KidTripster Teen: With just the right mix of adventure and relaxation, Catalina Island is a Californian escape, even for locals
Just off the majestic coast of southern California, there’s an island that many call “paradise.” I often call it a “second home,” because I have grown up spending countless family vacations here. Catalina Island is a short jaunt from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, but once you arrive, you’ll be fully immersed in island life. It was once the vacation hot spot for Hollywood royalty. Today, this blissful oasis is the perfect getaway for families who want an island adventure without the hassle of getting passports.
Things to do on Catalina Island
The island is huge at about 74 square miles. Thanks to several conservation acts, Santa Catalina Island, or as the locals call it, Catalina, is mostly unspoiled and wild. There are a few areas of exception, though. Avalon is the most developed part of the island. Though it has a relaxed vibe, it’s anything but dull. There are interesting historic sites to explore, exciting ocean activities to try, unique shops to visit, and delicious foods to eat. Like most island towns, it can feel a bit touristy, but that’s part of its charm and appeal.
The first thing that I recommend doing is getting a lay of the land. Since Avalon is compact, cars are rare here; you can easily walk, bike, drive a golf cart or even Segway your way around. My preferred mode of transport is the golf cart. There are plenty of rental options in Avalon, but you’ll find the best deals at Island Rentals. If you pay for two hours, Island Rentals will give you a third hour free. Grab a map and explore on your own. Cost: $80 for 2 hours; cash only.
For thrill-seekers, the island had a plethora of activities to enjoy, including sea kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing. One thrill that you’ve got to experience is the Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour. Head up the mountain to Hog’s Back Gate via bus. Then zip back down one of five ziplines, flying 600 feet above sea level and cruising about 30 mph over the beautiful Descanso Canyon. One of the lines is 1,100 feet long! The whole excursion will take about two hours, but it’ll be two hours that you’ll never forget. The tours go year-round (even on New Year’s Day). Because of its popularity, you should book in advance. Cost: Spring/summer $130/person; Fall/winter $115/person.
KidTripster Tip: The zipline tour ends right next to Descanso Beach. Book mid-morning and when you’re finished, you can make a beeline for the beach to have lunch and chill out after your adventure.
While touring, head over to Avalon Canyon, where you’ll find the Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens. The memorial is dedicated to William Wrigley, Jr., the man who donated the island to the conservancy. It’s a hike to get up here, but you’ll be rewarded with superb views. Cost: Youth (5-12 & students with ID) $3; Adult $7.
KidTripster Tip: Go to the memorial early in the day. It can get pretty hot in the canyon, so hiking to this spot in the afternoon can make for a sweaty trip. If you do choose an afternoon hike, be sure to bring lots of water and sunscreen.
KidTripster Tip: While you’re in the canyon, visit the Nature Center and the Bird Park. Both are free and provide great information about the island and its history.
For a more in-depth history lesson, visit the Catalina Island Museum. Here you can learn everything that you ever wanted to know about the island and see various special exhibits on display. For history buffs, it’s a must-see. I suggest going later in the day, when it’s less crowded. Cost: Youth (15 and under) Free; Adult $7.50.
KidTripster Tip: While at the museum, you’ll be introduced to Catalina’s signature historical tiles. They dot the island, and once you learn about them, you’ll start spotting them everywhere.
Another historical location that’s worth the visit is Casino Point. This iconic Avalon structure was originally a casino, but now houses a movie theater. Be aware that most movies playing here are rated PG-13 and up, so you may not find many flicks the entire family can enjoy. In addition to movies, you can get a tour of the place, which takes you inside the casino and reveals its fascinating history. There are two tours daily at 11:45 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.; they last about 40 minutes. If you go, make sure to check out the mosaic of the Catalina Island Mermaid. Cost: Youth (2-11) $12; Adult $13.
KidTripster Tip: If you plan to take this tour and go to the museum, take the tour first. You’ll get $2 off your tickets to the museum.
There are a couple of Avalon attractions you may want to skip. Nautilus and the Glass-Bottom Boat are cool, but they’re a bit pricey, and you don’t see many fish. I suggest snorkeling in Lover’s Cove or the Casino Point Dive Park instead. You’ll see way more marine life, and it’s less disruptive to the ecosystem. There’s a rental spot at the dive park that doesn’t really have a name, as well as one on the way to Lover’s Cove called Wet Spot Rentals. Snorkel set cost: $10/hour plus second hour free or $20/day; Wet suit cost: $15/hour or $25/day.
Where to eat on Catalina Island
There’s no shortage of fabulous food on the island. For morning fuel, check out the Pancake Cottage (615 Cresent Ave.) or Jack’s Original Country Kitchen (118 Catalina Ave.). Both serve traditional American breakfast fare that will fill you up and have you ready for a day of exploring. When lunchtime rolls around, CC Gallagher’s (523 Crescent Ave.) is a great spot to grab a bite. It has sushi and other healthy food choices, like smoothies, salads, and tapas. If you want something less exotic, Cafe Metropole (205 Crescent Ave.) is great. It serves great sandwiches, and if you have any vegans or vegetarians in your party, this place has worthwhile options.
At dinnertime, options abound. If you want an upscale venue, try Avalon Grille (423 Crescent Ave.) or Bluewater Grill (306 Crescent Ave.). Both have ocean views and great food; reservations are recommended. Want something a little more low-key? Mi Casita (111 Claressa Ave.), El Galleon (411 Crescent Ave.), and Antonio’s Pizza (230 Crescent Ave.) fit the bill. Mi Casita is traditional Mexican cuisine. It’s on the quirky side, complete with wacky décor. At El Galleon, you’ll find American pub food. It also has karaoke on Sunday nights and fun music that’ll get everyone dancing. Antonio’s Pizza is, of course, a pizza parlor.
And it wouldn’t be a vacation without treating yourself to some dessert. Avalon has a wonderful selection of sweet shops. Lloyd’s of Avalon Confectionery (315 Crescent Ave.) is famous for its delicious, salt-water taffy. My favorite indulgence is Scoops (501 Crescent Ave.). It’s a homemade ice cream and gelato shop. If you go, give the almond-coconut gelato a try. It’s to die for!
Where to stay on Catalina Island
There’s a wide range of accommodations on the island from comfortable hotels to good, old-fashioned camping. Even though there’s a campsite in Avalon, it doesn’t supply the best accommodations; it’s just off the side of the road and doesn’t give the super rustic feel that you typically want to experience when camping.
You’d probably be more content in a hotel. Two picks that my family likes are Hotel Metropole and Glenmore Plaza Hotel. The Hotel Metropole is one of the nicer hotels in Avalon, located in the charming Metropole Marketplace. It has a rooftop Jacuzzi, overlooking the ocean, and some rooms also have balconies with views or partial views of the water and casino. The hotel features a full spa, as well. Rooms start at $229-$249/night during peak season (May 1 – October 31). If you aren’t looking for something super lavish, try the Glenmore Plaza, an older hotel with a beachy feel. This four-story walk-up still uses old-fashioned keys for the rooms. It’s clean, and the staff is very friendly. They provide coffee and pastries in the lobby, starting at 7:30 a.m. Rooms start at $197/night.
KidTripster Tip: Whether you stay there or not, be sure to check out the Metropole Market. There are a bunch of great shops and cafes that are worth a look. My favorite part of the market though is the awesome arcade. It’s the ideal place to have some family fun and relax after a long day of sightseeing.
More things to do
If your family enjoys the rugged outdoors, you may want to spend part of your time on the island in Two Harbors. Located on the opposite side of the island about an hour from Avalon, this small outpost provides an alternative experience. Though it’s a tiny village, you’ll find plenty to do here. Start by discovering the amazing wildlife this area has to offer. You can explore the many hiking trails and try to get a glimpse of the island’s unofficial mascot, the bison. Plus, discover the many different species of birds and animals. If you’re up to the challenge, your family can rent bikes and pedal all the way to Emerald Bay, the farthest cove on the windward side of island. Be warned, parts of the trip can be a tough ride and little legs may get tired. If you prefer to hang out in town, check out the disc golf course. You can rent discs or bring your own. You also can find rental shops along the beach with kayaks, paddleboards, and even water bicycles. But by far, the best part of Two Harbors is the swimming and snorkeling. You can rent masks, snorkels, and wetsuits to experience Catalina’s spectacular marine life. If you have your P.A.D.I. certification, you also can rent scuba gear; just show your card.
KidTripster Tip: Once again, it’s best to head out exploring early in the day before it gets too hot. If you do venture out later, consider wearing a bathing suit underneath your clothes. Once you’re done hiking, you can strip off the top layer and head straight into the ocean to wash off the mix of sweat and trail dust. It’s super refreshing!
The only restaurant in Two Harbors is Harbor Reef. The food is decent with something for everyone; it also has a kids’ menu.
As for sleeping arrangements, you have a couple of options. Banning House Lodge is a quaint, 12-room bed-and-breakfast with incredible views of the harbor. Rooms start at $122/night and include a complimentary continental breakfast and a free shuttle into town. Two Harbors Campground offer amenities such as showers, chemical toilets, fresh water, BBQ and fire pits, picnic tables, and camping equipment rentals. Starting at $48 for 2 adults/night and $15/kid (2 to 11 years old), it’s way more fun and less expensive.
How to get to Catalina Island
The only way to get to Catalina Island is by boat or plane. Private boats can sail to the island and tie on to a mooring or anchor, but Catalina Express is the official island ferry and the most cost-effective option. Ferries leave from Dana Point, Long Beach, and San Pedro. In the summer, the ferries service Two Harbors and Avalon, but in the winter, they only stop in Avalon. Prices vary depending on the port. If you need to get there quickly (just 15 minutes), you can call Island Express Helicopters. Flights from San Pedro start at $125/person with a two-person minimum.
KidTripster Tip: You can ride for free on the Catalina Express on your birthday! To do this, you’ll need to register first on its website.
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