There is something for everyone on a liveaboard Captained Charter Cruise. The area around Catalina Island and other Southern California Destinations are known for wildlife sightings. Avalon, Two Harbors, Newport Beach, and Dana Point are great locations to vacation and enjoy hiking, biking, shopping, and amazing dining. Two Harbors is the home of Buffalo Milk! (IYKYK!) And the sailing in the area is almost second to none!
Top Marine Life to Spot
Whales:
Gray whales migrate through the channel from January to April, while massive blue whales and humpback whales feed in the rich waters from May to September.
Dolphins:
Large, acrobatic pods of common, bottlenose, and Pacific white-sided dolphins frequently bow-ride alongside boats.
Pinnipeds:
California sea lions and harbor seals are commonly seen barking and sunbathing on buoys, docks, and rocky points.
Seabirds:
Pelicans, cormorants, gulls, and shearwaters frequent the coastal bluffs and open channel waters.
Things to Do Ashore
Avalon
Avalon on Catalina Island offers stunning ocean views and fun outdoor adventures. Top highlights include touring the historic Catalina Casino, relaxing at the Descanso Beach Club, soaring on the Zipline Eco Tour, renting a golf cart to explore the hills, and snorkeling at Lover’s Cove or Scuba Diving in the Dive Park.
Two Harbors
Two Harbors is Catalina Island’s rustic, outdoor-focused village, offering premier activities like hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail, snorkeling in giant kelp forests, kayaking pristine coves, and relaxing at the beachfront Harbor Sands. Located at the island’s narrow isthmus, this quiet alternative to Avalon is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
More information about Catalina Island
Newport Beach
Enjoy shopping and outdoor dining in Lido Marina Village. If you are up for something more energetic, stand-up paddleboard through the protected waters of Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve. Or for the kid in all of us, head to the Balboa Fun Zone for a Ferris Wheel Ride.
The Pacific Ocean beaches are only a few steps away as well. Rent a Beach Cruiser or just walk along the Ocean Boardwalk. Head down to “The Wedge” and watch surfers and boogie boarders test their skills. Enjoy any of a number of bars and restaurants along the oceanfront, and get a front row seat for sunset, and maybe see the green flash!
Dana Point
Dana Point Harbor is the focal point of the entire community. WIth quirky, nautical themed shops along the waterfront, along with five star dining, one could easily miss that just a short walk away (up a lot of stairs!) are breathtaking views of the harbor and the Pacific from the bluffs above. Spend time at “Baby Beach” in the far end of Dana Point Harbor where there is no swell at all. or for something more oceanic, visit Doheny State Beach. You can also hike to the “Dana Point Pirate Caves!” (low tide only!)