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Discover Catalina Tile

5.03 reviews
Discover Catalina Tile - Image 1
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Trip Highlights

Hands-on Tile Making
Learn Island History
Create a Unique Souvenir

Description

Catalina tile is a celebrated part of the culture of Catalina Island. During our Discover Catalina Tile experience, you will delve into the unique craft of tile-making. You will begin with the lively and entertaining tale of island history, geology, and fun facts that is then followed by our "no experience preferred" brief lesson on working with clay. You will become an expert who will then spend time creating your own Catalina tile souvenirs. This hands-on experience will leave you with a deeper appreciation of the island's rich artistic heritage. We look forward to being the highlight of your time on Catalina.

What to Expect

1
You will receive a text message the day of your class to confirm your exact pick up location details or directions to the studio in the event you have chosen the "self-transport" option. Please note the studio is one mile from the main town of Avalon. Walking is about 30 minutes on a flat coastal road. It is easily bikeable. Folks with a vacation rental golf cart can access the studio with our precise directions. We will text you these on the day of your class. You are more than welcome to change your option on the day of your class. Please note that our brown clay can stain light colored clothing. We provide shirts and aprons but darker colored fabrics are recommended. Please reach out at 310-499-8799 with any day of concerns.
2
We start by sharing our deep knowledge of all things Catalina including Native history, geology, and modern history all told in an entertaining fashion including local lore, fun facts and gossip… You’ll leave with a whole new appreciation of the magic of Catalina Island. You’ll be offered a brief introduction and lesson on working with clay before spending time creating your own Catalina tile souvenirs. You’ll get to choose from dozens of designs, ranging from traditional Catalina patterns to flowers, fish and geometric icons. We’ll be available for any questions or assistance as you make your tile. Once it comes out of the mold, choose your colors for later firing. After your tile is made, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the interactive exhibits in our mini-museum, filled with Catalina facts and artifacts. We showcase many unique items as well as rare and out-of-print materials. You’ll also want to spend time in our gallery store, where you’ll find an array of unique souvenirs.
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Due to the time needed to finish your tile, we will color and “fire” the tile. We will send the tile within 3-4 weeks. The tiles created at the Catalina Tile Experience are 4″ x 4″ fully fired stoneware tiles suitable for installations indoors our out. Extra tiles available at a cost of $10 each Fees include all materials and domestic US shipping via UPS or USPS upon request. International shipping fees may apply.

Tour info

Duration
1 hour 30 minutes
Group Size
1 to 7 people
Price starts at
$89
Languages
English
Meeting Point
Downtown Avalon
Open in Google Maps

Why take this tour?

Join us for the Discover Catalina Tile experience and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Catalina Island. This hands-on activity not only teaches you the art of tile-making but also offers a unique insight into the island's history. Create your own piece of Catalina to take home and cherish forever.

We’re a one stop shop for all things Catalina history as well as an easy, unexpectedly fun activity. Teens and reluctant husbands agree! Escape the hustle and bustle of town at our peaceful, quaint and colorful seaside studio. Great activity for those busy “cruise ship” days. A truly authentic Catalina Island experience. 

Included

  • All Materials
  • Tile Firing and Shipping
  • Roundtrip transportation
  • Two tiles per guest
  • Aprons will be provided

Excluded

  • Additional Tiles
  • Gratuity

Frequently asked questions

For safety reasons, children under 5 years of age are not allowed.
Yes, reservations are required in advance.
NO experience is required to join this amazing adventure!
Basic restrooms are available on site.

Things to know

Age Requirement

Participants must be 5 years or older.

Reservation Required

Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Duration

The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Stairs Usage

Our Catalina Tile Experience studio is located up one flight of stairs.

Pick Up Location

Exact location will be provided after successfully booking with us.

Recent Reviews

3 Verified reviews
Amber White
Google Reviews

Amber White

September 22, 2024

Robin was super accomodating and friendly. My mom, 9 year old daughter and I had a fantastic time taking her class! We just received our tiles, they look amazing and will be a wonderful reminder of our time together on Catalina. Thank you Robin!!!

Damian Perry
Google Reviews

Damian Perry

July 22, 2024

The Owner was extremely knowledgeable and I had an amazing time making the tiles and spending time with new friends. I honestly don't understand how anybody could give such a loveable place anything less than 5 stars. The Owner called the cabs for us, taught us everything we need…

Tripadvisor

Isabella S

July 1, 2023

Our visit was amazing! We loved every moment of it! Robin was so kind and her love for the island and it’s history made everything so much better! Definitely recommend and definitely coming back here! :)

Check Availability

From
$89
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Why book with us?

  • Book instantly directly with provider
  • Get the lowest price guarantee
  • Worry-free flexible cancellation policy
Human support:310-499-8799