Catalina Island Sunset Cruise: Sea Lions & Pacific Views

One hour on the water: wildlife on the way out, sunset on the way back

A sunset cruise along Catalina Island's eastern coastline where you spot sea lions, pelicans and other wildlife with a local captain, then watch the Pacific light fade from the boat. The voyage departs and returns to Avalon Harbor and runs about an hour. Life jackets and captain knowledge are included, and children from age 6 are welcome.

Step-by-step itinerary

Catalina Island wildlife and sunset cruise

• Depart Avalon Harbor
• View Catalina Island Casino building
• Pass by Green pier
• Spot sea lions, pelicans, dolphins
• Enjoy Pacific Ocean sunset

The experience

The boat leaves Avalon Harbor heading down Catalina Island's pristine coastline in search of sea lions, pelicans, dolphins and other wildlife. Your captain knows the island and points out both animals and landmarks as you pass them. Ask to slow down or stop if you want photos of the iconic Casino building or the Green Pier as you depart. The eastern shores are where the wildlife congregates, so most of the outbound journey is spent watching for movement in the water and on the rocks.

As the boat turns back toward Avalon, you're positioned to watch the sunset over the Pacific. The light changes fast once it starts, and there's nothing between you and the horizon. Bring a sweater or jacket. The boat is open to the air and the temperature drops once the sun gets low. You can bring your own beverages aboard, so some people pack a drink to sip while the sky shifts color.

Life jackets are provided and required. The captain is English-speaking and familiar with the island's wildlife patterns and history. The whole outing fits inside an hour, which leaves the rest of your day free for exploring Avalon or the island's interior.

What’s included

• Life jackets.
• local captain knowledge of Catalina Island and its wildlife.
• boat ride departing and returning to Avalon Harbor.
• the option to bring your own beverages aboard.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to SundayDeparts at 18:45

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Child (6 to 17 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends at a different place from where it starts.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Catalina Xtreme Parasail

Is this one for you?An hour on the water leaves your day flexible. You can book this in the late afternoon and still have time to explore Avalon or the island's shops and restaurants before or after. The fixed departure from Avalon Harbor means no transport logistics beyond getting to the pier.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 17 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What wildlife might I see on the Catalina Island sunset cruise?

Sea lions, pelicans, and dolphins are common sightings along the eastern coastline where the cruise travels. Your captain will point them out and can slow the boat if you want to watch or photograph them.

Does the cruise depart from Avalon Harbor?

Yes, the boat leaves from Avalon Harbor and returns there after the sunset. You'll pass the iconic Casino building and the Green Pier as you depart, both good photo stops if you ask the captain to pause.

How long is the Catalina Island sunset cruise?

The cruise runs about an hour total, departing Avalon Harbor, traveling the eastern coastline to spot wildlife, then returning as the sun sets over the Pacific.

What's included in the sunset cruise?

Life jackets, a boat ride along the coastline, and the captain's knowledge of Catalina Island's wildlife and landmarks are included. You can bring your own beverages aboard.