Catalina Island is located about 20 miles off the coast of Southern California. This hidden gems however feels more South of France than West Coast (which might explain why I loved it so much). Its history is filled with stories of gold diggers, Spanish missionaries, smugglers, and more. Eventually, it was purchased by the founder of Wrigley’s Gum William Wrigley Jr. in 1919. Keep reading to learn more about this fabulous spot that is filled with beautiful views, great seafood, and lots of outdoor activities.
Getting to Catalina Island & How to Get Around the Island
Wondering how to get to Catalina Island? There are two options for accessing the island – by boat or by helicopter.
By Ferry: There are two companies that can ferry you to Catalina. One is the Catalina Express and the other is the Catalina Flyer.
You can take the Catalina Express, which takes about ~1 hour to get to the island. The basic fare is $ 74.50 roundtrip and you can depart from three ports – Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point.
- Pro Tips: Upgrade your fare for $30 round trip to access the Commodore Lounge. Access to the lounge includes a beverage (alcoholic & non-alcoholic), as well as a snack. Also be sure to book ASAP – there are limited tickets and you get booked fast!
The Catalina Flyer is slightly cheaper (they often have deals on Groupon or on their website). However, it has reduced schedule options and only departs out of Newport Beach. We scored a deal on our tickets and got them for ~$52 each (including tax).
By Helicopter: The ride is about 15 minutes, and you can book through IEX Helicopters from Long Beach, San Pedro, Orange County and Burbank. Flights run ~$300 round trip but depend on departure location, flight type, etc. Be sure to check their website for more information.
For getting around the island, golf carts are the primary mode of transport. However, most of the island is pretty walkable! More details on renting golf carts will be listed further below.
Where to Stay
Option 1: Romantic & Relaxing: When picking a place to stay I always opt for view, amenities, and history. The Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel has all of the above! Their hillside historic hotel features amazing views from the rooms, peaceful decor and amazing service. It was established in 1926 and used to be author Zane Grey’s home. Each room is named after one of his books.
The hotel is located up on the hill (about a 12 minute walk from most activities). But, they do have a complimentary golf cart to pick you up at the harbor/ helipad to take you up to the hotel. I especially loved this spot because it was removed from the chaos of the downtown, so it truly felt like paradise!
Option 2: Renovated & Accessible: On our most recent visit we opted to stay at the Hotel Atwater in the center of town. This historic hotel was originally opened in the 1920s and was recently renovated in 2019. It is tasteful and contemporary with hints of history! The beds are incredibly comfortable which is a must.
Some important amenities: Each room comes with a $20 food and beverage credit that you can use at the Descanso Beach Club or on the property. (We used it at the Atwater Bistro for a breakfast of lattes and avo toast).
Where to eat in Catalina Island
Descanso Beach Club
The Descanso Beach Club has the only beach-side dining on the island. This fun spot has a small but delicious menu, fun music, and beautiful views. They also have a wide selection of signature drinks that are perfect for the summer.
What we ordered: Chef Kapo’s Poke Bowl, Tricia’s Nachos, Aperol Spritz, Jalisco Mule & Blood Orange Margarita.
Pro Tip: If you visit during the weekend, arrive early! Tables are first come, first serve and the best tables get swept up immediately as people like to spend the afternoon hanging out there. Treat it like Disneyland, find a table that looks like they’re finishing up and ask them if you can have it next.
NDMK Fish House
NDMK Fish House, located in downtown Avalon is currently takeout only. This is totally okay as it is right down the street from the beach. Grab your takeout and a beach towel and find a spot to enjoy your lunch along the water.
Their menu features locally caught seafood, with a rotating daily catch. Our order: Poke bowl and lobster sandwich.
Cafe Metropole
Cafe Metropole is for the health nut in your life. (Or if you’re me and you desperately wanted a fresh juice after too many French fries). Their menu has various healthy dishes and snacks, and an extensive drink list.
Bluewater Grill
The Bluewater Grill was our go-to for a birthday dinner along the water. If you love seafood this is for you! And there’s some delicious mud pie on the dessert menu. They also have a great happy hour if you’re looking to score a deal!
How to get around Catalina Island
Rent a golf cart
There are a few reasons to rent a golf cart on the island. 1) it is the best way to see everything in a short period of time, and 2) there are great lookout points such as the one above.
Tips for renting a golf cart on Catalina Island:
- Rentals are first come, first serve so get there early!
- Be sure to visit the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden on your tour.
- Most rentals are 2 hours only, so plan your scenic drive carefully1
Hop on the Garibaldi Bus
The Garibaldi bus is a budget-friendly option for getting around the island. But what I also love about it is that it gives you the flexibility of not having to be on a tight schedule (like with the golf cart rental). Tickets are $2 per ride or $5 for the entire day.
Things to do on Catalina Island
Hike up to the Catalina Chimes
Built in 1925, you can hear the Catalina Chimes ringing every 15 minutes. You can hike or drive your golf cart to this landmark. While you can’t go inside, the view from there is a site to see!
Catalina Casino
Think you can gamble on Catalina Island? Guess again! The Catalina Casino (built in 1928) is a movie theater and ballroom. They are usually open for daily tours, however with the pandemic, it is currently closed. Learn more about visiting here.
Hang out at the Descanso Beach Club
Remember Descanso Beach Club from earlier in this article? Other than being a restaurant, you can also hang out at the beach. If you’re looking for a day of R&R (rest and relaxation), book a cabana or a chair for the day on their private beach! This is especially ideal if you’re doing a day trip and don’t want to drag towels and chairs.
Pro Tip: Like the restaurant, the private club gets booked on weekends. Make a reservation in advance!
Visit the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Gardens
The Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden is a little out of the way but can be accessed on foot, by bus, or by golf cart! We opted to take the Garibaldi bus up to the memorial, and walk down into town.
If you’re looking for some little extra exercise, make sure to do the 1.5 mile hike the Garden to Sky Trail.
Book one of the many adventurous activities on the island
You could spend a week exploring the island with the various activities to book! On our recent trip, we booked two activities:
- Undersea Sub Expedition – In my opinion, this is one of Catalina’s hidden gems! This 45 minute experience takes you underwater to visit the wildlife like spotted calico bass, Garibaldi, rock fish, and more!
- Catalina Aerial Adventure – This one is for the more adventurous folks looking for a good workout. Located above the Descanso Beach Club, there are all sorts of aerial courses for beginners to advanced visitors.
Shopping downtown Avalon
Last up we have shopping in Downtown Avalon. While this might be the most *touristy* activity, you can get lost down the little streets and find some souvenirs to bring home!
