Top Photo-Worthy Spots on Catalina Island

Catalina Island, just off the coast of Southern California, is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. With its breathtaking coastal views, charming villages, and lush landscapes, the island offers a variety of picture-perfect locations. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply looking for stunning spots to fill your Instagram feed, here are some of the best photo-worthy spots on Catalina Island.

No trip to Catalina is complete without a shot of the historic Catalina Casino. This stunning circular building, with its Art Deco design, sits majestically along the Avalon waterfront. It is one of the most prominent landmarks on the island, and it’s visible from many parts of the town and the surrounding hills. Despite its name, the Casino is not a gambling hall but a historic venue for entertainment, featuring an art deco ballroom and theater. You can visit the Casino Ballroom by booking one of their guided tours. The tour takes visitors through areas not usually open to the public, including the massive ballroom floor, the theater’s stage, and dressing rooms once used by performers. You’ll also learn about the rich history of the Casino, its construction in 1929, and its significance to the island’s cultural life, all while enjoying stunning views of Avalon Bay.

Via Casino is a historic street located on Catalina Island, leading up to the iconic Catalina Casino in Avalon. It’s a picturesque pathway lined with palm trees and charming views of Avalon Bay. Walking along this street gives visitors a great perspective of the island’s blend of natural beauty and early 20th-century architecture, making it a popular spot for tourists to explore on their way to the Casino building.

One of the most iconic views on Catalina Island, Avalon Bay, is a must for any photographer. The turquoise waters, dotted with sailboats and framed by the charming town of Avalon, create a postcard-perfect backdrop.

It’s one of the top spots on the island, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the coors are at their most vibrant. To get there, you can hike or take a short drive. The overlook is along the road, and while it’s a bit of an uphill climb, the breathtaking views make the effort worthwhile. You can also take a golf cart or bike to the area for a quicker journey. Once at Buena Vista Overlook, you’ll be rewarded with stunning, breathtaking vistas.

Perched on a hill above Avalon, the tower offers a peaceful lookout point with beautiful views of Avalon Bay, the town below, and the surrounding hills. To get there, start from Avalon’s main streets and walk up Chimes Tower Road. It’s a bit of an uphill walk but manageable for most, taking about 10-15 minutes from the center of town. You can also take a golf cart or bike if you prefer.

Located just a short walk from Avalon, it’s one of the few places in California where you can enjoy drinks and food served right on the beach. The club features private cabanas, beach chairs, and oceanfront dining, making it a perfect spot to relax, soak up the sun, or take a swim in the clear waters.

Just a few steps from the ferry terminal, Crescent Beach is easily accessible, with nearby shops restaurants, and beach rentals for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.

The hotel’s vibrant pink hue is one of the most striking I’ve seen in Avalon, and I simply can’t leave without capturing some photos with it.

For a combination of architecture and nature, head to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden. The Memorial honors William Wrigley Jr., the island’s former owner, with beautiful stonework and Spanish tile details. The gardens surrounding the memorial are filled with rare succulents and desert plants that create vibrant, textured shots. The view from the top of the memorial also offers a sweeping panorama of the canyon and the Pacific Ocean.

This charming fisherman’s pier is a must-visit for photos, particularly with the turquoise fish and chips restaurant located at the end.

Located in the town center, the charming colorful-tile fountain is hard to miss, and I can’t leave without taking some photos with it.

The rooftop of the Bellanca Hotel and its restaurant are charming spots for taking photos, offering stunning views of Avalon and its surrounding coastlines.

Looking for more information on Catalina Island? Check out this link for my complete guide to Catalina Island.