Solid crew and a great experience all around. We rented kayaks here during the off-season, which we really appreciated -- not every place stays open, and the water was absolutely beautiful. The team was chill in the best possible way: efficient, relaxed, and clearly experienced. They got us in the water quickly, gave clear instructions, and were right there when we returned. No stress, just a smooth, well-run operation that lets you enjoy Catalina the way it's meant to be enjoyed. read more

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Highly recommend this rental spot. The first time we went my husband and I rented a kayak and snorkeling gear for two. It was so nice to have four wide hours in which to explore, there was no clock ticking on our rental. we got a nice long paddle in. Snorkel gear is one price for the day. Pitts was enormously helpful as we grilled him with questions about where to go and the best snorkel spots, the staff walked us through everything from loading our boat to putting us out to sea. We followed Pitts' advice and checked out some really amazing coves, we snorkeled with sea lions, saw beautiful fish. We got the boat back early and took the snorkel gear out right in Descanso and saw a world of sea life. Personable crew--we felt like they would have our backs if something came up. Nothing was stressful about the rental which is what you want on vacation. read more

Descanso Beach Ocean Sports - Crystal clear water, excellent for seeing sea life - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Avalon, California

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Wow!!! My BFF & I totally scored when we got Preston as our guide to Kayaking to Frog Rock tour. I'm just going to say it--it's fine, it's okay--yes, Preston is very easy on the eyes. BUT... he also has THE BEST personality and the sweetest spirit. Not only did we get a dose of island history, but he wowed us with his knowledge about the wildlife and the ocean's hidden wonders. Oh--and this man spotted and pointed out a friggin bald eagle perched majestically on a mountaintop. Like, seriously, PRESTON. LEGEND. We shared stories, collected shells, listened to that magical "water falling over rocks" sound, and hunted for heart-shaped rocks like it was our mission in life. Now, Preston has a whole arsenal of Disney character impressions, but let me tell you--we were living for his Jack Sparrow. Hands down our favorite. Spot. On. And... the cherry on top? He speaks Mandarin. FLUENTLY!!! We live in a world where people crave connection. Sometimes it's just to pass the time, but sometimes it's to learn something or feel inspired. Preston gets that. He connects with people in the most genuine way, and hearing his stories was pure magic. So here's my PSA: if you come to Catalina... DO. THIS. TOUR. And don't you dare forget to ask for Preston. And oooops--can't forget our girl G! She dealt with us like we were sisters from another mister. G, you are absolutely adorable! Preston & G--thanks for making our Day 1 adventure on the island absolutely spectacular! read more

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Would recommend DBOS to everyone visiting the Island. It's a must! The staff are friendly and helpful especially Pitts and his knowledge of Island history. He made our kayak experience magical! We use DBOS every time we go to the Island and bring our friends. Can't wait to go back!! read more

We had a blast snorkeling this weekend in Catalina Island at Descanso Beach! Julianna and Pitts were very helpful and just really nice people! Would totally recommend. read more

Whether you wish to kayak, do stand up paddle boarding or snorkel, this ocean sports company has it all! I booked a private guided tour to Turtle Rock and it was one of the most relaxing tours I did on the Island. My tour guide - Danly, was so much fun! I loved his stories and the overall calm, friendly vibe that he exudes. Water activities are a must do and kayaking is great for all ages. While booking a self-guided activity is fun, I recommend a guided one just so you can have a history behind your activity! You can wear your face mask if you wish but it is not required as being on a kayak allows plenty of social distancing. read more

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We had a blast! We did the 4 hour not-so-early special which was so affordable. It came with the kayak and paddles, life vests, wet suits, a dry bag for our personal items, snorkel masks and fins, and a cooler for lunch. The staff was helpful and get us all set up. We appreciated how independent we got to be, they just gave us the equipment and got us out on the water! read more

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They say they are open until 5pm. We get there 2:15pm and they say they are done for the day. It sounds like they didn't feel like working anymore on Sunday. Super frustrating and made my 4yo daughter so sad :( They need to hire more energetic people. Super lazy people there... terrible service... read more

We love going kayaking fish in Catalina. Every time we go, we don't have to worry about bringing one since DBOS always have them ready for us. The staff is wonderful, always helpful to launch is out to the ocean, and catch us back safely. Honestly, if you are not getting on a kayak or a SUP when you are in Catalina, you are missing out. And Descanso Beach Ocean Sports is the right place to go! read more

Descanso Beach Ocean Sports - Caught another calico here! - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Avalon, California

Catalina Island Kayak Expeditions was one of the excursions you gotta do and a great workout. You have a choice to have a guided tour or venture on your own. We chose the guided tour for an educational informative experience and things and sites were pointed out about its history and just fun facts. read more

What a day!!! Hubby and I celebrated our 10 th year anniversary!!! We reserved lounge chairs a month ago Today was above and beyond!! We were greeted with happy friendly faces. She led us to our chairs and introduced us to ALEX. HE WAS THE BEST!! All i wanted to do today was sit and relax In the sun We didn't have to get up for anything!!!! A drink always in hand. We snorkeled and got sun! The ONLY thing I might say is music. I wanted to hear some vacation type music. But i played my own and Alex said they had charges. We always had water. Always had drinks. They took out Trash and fixed the umbrellas all day. Got the best dinner suggestions ever!!! Took him up on it. Loved it here and will be back! read more

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I booked online, and everything went smoothly. They are located right off the cruise dock, so it was very convenient. My kids (ages 9-18) had a great time. read more

DBOS is the BEST!! Aurora and the team are fantastic! We visited them and rented three kayaks plus gear (for 6 people) when we were on Catalina Island for a cruise stop in Feb. '23. We did the independent sea kayak option with all the gear (which was everything we could need!) Communication and help before hand was excellent. And when we arrived the friendliness and service was even better! I give Descano Beach Ocean Sports our highest recommendation! Great prices, great staff, great options, great FUN! One of the best cruise port experiences we've ever had. We booked them independently b/c none of the cruise line excursions appealed to us. GREAT CHOICE. If you're considering an activity on Catalina Island, don't hesitate. Contact Aurora at DBOS. You'll be very happy you did! (TIP: If you don't want to get your clothes wet, get the scuba suit. Trust me, you WILL get wet.) read more

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Friendly, genuine people work here, and they don't try to rip you off. We rented kayaks here, and then went back to snorkel the next day. A tandem kayak for an hour ran us a total of $35, and snorkeling for an hour (including wetsuit, snorkel, and life jacket) ran us about $20 each. The staff were very knowledgeable and helped us with recommendations, getting started, etc. They were really laid back and honest about what we would realistically need, how cold the water was, where we could find fish, etc. We had a great experience both times and I would really recommend renting from here over all of the other kayak and snorkeling rentals on the island. I cannot commend the staff enough. The equipment was kept clean, and we got to see a bunch of fish! read more

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My partner and I did the not so early bird special, such a good deal!! We received a kayak, snorkel gear for 2 + dry bag and food cooler for 4 hours. Came out to $103 with tax. They even have prescription goggles for those with bad vision (like me). read more

10/10 service. Worth every penny! Buy the photo package!! Tip the boat guys! They deserve it!

We had a great time. The cabana on the lawn was perfect. I highly recommend coming here if you have a few days in Catalina. Plan on spending the day here. It is a splurge but well worth it! read more

I was here a few weeks ago with my boyfriend for our anniversary, and we had so much fun! Rentals were super affordable, and the staff were super kind and informative (Thank you Aurora)! Definitely a must do if you're up for an adventure! read more

My family and I took a day trip to Catalina for my mom's birthday to do a little kayaking, snorkeling and lunch. DBOS was amazing. Aurora was so friendly and helpful getting us all the gear we needed for our kayaking and snorkeling adventure. We can't wait to come back and do it again. read more

The best money ever spent was the "Not so early bird special" I reserved my BF and self a tandem kayak for 4hours to a private beach with snorkeling gear and cooler for a picnic and a waterproof bag. The crew was great at giving us instructions. read more

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Great experience kayaking to Frog Rock. Informative tour and we were lucky enough to see sea lions and dolphins! Went at a steady pace and had time to explore on land. Definitely recommended and would go again. read more

Descanso Beach Ocean Sports - Frog Rock - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Avalon, California

The staff was very friendly and helpful. We had a great day of kayaking and snorkeling in a great location. Highly recommend!

Want to have some adventures in Avalon? This is a good place to start. They have kayaks, body suits, life vests, and snorkeling gear available for rent. The prices are reasonable, as there is not much competition in the area. The employees are friendly and will give you some tips to make your trip safe and fun. The water is pretty nice in this area, just be careful of the rocks along the beach! You can see some great fish, and maybe some dolphins and sea lions too! 2 person kayak- 1 hour for $30, 2 hours for $40. They give you a 15 minute grace period as well. One hour is enough to get to frog rock and back. read more

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We had one of the most AMAZING experiences today on our private Kayak tour with Andy. We were all able to make it to a private beach and have a much needed picnic before snorkeling. Our guide, Andy was excellent! He helped us all improve our Kayaking skills. Andy had tons of water,snacks and sandwiches on his Kayak for us all. Andy made our 4 hour journey so memorable: Thank you! Jake helped us with our wet suits and snorkeling gear-Thank you. I Highly recommend you treat yourself to this magical excursion. In gratitude, The Abels Family San Marcos, CA read more

The location of Descanso Beach Ocean Sports attracts a lot of tourists, including myself, as there is a cool looking bar and restaurant right next to their booth. The hourly price of $25 isn't bad at all, considering the other competitors are a ling walk from Descanso Beach Club. As with many SUP rental companies, you can't expect the nicest boards or paddles, as they are meant to take abuse over time and last for a while. The raceboard was heavier than I am used to, but was glad that they did have raceboards available. They cut through the chop better than touring boards. The guys who take your board and life jacket from you, at the end of your session, need lessons in customer service. Nobody said anything welcoming or appreciate the business. The guy who took the board told me to "hop off" the board, even though there are tons of rocks that I would land on. They don't say, "thank you" or "have a nice day" or anything other than basically to give me the board and life jacket. Basically punks with attitudes. read more

My partner and I recently did the Frog Rock kayak tour (about 2.5 hours round trip), and had such a great time! Donald was our kayak tour guide, and made the experience so much fun! We will definitely be back to rent kayaks in the future. read more

My family and I were walking to the Descanso restaurant and we asked a lady who was working at the Sports Kiosk where the entrance was to the restaurant because it has an open concept. She answered back "Just go in sis" with a rude attitude, super unwelcoming and unprofessional vibe. We definitely won't be attending any water activities here. Don't recommend. read more

Aurora and Analisa were very helpful. Customer service overall was the most friendliest of all stores in Catalina. We debated which kayak or snorkeling store to go to and they had the best price from all the stores. Btw, what's happened to all the Joe's stores? It's been only 5 years and 90% of all Joes are gone?! read more

Descanso Beach Ocean Sports - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Avalon, California

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We booked a private 8-hour tour to celebrate my close friend's PhD graduation, and it was incredible! Our guide, Scott, was amazing -- super knowledgeable about the island. He led us up a hiking trail off the beaten path, where we tried lemonade berries, native cherries, and even spotted a fox in his native habitat!! Taking our experience level into account, we kayaked roughly 6-7 miles. It was great to have lunch, snacks, and drinks brought on tour for us (they took our sandwich orders in advance). We were so busy kayaking and snorkeling that we didn't even get to have all the snacks! Scott never made us feel rushed. They even had -7 prescription snorkeling goggles (I'm always happy not to have to wear contacts -- a pleasant surprise!). We had the best day -- thanks so much to Mary and the team for a seamless experience! I hope to come back again in the future! read more

We had a lovely time! Everyone was so nice. I called last minute to ask if they had a kayak tour available and they were able to accommodate the next morning. When we showed up they said the water less than ideal and winds were picking up so they offered us a full refund if we didn't wish to go anymore. But we decided to brave it and had a great time. Donald was our guide he was a great guide. The kids really liked him. One of our favorite activities on this trip. They even provided us with windbreakers to keep us dry. If you're visiting Catalina I definitely recommend a kayak tour to Frog Rock :) read more

The kayaks were fine. The people working the stand at check in (in the morning) were rude. The could care less about helping us and giving any advice. They could barely answer any of our questions, it was like they were put out to help us and take our business. The guy who gave us the paddles was really nice and helpful. read more

Did the kayak tour to frog rock, it was a great experience. Tour guide Donald was very knowledgeable about the history of the island,and very friendly. The tour was about 2.5 hours long. The staff on the island was great too! I would definitely recommend this, and would do it again! read more

I rarely write two reviews for the same business--especially after giving a five star review initially. After all, according to yelp, five stars = "Woohoo! As good as it gets!" But, Descanso Beach Ocean Sports has entered--in my mind--that rare echelon of yelp greatness that few other establishments can ever hope to approach: THE DOUBLE FIVE STAR REVIEW. Allow me to explain. It's been a while since my brother and I got to hang out, so this past weekend, the two of us hopped on a ferry and made our way over to Catalina. After getting off the Catalina Flyer, we made a beeline for DBOS because we figured everyone would be renting kayaks on such a beautiful day. The sun was shining, the clouds were nowhere to be found, and the wind was almost non-existent. But! Even though the weather looked optimal, I made it a point to ask the DBOS rep about wind conditions on the way back (just in case), but she confirmed that there wouldn't be any. If anything, the wind would be to our backs and would help bring us back in. Perfect! So David and I got set up with a tandem yak and off we went toward Willow Cove, a good hour of paddling from Descanso Beach. We got to the cove, banked the kayak, explored, and snorkeled for a good hour. But while we were snorkeling, we noticed the water getting noticeably more turbulent. Afraid we wouldn't return in time, we decided to head back. And good thing we did! When we got back in the water, the wind and the waves really started to pick up! The wind was so strong, it felt like we were paddling in mud. After struggling for about half an hour (and realizing that we still had a whiles to go), I heard a boat come up from behind us. (Oh brother, I thought. These guys are going to make waves with their boat so that we get capsized. We're screwed!) But to my surprise, their actions were the exact opposite! They asked us if we needed a lift. I thought they were joking...but it turns out...they were from Descanso Beach! They had driven a boat all the way out to where we were so that they could offer us a ride back! We were saved! And it turns out that the one who saved us, Randy, was the owner of DBOS! And I didn't even realize it until now, but Randy was also the one who helped me the first time I used DBOS! I hadn't been in need of an open-water rescue back then, but it just goes to show the sort of consistent and kind folks they have over at DBOS. Big thanks to Randy and the rest of the crew who helped us out! We love Descanso Beach Ocean Sports! read more

Descanso Beach Ocean Sports - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Avalon, California

This place was absolutely awesome. Three months later, I'm still talking to everybody about how this was the BEST part of the State side portion of my trip to Mexico. First, I paid maybe $50 (if that) for a three hour expedition. The whole place is family run and they couldn't be more friendly people. Randy was the owner, and the guide who picked me up from the dock and gave a little historical tour on the way to the beach. He's super funny and friendly! Randy's daughter works the cash register and tells you that with the expedition you get equipment for free. We were given the use of dry bags and wet suits (separates, not one big suit) to wear while out on the ocean. You also get your certificate of completion from her when the tour is over. The tour guides were AMAZING. I had never been kayaking before, and I left my vacation partner back at the docks. I'm SO glad I got a single person kayak. It is so thrilling to be out on the ocean, and to look over the side and see fish swimming underneath you. I wish I could have stayed on the ocean all day. Kayaking is an excellent workout, and we took a cookie break (also included) on turtle rock. Our guides gave us a history of the island while we were out on the ocean - it's like a historical walking tour, but in a kayak. Hands down, best experience I've had in a long time. I want to go back so badly. Don't worry about being a novice - it's really easy. There was even an 8 year old girl and her dad in one of the two person kayaks (granted, her dad did a lot of paddling when she got too tired.) I would 10000% recommend going out on any number of kayaking expeditions with this company. I had a great experience that I can't wait to do again! read more

I love the beach...I love drinking. To have both of these things are the same time (legally) is a dream come true. Additionally this beach is beautiful, the water is clean and the waves are...there is none! perfect for wimps like me. It costs $2 for adults and is free for children under 12. The reality of the matter is that it's free for everyone you just walk in, no one checks. First things first, the bar! My boyfriend and I got a pitcher or this lemonade stuff...Kettle one and lemonade, strong as fuck for $25. It says it serves 5 people but I don't buy it. It's good for 2. They have servers walking around on the sand ready to bring your drunk ass a drink. perfect-o. Now why did I dock 2 stars from this seemingly heavenly beach? #1. It's tiny, shit gets packed! #2 and most importaint. there is no sand..only rocks. This tears up your feet! I wanted to cry..at one point i just wanted to give up and stand there till someone came to pick me up and carry me back. Some lady on the shore was literally laughing at me & yelling that I needed shoes - thanks bitch. Apparently they sell them there but I was to traumatized to venture back out. Drinking on the shore is just fine with me. read more

Descanso Beach Ocean Sports - relaxing at the beach! - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Avalon, California

I came to Catalina for a friends birthday and we decided to book the willow cove kayak tour for nine people. Reasons why I believe this was totally worth the $104 dollars. 1) they provide all the gear from wetsuits, snorkel gear, flippers, water shoes and even water and food! 2) you kayak for about 2.5 hours which is a pretty decent amount of time 3) you get to snorkel for about 30 mins ~ 1 hour so worth it 4) they even prepare for you a nice lunch which was absolutely delicious! 5) our tour guide Bryan was the absolute best!! He is a really awesome tour guide I would totally recommend him if you can !! Overall great experience! Just make sure you get enough sunblock on because you will burn. read more

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Highly recommended! The staff were helpful, the prices were reasonable and the gear that these guys rent out is good quality. I was so happy to find a place that rented proper paddleboards! The good: - They not only offer all sorts of activities (kayaking, paddleboarding, etc.), they offer boards and boats to accommodate experience levels. They have single kayaks, double kayaks, even sizes just right for kids. I was SO HAPPY to be rented proper paddleboards, not those big, flat, cheap kayaks other places insist on. - The location. Descanso beach is beautiful, yes. But better yet, it's situated in calm sets of coves that allow you to venture pretty far down the Catalina coast and explore! - The staff. They brought the boards down the water, were there to help you get in/on or give you a push if you needed it. They also assisted people getting out of the water to ensure no one hit the boards on rocks (or faces on boards). The eh: - The beach is very rocky, making walking on it barefoot uncomfortable. Bring water shoes. read more

Spectacular! This excursion was the highlight of our vacation. The company is family run and everything is done really well. First they give you a little tour of the island, telling you about its history. Then they give you instructions about how to use your kayak and outfit you. They have water shoes, water pants, jackets, waterproof pouches for your stuff, and life jackets--in short, everything you need. They also give you a bottle of water to sip as you go. The guide led us into the ocean and told us all about the island and its wildlife. We rowed for a bit more than a mile until we reached Frog Rock, a beach that is only accessible by kayak. There we explored the beach, collected shells, and enjoyed a yummy cookie. Then we headed back to the base, enjoying the clear water, spectacular views, and the warm December sun. It was a wonderful trip and we give them our highest recommendation. read more

Descanso Beach Ocean Sports - Beautiful views on the walking tour. They told us all about the local landmarks and the island's history. - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Avalon, California

Kayaked here a few times, but this time we tried Stand up paddle (SUP) boarding. Although they gave minimal instruction for beginners, the staff was very nice and helpful. We went a few minutes over and they managed to round our time down to the nearest hour. read more

Descanso Beach Ocean Sports - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Avalon, California

The service was amazing! I came with a group of 9, some who have gone kayaking already and some who were experiencing it for the first time. They were very professional, informative, and knowledgeable.There was someone who showed us the best place to go, someone who taught us how to kayak and pulled us back in when we were finished. We rented 3 double kayaks, 1 single kayak, wet suits, and snorkeling equipment for 2 hours. It was a fair price and everything was in good condition. There is a student discount, and you get the second hour free for snorkeling. read more