Gary the Garibaldi City Tours

Gary the Garibaldi

Fun, Upbeat Avalon City Sightseeing on Catalina Island

Gary the Garibaldi offers a city sightseeing tour of Avalon focused on local stories, scenic viewpoints, and relaxed exploration. While the tour is family-friendly, it is designed with adults and mature travelers in mind, making it ideal for couples, friend groups, and families looking for a comfortable way to explore Avalon together. This is a city tour experience, not a children’s attraction or character tour.

On this guided Avalon city tour, guests discover the history, charm, and coastal beauty that make Catalina Island one of Southern California’s most unforgettable destinations. From iconic Avalon landmarks and panoramic harbor views to hidden corners rich with island stories, every stop offers a deeper look at the culture and character of this seaside community.

Beyond the highlights, guests gain a true local’s perspective, learning what it’s like to live in this small, rural island town and what makes Avalon such a special place to call home. From daily island life and community traditions to the unique pace and personality of Catalina Island, this tour goes beyond sightseeing to deliver an authentic, insider experience you simply can’t get exploring on your own.

Choose your Tour:

  • Best for adults, couples, and families with older children who enjoy relaxed sightseeing and local narration.

  • Ideal for families, couples, and groups wanting a private city tour experience with flexible pacing.

    Private tours are available for special occasions, including birthdays, weddings, and group celebrations. Please inquire at info@theavalontourcompany.com to customize your experience.

Gary the Garibaldi is a relaxed city sightseeing tour designed for adults and mature travelers, while remaining family-friendly.

What to expect on a city tour

Ages: 8+ on our open group tours, 5+ on private.

  • Duration: 90-Minute Group &
    90-Minute Private

  • Pick Up: roundabout next to the Bluewater Grille

  • Accessibility: Guest must be able to step up and down unassisted. Our tours are not suggested for those with back/neck problems, heart issues, or basic mobility.

  • Weight Requirement: 250lbs max. (combined tour weight of 2500lbs for private tours)

  • Highlights: Avalon history, landmarks, hidden stories

What guests Are Saying about gary the garbaldi

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The tour was great. The tour guide/driver was entertaining and knowledgeable about the history and facts of the island. Great tour, I absolutely recommend.”"

    —Vanessa M. (google review)

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I had one of the very best experiences with this tour. I loved hearing how they're very rooted in the island and so informative. The joy for their job showed.”

    —Robin R. (google review)

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The Garibaldi tour was so fun, comfortable & informative. I never knew so much history & other information about Catalina that I learned that day. The guides were very knowledgeable and fun. We went places I never knew existed. I would take that tour again the next time I visit with family or friends. The price of the tour was also very affordable. Also easy for us older riders to get on & off.”

    —Stella M. (google review)

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "10 out of 5 ⭐ Taylor is not only Super knowledgeable about Catalina Island History but he is Extremely Fun and Funny! If you are on the fence about booking let me push you off!!! (but not into the Catus) It will be one of the highlights of your trip!!! BIG Thanks Taylor, we had a fantastic time 🤩 P.S. he also runs a Fishing boat Charter! Will definitely be booking that next time we are here!!!!"

    —Jeff D. (google review)

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "As a local in Avalon, I didnt know what to expect when riding eith Gary the Garibaldi. I was pleasantly surprised to find the tour guide had historical stories even I didn't know after 10 yeats of living in Avalon. He drove slowly, there were seatbelts, and he drove carefully and with caution, stopping and pointing out local architecture, historical buildings, and sharing personal local stories. I enjoyed our 90 minutes and got some great photos with Gary and beautiful views woth my family friends. Thank you for hosting us. I'd highly recommend this experience to visitor or local alike."

    —Elaina (the mermaid of Catalina)

Three children sitting on a bus with trees visible in the background, beside an orange divider with bear and various decorative cutouts.
A small orange vehicle with cartoonish eyes on the windshield driving along a coastal road lined with palm trees, with a historic building with a red tile roof in the background.
Family of nine smiling outdoors on a sightseeing ride near a harbor with boats, mountainous landscape in the background, standing next to an orange tram or trolley.