Joe&#x27;s Rent A Boat

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1 year ago

What a fun experience! This was my first time renting a motorboat and pedal boat from Catalina. The process was smooth and instructions were clear. My friends and I did 1 hour for both activities, but I highly recommend doing 2 hours for the motorboat. For the pedal boat, you're only allowed to stay in the area where all the boats are so if you're looking to go further, rent a kayak or motorboat. You're allowed to go further out with the motorboat and with one hour, we were able to explore a bit of both sides of the island. If you'd like to explore further, definitely add more hours. read more

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Vivian L.

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27 days ago

**RACIST ESTABLISHMENT - AVOID GOING HERE IF YOU ARE A PERSON OF COLOR** I am writing this to warn other people of color about the unacceptable treatment we experienced here when my sister and I rented a pedal boat. After our hour was up and we pulled into the dock, the male staff member on the dock looked directly at us and yelled "chinita" several times to make sure we heard him. To make matters worse, when telling me to drop off my life jacket, he slammed his hand against the bin and aggressively yelled at me to throw it in there. Shouting racial descriptors repeatedly at paying customers and acting physically aggressive is threatening and completely unacceptable. It made us feel incredibly unsafe and we don't intend to bring our business here again. I'd look into alternative rental options on the island instead like Wet Spot Rentals by the boat terminal, unless you appreciate being harassed for being a person of color. read more

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Grace S.

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1 year ago

Very easy to rent and great prices. We went on labor day and we literally just walked up, paid $25 for 1 hr rental, and hd them store our stuff. Then we walked down and easily got onto the kayak! Life jackets are provided and the location on the pier makes it really easy to access the rest of the kayaking area. read more

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Beth S.

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1 year ago

While on a cruise that stopped at Catalina Island, we decided to rent a boat from Joe's rent a boat. It's conveniently located on the pier. The staff were very friendly and our boat was simple but nice. Our kids enjoyed going out on the boat and seeing the fish jumping in and out of the water. Although the sun wasn't shining that day, we still had a fantastic time on our small outboard boat. I feel their prices are very reasonable and I would definitely book with Joe again! Thank you for a wonderful time. read more

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Nick A.

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9 months ago

This is a must if staying in Catalina. Kids had a blast fishing and the boats are very easy to drive. Staff is friendly and will tell you where the fish are. read more

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Nathan P.

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1 year ago

One of the few things I will Do every time I go to Avalon. You'll see fancy ads for jet skis or para sailing, but this is the thing to do. Get to cruise out around the coastline and see what you can't from the shore. Best one or two hours you can spend on the island. Bring some snacks and sunscreen. read more

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Elisa G.

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2 years ago

I hadn't been paddle boating since I was a kid so I made sure to find this activity in Catalina. The guys were nice and our paddle boating was so fun! We got our lower body workout in read more

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Peter E.

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4 years ago

One of the main reasons we made the trip to Catalina last week was to rent kayaks and paddle around out in the harbor and ocean -- looking for sea life along the way. (We saw plenty!) My wife and son had previously rented kayaks from Joe's, so after getting fueled up with caffeine at Catalina Island Brew House, we made a beeline there. It wasn't busy at all. Last week of September, mid-week. Still warm and beautiful but no summer crowds. Rented two kayaks for an hour -- no problem. I really like that Joe's has bins to throw your shoes, socks, and other stuff you don't want to get wet into. Great service, and the guys on the docks were helpful and friendly. We got back maybe 10 minutes late, but the guy behind the counter let us slide -- we paid for just the one hour. (Thank you!) The only negative was that the kayaks had a bit of water in the bottoms when they gave them to us. I didn't care since I figured we'd get wet and wore my swimsuit, but my wife had on jeans shorts and they got soaked. But overall, a great, 5-star experience for us. read more

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Alyssa T.

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2 years ago

There are several places to rent kayaks from, but this is the best based on price and location. They offer a variety of rentals for different activities but we opted to rent a double kayak this time around. We were assisted very quickly and they were very friendly when answering our questions. They also offer to store any belongings that you don't want to get wet. It was a smooth process and it was a very enjoyable experience overall. read more

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Cyril K.

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2 years ago

Best way to spend the day in Catalina. Explore the coastline near Avalon and get away from the crowds.

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Ben B.

1

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4 years ago

Rented a 20HP boat for an hour or so on a Saturday morning. No wait, great service and super fun -- highly recommend. read more

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JD O.

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3 years ago

Stopped by this location on our small Catalina Trip. We met some guy on the pier fishing and we were running out of bait, hooks and weights. I showed up here to purchase those items and was a bit shocked when I saw it was $75 for a small bag of 5 hooks, 2 bags of weights (4 pieces in each bag) 3 shop towels and some earrings for my wife. I figured, the price of them being so close and readily available. I went back to fishing, and a couple minutes later, I noticed my wife was not there anymore. So I asked my friend where she had gone, and then I see her walking back, down the boardwalk...Turns out, they had mistakenly overcharged me almost $50. And THEY CAME TO LOOK FOR US, to give us a refund! WOW!! Awesome customer service and truly honest people. This is my go-to spot from now on! Thank you for your honesty Joe's. You have a customer for life! read more

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Dina J.

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2 years ago

We were really excited to drive a boat when coming out here. The whole experience out in catlena island was beautiful. Unfortunately we came across a older gentleman when we were ready to check out. Told us we shouldn't be driving a boat unless we have been on one before. There was a man that was checking out before us and I asked him if he has driven one before and he said no. I do feel it's because there was 3 women asking for a boat. So unless your a man your good to go. read more

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James J.

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2 years ago

Cool place to rent a boat! Friendly, very helpful! And courteous. Perfect location right on the green pier.

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Debbie F.

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2 years ago

Joe's Boat Rental is great! The boats run well, are clean, and we're always greeted with a smile and a doggy biscuit! Thank you for service we can count on! Happy times! read more

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Eriyanna A.

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4 years ago

Had an amazing time renting the 20 HP boat and cruising along the coast. Was some of the most fun I had while visiting the island. Would have given a full rating but the service we received while purchasing the rental was super passive aggressive for some reason; the guy helping us out "Bobby" disliked tourists?? Anyway, had a good time despite that experience. read more

Joe's Rent A Boat - Front rental desk - Boating Near Me - Avalon, California

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Jessica V.

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3 years ago

Joe was so sweet, amazing and funny. Such and easy process to rent a kayak and very reasonable prices. They have my forever business.

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Ida C.

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10 years ago

My friends and I stumbled upon this place because we were interested in stand up paddle boarding. The guy in charge was extremely rude and condescending. When we asked him questions, he interrupted and said, "are you going to let me finish talking?" WTF. I can go on and on about how rude he was but in the end, we decided to not do business with him. We asked another business and even they said that a lot of customers have complained about how rude that guy was. Don't waste your money on this business. read more

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Randy R.

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5 years ago

Best activity in Avalon. We loved cruising down the coast seeing the island. Randy R read more

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Daniel C.

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6 years ago

They close for the season this year in October 25 on Sunday then they open back up the week before Easter.

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AnonymousYelper A.

0

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4 years ago

Rented a pedal boat. $20/hour. If you have an odd number of people (like with kids), you can swap out people during your time so you don't have to rent an additional pedal boat for a solo rider. read more

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Minda H.

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4 years ago

Great place. Couldn't believe Jay was still around. When I saw him standing behind the counter. It was like seeing a living legend. Haven't seen him since the 70s I remember his dad Joe behind the counter. Thank you for all the great memories I've got for years of coming over here with my parents growing up. read more

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Kate M.

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8 years ago

We had a great experience at Joe's Rent a Boat! The owner explained everything to us very well and the process of renting was quick and easy. The boats seemed to be well maintained and in great condition. I also thought the prices were very reasonable. Next time we are in Catalina, I will definitely do this again! read more

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Corey J.

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6 years ago

Joe's Rent A Boat is true American history ! I highly suggest you take the opportunity to simply visit or at the least buy a t-shirt and ask about the history of this business. If you're lucky, Jay will be in and available to tell you the history of the business that's been in his family since the 1940's. His photographs, eye witness accounts, and personal stories of the island are so charismatic he takes you back to a time in the island we can only dream about today. If you take pride in the American Dreams and supporting local business Joe's Rent A Boat is a cant miss!!! read more

Joe's Rent A Boat - Joe taking out his "private collection" photos to talk with me about old fish stories from his younger days. - Boating Near Me - Avalon, California

Joe's Rent A Boat - Jay showing me a picture of his dad (original owner of the business), older brother and himself - Boating Near Me - Avalon, California

Joe's Rent A Boat - The artwork on boat rental contracts that was drawn up in the 1960's is still seeing today. American History still alive and thriving! - Boating Near Me - Avalon, California

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Michael M.

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3 years ago

Amazing service and a great time! The owner was really nice and the boat was easy to drive!!

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Maryam G.

40

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5 years ago

Best service & friendliest staff. Family owned and best prices for the funnest activity in Avalon. We always ask for restaurant/ activity recommendations and they really know the best spots. Definitely recommend and can't wait to come back, resent a boat and catch lots of yellowtail, haha! read more

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Riley S.

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3 years ago

A group of us came in early on the ferry and needed to kill time. So happy we found this place because the boat was the highlight of the weekend! read more

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Kirk D.

20

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18 years ago

This is really really really really really really really really really FUN!!!! it looks like they hiked up the rental price almost double since ive been there last, a couple years back. we rented the 10 hp boat for a hr and it was a AWESOME way to see the coast. They let us go about 1mile past the Casino which is plenty to feel free as a bird. this is a Must do on the Island as is the golf carts. read more

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Elisha C.

367

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12 years ago

affordable price for one hour. we brought our kids on the boat with us and they had a blast! What I liked about this place is that you are literally free to go as far as you'd like. No restrictions, really. We had a wonderful time and the weather and water was perfect. If I come back to Catalina, I will definitely motor boat again:) read more

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Cindy L.

179

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15 years ago

Chill, no frills place to get your water activity on. Prices are comparable to back on the mainland (which was pretty surprising). We did: Peddle boating: 1 hr for $15 plus $5 refundable deposit (2 seater) Peddle boating is really fun! It is self contained, so you can bring bottled water and not worry about getting wet. Good cardioooooo for the day. Kayaking: 1 hr for $20 plus $10 refundable deposit (double kayak) Ouch, my arms always hurt after kayaking. Much rather peddle boat. These kayaks have holes, so your bottom will definitely get wet! Put valuables in a ziplock bag if you want to keep it with you, or you can leave it with the attendants. The waters are a little bit rough, so I wouldn't bring anything that you don't want to get water damaged (potential risk of the boat turning over). They also provide life jackets. read more

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Alice C.

3

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10

6 years ago

The people here are super condescending. It was hard to hear them through the window glass and the employees' masks, and instead of clarifying, they treated us as if we couldn't read English. When we got to the boat, we weren't given a clear explanation on how to operate the engine. As a result, we couldn't turn off the engine to enjoy the ocean and harbor. We raised this issue politely when we returned, and they scolded us--twice, by two different employees--for not having asked enough questions before heading out. If you're looking for a pleasant experience, I'd recommend going elsewhere. read more

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John S.

2

4

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6 years ago

This business (family-owned, at that) is great. I'd ignore the weenies below me, and must say that the guys were great and explained where we could go and made recommendations before we departed. The crew on the dock was pleasant and informative as well. Unlike most rental places, here you're not weighed down by waivers, life vests and red-tape related nonsense. Just a no-BS good time on the water with a boat. We had a great time on the water and would definitely come back. Value was great considering a kayak is half the price per hour at some places nearby. Keep it up guys read more

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Patricia F.

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26

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6 years ago

We decided to rent a small boat for 3 hours. With me being a girl, to go potty in a 3 hour window is realistic. We had to come all the way back into dock to get a ladder after 1 hour. They FORGOT to give us any way out of boat. But yet they encourage you to bring snacks, drinks etc. If there's women on the boat how do you expect them to go potty with no ladder & unable to tie up anywhere? We're not allowed to go within 300 of shore. Total disrespect. They actually said Catalina women should be able to get back in the boat by themselves. I'm a long time boater & I know better then this. They don't deserve any cudos. Well with your prices & absolutely No Boat Ladder, You really SUCK. Why do I want to drop all this $ to you. read more

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Eric H.

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4 years ago

The guy with white hair, I believe is the owner, is a jerk. We asked questions about where we could go in the boat and he got mad he wasn't in charge of the conversation and refused service to my wife and me. He has no respect for customers. We left and got great service at the Descanso Beach renting an ocean kayak. read more

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Melinda H.

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5 years ago

The most fun activity on the island! We've vacationed in Avalon every year for over 25 years and always rent boats (and now kayaks too) from Joe's. Jay is super friendly and has great family pictures and stories to share of island life growing up in Avalon. His father is the original "Joe". read more

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Priscilla O.

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8 years ago

Had so much fun! It was nerve racking but we did it. None of us had driven a boat before but the guys helped us out. Would def do it again. read more

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Natiizy J.

19

9

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8 years ago

I rented 20HP boat for 3 people. We fished about 5 hours. You can catch ton of fish. Only bad thing was that anchor wasn't working well. We were drifted away all the time... Other than that, it's little pricy but you can have good exp. read more

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Lilit P.

0

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3 years ago

Rented a 20 HP boat and was out there for about 3.5 hours. My fiancé and I really enjoyed being able to fish and the sea lions we got to see. The reason I am not giving 5 stars is for a couple reasons. 1. The guy helping us made us feel like we were an inconvenience to him. He wasn't super honest with us as well. We were excited to go out of the boat and take a swim however our boat didn't have a ladder and we didn't feel safe to get out and get back into the boat. He decided to let us know that you have to ask for that ahead of time after we returned. Seems like a piece of information you should tell people prior, especially when you're paying over $250 for an experience. 2.The life jackets they give you also don't seem like they would protect you at all. We had a lot of fun and I don't regret going on the boat but the guy helping us was super annoying to converse with. It's not hard to act friendly. read more

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Allen S.

447

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7 years ago

Joes is an Island Institution, way back when I'm in my 50's now, Joe and his his son Jay were always welcomed us back each summer as we were there every summer as my father before me. Sometimes the crew is cranky, but it's usually because they are bombarded with questions that don't have anything to do with their business. They are NOT an information booth. There boats albeit may have had quite a few birthdays but they work and they don't break down. If you want your time to be epic in Catalina, check this place out. read more

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Pedi H.

565

68

14

7 years ago

These boats are ancient. The engine is loud as hell. The largest boat that fits 6 can only speed @ max 20 mph. You're told to be 300 feet away from the shore and the life jackets are the worst ever. These jackets are the type that would suffocate you before they save you. I would never attempt to rent a boat from this place or use any of their gears. The people working there are super nice and helpful though. You're better off walking to Descanso Beach and using their gear for activities. Major thumbs down to this place because of their equipment. read more

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More info about Joe's Rent A Boat

46 Pleasure Pier
Avalon, CA 90704
Directions
(310) 510-0455
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.joesrentaboat.com/

Hours

What time does Joe's Rent A Boat open?

Joe's Rent A Boat opens at 8:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Joe's Rent A Boat close?

Joe's Rent A Boat closes at 6:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Indoor Amenities

Does Joe's Rent A Boat allow dogs?

Yes, Joe's Rent A Boat allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Joe's Rent A Boat have bike parking?

Yes, Joe's Rent A Boat has bike parking.

Does Joe's Rent A Boat have parking?

Yes, Joe's Rent A Boat has parking options.

Other Amenities

Is Joe's Rent A Boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Joe's Rent A Boat is wheelchair accessible.

From the Business

Meet the Business Owner: Joe G.

Joe is the owner wanting to expand his business

Review Highlights - Joe's Rent A Boat

“Nice place to rent a little boat and spend an hour or two exploring the coast of Catalina.”

Mentioned in 13 reviews

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Beautiful boat ride

Captain Lance and 11 year old Teddy with his first yellowtail

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Catalina Private Charter

5.0(7 reviews)

I really am just at a complete loss for words. I was lucky enough to be chosen to be the best man…read morefor my best friends wedding and with that came the responsibility of picking a bachelor party experience that would matter and stand out. I didn't want to do the traditional grimy old experience, I wanted something that represented what meant most to my friend. Somehow by the grace of God I stumbled upon Captain Ralphs website through a review I had found in a google search. There was only 2 reviews on yelp from 4 years ago and I wasn't even sure if he was still in business but I decided to give him a call. This past weekend was single handedly 3 of the best days of my entire life as well as everyone in the bachelor party. From the moment we met Captain Ralph at 8am on Friday I knew this trip was going to be different. We all gathered on board and set sail and he had a mandatory meeting where he wanted to specifically ask each of us what he could do to make this a memorable experience. He explained to us about his culture and family and got to know about each of our histories and families as well. This charismatic floating Filipino blended in with my group of friends beyond belief. He was so hilarious and so familiar it felt like we had known him for years. Upon arriving to Catalina, Ralph knew everyone! The harbor patrol, the boat taxis, the local spots and natives, and now us. We had such an incredible time exploring Avalon but truly the best experiences of the weekend were on The Mabuhay. I thought at this point that Ralph was just an extraordinarily hospitable host who knew a lot of people but on day 2 to my surprise, on our way to two harbors he proved to be an exceptional tour guide and just the type of friend who encourages the best out of you. He took us to a fishing spot and we were catching fish like crazy and he was just cheering us on! He then took us to a cliff jumping spot and to a sea cave and again was just rooting us on and taking pictures. This is the type of person you want around. He just makes you feel so welcomed and supported. He taught us how to set up our fishing hooks, how to cut the bait, and beyond that he even cooked our fish! I hate fish but this was one of the best meals I've ever had, and overall the best day of my life and that is saying a lot. We all felt like kids again and I have never laughed as hard as I did this weekend. This experience was life changing. If you like camping, this is for you. If you like adventure, this is for you! If you just like sight seeing and great conversation, this is for you! But if you want to know what it's like to truly bond with the people you love then you need to book this experience with no one other than Captain Ralph. The whole trip I was thinking of who else and when else I could book this experience again, looking for any excuse that I could think of because it was just that great. Thank you so so much brother, you have truly become one of the family! Looking forward to our next expedition, MABUHAYYYY!!

My family and I were lucky to have found the Mabuhay! And Captain Ralph- (we called him Frank-…read morehe-he). We met the crew, Ralph, Veronica, and Patrick in Avalon. They met us at the dock, and we boarded the Mabuhay! and off we went on our weekend grand adventure! We had some serious fishermen in our group, and they were not disappointed, Ralph took us to the fish! We SUP'd and kayaked through caves, snorkeled, and dove for lobster. We had the most fantastic trip, and Ralph and his family were a big part of making it the best time ever! We can't wait to go back again!

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Catalina Adventure Tours

3.9(401 reviews)

0.5 mi

We recently took the 50-minute scenic island tour with Catalina Adventure Tours, and overall, it…read morewas a great experience! The tour does an amazing job of hitting the highlights around Avalon, sweeping you up past the historic Catalina Casino, Lover's Cove, and all the way up to the incredible vantage points near Mt. Ada. The time absolutely flew by-the 50 minutes went by so fast because the narration was engaging and the views of the harbor below were stunning. It's a fantastic, quick way to get a layout of the island and soak in some great local history. The only real downside to note is that you aren't able to actually get off the vehicle to stretch your legs or take photos. Every picture has to be snapped directly from your seat in the open-air safari truck.

* Did the glass boat and submarine tour- and highly recommend both…read more *Apart from the fun adventure of viewing marine life, the tour guides on both the expedition were knowledgeable and shared the island history as well as marine life education (you learn a lot!) * if you have issues with closed spaces, I don't recommend the submarine adventure *Expect some steps for both rides. If you can't do even a few stairs at all with guard rails... then reconsider * On both tours you have the option to purchase fish food that brings sea life closer to the viewing window- cash only and so plan accordingly. *Fun for all ages

Catalina casino from the water.

July 2, 2025 | Wednesday | Submarine!

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Descanso Beach Ocean Sports

4.6(164 reviews)

0.7 mi

Highly recommend the tour to Frog Rock. Dario was an amazing tour guide and truly patient and…read moreinformative with all of our questions. This place knows their stuff and Dario is an incredible asset to this team.

Solid crew and a great experience all around. We rented…read morekayaks 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.