainland.  Apart from Avalon, there are many small isolated coves.  These tend to be very quiet locations, though they are occasionally “disturbed” by a wandering animal.  (Hardly a disturbance for nature lovers!)

These hidden locations are excellent for hiking, diving and boating.  You can even camp out at some of these locations.  Some of the most important landmarks in the eastern end include Seal Rocks, China Point and Little Harbor.  The western end gives us important points like Catalina Harbor, Eagle Rock, Parson’s Landing and Emerald Bay.  Howlands, Big Geiger Cove, Cherry Cove and Fourth of July Cove are also appreciated by travelers.  There are numerous coves to explore by boat.  There are a dozen or so more traveling from Blue Cavern Point eastward.

You have freedom here, so feel free to travel wherever the wind takes you.  Be aware of the weather and of boat traffic.  You can also rent radio equipment or navigational equipment to ensure a safe journey.  Even if the worst happens, towing services are available.  There is an underwater repair service available for emergencies!  It’s nice to know that you will always be safe when you are touring the beautiful island of Santa Catalina.  You can rent a boat from a mooring spot.  There are numerous mooring spots all over the island, and they operate on a first-come-first served basis.

Welcome to the water, folks!