“Twenty six miles across the sea, Santa Catalina is a waitin’ for me,” these are the lyrics from a song that helped immortalize this tropical island as a true vacation paradise. Sitting so, close to yet so far away from the California mainland, this island getaway was once the (almost) exclusive playground of the Wrigley Family (chewing gum magnate).  However, today this 20 mile long by 10 mile wide chunk of Pacific Ocean real estate, with its lofty summits, elegant harbors and white sandy beaches provides a semi tropical paradise and a smorgasbord of opportunities that permits anyone seeking a short but genuinely exotic getaway, exactly that.

There are several ways to reach this island paradise.  From harbors all along the Southern California coast high speed ferries like the Catalina Express make regularly scheduled departures throughout the day, transiting back and forth to Avalon at the southern tip of the island as well as making stops at Two Harbors which is located at the north end of the island.  Many mariners with private watercraft make the trip, harboring their boats at both Avalon and Two Harbors where they spend the day or spend several days languishing in solitude.  There is also an airport where transportation to and from the island can be easily arranged.

Overlooking the bay and with the old Casino a prominent landmark seen from every vantage point, the unique flavor and special charm of Avalon is undisputed.  To begin with this small harbor village is replete with boutique hotels, while the streets and alley ways are lined with the widest assortment of eateries and watering holes.  Laid back in every respect, this island’s ambience is replicated only by the islands in the Caribbean or wherever else tropical climates influence daily activities. 

Deep sea fishing opportunities are abundant and visually extreme sports (they are actually tame) like being towed aloft in a parasail, several hundred feet above the ocean by a motorized launch provide a thrill you will soon want to repeat.  There are glass bottom boat excursions that permit those onboard the opportunity to look into the depths of the Catalina Channel and marvel at the marine life that lies on the ocean floor.   And for those who seek the solace of the surrounding hills and whose passion it is to hit a golf ball the public country club is open for all to enjoy.  The primary mode of transportation is the golf cart, not only on the golf course but also around town.  You can rent one and poke around and explore the nooks and crannies that give the Avalon Harbor area so much of its charm .

At the north end of Catalina Island is Two Harbors which is accessible from Avalon by water taxi.  For those who like a more primitive approach to accommodations there are campground facilities here and beautiful beaches on both sides of the island.  As the name Two Harbors implies there is an isthmus (it’s about a quarter mile across the isthmus and can be easily walked) that connects the channel (east) side of Catalina Island and the Pacific Ocean side.  And for those who enjoy walking and day hiking there are mountain tops surrounding Two Harbors that yield exhilarating vistas and an exceptional cardio workout.   The majesty and drama that can be seen from atop the surrounding peaks as the Pacific Ocean pounds against the vertical bluffs that lie to the right and left of Two Harbors, is a dimension only enjoyed from above.  There is however an alternative to hiking. For those who would prefer to ride and avoid the hike, check with the concessions on the channel side of Two Harbors and arrange for a more comfortable and easy way to the top.  Beach goers at Two Harbors beach can also rent water play equipment and when a cold beverage, a snack or a full meal is mandated an excellent eatery awaits you on the beach..

  Happy Traveling!