Santa Catalina Island, California: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Have you ever thought about what makes Santa Catalina Island special? It's just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California. This island is like a Mediterranean paradise, offering lots of activities for everyone. You can enjoy scenic hikes, water sports, tours, and amazing food.

It's easy to get to with regular ferry service from the mainland. So, it's perfect for a day trip or a weekend escape from the city.

Key Takeaways

• Catalina Island is a popular destination known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich history.
• The island offers a variety of activities, from scenic hikes and water sports to inland tours and world-class dining.
• With regular ferry service from the mainland, Catalina Island is easily accessible for day trips or weekend getaways.
• The island is part of the Channel Islands and boasts the most populated civilian settlement and diverse animal species.
• Catalina Island has been under the ownership of the Wrigley family since 1919, adding to its unique charm and history.

About Catalina Island

Location and History

Santa Catalina Island, known as Catalina, is off the coast of Southern California. It's one of the Channel Islands and the most populated one. William Wrigley Jr., a chewing gum tycoon, bought the island in 1919.

Wrigley helped develop the island. He brought the Chicago Cubs to the island for spring training. Today, Catalina is a favorite spot for Hollywood stars and outdoor lovers.

Getting to Catalina Island

The best way to reach Catalina Island is by the Catalina Express ferry. It leaves from San Pedro, Dana Point, and Long Beach. The trip takes about an hour each way.

For a fancier way, you can take a helicopter. This shortens the trip to 15 minutes but costs around $150 one-way or $300 round trip.

"The island has a rich history, having been purchased by chewing gum tycoon William Wrigley Jr. in 1919."

Avalon, the main town, has a small population under 4,000. The island limits cars, with a 17-year wait for residents. From 1927 to 1937, the island made pottery with local clay. The Green Pleasure Pier in Avalon was built in the town center.

Staying on Catalina Island

When visiting Catalina Island, you have many places to stay, based on what you like and where you want to be. Avalon, the main town, has lots of places to stay, from old hotels to new beachfront spots.

Accommodation Options in Avalon

The Hotel Atwater is a classic spot, opened in 1920 and updated in 2019. It has a modern look with a touch of art deco. Other great places to stay in Avalon Catalina Island are the Zane Gray Pueblo Hotel, Pavilion Hotel, and Bellanca Hotel. These Catalina Island hotels are close to shops, restaurants, and the harbor. They're perfect for those who want to be in the heart of things.

Accommodation Options in Two Harbors

If you want a quiet and peaceful place, check out the Banning House Lodge in Two Harbors Catalina Island accommodation. This historic lodge, built in 1910, offers cozy rooms with beautiful views. It's a calm spot away from the busy Avalon.

"The Banning House Lodge provides a peaceful and secluded escape, in contrast to the more bustling atmosphere of Avalon."

Outdoor Adventures on Catalina Island

Catalina Island is a short ferry ride from the Southern California coast. It offers exciting outdoor adventures for visitors. You can enjoy zipline tours, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding to explore its beauty.

Ziplining Eco Tour

The Zipline Eco Tour is a top activity on Catalina Island. It's an adrenaline rush that takes you on a 600-foot descent. You'll fly over lush vegetation and see the Pacific Ocean.

The tour has five zipline lines. It's an exciting way to see Catalina's natural beauty.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Catalina Island is famous for its scuba diving and snorkeling. The waters are among the "World's Healthiest Marine Environments." Divers and snorkelers can see a variety of marine life, like the orange Garibaldi fish.

Scuba diving is available from Avalon and Two Harbors. There are guided tours for scuba diving. Snorkeling is also popular, with Lover's Cove Marine Reserve being a top spot.

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are great ways to see the island. You can rent equipment in Avalon and explore the harbor or hidden coves. These activities let you enjoy the island's beauty and turquoise waters.

For a guided tour, there are options to see Catalina's coastline. It's a peaceful way to see the island's scenery.

Catalina Island Boat Tours

Catalina Island is just 22 miles off the Southern California coast. It offers a unique look at the Pacific Ocean with its boat tours. You can see the island's marine life without getting wet with the Catalina Island glass bottom boat and Catalina Island semi-submersible.

The Catalina Island glass bottom boat tour has been around since 1906. It's a classic way to see Lover's Cove Marine Park. The Catalina Island semi-submersible gives a 45-minute tour. It lets guests see the underwater world from a partially submerged boat.

The flying fish boat tours are thrilling and run seasonally. They take you on a night trip to see fish flying through the sky. The Cyclone powerboat also offers trips to the quieter Two Harbors area.

• Catalina Island glass bottom boat tours starting from $75
• Catalina Island semi-submersible tours lasting 45 minutes, priced at $75
• Seasonal flying fish boat tours to witness the remarkable sight of fish soaring through the sky
• Cyclone powerboat round-trip excursions to the remote Two Harbors area

There are many Catalina Island boat tours to pick from. They let visitors dive into the island's marine world and make lasting memories.

Santa Catalina Island, California: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Catalina Island is a paradise 22 miles off Southern California's coast. It's full of activities for all ages. From exciting outdoor adventures to quaint coastal towns, there's something for everyone. Let's dive into the top things to do on Catalina Island.

Outdoor Escapades

Catalina Island is perfect for those who love nature and adventure. Try an zipline eco-tour for a thrill, flying at speeds up to 40 mph. Or, enjoy a calm day kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding along the coast. For a deeper dive, explore the clear waters with scuba diving or snorkeling.

Sightseeing and Exploration

There's more to see than just the beaches. Take a bison tour to see the island's bison. Or, join an eco-tour with the Catalina Island Conservancy to learn about the island's plants and animals. For a unique view, book a customized interior tour with Catalina Backcountry to see the island's beauty from the inside.

Catalina Island has a wide range of activities for every traveler. Whether you want exciting adventures, beautiful sights, or a peaceful getaway, this island in California will leave you with unforgettable memories.

"Catalina Island provides a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and charming coastal towns that make it a true gem of Southern California."

Inland Tours and Expeditions

For those looking to explore Catalina Island's interior, the Catalina Island Conservancy and Catalina Backcountry offer great tours. These tours take you through the island's rugged and untouched backcountry. They let you dive deep into the island's natural beauty.

Eco Tours with the Catalina Island Conservancy

The Catalina Island Conservancy leads eco-tours that take you into the island's protected areas. You'll see unique wildlife like bison, foxes, and bald eagles. These tours teach you about the island's ecology and conservation efforts.

Customized Interior Tours with Catalina Backcountry

With Catalina Backcountry, you can have a tour that's all about what you want. These private tours let you see the backcountry in a way that fits your group's interests. Guides share stories about the island's history, nature, and hidden spots, making your trip special.

Choosing an eco-tour with the Catalina Island Conservancy or a customized tour with Catalina Backcountry is a chance to see Catalina Island's true beauty. You'll get to know its wildlife and stunning landscapes up close.

Exploring Avalon

The town of Avalon on Catalina Island is a gem with a Mediterranean vibe. It's perfect for those who love a relaxed atmosphere. You can walk by the waterfront, check out local shops, and enjoy the chill beach clubs.

Downtown Avalon and the Beach Clubs

Avalon's downtown is lively and full of life. It has shops, restaurants, and the famous Catalina Casino. The Descanso Beach Club is a highlight, offering a fancy beach spot with white cabanas. It's great for relaxing, exploring, or treating yourself.

Catalina Casino

The Catalina Casino is a top spot to visit. It was never a place for gambling, but it was a spot for fun and movies. Now, it's a place where you can learn about the island's movie history and see its cool design.

"The Catalina Casino continues to be a popular destination, offering guided tours that provide a glimpse into the island's Hollywood past and the casino's unique architecture and design."

Dining on Catalina Island

Catalina Island has many dining choices for all tastes and budgets. You can find everything from beachfront spots to fancy places. The food scene is charming and laid-back, fitting the island's vibe.

Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood, try local favorites like the "Buffalo Milk" cocktail, and take in beautiful views. Catalina Island's dining scene is unique and fun, even if it's not as fancy as some parts of Los Angeles.

Casual Dining

For a chill dining experience, Catalina Island has many casual spots. Luau Larry's is famous for its tiki drinks like piña coladas and mai tais, with live music too. The Sandtrap is a hit with its friendly vibe, cheap drinks, and happy hour deals on beer and tacos.

Upscale Dining

If you want something fancier, check out Avalon Grille. It's known for its elegant feel and big portions perfect for sharing. The Lobster Trap serves up seafood like Southern California spiny lobsters and has happy hour from 2 to 5 p.m. every day.

Healthy and Alternative Options

Cafe Metropole is great for those looking for healthy food, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. The Naughty Fox has modern dishes like poke "nachos" and coconut-cruised fried chicken sandwiches.

Catalina Island has dining options for everyone, making sure your visit is memorable.

With over a million tourists each year and a small population in Avalon, the dining scene caters to many tastes. Whether you want a casual beach spot or a fancy meal, you'll find something great. The island's restaurants make your visit even better.

Best Time to Visit Catalina Island

Catalina Island has a Mediterranean-like climate, making it a year-round destination. Summer and weekends bring the biggest crowds. For a quieter visit, consider spring, fall, or weekdays.

The weather is pleasant all year, with temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit. In September, expect temperatures from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). The water is a bit cool for snorkeling, but August and September are the warmest.

September is sunny, with 278 hours of sun and 12.3 hours of daylight. Rain is rare, with 0-3% chance and 0.1-0.8 inches of rain if it does happen. Humidity is around 1% to 2%, making the air a bit moist.

The wind speed is about 7.2 mph, making it perfect for outdoor activities. March and April are the windiest months. With its mild climate, Catalina Island is great for travelers when to visit Catalina Island, Catalina Island weather, and the best time to go to Catalina Island.

Conclusion

Catalina Island is a special spot off Southern California's coast. It's perfect for California travel. The island has beautiful nature, lots of outdoor fun, a deep history, and quaint seaside towns. It's a great escape from the mainland.

Looking for adventure or just to relax? Catalina Island vacation has it all. You can try ziplining, kayaking, or snorkeling to enjoy the island's beauty.

The island is easy to get to and has a nice climate all year. It's perfect for a day trip or a longer stay. Catalina Island tourism is a top choice for exploring Southern California.

There's a lot to see, like the Descanso Beach Club, the Catalina Island Museum, and the Avalon Scenic Drive. The island also has fun nightlife and activities for families. Whether you want to chill on the beach, learn about history, or have an exciting time, Catalina Island will impress you.