Why Go to Catalina Island
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Catalina Island is a quick escape from Southern California that feels a world away. Just 22 miles offshore and a short ferry ride from the mainland, it's an island where the pace slows down, the water is clear and outdoor adventure is everywhere.
Explore beaches, coves and rugged hills by hiking, biking or kayaking. Snorkel or scuba dive among kelp forests and bright orange garibaldi fish, or stay dry on a semi-submersible boat tour. For a thrill, try zip-lining, parasailing or an off-road tour into the island's wild interior, where you might even spot the island's famous bison.
Prefer a slower pace? Stroll through the charming town of Avalon, learn about its history at the museum and relax at Descanso Beach Club. For a quieter, more rustic experience, head to Two Harbors on the other end of the island, with hiking trails, campgrounds and starry skies. Catalina is also a popular stop on California and Mexican Riviera cruises. I'll book your ferry, hotel and island adventures for an easy getaway.
BEST FOR
Couples, families, ocean lovers and outdoor travelers
BEST MONTHS
April–October
EXPLORE
Avalon is the main visitor town with harbor shops and beaches; Two Harbors is a quieter settlement on the island's isthmus.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Catalina Island
North America › West Coast › USA › California
Island coves and a relaxed California escape
Coastal & Harbor
Hiking
Boating
Nature
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Book ferry travel before reserving activities, and leave enough margin for the return departure.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Plan around ferry arrival and departure crowds.
Avalon Harbor
Walk the picturesque harborfront lined with colorful buildings and moored boats.
The name refers to a gathering place, not gambling.
Catalina Casino
Explore the island’s landmark circular Art Deco building with guided visits when available.
Check chair rentals and access arrangements.
Descanso Beach
Relax at a pebbly cove northwest of Avalon with beach facilities.
Wear sturdy shoes on sloped paths.
Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden
Visit a hillside monument and garden featuring island and California plants.
Check special exhibitions before visiting.
Catalina Island Museum
Learn about island history, art and cultural heritage in Avalon.
A refreshed historic hotel within easy walking distance of Avalon’s harbor and shops.
Hotel Atwater
Avalon
Value
A garden-style hotel steps from the harbor promenade.
Pavilion Hotel
Avalon waterfront
Beach
An intimate historic inn overlooking Avalon and the harbor.
Mt Ada
Avalon hillside
Boutique
A boutique hotel on Crescent Avenue, close to waterfront dining.
Bellanca Hotel
Avalon waterfront
Boutique
A distinctive hillside hotel with views over Avalon Bay.
Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel
Avalon hillside
Value
A small boutique hotel on the waterfront in Avalon.
Hotel Vista Del Mar
Avalon
Boutique
A good-value hotel steps from the beach.
Hotel Mac Rae
Avalon
Value
A boutique hotel with a rooftop deck and harbor views.
The Avalon Hotel
Avalon
Boutique
Simple, good-value rooms and cottages near town.
Hermosa Hotel & Cottages
Avalon
Value
A waterfront hotel with a rooftop deck overlooking the harbor.
Hotel Metropole
Avalon
Beach
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Catalina Island
High 69°F · Low 57°F · Rain 1.2 in
Quiet fall days in Avalon.
Late spring through early fall is popular for water activities; winter seas can be rougher and services more limited.
Best Times to Visit Catalina Island
WHEN TO GO
06
Boat and Weather Planning
Wind and sea conditions can cancel crossings; confirm last boats and baggage rules.
05
Island Conservancy Tours
Interior travel often requires authorized shuttles or guided excursions rather than private vehicles.
04
Golf Cart Rentals
Golf carts are popular within approved Avalon areas, with rental rules and route restrictions.
03
Avalon Walking
The town is compact and many waterfront attractions are easy to reach on foot.
02
Island Airport
Catalina's airport has limited specialized service, not the same options as a major commercial gateway.
01
Mainland Ferries
Passenger ferries depart from designated Southern California ports to Avalon or Two Harbors; confirm your exact route.
Arrive by ferry or air; Avalon is walkable and local shuttles or permitted golf carts serve some routes. Travel outside town is regulated.
Getting Around Catalina Island
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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