How to Have Fun on Catalina Island, California
There’s more to love about this gorgeous island just off the southern California coast than its slow-paced, friendly ambience. You'll find fun-to-shop boutiques, excellent restaurants, gorgeous beaches and options for a variety of water adventures from snorkeling and diving in the crystal waters, to kayaking and glass bottom-boat cruises. When planning a trip to Catalina Island, there are some things that simply cannot be missed. Here are a few attractions Catalina has to offer.
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Things You'll Need
- Comfortable clothing
- Comfy walking shoes
- Sunglasses for daytime
- Sunscreen
- Snorkeling gear
- Sweater for cool evenings
Instructions
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How to Have Fun on Catalina Island
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Hop a ferry to the island and jump-start your day with some breathtaking views at the Green Pleasure Pier. Breathe in the fresh ocean breezes, and consider taking a sea cruise or tour on a semi submersible sub.
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Spend some time exploring Avalon, the island’s main town set on the harbor. For years, Catalina was a favorite vacation spot of some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, and in Avalon you can take walking tours that highlight that era. Stay in town for a while and browse the chic shops along palm-lined Crescent Avenue, then wander down to the beach or linger over dinner in a restaurant with an ocean view. Make your way to the landmark Casino Building, an Art Deco-style building set on a point of land that projects into Avalon Bay.
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Stroll the beautiful Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden. Feast your eyes on cacti, succulents and other native plants along the walkways. For breathtaking views, climb to the top of the memorial.
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Check out Two Harbors at the west end of the island. It’s the only other village on the island and one of California’s top recreational boater destinations. Hop on a Hummer Tour and visit the historic Civil War Barracks, or stop for a patio lunch.
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For an exotic experience visit the ocean floor. Coastal reefs and clear waters team with marine life making the island a mecca for snorkelers and divers. Head for the Lover’s Cove marine preserve or drop in at the Casino Point Underwater Dive Park. Another option: take in all the sights from a glass-bottom boat.
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Tips & Warnings
Catalina is separated from the southern California coast by 22 miles of sea water. On the island there are no freeways, and almost no cars. Folks get around mostly by foot.
