Catalina Island Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking, biking routes, food scene, and logistics of Catalina Island with our guide.


Introduction to Catalina Island

Located in the South Bay of Los Angeles County, Catalina Island is known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. This idyllic island features stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and rugged hills. The island offers a variety of activities for tourists, from snorkeling and hiking to shopping and dining.

List of Places to Visit in Catalina Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Catalina Island Museum: Located in the heart of Avalon, this museum showcases the island’s history, art, and culture. Exhibits include a Catalina Island pottery collection and a history of the island’s film industry.
  • Catalina Island Casino: This iconic building is not a gambling hall, but rather a venue for concerts, dances, and other events. Its Art Deco architecture and beautiful murals make it a must-see attraction.
  • Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden: This memorial to the island’s former owner, William Wrigley Jr., features a beautiful garden with over 2000 plant species.

Natural Attractions of Catalina Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Descanso Beach Club: This beach is a hidden gem, located just a short walk from the main town of Avalon. It offers crystal clear waters, white sand, and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Two Harbors: This secluded village is located on the other end of the island, and it offers a quieter atmosphere than the busy Avalon. Besides its natural beauty, there are plenty of activities, including kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
  • Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour: Experience the beauty of the island from above by zooming down five different zip lines.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Catalina Island

There are over 165 miles of trails on the island, making it a hiker’s paradise. Some of the most popular routes include the Trans-Catalina Trail, which provides scenic views of the island’s coastline, and the Garden to Sky Trail, which leads to stunning vistas of Avalon.

For cycling enthusiasts, the island offers several biking routes, including the 12-mile loop around the town of Avalon and the challenging climb up to the airport on top of the island’s highest peak.

Best Things to Do in Catalina Island: Activities and Tours

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The waters around the island are clear and teeming with marine life, making it a perfect spot for snorkelers and scuba divers.
  • Glass Bottom Boat Tours: For those who prefer to stay dry, these tours offer a unique view of the island’s underwater world.
  • Ghost Tours: For a spooky adventure, take a guided tour around the island and hear about its haunted past.

Week-Long Itinerary for Catalina Island

Day 1: Explore the town of Avalon, visit the Catalina Island Museum, and have dinner at the Bluewater Avalon.

Day 2: Take a snorkeling tour in the morning and then hike to the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden in the afternoon.

Day 3: Rent a golf cart and explore the island’s interior, including the Airport in the Sky and the Nature Center at Avalon Canyon.

Day 4: Take the Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour and then relax on Descanso Beach.

Day 5: Explore the town of Two Harbors and participate in water activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Day 6: Take a glass-bottom boat tour in the morning and then hike the Trans-Catalina Trail in the afternoon.

Day 7: Spend the day relaxing on the beach and having a final dinner at the Lobster Trap.

Food and Drink Scene of Catalina Island

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buffalo Milk: This creamy cocktail is made with vodka, Kahlua, crème de cacao, banana liqueur, and milk.
  • Island Fish Tacos: Fresh fish, served on a bed of lettuce and topped with salsa and avocado, make this a perfect island dish.
  • Catalina Paella: This Spanish dish is served with a variety of seafood, rice, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Catalina Island Brew House: This microbrewery offers a selection of beers, including the popular Catalina Island blonde ale.
  • Lloyd’s of Avalon Confectionery: This candy shop offers a variety of sweets, including their famous saltwater taffy.

Where to Stay in Catalina Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Metropole: Located in the heart of Avalon, this hotel offers luxurious rooms with ocean views.
  • Hermit Gulch Campground: This campground is located within walking distance of town and offers campsites for tents and RVs.
  • Catalina Island Inn: Located in the town of Two Harbors, this bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms and a laid-back atmosphere.

What to Buy in Catalina Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Catalina Island Pottery: This pottery is made on the island and features bright colors and unique designs.
  • Catalina Island Conservancy-Branded Merchandise: Help support the island’s conservation efforts by purchasing t-shirts, hats, and other merchandise with the conservancy’s logo.
  • Saltwater Taffy: This classic candy is a perfect sweet treat to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Catalina Island

Catalina Island has a relaxed atmosphere, where shorts and flip flops are acceptable almost everywhere. The island is also known for its art and music scene, with several galleries and events throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Catalina Island

The best time to visit Catalina Island is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be busy and hot, while winter is cooler and many attractions close down.

Do’s and Don’ts of Catalina Island

Do:

  • Do wear sunscreen and bring a hat, as the island can be quite sunny.
  • Do take a hike and experience the island’s natural beauty.
  • Do try local seafood dishes and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t feed the wildlife, as it can be harmful to both animals and humans.
  • Don’t litter, as the island’s conservation efforts rely heavily on keeping the environment clean and healthy.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate footwear for hiking and exploring the island.

Safety and Health

Safety in Catalina Island

The island is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of the local wildlife, including mountain lions and bison. It is best to keep a safe distance and not approach them.

Health in Catalina Island

The island has a clinic for minor medical needs, but in case of major emergencies, visitors may need to be transferred to the mainland. Visitors should also be aware of the risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion during hot weather.

Getting to Catalina Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Catalina Island

The closest airport to Catalina Island is the Long Beach Airport, which offers helicopter and fixed-wing plane service to the island.

Bus Stations Near Catalina Island

There are no bus stations near Catalina Island, but visitors can take a public ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point.

Other Options

Visitors can also take private boats or yachts to the island, and there are several options for chartered flights and helicopters.

How to Get Around in Catalina Island

The town of Avalon is compact and walkable, but visitors can also rent golf carts, bicycles, or take a taxi. For exploring the island’s interior, visitors can take the Wildlands Express shuttle or rent a Jeep or ATV.

Where to Go Next from Catalina Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore other nearby destinations in Southern California, including Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Malibu. There are also several nearby islands, such as Santa Catalina Island and San Clemente Island, which are popular for snorkeling and surfing.

Conclusion

Catalina Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the island’s stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, hike through its rugged hills, and immerse themselves in its fascinating history and culture. With its laid-back atmosphere and variety of activities, Catalina Island is a perfect destination for a relaxing and memorable vacation.