Catalina Island & Whale Watching Tour

March 15, 2027 thru March 19, 2027

Escape to the scenic Southern California coast on an unforgettable getaway filled with ocean adventures, island charm, and breathtaking coastal beauty. Begin in the picturesque harbor town of Dana Point, where stunning Pacific views, waterfront dining, and relaxing seaside atmosphere set the tone for the journey ahead. Experience the excitement of a dolphin and whale watching cruise in the “World’s Whale Capital,” where migrating gray whales, playful dolphins, and other incredible marine life create unforgettable moments on the water. Discover even more about the wonders of the Pacific during a fascinating visit to the Ocean Institute, featuring maritime history, interactive exhibits, and ocean science experiences.

Your adventure continues with a scenic ferry ride to beautiful Catalina Island, a Mediterranean-inspired paradise just off the California coast. Explore the charming town of Avalon, tour the historic Catalina Casino, and venture into the island’s rugged interior on an exciting bison expedition aboard open-air Hummers. Along the way, enjoy spectacular ocean vistas, rolling hills, and opportunities to spot Catalina’s famous roaming bison. With free time to relax, shop, and soak in the laid-back island atmosphere, this coastal escape offers the perfect blend of sightseeing, wildlife encounters, history, and relaxation.


Transportation

Roundtrip air transportation from ABQ

Transportation

Cruise & Ferry

Whale watching cruise included!

Transportation

Motorcoach

Duration

5 days, 4 nights

Activity Level

Level 3: Moderate

Meals

7 meals (4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners) included

Availability

Available

Gratuities

All gratuities and taxes for included items


Tour Highlights

  • Whale and dolphin watching cruise in Dana Point, the “World’s Whale Capital”
  • Scenic stay in the beautiful harbor town of Dana Point along the Pacific Coast
  • Visit to the renowned Ocean Institute featuring maritime history and ocean science exhibits
  • Ferry ride across the Pacific Ocean to charming Catalina Island
  • Guided tour of the historic and iconic Catalina Casino in Avalon
  • Exciting open-air bison expedition through Catalina’s rugged island interior
  • Opportunities to spot Catalina’s famous roaming bison in their natural habitat
  • Free time to enjoy Avalon’s waterfront shops, restaurants, beaches, and relaxed island atmosphere

Inclusions

  • Roundtrip economy air transportation from ABQ
  • Transportation by deluxe motorcoach
  • 4 nights lodging at excellent hotels
  • 7 meals (4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners)
  • Admissions as described
  • Baggage handling
  • Bus refreshments
  • Services of a SUN TOURS Tour Director
  • All gratuities and taxes for included items


Day 1 - Arrive at Dana Point

Your Southern California coastal getaway begins as we depart Albuquerque and journey west toward the beautiful Pacific coast. By afternoon, we arrive in the charming harbor town of Dana Point, known for its relaxed seaside atmosphere, picturesque marina, and stunning ocean views. Dana Point Harbor is home to more than 2,500 boats and offers a lively waterfront filled with shops, cafés, walking paths, and recreational activities alongside the famous sands of Doheny State Beach.

After checking in to our hotel, take time to unwind and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze before gathering with your fellow travelers for a welcoming group dinner. As evening settles in, perhaps take a stroll along the harbor or simply relax while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean — the perfect beginning to our coastal adventure.

Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2 - Ocean Discovery in Dana Point

Today we experience the incredible marine life that has made Dana Point famous around the world. This morning, embark on an unforgettable dolphin and whale watching cruise in the “World’s Whale Capital.” March is one of the best times for whale migration along the California coast, offering excellent opportunities to spot majestic gray whales, humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, and large playful pods of dolphins. Keep your camera ready as expert naturalists help identify marine wildlife throughout the excursion.

Following the cruise, enjoy a relaxing seaside lunch overlooking the harbor before continuing to the renowned Ocean Institute for a guided tour. Dedicated to ocean education and maritime history, the Institute features interactive exhibits, state-of-the-art teaching laboratories, a historic tall ship, and a working oceanographic research vessel. Learn about marine ecosystems, coastal conservation, and California’s seafaring heritage during this fascinating visit.

This evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Explore the harbor, dine at one of the waterfront restaurants, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful coastal atmosphere.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3 - Catalina Island Adventure

Today’s adventure takes us beyond Avalon and into Catalina Island’s rugged interior for an exciting bison expedition. Travel aboard open-air biofuel Hummers as we journey through scenic hillsides, canyons, and dramatic overlooks while learning about the island’s unique ecology and history. Catalina’s famous bison herd traces its origins back to a movie crew that brought the animals to the island in the 1920s. Today, approximately 200 bison roam freely under the care of the Catalina Island Conservancy.

As we travel through prime grazing areas and remote sections of the island, keep watch for opportunities to see these impressive animals in their natural habitat. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from Black Jack Mountain and travel portions of Catalina’s historic stagecoach route. This memorable excursion offers a side of Catalina many visitors never get to experience.

Following the tour, gather for a special farewell lunch before enjoying a free afternoon to further explore Avalon. Relax by the waterfront, visit local shops and cafés, or simply enjoy the laid-back charm and coastal beauty of island life.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4 - Catalina Bison Expedition

Today’s adventure takes us beyond Avalon and into Catalina Island’s rugged interior for an exciting bison expedition. Travel aboard open-air biofuel Hummers as we journey through scenic hillsides, canyons, and dramatic overlooks while learning about the island’s unique ecology and history. Catalina’s famous bison herd traces its origins back to a movie crew that brought the animals to the island in the 1920s. Today, approximately 200 bison roam freely under the care of the Catalina Island Conservancy.

As we travel through prime grazing areas and remote sections of the island, keep watch for opportunities to see these impressive animals in their natural habitat. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from Black Jack Mountain and travel portions of Catalina’s historic stagecoach route. This memorable excursion offers a side of Catalina many visitors never get to experience.

Following the tour, grab an independent lunch before enjoying a free afternoon to further explore Avalon. Relax by the waterfront, visit local shops and cafés, or simply enjoy the laid-back charm and coastal beauty of island life.

Tonight we gather for a group farewell dinner at a local establishment.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 - Departure

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Catalina Island and board the ferry back to the mainland. From there, we begin our journey home to Albuquerque, bringing with us unforgettable memories of ocean adventures, marine wildlife, island beauty, and relaxing days along the Southern California coast.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Itinerary subject to change. Please note the Pavilion Hotel is not ADA Accessible, with no elevator to some rooms on the second floor. Although this tour is rated as Moderate, please note that the Jeep ride is likely to be rough. There is also a day that may require you to handle your own luggage for a short walk.


Package Pricing

$3,345 per person

Double occupancy

Deposit: $200

$4,355 per person

Single occupancy

Deposit: $200

Final Payment Due:

December 8, 2026

Deposit: N/A

Price Includes

Roundtrip economy air transportation from ABQ
Transportation by deluxe motorcoach
4 nights lodging at excellent hotels
7 meals (4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners)
Admissions as described
Baggage handling
Bus refreshments
Services of a SUN TOURS Tour Director
All gratuities and taxes for included items


Booking Policy

Cancellation Fees

  • None – through December 8, 2026
  • $200 – December 9, 2026 – January 6, 2027
  • $1,500 – January 7 – February 3, 2027
  • 100% – after February 3, 2027

*Fee as percentage of total package price.

We pride ourselves on great service and an enjoyable experience for all and will go over our booking policies after you make your request for booking. If you’d like to learn more about our booking policies before your trip, give us a call at (505) 889-8888.

Travel Insurance

In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to help protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer a Travelex Insurance Services protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. TRAVEL PROTECTION IS ENCOURAGED. Travel protection starts at $352. Please click here for more information.


ACTIVITY LEVEL RATING 3: Moderate

Although this tour is rated as Moderate, please note that the Jeep ride is likely to be rough. There is also a day that may require you to handle your own luggage for a short walk.

Level 3: Moderate

Expectations: Expect a moderate amount of walking. There will be time to rest on the coach and between attractions. To enjoy this tour, you should be prepared to walk slightly longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions. The daily pace and timing can fluctuate significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. There may be some changes in altitude or temperatures.

Appropriate for: Most travelers beginning with those who are moderately fit, lead semi-active lives, are comfortable participating in long days of activities and expect some physical exertion.

Visit our Activity Level Ratings page under Plan Your Tour for full information on the ratings system.

AIRLINE TICKETS

You will be issued your boarding pass the morning of our departure, after your arrival at the Albuquerque International Airport. If you have a frequent flyer number, or a TSA number, please call our office at least 3 days prior to the tour to ensure we can note these in your reservation.
If you are joining the tour from locations other than Albuquerque, we make other arrangements for you to join the tour. Please call our office for more details.

AIRPORT SECURITY

Do not forget to bring your government issued picture ID to show at the airport. A Driver’s License or Passport is required. If you do not have the proper ID, the airline will turn you away.

CHECKED BAGGAGE FEES

On our airline for this tour, passengers may be assessed a fee per checked in bag, by the Airlines, upon checking in for the flight.

BAGGAGE

We have arranged for handling for one piece of luggage per person regarding the skycaps (where available) and hotels. If you check through luggage note that the maximum weight for the checked piece of luggage is 50 pounds and maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height). If your bag weighs over 50 pounds the airlines will levy an extra fee that you will be responsible to pay. If you feel the need to lock your checked through luggage and your bag is searched, your lock could be damaged in the process. You can purchase a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) accepted and recognized lock at any luggage store. Make sure you ask for a TSA approved lock. These locks are the kind that TSA screeners can open by using a special tool without breaking. Passengers can carry-on 1 bag (dimensions are limited to 10x16x24 inches), plus a personal type bag, like a purse. We advise that you pack your carry-on lightly. There are restrictions regarding your carryon baggage and contents due to enhanced security measures. If you have further concerns, please visit the TSA's Web-site at www.tsa.gov. There is room inside the motorcoach for your hand carried bag.

ITINERARY

For your reference, we send to you a detailed itinerary approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the scheduled tour departure. This has day-by-day times and events and hotel information where you can be reached in case of an emergency.

The times listed on the itinerary are all approximate. We cannot be held responsible for schedule changes due to unforeseen circumstances with weather, transportation agents, highway conditions, hotels or contracting agents.

EMERGENCY CONTACT

It is always a good idea to carry on your person a list of medications that you are taking and an emergency contact phone number while you are traveling. And we suggest making a copy of the itinerary and provide it to a friend or family member.

GRATUITIES/ITEMS INCLUDED IN PRICE

The traditional end-of-tour gratuity to your tour director is included on this tour. All hotel porterage and airport skycap (when available) fees are included. We also include the gratuities for the coach drivers. Hotel housekeeping tips are not included.

LODGING REQUESTS

If you would like to request special accommodations at the hotel(s) where we are lodging, please call us as soon as possible and we will forward these requests for you. The phone numbers of the hotel(s) where we are staying are listed on the itinerary.

Many hotels around the country have instituted a "reconditioning fee" of $300 or more that is levied upon a guest that smokes in a non-smoking room. If this occurs during our tour you will be responsible for paying this fee to the hotel prior to check-out.

TRAVEL REQUESTS

We pay close attention to your requests but please realize that these are merely requests and cannot be guaranteed.

RESPONSIBILITY

SUN TOURS acts solely as agent in arranging hotels, transportation, sightseeing, baggage-handling and other services and does not assume any liability for injury, damage, loss or delay due to any act or default of any company or person. We, along with our subcontractors, reserve the right to make changes to an itinerary if it is necessary for the proper handling of a tour.

WEATHER AND CLOTHING/MISC. SUGGESTIONS

The average daytime high temperature during our stay in Dana Point and on Catalina Island is typically in the low 70’s and the average night-time temperature is usually lower 50’s. When we are on or close to the Pacific those temperatures drop 5 degrees or more. Please be sure to bring a sweater and/or rain jacket, along with good walking shoes and a hat. There are no dress codes for the areas we take you on this tour.


Call 505.889.8888 to Book Today!

If you aren't ready to inquire by email or would rather call and speak to a team member, we look forward to hearing from you.

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