Top 5 Things to Know About Catalina Island (Catalina Chamber of Commerce)
Why It's Awesome: Catalina Island is the only resort island in all of California making it a unique getaway spot from San Diego. Although the island is small, there are plenty of ways to stay entertained during your visit. The Eco tour zip line and beach campsites offer a way for visitors to learn about the island and get a natural experience, while the summer concert series provide a way of unwinding and letting loose after a day of exploring.
The Local Scoop: Catalina Island is a secluded destination spot where visitors can enjoy both the nature and nightlife of the island. With beach camping and glass bottom boat tours, guests can explore the wildlife and geography, while the beachfront restaurants, spas and hotels with ocean views provide the pampering resort aspect of the island.
Santa Catalina Island is one of the eight Channel Islands off of the coast of Southern California and is the only island resort in California. Avalon on Catalina Island is the main town, which is only one-square mile, while the rest of the island is only 21-square miles total. The sights and attractions on Catalina Island Avalon are within walking distance of one another as the island is so small. Interestingly, the number and size of vehicles allowed on the island are state regulated, so walking or biking is the popular form of transportation. Visitors traveling from San Diego can take a helicopter from Long Beach or San Pedro to arrive at the island, while boat service is also provided at San Pedro, Long Beach, Newport Beach and Dana Point.
The Catalina Chamber of Commerce encourages tourism to the island, as it is a popular destination to partake in a variety of activities in the beach scenic environment. Two Harbors, Catalina Island Conservatory and the Trans-Catalina Trail offer ideal places to hike, while more adventurous visitors may take an Eco tour on the zip line that whizzes through the Descanso Canyon at 45 mph. As for water sports, sailing, tubing, snorkeling and rafting are just a few of the water adventures that visitors can experience while visiting Avalon on Catalina Island. Glass bottom boat tours and glass bottom kayaks are also offered on the island so that visitors can get an up close and personal look at the kelp forests and underwater life around the island. For those looking to get a bird's eye view above Catalina Island Avalon, they can take to the skies for a helicopter ride or a lesson in para-sailing. Catalina Island Avalon also has over 30 restaurants providing an exciting night life with live music and delicious cuisine. Be sure to check out the Marine Club, which is the oldest bar on the island or belt out some tunes at El Galleon Restaurant and Lounge where karaoke takes place every evening.