One pier. One phone. A walk full of little surprises. This Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour turns Avalon into a game board, with a smartphone-friendly challenge route you can do at your pace. I like that it’s a team game (1 to 6 people) with 19 clues to solve, and I like that you don’t need to wait for an in-person guide. One thing to consider: there’s no built-in completion prize, and the difficulty can be tough for younger kids.

You’ll start at Green Pleasure Pier and wander through classic Avalon spots while your screen prompts the next task. You can score points for correct answers and aim for the leaderboard, which adds a fun bit of friendly pressure without making you feel rushed. It’s the kind of activity that works best when you’re okay slowing down and noticing details.

If you’re expecting a polished app experience, read this with care: the game is accessible through a web browser on your phone, and if your tab/browser is closed, you can resume instead of restarting (handy if your device acts up). Also, you’re walking about 2 miles total, so comfortable shoes matter.

Quick Take: Catalina’s scavenger hunt, at a glance

• Self-guided, no meeting-with-a-guide delay so you can start when it fits your day
• 19 smartphone challenges for a game feel, not just a casual stroll
• Team play for 1–6 people (great for families and friend groups)
• Route covers key Avalon highlights including Green Pleasure Pier and the Catalina Island Casino
• Score points + leaderboard for that I want to win vibe
• About a 2-mile walk with an easy pace you can control

Walking a game route through Avalon and the pier

The big appeal here is simple: you get a structured walk without having to follow a guide like a marching band. Your phone becomes the brains of the operation, serving up clues, questions, and the next place to look. That structure is what makes it more than just sightseeing—you’ll actually slow down and hunt for answers.

I also like that the game format pushes you to compare what you see with what the clue is asking for. Even if you don’t know Avalon well, the prompts guide your attention: signs, buildings, storefronts, and the waterfront feel like part of the puzzle instead of just background.

The main drawback is pacing and age range. One reviewer flagged that for a seven-year-old, it can feel hard, and without a small prize at the end, the effort may not feel fully “rewarded.” If you’re traveling with young kids, you’ll probably want to be ready to help read clues and talk through answers.

Starting at Green Pleasure Pier: where the game begins

Your starting point is 1 Green Pleasure Pier, Avalon, CA 90704, and the activity ends back at the same place. The route is designed around the pier and downtown Avalon area, which is convenient because you’re not stuck with a long “out and back” trek to reach your starting point.

Timing is flexible. The hunt runs during 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily (and the activity is listed as operating across multiple dates through the end of 2026), and you can play any time that fits your schedule. That matters if you’re juggling ferry arrivals, a late lunch, or a day that’s partly sunny and partly foggy.

Practical tip: if you need help with first steps, look for information inside the pier area. One frustrated experience described the first clue not matching where they expected it, with the solution being to go into the pier visitor area and get maps. You won’t need that every time, but it’s a smart fallback if you’re off by a block or two.

Playing on your phone in Avalon (and what to do if it glitches)

This hunt is played on your smartphone, but not as a standalone app. One message from the provider clarifies there is no mobile app; instead, you access the experience through the website using your phone’s web browser.

That approach can be great for quick access—you don’t need to download anything. It can also reduce storage headaches. The trade-off is that browser tabs can misbehave, especially if your phone locks the screen or you switch apps.

Here’s the helpful part: if you accidentally close the browser/tab, you don’t have to start over. The provider indicates you can log in again and hit Resume to jump back into the hunt right where you left off. If your device is temperamental, that “resume” option is worth its weight in gold.

Stop 1: Avalon streets and waterfront sights for clue hunting

The first stop is Avalon, where the game invites you to explore the historic waterfront town feel at a slower, more observant pace. This is where you’ll likely spend the most time scanning storefront fronts, public areas, and the little visual cues that clues rely on.

Why this part is valuable: Avalon can be busy in bursts, but when you’re hunting answers, crowds stop feeling like noise. They become just another variable in your quest. You’ll keep moving between viewpoints, and your brain stays engaged instead of drifting into passive walking.

Potential drawback: if your group wants a totally laid-back stroll with zero brainwork, the Avalon phase can feel like “work disguised as fun.” For me, the fix is simple—set a team mood. If one person is better at reading clues and another is better at spotting details, you’ll stay synced and have a smoother time.

Stop 2: Green Pleasure Pier challenges and getting your bearings

The second stop brings you back to Green Pleasure Pier. This is a smart move for the route design because the pier area is an easy reference point. It’s also visually distinct from the street portion of Avalon, so you’ll feel a clear change in scenery while the hunt keeps you moving.

This is also where you might want to double-check that you’re actually “starting” from the right place in the game flow. A tough experience described the first clue as not being where they thought it should be, and getting confirmation/mapping help from inside the pier visitor area. If you’re the type who likes to verify things early, take 2 minutes at the pier hub before you begin walking deeper into town.

If your group includes mixed ages, this pier segment can be a good place to regroup. You get enough landmarks to orient quickly, and the clues give you something to do while others are catching their breath.

Stop 3: Catalina Island Casino and the feel of classic Avalon

The third stop is the Catalina Island Casino. Even if you’re not there for a show, it’s one of those “stop-and-look” buildings that pulls your eyes toward details. For a scavenger hunt, that’s perfect. Clues tend to work best when there are strong visual anchors nearby.

What I like about this final major stop: you’re ending the game sequence with a landmark that feels like the real Avalon experience, not just another street corner. The casino area gives you a natural sense of completion, even though the game still counts challenges.

One consideration: depending on your exact game flow, you may need to focus while walking through busy pedestrian areas. Keep your phone brightness manageable so you’re not constantly staring down at the screen. A quick glance to confirm the task is usually enough—then you can look around like a visitor should.

How the 19 challenges and leaderboard change the day

This hunt isn’t just “find the answers.” It’s built around 19 challenges, with points for correct responses and a leaderboard to chase. That turns a 2-mile walk into something with momentum.

For groups, the challenge count matters because it gives you enough variety to stay interested. You’re not doing the same type of question repeatedly, and you’re not just checking off one sight after another. The structure also helps prevent the hunt from feeling too random—your next step is always justified.

If you like games with a bit of competition, the leaderboard is a motivating nudge. If your group prefers cooperation, leaderboard pressure can still work as a shared goal. Just set expectations early: you’re playing to have a good time, and the leaderboard is bonus bragging rights.

The biggest disappointment angle is the lack of a completion prize. One reviewer suggested a prize or a small incentive, especially for families. If you’re traveling with kids, consider setting your own internal reward—ice cream, arcade time, or a souvenir photo—so effort feels worth it even without an official finish token.

Price and value: is $24.50 per person worth it?

At $24.50 per person for about 2 hours, this is priced as an activity, not a free walking tour. The value question comes down to how much you enjoy puzzle-solving and whether you’ll treat the route like a game.

Here’s where it can be a great deal:

• You’re getting a planned route with 19 tasks, so you’re not wasting time figuring out what to do next.
• You can do it at a time that fits your day, which saves stress when your itinerary is tight.
• You’re walking only about 2 miles, so it’s manageable for many people.

Here’s when it may feel pricey:

• If you don’t love scavenger-style challenges, you may end up feeling like you paid for instructions you could’ve found on your own.
• If you’re bringing younger kids, the lack of an end prize may make it feel unsatisfying for them.
• If your phone or browser struggles, you may lose time, and time loss is painful when you’ve paid per person.

Group discounts are mentioned, which can help. If you can travel with 4–6 people, you’ll often get more “cost per laugh” than if you’re going solo or with only one adult partner.

Group size, pace, and the practical side of walking ~2 miles

The group size is 1 to 6 people, and your group participates privately. That matters because it gives you flexibility: you can split roles, keep each other on track, and solve together without outside strangers interrupting your team dynamic.

The route is about 2 miles total, and the guidance is to wear comfortable shoes. That’s a straightforward tip, but it’s also important because Avalon streets and pier areas can include uneven ground and lots of small turns.

Who this is best for:

• Families with kids who are okay with reading and problem-solving (or with adults who enjoy helping)
• Couples and small friend groups who like friendly competition
• Travelers who want a “structured self-guided” option rather than a rigid tour schedule

Who might reconsider:

• If you need a fully guided experience with live explanations
• If your group wants zero screen time
• If everyone in your party dislikes puzzles

Weather, flexibility, and when to schedule it

The hunt requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. That’s reassuring because Avalon can be unpredictable, especially with fog rolling in.

Because it’s phone-based and self-guided, you’ll also want a day where your group can spend roughly 2 hours on foot. If you’re squeezing in the hunt between ferry lines and a show, keep buffer time—start slow, solve carefully, and you’ll enjoy it more.

On planning: it’s commonly booked about 20 days in advance, so if you’re traveling in a busy window, it’s smart to secure your slot earlier rather than later.

Should you book Catalina Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game?

I’d book it if you want a fun, low-stress way to explore Avalon with structure. The biggest wins are the self-guided format (no guide to meet), the team size that makes solving together easy, and the 19-phone challenges that keep you paying attention along the way.

I would hesitate if you’re bringing younger kids who need a clear reward at the end, or if your group hates screen-based games. And if you’ve had phone app/browsing trouble on past trips, make a plan for backup screen time and don’t be surprised if you need patience.

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes puzzles, small discoveries, and a walk that feels like play, this one is a solid match for a half-day in Avalon.

FAQ

How long is the Catalina scavenger hunt?

It’s listed as approximately 2 hours.

How far will I walk?

The activity involves walking about 2 miles.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is 1 Green Pleasure Pier, Avalon, CA 90704, USA.

Is there an in-person guide?

No. There is no in-person guide, and you play the game on your smartphone.

How many challenges are included?

The scavenger hunt includes 19 challenges.

What group size is this for?

Your group can be 1 to 6 people.

Can I play at any time during the day?

Yes. You can play at any time that fits your schedule, and the hours shown are 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Is it private for my group?

Yes. It’s described as a private tour/activity, so only your group participates.

Can I bring a service animal?

Yes. Service animals are allowed.

What happens if weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is cancellation free?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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