Situated just 22 miles off the coast of southern California, Santa Catalina Island allures travelers with turquoise blue waters, vibrant marine and wildlife, and the charming town of Avalon. Part of the Channel Islands, Catalina enjoys a warm-summer Mediterranean climate for most of the year. Combined with the stunning coastal landscapes and dramatic cliffs, Catalina has been called a “travel dupe” for the Amalfi Coast. For those seeking a vacation in a charming, historic town filled with quaint shops, delightful eateries, and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, Catalina Island is more accessible than a big trip to Italy for most travelers.
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How to Get to Catalina Island
A short 1-hour ferry ride from southern California, Santa Catalina Island is easy to get to and makes for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. I took the Catalina Express ferry out of Long Beach. The round-trip ferry costs around $80 and if you’re planning to park at the ferry budget about $20 per day for parking. There are multiple ferries a day going to and from the island, but definitely book your ticket ahead of time since some ferries do sell out. The ferry does allow pets, but you must sign a waiver and are required to keep the pet in a pet carrier and if they are not small enough for a pet carrier put a muzzle on them. But the ferry ride is quick and easy and will drop you off right in Avalon.
You can also go the more expensive route and take a helicopter or private plane to the island.
What to See and Do in Catalina Island
There is so much to see and do in Catalina Island, while you can visit for a day trip, I recommend planning a weekend getaway to the island so you can experience as much as possible.
For those looking to relax:
- Stroll around the town of Avalon and shop
- Relax at Descanso Beach Club
- Rent a golf cart and see the sights
For those looking to stay active:
- Hike to Buena Vista Point or the Chimes Tower for an incredible view
- Go kayaking or paddle boarding
- Rent bikes for the day
For those looking for a thrill:
- Do an undersea sub experience
- Go parasailing
- Take a ride on the longest zipline in California
For those looking to see wildlife and connect with nature:
- Do an Eco-Tour
- Go snorkeling or scuba diving
- Sign up for the Catalina Falconry Experience
During my first day on Catalina Island, I spent a lot of time exploring Avalon, there are tons of cute shops and restaurants, the harbor is so picturesque, a perfect place just to stroll around. The majority of people on Catalina get around via golf-cart, you can rent one by the hour, but I had no trouble walking everywhere in Avalon, the town is quite small.
Day 2, I did the short hike to Buena Vista Point, then had lunch at Descanso Beach Club. You can rent a chaise lounge or a cabana on the beach if you want to make a beach day of it. On some days they have a DJ playing. After lunch I stopped by and did the self-guided tour of the Catalina Casino, no gambling, you will find a theater and ball room at the Casino and breath-taking views from the top balcony.
Day 3, I went parasailing first thing in the morning, it was so much fun! There are a number of companies that offer parasailing, anyone of them would be a good choice. I felt very safe throughout the whole experience and got to see the island from a whole new perspective, 800 feet in the air. I will say if I were to go again, I’d go in the afternoon. The island tends to be a bit misty and cloudy first thing in the morning, but it typically burns off around noon. Later in the day I did one of my favorite things of the whole trip, I went on an Eco-tour with the Catalina Island Conservancy. Our tour guide took us up into the conservation land and taught us about the island’s history, plant and wildlife, and I even got to see a bison! Note there are a little over 100 bison on Catalina Island, bison are a protected species, you must remain 150 feet away from bison for your safety and theirs. If you come across one while hiking or exploring, keep your distance and admire from afar.
However, you plan your time in Catalina, whatever activities you choose to do, you will definitely not be bored!
Where to Eat in Catalina Island
There are tons of great restaurants right along the harbor in Avalon. There is plenty of seafood, healthy bites, pizza and more to choose from. While on island you have to try a Buffalo Milk, the island’s famous cocktail made with Crème de Cocoa, Kahlua, Crème de Banana, vodka, and half & half, blended together then topped with whip cream and nutmeg. I recommend visiting Luau Larry’s for a cocktail, some drinks come with your very own tiki hat to keep! Some other great restaurants to check out for lunch or dinner:
- Bluewater Grill: if you want to eat right on the waterfront, great seafood.
- Maggie’s Blue Rose: for awesome Mexican
- Naught Fox: for elevated healthy bites
- Antonio’s: for 50’s style pizza
- Scoops: for ice cream and Starbucks coffee
While not a bucket list trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Catalina Island offers a Mediterranean like escape closer to home. Take advantage of this travel dupe when planning your next getaway!
And if you are planning a trip, you have to check out our list of the best Amazon travel accessories and gear to order before you leave!