Catalina Island.. Full guide in the description. 🗾🗾

Описание: Catalina Island, California, is a beautiful and popular island getaway just a short distance from the Southern California coast. It offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and quaint seaside charm.

Here is a full guide to visiting Catalina Island, covering how to get there, what to do, and how to get around.

1. Getting to Catalina Island (The Mainland to the Island)

The easiest and most common way to reach Catalina Island is by high-speed ferry or helicopter.

By Ferry (Passenger Boat)

The ferry ride takes about one hour to reach the island.

Catalina Express: Offers year-round service to Avalon and Two Harbors from the mainland ports of Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point.

Catalina Flyer (Catalina Passenger Service): Offers daily service to Avalon from Newport Beach.

By Air

Helicopter: Companies like Maverick Helicopters offer service from mainland ports like Long Beach and San Pedro to the Avalon area (Pebbly Beach heliport). The flight takes about 15 minutes and is the fastest way to get to the island.

Private Plane: Private aircraft can fly into the island's interior airport, known as Airport in the Sky.

2. Main Destinations on the Island

Catalina Island has two main hubs for visitors:

Avalon

The main city and port: This is where the majority of visitors arrive and where most of the hotels, restaurants, shops, and main attractions are concentrated. It is a colorful, pedestrian-friendly city that feels like a European seaside village.

Two Harbors

The West End outpost: This is a much more rustic and secluded village, known for its focus on outdoor activities, camping, and boating. You can reach it via a dedicated ferry from San Pedro or by the Cyclone power boat from Avalon (seasonal service).

3. Getting Around Catalina Island

Full-size private vehicles are heavily restricted in Avalon, so locals and visitors rely on alternative transportation.

On Foot: Avalon is very walkable. Most of the downtown area, shops, restaurants, and main beaches are easily accessible by walking.

Golf Carts: Golf carts are the main mode of transportation for residents and are available to visitors for hourly rentals in Avalon. This is a popular and fun way to explore the scenic overlooks around town (e.g., up to the Wrigley Memorial).

Bicycles/E-Bikes: Bikes and electric bikes can be rented to explore Avalon and the surrounding hills.

Public Transit/Taxi:

COAST (City of Avalon Seaside Transit): An on-demand, point-to-point ride service within Avalon city limits.

Taxi Service: Available in Avalon.

Seasonal Shuttles: A free shuttle often runs seasonally to Descanso Beach.

To the Interior: To see the rest of the island, you can book eco-tours (often in Jeeps or open-air Hummers) or take the Catalina Conservancy’s Wildlands Express Shuttle to reach destinations like the Airport in the Sky.

4. Top Things to Do & Attractions

Catalina Island offers a diverse range of activities, from high-adventure to history and relaxation.

Water Activities

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: The clear waters, especially around Lover's Cove Marine Preserve and the Avalon Dive Park, are excellent for viewing vibrant marine life like the bright-orange Garibaldi fish.

Glass Bottom Boat & Semi-Submarine Tours: A great way to explore the underwater world without getting wet.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Rentals and guided tours are available at places like Descanso Beach.

Parasailing: Soar above Avalon Bay for spectacular views.

Land Adventures

Zip Line Eco Tour: A thrilling adventure over Descanso Canyon with five separate lines.

Bison Expedition (Jeep Tour): Take an off-road eco-tour into the rugged interior to see the famous wild bison herd (descendants of a herd left behind from a 1920s movie shoot) and other unique wildlife.

Hiking: Explore the island's interior. The famous Trans-Catalina Trail is a multi-day trek that spans over 38 miles, but there are also shorter, more moderate trails. Hiking permits are required for most trails outside of Avalon.

Catalina Aerial Adventure: A challenging obstacle course high up in the trees near Descanso Beach.

History & Culture

Catalina Casino: The island's most recognizable Art Deco landmark. It was never used for gambling. Take a guided tour to see the historic ballroom (the world's largest circular ballroom) and the classic movie theater.

Catalina Island Museum: Learn about the island's rich history, from its indigenous people to the influence of the Wrigley family and even its connection to Marilyn Monroe.

Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden: Visit the beautiful monument dedicated to William Wrigley Jr., who was instrumental in developing the island's tourism. Enjoy the tranquil botanic gardens and the start of the "Garden-to-Sky" hiking trail.

Green Pleasure Pier: Stroll the pier to find the Visitor's Center, restaurants, and activity operators.