Catalina Island
Santa Catalina Island the third largest of the Channel Islands and is located just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, but don’t let the island’s proximity to Los Angeles fool you, it is a world apart! The minute you step onshore you know that this is a different place and at a different pace, a pace we call Island Time! The Island is 22 miles long and 8 mile wide at its widest point. The Isthmus of Catalina, where the village of Two Harbors is located, is just 1/2 mile wide.
Fittingly, Avalon, Catalina’s largest population center is named after an island paradise found in the stories of King Arthur. Avalon is the quintessential Southern California beach community, much like you would found on the mainland 50 years ago. The town overlooks beautiful Avalon Bay with the iconic landmark Art Deco Casino dominating the western edge of the bay. The town faces the beautiful bay with rows of shops, restaurants and hotels along the beach front. Everything in easily accessible by walking adding to the relaxing nature of the town.
The activities are endless from snorkeling, scuba diving or kayaking in the crystal clear waters, play golf of the oldest course west of the Mississippi, rent a bike and explore the town, take one of a dozen tours either into the interior of the island, in and around town or on the water, relax and “put your feet in the sand and a drink in your hand” at the Descanso Beach Club (open March-October) or just take a leisurely stroll through town.
For the adventerous hike or bike into the interior of the island to see what Southern California must have looked like before it was settled. Another great way to take advantage of the beautiful nature of the island is to kayak through the clear water teaming with fish and wildlife.
Remember, Catalina Island is not the Southern California that you expect, it is a slice of what Southern California used to be…beautiful, unspoiled and close to nature.
