What to do in Catalina Island while house and pet sitting

Situated twenty-some miles off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island is known for its stunning wildlife, dive sites and panoramic views of the Pacific ocean – and it’s just one of the epic places you could visit on your next pet sit with TrustedHousesitters. 

So if you haven’t completely made up your mind if Catalina Island will be your next pet sitting destination or if your trip is already booked and you’re looking for some great ideas of things to do in Catalina Island while you’re taking care of your new four-legged friend, just read on: 

Catalina Island attractions

Catalina Island is an Island famous for glass-bottom boats and incredible snorkeling spots like Lovers Cove, but what are some of the best things to do in Catalina Island? Let’s start with things to do in Catalina as regards to nature must-visits:

1. Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden

Honoring the memory of William Wrigley Jr, the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden is a 38 acre garden just a 30-minute walk up Avalon Canyon from downtown Avalon. The garden has a breathtaking view of Avalon Bay and the Wrigley Memorial is a true centrepiece. 

2. Nature Center at Avalon Canyon

Located at 1202 Avalon Canyon Road, the Nature Center tells the story of the natural history of the Island. There’s self-guided exhibits about the conservation efforts on the Island as well as hands-on activities, and exhibit panels framed on the island to introduce visitors to Catalina’s natural wonders. 

3. Catalina Island Museum

Wile away a few hours exploring the magnificent Catalina Island Museum. The 60+ year-old building exhibits artifacts from more than 8000 years of human settlement on the island. Discover intimate garden areas to spacious open-air plazas, an amphitheater as well as incredible views of Catalina’s canyons. 

Free things to do in Catalina Island

Have you ever wondered what to do in Catalina Island for free? If you’re on a budget there’s a lot to see and do. Here’s our top three:  

1. Starlight Beach

At the west end of Catalina Island, marking the western terminus of the Trans-Catalina Trail backpacking route, Starlight beach is set in a picturesque cove with rocky cliffs surrounding it. Looking for a hike? A trail starts from the ramp at the back of the cove which allows for beach access. 

2. Trans-Catalina Trail

A rugged trail that’s not for the faint at heart, the Trans-Catalina trail covers 38.5 miles in around four days. It starts at the Trailhead in Avalon and finishes at Two Harbors and along the way has the opportunity to see some of the Island’s wildlife such as Bison and Bald Eagles. 

3. Two Harbors 

If you love an outdoor activity, you’ll love Two Harbors. The community island village offers a host of activities including a Dive & Recreation Center that has everything you need to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, camping, kayaking, boating, fishing, snorkeling, as well as world-class SCUBA diving in crystal clear water.

Fun things to do in Catalina Island 

After getting your cultural fix at the museum and spending time outdoors soaking up all the scenery, it’s time to take a look at some of the fun things to do in Catalina Island. 

1. Taste of Catalina Food Tours

Take a tour into one of Catalina’s many cuisine tours. Many are all-inclusive and involve travelling around to different restaurants and taste testing the local fare. You also get to enjoy the sights, sounds and stories behind Catalina’s well-known historic landmarks. 

2. Catalina Snorkel & Scuba

Immerse yourself in the crystal clear waters of Catalina Island. Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced diver, there’s a snorkelling or scuba diving experience for you, as well as speciality dive experiences if you want more of a challenge. 

3. Catalina’s Flying Fish Voyage

For a unique experience, head out on one of Catalina’s flying fish voyages on the open ocean. Learn all about the local flying fish on a speedboat that lets you experience Avalon Harbor from a whole new perspective.

What to do in Catalina Island with pets?

Looking for things to do in Catalina Island that involve your new fur-friend? From dog-friendly patios at must-try restaurants to dog parks, there’s plenty to take your new four-legged friend to. 

1. Cafe Metropole 

Island-style cafe, Cafe Metropole is a great brunch/lunch spot with a juice bar to die for. It’s also very dog-friendly so your four-legged pal can join you. 

2. Buffalo Nickel 

For a great atmosphere and friendly staff, grab a booth at Buffalo Nickel. The restaurant specialises in familiar comfort food like BBQ, great burgers, Mexican fare and pizza. 

3. Little Harbor

We mentioned Two Harbors above for good reason. Little Harbor is a great trail for active pups, that can be as short or as long as you like so regardless of your dog’s activity levels you can get them out and about exploring the island. 

Best restaurants in Catalina Island: Food and drink

After a busy day exploring the Island, there’s only one thing left to do: chow down. Let’s take a look at some of the best restaurants in Catalina Island: 

1. Bluewater Grill

Love seafood? Bluewater Grill offers fresh fish and a full range of classic seafood plates including freshly caught mussels. If you’re visiting in summer you can reserve a table on the patio or cozy up at the bar in winter with a cup of their famous chowder. 

2. Bluewater Avalon

If you love seafood, you won’t want to miss Bluewater Avalon. Signature dishes include their fish and chips, homemade chowders, as well as lobster and other locally caught fish. There’s off-season weekday happy hours, too. What’s not to love?

 3. Lloyds of Avalon Confectionery 

Be like a kid in a candy store at Lloyds. The old school confectionery company has been making homemade salt water taffy since 1934 and stocks a range of sweet treats in cases that are all homemade like their candy apples and mouth watering fudge. 

After exploring all our top places to visit, we’re sure you now have enough ideas for what to do in Catalina Island while you’re pet sitting. There’s so much to experience in beautiful Catalina – and lots of sweet furbabies and loving owners ready to invite you over to take care of their four-legged friend while discovering where they live. 

House and pet sitting in Catalina Island

Now you're ready to visit Catalina Island then all that’s left to do is find yourself a pet sit and a house. Just head right over here and connect with loving pet owners and their four-legged friends.