Five consecutive zip lines over Descanso Canyon above Avalon, with views of the harbor and the Pacific.
The Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour is a guided zip line course above Descanso Canyon at Avalon on Santa Catalina Island, off the coast of Los Angeles County, California. The tour departs from the Descanso Beach Club area at 1 Saint Catherine Way and is operated through the Santa Catalina Island Company. Participants ride five consecutive zip lines strung through the canyon, with views over Avalon harbor, the town and the Pacific. The tour takes about two hours and the listed price is roughly $140 to $150 per person, with the ferry fare from San Pedro, Long Beach or Dana Point charged separately; the crossing takes about one hour.
No previous zip lining experience is needed. The course suits most visitors with basic fitness, since it involves short walks between platforms on uneven terrain and climbing steps. Minimum age and weight limits are set by the operator because of harness and cable ratings, so families should check them before booking. Guests with back, neck or heart conditions, or who are pregnant, are commonly advised against taking part. Guides use the eco-tour format to describe island plants, geology and local history between lines.
A harness, helmet and gloves are supplied. Participants wear closed-toe shoes, comfortable clothes and layers, and tie back long hair and secure loose items. Guides give a safety briefing on the platform covering braking technique, hand position and communication, and they clip participants to lines and platforms throughout. Cable systems and equipment are inspected under California regulations for zip line operators. Island emergency services are based in Avalon and can respond to injuries, and guests needing hospital care are typically evacuated by boat or helicopter to the mainland.
The tour operates year-round, though April to October offers the warmest and most predictable weather. High wind, heavy rain and fog can pause or cancel operations, and the operator sets its own weather policy. Visitors planning a day trip should allow time to catch a return ferry, and summer weekends are the busiest. Catalina is a popular day-trip and overnight destination, and the town of Avalon offers restaurants, a golf cart rental scene and the Casino building within walking distance of the tour start.
| Price | Roughly $140-150 per person; ferry fare extra |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 2 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | Year-round; best April-October |
| Address | Descanso Beach Club, 1 Saint Catherine Way, Avalon, CA 90704 |
Activity facts
- Where
- Avalon, Santa Catalina Island
Equipment
- Harness and helmet (supplied)
- Closed-toe shoes
- Layers
Location
Descanso Beach Club, 1 Saint Catherine Way, Avalon, CA 90704
33.3469, -118.3226 View on map
Highlights
- Five consecutive zip lines over Descanso Canyon
- Views of Avalon harbor and the Pacific Ocean
- Eco-tour commentary on island plants and geology
- Harness, helmet and gloves supplied
Tips for visiting
- Reserve early for summer weekends and allow time to make the return ferry.
- Wear closed-toe shoes and layers, since canyon temperatures can differ from the harbor.
- Secure phones and sunglasses; loose items are not suitable on the lines.
- Check age and weight limits before booking children.
- Ask about the weather and rebooking policy, as wind can pause operations.
When to visit
April to October offers the warmest weather. Morning tours are often calmer and less crowded.
Accessibility
The course involves walking on uneven ground and stairs between platforms, so it is not suitable for most wheelchair users. Visitors with mobility limits should contact the operator before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
How many zip lines are on the tour?
The eco tour has five consecutive zip lines over Descanso Canyon above Avalon.
Is the ferry fare included?
No. The listed price of roughly $140 to $150 per person excludes the ferry from San Pedro, Long Beach or Dana Point.
Is experience required?
No. Guides brief participants on the platform before the first line.
How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts about two hours.