Just off the coast of California is a string of beautiful islands known as the Channel Islands, the most popular - and the only one with an actual town - being Catalina. I can tell you from personal experience what a delightful destination Catalina Island is. Most people take the ferry from Long Beach (although you can take a helicopter!) which takes about an hour one way. But there is another, far more exciting, way to cross this ocean. You can take a jet ski to Catalina, CA, and it is the adventure of a lifetime.
Founded in 2011, Jetski2Catalina invites adventure-seekers to “ride with us to paradise” on a one-day vacation you will never forget.
It begins in Long Beach, California, with an orientation, equipment fitting, and a decision - ride solo or double. Jet skis, fuel, wetsuits, safety equipment, snorkeling gear, expert guides, and photos and videos of your trip are all included.
You do not need to be an expert at jet skiing or to have previous experience. The guides will tell you everything you need to know and perfectly prepare you for a safe and enjoyable adventure - and they are with you the entire way.
The exhilarating ride on the open ocean from Long Beach to Catalina takes about two hours, but that is just the beginning of what you will experience.
Along the way, you may see dolphins, California sea lions, whales, and other wonders of the Pacific. But expect to do more than just pass them by at high speed!
Before reaching the island, there will be four different stops to get in the water and swim with these amazing marine animals. You have a good chance of seeing strange and interesting creatures like the Mola, or sunfish, that live in the waters around Catalina.
As you get closer to the island, you will start to see the colorful fish that live in the reefs around Catalina, such as the bright orange Garibaldi, the California State fish.
After numerous stops, you will arrive at Two Harbors on Catalina Island where you will have three hours of free time. You can chill on the beach, sunbathe, swim, snorkel, do some cliff jumping, play beach games, go hiking, and of course, eat lunch.
There are restaurants and a convenience store where you can purchase food and beverages. You are also welcome to bring a lunch. In fact, your jet ski can hold two 30-liter backpacks, so you can pack food in one and clothes in the other if you’d like.
One of the coolest activities at Two Harbors is exploring the sea caves along Blue Cavern Point.
Jet ski adventures are offered year-round and can even include an overnight stay in Avalon on Catalina Island. So, what do you think? Would you travel to the island by jet ski? If you have been to Catalina, what are your favorite spots and activities? If you are ready for the most unforgettable ocean adventure, head over to the Jetski2Catalina website or check out Jetski2Catalina on Facebook. If you don’t live in the Long Beach area and prefer to book a room the night before your big adventure, book a room next door at the beautiful Hotel Maya and wake up ready to go!
We love nothing more than sharing fun ideas - check out more of our favorite Southern California outdoor activities and nature adventures.
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