How to Get Around Avalon -- Catalina Island Without a Car

Fun fact: it is quite common for Catalina Island teens to learn to drive in a golf cart. 

There are not a lot of cars on Catalina! Owning a full size automobile like a car or truck on the island is a privilege for only a small percentage of Avalon residents. The waiting list for residential vehicle permits stretches about 25 years. In order to keep the number of full size vehicles on the island at a manageable number, the city typically only issues one new permit for every two permits that are expired or surrendered. Because of this, most residents (and sometimes, visitors) make their way around town in autoettes–also known as golf carts, which are also regulated by the limited issuing of new permits. 

Fortunately, for those who want to explore more of the island, there’s Catalina Taxi and Tours–with their fleet of taxis and tour vehicles–who can be at your service for all your transportation needs. If you need help getting around Catalina Island, Catalina Taxi and Tours can help. Read on to learn about how to get around Avalon and how to navigate Catalina Island without a car. 

Catalina's Adventure Headquarters is just one of many attractions in Avalon Canyon.

On foot. A lot of Avalon is walkable. Shops, restaurants, beaches, and many activities are all within walking distance of many of the island’s hotels and vacation rentals. However, you’ll note that there’s more than meets the eye on Catalina Island. There are longer roads that lead to Avalon’s stables, to the golf course, and to the botanical gardens. There’s a canyon for ziplining and a beach that is off the beaten path. There are gorgeous viewpoints that can only be enjoyed from up high on the city’s hills. Some rentals are farther away from the center of town, so taxis are often needed for transport to the boat or to dinner or tours downtown. So yes, while parts of Avalon are walkable, it’s good to know there are options for you to get around the island. 

Golf carts are fun, but…Rental periods for golf carts on Catalina max out at about 2 hours. You cannot rent autoettes for the entire day or overnight. There are also strict boundaries when it comes to golf cart rentals. They’re restricted to Avalon city limits and cannot travel into the interior of the island. 

Take a taxi! Avalon’s taxi service has vans in its fleet that meet every boat as it arrives at the dock. For those who arrive by helicopter, just let the helicopter terminal staff know, and they can call a taxi for you. When you need a taxi reservation for transport around and even outside of the city of Avalon, you can call 310-510-0025 to book it. 

Get more out of your ride. For visitors who want to maximize their time on the island with some learning and culture, get the lay of the land on an Avalon City Tour. This private tour is for up to 7 passengers, and it is a great introduction to the city of Avalon. From a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll get the scoop on some island history, fun facts, and if you’d like, some recommendations for activities and dining while you’re on the island. 

Book a private shuttle. Are you aiming to see more than just Avalon? Catalina Taxi and Tours offers private shuttles that can drive to a variety of locations on the island such as the Airport in the Sky, Two Harbors, Little Harbor, the Summit, Haypress, or Blackjack. These shuttles are ideal for visitors who want to explore more of the island by hiking, visiting more beaches, looking for Catalina wildlife, or simply enjoying touring and seeing more majestic views of the island, the ocean, and the coastline. This is a year-round service provided in either a minivan or an SUV. Please note that reservations with Catalina Taxi and Tours are recommended.

Explore even more! If you’d like to really experience some of Catalina’s rugged terrain and get the chance to see some local wildlife, book a Private Eco Tour, and take a ride through Catalina’s backroads in an off-road vehicle. There are 3 different options for these interior tours: 1.5 hours, 2.5 hours, and 3.5 hours. Some stops may include: the Airport in the Sky, Rancho Escondido, the Eagle’s Nest Lodge, viewpoints for Shark Harbor and Little Harbor, or even a visit to Two Harbors. Reservations are highly recommended for these adventures. 

Catalina Taxi and Tours is your go-to for all things transportation-related on Catalina Island. It is truly the best way to get around Avalon. Do you have a dream itinerary for your trip to Catalina? Check out our website and all of our tour options. We are happy to offer custom tours too!  Give us a call in our main office at 310-510-0342 so that we can help to accommodate you.