Get on the ferry to Catalina Island and get away!
Santa Catalina Island is part of the beautiful Channel Islands Archipelago, which stretches for miles along the Southern California coast. Just 22 miles long and 8 miles wide, rugged and beautiful Catalina Island is home to some of the richest marine diversity in the world. Catalina Island is the only Channel Island that is developed, but most of the island is still protected, and most the inhabitants are concentrated in the town of Avalon.
Located approximately 22 miles south-southwest of Los Angeles, Catalina Island makes the island a perfect destination for weekend vacations, honeymoons, weddings and day trips. There are many different ways to enjoy the Island including sport fishing, sailing, diving, hiking and camping, golf and more. Each of these activities is deeply connected to the islands rich history.
The majority of the island's residents are concentrated in the port town of Avalon, with 300 or so more in the more remote Two Harbors. Islanders typically work in the tourism industry in some way, some are artisans, baoting enthusiasts, or retirees. All supplies must be shipped in from the mainland, making fuel, groceries and just about everything else expensive and prone to shortages. There are strict regulations regarding motor vehicles on the island so resident use modified golf cart to get around. These things add to the island's charm and easy pace of life.
Most of the island is managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy, which endeavors to restore the islands original flora and fauna. However, they are also charged with protecting one of the most interesting transplants to the island, a massive herd of wild Bison, which were brought in by a film production over 50 years ago.
Golf carts are easy to rent, but bicycles are the easiest way to explore the narrow street and interact with friendly locals. guided tours provide a great, inexpensive way to learn about the island's rich history.
Accommodations are available for all budgets, as well as international cuisine, spa resorts, and yearly jazz and dance festivals. Whether you plan to stay a day or a few days, there are plenty of activities, places to eat, boutiques, and endless walks along the beach to keep visitors occupied. Santa Catalina Island is truly another world away from the rest of California, and a perfect, accessible getaway that is easy to plan and will satisfy your vacation wanderlust.