Coast atop the clear water of Catalina Island in a kayak tour or explore on your own!
Just the Facts
- Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes) – for basic kayak excursion
- Ocean based tour, swimming experience is a plus
- Fitness level moderate: upper body workout, good balance a plus
- Tickets $$ are per person
- All ages
- Mid-day departures
- Cancelled by severe ocean weather
Kayak Tours
Ocean lovers delight in the leeward shore conditions perfect for a kayak tour or rental from Descanso Beach Ocean Sports. Guided kayak excursions are available for as few as two persons, and most trips also have private rates for solo adventurers. A double kayak can hold two adults and a small child so families can enjoy some time together. Kids 11 years and under get a 25% discount on most of their trips. This is a truly family friendly activity and company with a large range of equipment sizes. This is an excellent way to introduce your kids to Catalina’s unique natural world!
Rental vs. Guided
Kayaking and snorkeling are adventurous and thrilling ways to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Catalina Island. The staff will show you the basics with each rental, and you’ll be set to explore on your own. Please note that swimming is part of snorkeling no matter what anyone says. You are going into the real ocean and need to be comfortable in the water – this is not a pool! Kayaking also poses the risk of tipping over and falling in, even though unlikely it is possible especially for then less than coordinated paddler. You will have a personal floatation device (life jacket) but if it is something you are weary of doing book a tour for that extra support. Experienced paddlers can call ahead to reserve more advanced equipment like sit-on-top boats of varying size & purpose (1 hour workout to 3 day camp trip). Kayak brands include brands like Ocean Kayak, Perception & Necky. They also have an array of StandUp Paddleboards (SUP) for all skill levels from first-timers to confident paddlers.
Words of Wisdom
Yes, every review wraps up with this key fact, planning is essential! You need to book your transportation via ferry boat or helicopter days or weeks in advance. There are just not enough resources to accommodate the large numbers of folks who want to visit Catalina on any given weekend during the summer months or on most federal holidays. Lock in your transportation and lodging if you are staying the night and then start planning your itinerary to be sure you don’t miss out on the best tours and activities. We always recommend the 2 hour guided golf cart tour to start your visit. It will get you acclimated to the town layout and and offers local perspective on everything from the history of the island to where to eat depending on your preferences. On a personal note the family owned business of Descanso Beach Ocean Sports is run by quality humans. These folks really car about the visitors and do everything in their power to provide a memorable experience as a fair price. Their business is subject to extremely high property rental and city tax rates yet they strive to keep their rentals and tours affordable. Be sure to toss some cash their way and support a small business that deserves to carry on its tradition of excellent service. Book a tour with them Descanso Beach Ocean Sports online or call 310-510-1226
