Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

Looking for a different way to explore Catalina Island’s charming town of Avalon? This self-guided scavenger hunt promises a fun, interactive way to discover the area’s sights, from historic landmarks to quirky local shops. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to experience Catalina in a relaxed, playful manner.

We like that the tour is affordable, at just $24.50 per person, and flexible, allowing you to start whenever suits your schedule. Plus, it doesn’t rely on a guide — so no waiting around for group departures or fixed times. That said, some reviewers have found navigating the app tricky, which is worth considering if you’re not comfortable with technology.

This activity seems best suited for those who enjoy independent exploration and are okay with a bit of self-guided adventure. It offers a unique way to blend sightseeing with a light-hearted game, making it appealing to families, couples, or solo visitors looking for something different in Avalon.

Good To Know

• Affordable and flexible: Book anytime between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM with no guide required.
• Self-paced exploration: Ideal for those who prefer to set their own schedule.
• Interactive fun: Solve 19 challenges on your smartphone while discovering Avalon’s sights.
• Rich experience: Includes iconic landmarks like the Avalon Casino and lesser-known gems like the Avalon Veteran’s Memorial.
• Group friendly: Perfect for groups of 1-6, making it a great family or friends activity.
• Mixed reviews: Some users enjoy the challenge; others find app navigation frustrating.

What is the Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game?

This experience guides you through the streets of Avalon using your smartphone, turning a simple walk into an engaging challenge. The game leads you past historic sites, shops, galleries, and scenic spots, all designed to highlight the best of Catalina in a fun, interactive way.

The tour begins at Green Pleasure Pier, the main hub of Avalon’s waterfront, and conveniently ends back there. You’re encouraged to wear comfortable shoes since you’ll walk around around 2 miles. The fact that it’s private means only your group will participate, which adds a layer of intimacy and focus.

How Does the Scavenger Hunt Work?

Once you book, you’ll receive access to the game through a web link, which can be opened in any browser. The app is not a separate download but accessible from your phone’s browser, making it easy to start without additional apps. You’ll then follow clues, complete challenges, and earn points, all while exploring.

It’s designed to be self-guided, meaning no fixed tour times or guides, giving you complete control over when and how long to explore. With 19 challenges to solve, the activity encourages teamwork and sharp thinking.

Potential Challenges

Some of the challenges may involve identifying landmarks, answering questions about the sights, or completing fun tasks like taking photos at specific locations. The tour is designed to be engaging for all ages, making it a versatile activity for families or groups of friends.

Highlights of the Tour

The Historic Sights

One of the main draws is the chance to see Catalina’s famous Avalon Casino, a historic building with a stunning architecture that’s often mistaken for a resort hotel. The casino isn’t just a sightseeing spot but also a symbol of Avalon’s history as a vacation destination.

Overlooked Gems

Unlike typical tours, this scavenger hunt takes you beyond the usual tourist spots. For example, you might stumble upon the Avalon Veteran’s Memorial, a quiet spot often overlooked but meaningful for its tribute to fallen heroes. As one reviewer suggested, discovering hidden gems adds a layer of depth to your visit.

Shopping and Dining

The route also guides you through Avalon’s lively waterfront, with various shops, galleries, and restaurants. While the activity doesn’t include stops, it encourages you to explore these areas at your own pace, making it easy to grab a snack or browse local art.

What to Expect During the Tour

Starting Point

Meet at Green Pleasure Pier, the central hub for Avalon’s waterfront activities. From there, the game guides you through a series of clues, leading you to landmarks, scenic views, and local haunts.

Duration and Pace

The tour takes approximately 2 hours, but since it’s self-guided, you can take more or less time depending on your interests. Some reviewers mentioned that the app can be hard to navigate, especially if you get kicked off or lose connection. However, the process is straightforward — just log back in to resume where you left off.

Group Size and Accessibility

Designed for groups of 1 to 6 people, it’s suitable for families or small groups. The activity is accessible, and service animals are allowed. Since it’s a walking tour, comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll walk about 2 miles altogether.

The Experience from Review Insights

Feedback from participants offers a nuanced picture. One reviewer, Cindy, mentioned that “this was fun,” suggesting that the game adds a playful element to sightseeing. She also proposed adding a prize component, which could elevate the experience, especially for kids.

Conversely, Tammy found the app difficult to navigate and was frustrated by issues like being kicked off multiple times. She pointed out that “there’s no mobile app,” but rather a web-based interface that should be straightforward. The company responded, clarifying that the website is easy to use and that logging back in is simple, which might help future users avoid her frustrations.

Is it Worth the Price?

At $24.50 per person, the activity offers a cost-effective way to see Avalon without the need for guided tours or organized schedules. The value lies in the flexibility and the chance to explore at your own pace, combined with the interactive challenge. It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy self-directed adventures and want to discover Avalon’s sights on their own terms.

However, some might feel that the app navigation or technical issues could detract from the experience. If you’re comfortable with smartphones and can navigate a website easily, you’ll likely enjoy this activity more.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This scavenger hunt suits:

• Independent travelers who prefer to skip guided tours and explore on their own
• Families or small groups looking for a fun, interactive activity
• History and quirky sight enthusiasts eager to discover lesser-known spots alongside famous landmarks
• Budget-conscious travelers seeking a memorable experience without breaking the bank

It may not be ideal for those who prefer structured guided tours or have difficulty with smartphone-based activities.

The Sum Up

For a unique, flexible way to explore Avalon, the Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour offers an engaging mix of sightseeing and game playing. The activity’s affordability, self-paced nature, and focus on discovery make it a compelling choice for many travelers. While technical hiccups may impact some users’ experience, overall, it provides a fun way to see Catalina’s highlights and hidden corners at your own pace.

If you’re someone who enjoys interactive adventures and doesn’t mind a bit of walking, this could be your perfect Catalina activity. It’s especially suited for families, groups of friends, or solo explorers ready to turn sightseeing into a playful challenge.

FAQs

Is there a guide with this tour?
No, this is a self-guided activity. You’ll use your smartphone to follow clues and challenges.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, you can begin anytime between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM, according to your schedule.

How long does the tour take?
The average duration is about 2 hours, but you can take more or less time since it’s self-paced.

What locations does the tour cover?
It includes Avalon’s historic sights, like the Avalon Casino, and lesser-known spots like the Avalon Veteran’s Memorial.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be fun and engaging for all ages, with challenges suitable for families.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended because you’ll walk around 2 miles during the activity.

In essence, the Catalina Scavenger Hunt is a playful, budget-friendly way to see Avalon’s best, provided you’re comfortable navigating a web-based game and enjoy exploring independently.