Discover the magic of the Californian coast!
Experience the best places to paddleboard in Santa Catalina Island, surrounded by beautiful scenery and diverse marine life.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure across crystal-clear waters.
Let the island’s charm captivate you as you glide into paradise.
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Santa Catalina Island
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Avalon Harbor
- ????️ Location Type: Bay
- ???? Access Point: Descanso Beach Club (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Mild ocean swells, protected bay
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Garibaldi fish, dolphins, sea lions
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Catalina Casino, rugged coastline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Limited boat zones, respect marine reserves
Avalon Harbor on Santa Catalina Island offers a unique island paddleboarding experience. The historic Catalina Casino dominates the view, but the real beauty is underwater.
Crystal clear waters and marine life, especially the bright orange Garibaldi fish, make every paddle memorable.
#2 Two Harbors
- ????️ ️Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Two Harbors Dive & Recreation Center (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Mild ocean currents, protected coves
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Sea lions, dolphins, various fish species
- ️????️ Landmarks & Views: Isthmus Cove, Catalina’s West End
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to designated zones, respect marine fauna
Two Harbors, located on the west end of Santa Catalina Island, offers a more tranquil paddleboarding experience. The calm waters of Isthmus Cove provide a safe haven for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can venture out along the island’s rugged coastline.
Keep an eye out for frolicking sea lions and dolphins as you explore the crystal blue waters.
#3 Lovers Cove
- ????️ ️Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Lovers Cove Beach (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, protected cove
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Garibaldi fish, sea stars, kelp forests
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Rocky coastline, submerged seascapes
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Snorkel zone; avoid disturbing marine life
Lovers Cove, near Avalon Harbor, is a sheltered cove renowned for its vibrant marine life and clear waters. Paddle along the rocky coastline and explore the underwater seascapes teeming with Garibaldi fish and colorful sea stars.
This calm cove is perfect for snorkelers and paddleboarders alike, offering a peaceful and enchanting adventure.
#4 Long Point
- ????️ ️Location Type: Channel
- ???? Access Point: Descanso Beach Ocean Sports (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Light ocean swells, sheltered bay
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Sea lions, various fish species, dolphins
- ️????️ Landmarks & Views: Descanso Canyon, sweeping vistas of the island
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Beware of boat traffic, respect marine reserves
Long Point, situated near the Descanso Beach Club, provides a challenging yet rewarding paddleboarding experience. The sheltered bay offers a serene setting for paddlers, while the channel leading to Long Point presents a more thrilling adventure with light ocean swells.
Sweeping vistas of the island’s stunning landscapes serve as a delightful backdrop for this memorable paddle.
#5 Pebbly Beach
- ????️ ️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Pebbly Beach Road (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, protected cove
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Garibaldi fish, sea lions, dolphins
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Picturesque rocky shoreline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Stay aware of boat traffic, respect local rules
Pebbly Beach, just east of Avalon, offers a serene and picturesque paddleboarding spot. The calm and protected cove allows paddleboarders to explore the rocky shoreline, teeming with vibrant marine life such as Garibaldi fish, sea lions, and dolphins.
This lesser-known spot provides a peaceful and charming coastal escape for paddleboarding enthusiasts.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Santa Catalina Island?
Popular spots for paddle boarding in Santa Catalina Island include Descanso Beach, Two Harbors, and Lovers Cove.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Santa Catalina Island?
No, registration is not necessary for paddle boards in Santa Catalina Island.
When is the best time to paddle board in Santa Catalina Island?
The prime time for paddle boarding in Santa Catalina Island is between late spring and early fall due to pleasant weather conditions.
