Romantic Catalina Island Getaway — A Three-Day Couples Itinerary
A three-day stay in Avalon offers a relaxed way to plan a romantic Catalina Island escape: arrive and settle in on the first day, combine adventure with downtime on the second, and devote the final day to the water and island history. With palm-lined streets, boat-filled harbor views, peaceful coves, and ocean-facing trails, couples have plenty of ways to slow down together. The stops below include the planning details for each part of the trip.
Catalina Island Couples Trip at a Glance
- Best for: Anniversaries, honeymoons, proposals and romantic weekend escapes
- Suggested length: 3 days, or a long weekend
- How to get here: Ferry or helicopter to Avalon
- Getting around: Avalon is easy to explore on foot, and bikes or golf carts are available to rent
- Where to stay: Hotels, bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals
Day 1: Arrive in Avalon and Discover the Waterfront
Morning
Take a ferry or helicopter across the channel and arrive in the center of Avalon.
Check in to your Catalina Island hotel or rental, or leave your bags there.
Afternoon
Take an unhurried walk along Avalon's waterfront and browse the shops.
Visit the round, Art Deco Catalina Casino, among the island's most photographed landmarks.
Continue onto the Green Pleasure Pier before relaxing at one of Avalon's beaches.
Evening
Choose a waterfront restaurant for a candlelit meal. Browse Catalina Island restaurants and confirm restaurant operating hours in advance.
End the night with a walk beside the bay under the moonlight.
Day 2: Trails, Wellness and a Sunset Cruise
Morning
Choose one of Catalina's hikes, walks and trails, or see more of the island by bike or golf cart.
Make time for the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden, where quiet paths lead to sweeping views.
Afternoon
Reserve a couples massage at one of the island's spas and wellness studios.
Spend the rest of the afternoon on the sand or by a hotel pool.
Evening
Take a Catalina boat tour and watch the sunset colors spread across the water.
Enjoy a leisurely dinner with live music, or find additional things to do after 3 PM.
Day 3: Snorkeling, Museums and Island Views
Morning
Snorkel in the clear water, or choose diving and scuba if you are certified.
Afternoon
Visit one of Avalon's museums to learn about the island's history.
Join a guided Catalina Island tour for another perspective on the island.
Evening and Departure
For a later return journey, have a final dinner together and see a movie in the Casino's historic theatre. Check the Catalina Casino page for current showtimes.
Before the last day begins, verify your ferry or helicopter departure time. See Getting Here for options.
More Romantic Things to Do on Catalina Island
- Zipline: Cross the canyon by zipline for a new vantage point over the island. Catalina zipline details
- Kayaking and paddleboarding: Follow the coastline by paddleboard or kayak and discover quiet coves. Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Pedal boats and jet skis: Share a pedal boat in the harbor or take a jet ski into open water. Watercraft rentals
- Parasailing: See Catalina Island and the surrounding ocean from high above. Parasailing
- Heli-picnic: Fly into the island's interior for scenic views and a gourmet picnic for two. Helicopter tours
- Horseback riding: Ride through scenic trails with a guide. Things to do by land
- Golf: Play together while taking in ocean views. Golf on Catalina
- Virtual dive movie: Spend 30-minute in an immersive film exploring the world's oceans and Catalina's kelp forests. More things to do
- Stargazing: Avalon's nights invite you to look toward the sky. After dark, walk to the water and see what you can find.
Tips for a Romantic Getaway
- Find couples deals on our Island of Romance page, along with boat and hotel packages.
- Pack a picnic for a scenic outing, or reserve a distinctive dining experience.
- Arrange a surprise, from a small present to a sunset activity. For a bigger gesture, see our Catalina Island proposal ideas.
- Review the Catalina Island weather before packing, especially so you are prepared for cool evenings on the water.
- Create a personalized itinerary in Trip Builder and save your favorite stops.
- Set the camera aside for a while; the moments that matter most are the ones you experience firsthand.
Romantic Catalina Island Getaway: Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need for a romantic trip to Catalina Island?
A three-day visit lets couples explore Avalon, enjoy a day filled with activity, and spend time on the water at an unhurried pace. A long weekend is also a good fit for a shorter escape.
How do couples get to Catalina Island?
Most visitors reach Avalon by ferry or helicopter. See Getting Here and By Air for options.
What are the most romantic things to do on Catalina Island?
Favorite possibilities include a sunset boat tour, a couples massage, dinner beside the water, time at the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden, and a helicopter picnic. Browse all things to do on Catalina Island.
Where should couples stay on Catalina Island?
Available accommodations include hotels, bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. Couples looking for pool time can explore lodging with pools.
Do you need a car on Catalina Island?
No. Avalon is easy to get around on foot, while bikes and golf carts can be rented.
Can you propose on Catalina Island?
Yes. Catalina is a popular place to propose. See our proposal ideas for inspiration.
Meetings & Groups
Collaboration starts when the square room is left behind. Bringing people together in an atmosphere built around camaraderie and connection creates room for sparks of creativity.
Explore the Island
- Catalina Hotels
- Catalina Island
- Things to Do
- Family Fun
- Second Summer Offers
- Wildlife & Ecology
- New Year's Eve Gala
- Where to Eat
Sponsored Offer: $5 Off Submarine & Inside Land Tours
Catalina Adventure Tours
Use Code 5OFF. Tours offered multiple times daily, Submarine tours depart from Green Pier & Inside Land Tours from the Mole.
Sponsored Offer: $10 Off Catalina Island Ferry
Onboard Catalina Flyer
Take the Catalina Flyer for daily ferry service from Newport Beach to Avalon, Catalina Island in just over 1 hour.
Visit the Group Itinerary page →