Catalina, CA

A Mediterranean Gem off the California Coast

Although California is synonymous with beaches and time spent on the coast, it’s not normally associated with island life. That is, however, until you spend some time on Catalina Island, just 26 miles off the coast of Los Angeles. Catalina Island is about 22 miles long by eight miles wide and is the only island in the chain with permanent residents. The resort town of Avalon sits at the southern tip of the island at Avalon Bay and its beautiful harbor. Avalon is the social and economic center of Catalina, where visitors will find shopping and restaurants along streets decked out in palm trees and fountains. Also in Avalon are the island’s three main beaches where guests can enjoy the calm waters, cool breezes and warm sun. Set in the center of the harbor is Pleasure Pier where there are fish & chips stands serving fresh seafood and cold beers. This is a great place to enjoy an afternoon meal while taking in the stunning scenery.

For those interested in some outdoor adventures, Catalina has excellent SCUBA diving, zip lines and hiking along the island. Getting around the island is a fun little adventure with golf cart and bicycle rentals available as well as guided eco-tours. At the end of the day, visitors can find luxurious accommodations, including the full-service 5-star Catalina Canyon Resort & Spa. Or if they will be spending longer times on the island, rental cottages, condos and villas are all available year-round. Catalina is more than just an island getaway, it’s a little slice of the Mediterranean, right off the California Coast. Guests wanting a more secluded and exclusive experience should head over to Two Harbors. This tiny village is the only other community on Catalina where visitors go for a more subdued and quiet getaway. Two Harbors is home to the lovely and quaint Banning House and Villas. With only 12 rooms, this bed and breakfast is the only lodging on this side of the island and offers a truly relaxing time.