From Long Beach: Jet Ski to Two Harbors on Catalina Island

A Quick Look at the Jet Ski Adventure to Two Harbors on Catalina Island
This tour promises a high-energy, oceanic escapade starting from Long Beach, riding across open water to the secluded shores of Two Harbors on Catalina Island. It’s perfect for those craving adrenaline, scenic beauty, and a taste of remote island life.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the exhilaration of riding a jet ski across the Pacific, feeling the spray and wind firsthand. Second, the chance to spot dolphins during the journey, which reviewers say is often a magical, almost surreal sight. Finally, the free time in Two Harbors to snorkel around sea caves or simply relax—an authentic slice of Catalina away from the crowds.

A possible downside? The 6-hour duration and the open water riding may not suit everyone, especially those prone to seasickness or looking for a more relaxed day. Still, it’s a fantastic fit for adventurous travelers, water lovers, and anyone eager for a unique coastal experience.

Good To Know

• Thrilling open ocean jet ski ride with guided support for all skill levels.
• Dolphin sightings are common, adding a special touch to the journey.
• Explore Two Harbors, a less-developed, natural side of Catalina with pristine beaches and sea caves.
• Snorkeling gear is available for free, allowing you to discover underwater life up close.
• Freedom to relax and explore during the 3-hour stop, making the trip well-balanced.
• Price reflects the full-day adventure, including equipment, safety gear, and guided instructions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Long Beach to Two Harbors Jet Ski Tour

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins in Long Beach, a lively hub with easy parking—just find the designated area between buildings 3 & 4 at Hotel Maya. From there, you walk past the pool to the marina, where your adventure kicks off. The company, Montclair Motorsports LLC, has a strong reputation, holding a 4.7 rating, which speaks to their professionalism and reliability.

The day extends over roughly six hours, including preparation, the ocean ride, free time in Two Harbors, and the return trip. This structure offers a balanced mix of adrenaline, relaxation, and exploration, perfect for those wanting a full experience without feeling rushed.

The Ride Across the Pacific

The highlight for many is undoubtedly the jet ski ride across the open ocean, which lasts about 1.5 hours each way. The guides are attentive, providing safety gear and a briefing to ensure everyone feels comfortable, which is crucial for first-timers or less experienced riders.

Travelers often comment on how exhilarating the ride is—”just you, your jet ski, and the open Pacific,” as one reviewer put it. Expect to get a little wet, especially if the ocean is choppy, but that’s part of the fun. The scenery is spectacular, with the vast blue water stretching in all directions, and dolphins frequently make an appearance, sometimes jumping through wakes or swimming alongside. One reviewer mentioned that dolphins often make a second appearance during the return trip, which adds to the thrill.

Discovering Two Harbors

Once at Two Harbors, the experience shifts from high-speed adventure to relaxed exploration. Tucked between two bays at the narrowest part of Catalina, this quiet area offers a stark contrast to busy Avalon. Visitors often describe it as feeling like discovering a secret.

With only a handful of amenities—a restaurant and a general store—this side of Catalina is about untouched natural beauty. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling, especially through sea caves and turquoise coves. Reviewers frequently highlight the clarity of the water, making underwater exploration very rewarding. Hikers can enjoy trails with sweeping ocean vistas, adding a land-based element to the day.

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Free Time and Activities

About three hours are allocated for free exploration. Many take advantage of the snorkeling equipment to probe sea caves or swim in the coves, while others simply relax on the beach or stroll along the shoreline. The atmosphere is peaceful, with fewer crowds, which makes for a more authentic Catalina experience.

Returning Across the Ocean

The return trip offers a chance to relive the thrill of carving through the water, with afternoon sunlight adding warmth and atmosphere. Dolphins often reappear, providing a perfect end to the day. The guides ensure a smooth, safe ride back to Long Beach, with plenty of opportunities for photos and memories.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes jet skis, safety gear, and a guide to assist throughout. Snorkeling equipment isn’t included but can be used freely during the stop in Two Harbors.

For a comfortable day, travelers should bring a hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, sunscreen, and water. It’s recommended to bring a change of clothes since you’ll get wet, especially during the ride and snorkeling.

Important Considerations

This experience requires participants to be comfortable in open water and know how to swim, making it unsuitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with back issues or seasickness. Reviewers note that the open water ride can be intense, but they also emphasize that safety instructions and guides help ensure a secure experience.

Pricing and Value

At $640 per person, this tour is on the higher end, but the value lies in its all-inclusive nature—jet ski rental, safety gear, guided instruction, and snorkeling equipment. The approximately six-hour duration offers a full day of adventure, combining high-speed thrills with peaceful exploration.

Compared to other water-based experiences in the area, this trip offers a unique mix of adrenaline, wildlife sightings, and scenic discovery. Some guests mention that the price is justified by the quality of guides, the chance to see dolphins, and the pristine nature of Two Harbors.

Additional Tips for a Great Experience

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
• Check weather conditions before departure, as rough seas or fog can impact the experience.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat—the sun can be intense on the water.
• Be prepared to get wet and bring a change of clothes for after snorkeling and the ride.
• Arrive early to avoid rushing and to enjoy the full six hours comfortably.

The Sum Up: Who will love this tour?

This jet ski trip to Two Harbors is perfect for adventure seekers, wildlife lovers, and those craving a taste of remote Catalina. It offers a rare chance to combine high-speed ocean riding with serene exploration of lesser-visited beaches and caves.

It’s best suited for confident swimmers and open-water fans, as well as travelers looking for an active day out that mixes adrenaline with natural beauty. If you’re after a memorable, off-the-beaten-path experience that includes dolphin sightings and snorkeling, this tour checks all those boxes.

However, if you’re sensitive to seasickness or prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding day, you might want to consider other options. But for thrill and discovery, this adventure delivers on every level.

FAQ

Is transportation to the starting point included? No, travelers need to arrange their own transport to the Long Beach marina.

What equipment is provided? The tour includes jet skis, safety gear, and snorkeling equipment for free.

Can children participate? No, children under 12 are not allowed on this tour.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers? No, participants must be comfortable in open water and know how to swim.

What should I bring? Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, sunscreen, and water. A change of clothes is also recommended.

How long is the total tour? The entire experience lasts about six hours, including preparation, riding, free time, and return.

What parts of Catalina will I see? You’ll visit the secluded Two Harbors area, with opportunities for snorkeling and hiking, and enjoy views of the open ocean along the way.

Is this tour good for wildlife lovers? Absolutely. Dolphins are often spotted during the ride, adding a memorable element to your adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: