How to install Ubuntu from OS X?

If I remember correctly, you should be able to install Ubuntu into Boot Camp, and then virtualize it using Parallels Desktop. Works great with Windows; most likely with Ubuntu as well.

I also wanted to run ubuntu native on my iMac and could not figure it out for the longest time. I refused to use virtualization software. Took a look at ubuntu's website and the instructions it provides work the best for me.

First make bootable Ubuntu USB Stick

http://www.ubuntu.com/download/help/create-a-usb-stick-on-mac-osx

Restart your computer.

Hold down Option ⌥ when chime sounds.

Select your installation method (i.e.: install Ubuntu along side OS X)

• installing Ubuntu as dual boot with OS X

• running OS X from within Ubuntu:

  • install VirtualBox
  • add yourself to disk group: sudo usermod -G disk,vboxusers -a `whoami`
  • create a virtual disk pointing to your real disk

  VBoxManage internalcommands createrawvmdk -filename ~/.VirtualBox/OSX.vmdk -rawdisk /dev/sda -partitions 2 -relative (if your OS X is not on /dev/sda2, change disk and partition number accordingly)

  • create a virtual machine with system OS X 64-bit, with the disk pointing to virtual disk you've just created
  • you're ready to launch