Discover Catalina Island
Just across the bay from Los Angeles, Newport Beach to be exact, is Catalina Island. A great weekend or even vacation destination.
All you need is catch the ferry to take you there. What a better idea than plan some island time for a while?
Catalina Island – Where to eat
For Breakfast on Catalina Island, we recommend the Pancake Cottage in Avalon. You probably never had such a choice of pancake variations before! It will fill you up until you are ready to enjoy a late lunch. Though the service is really good, make sure you plan to have time in case you have to catch the ferry back to the Coast. For lunch, sit on the patio of Antonio’s Pizzeria and eat the best pizza of the Island while enjoying a beautiful view of the Ocean. And for dinner, if you want something fast, simple and to go, try Coyote Joes for a yummy burrito. But,if you want something a little more fancy, Ristorante Villa Portofino is a great fine Italian cuisine restaurant, with a divine food, wine and dessert menu.
Catalina Island – Where to stay
If you don’t want to spend all your trip in and and all your money on your hotel, but you still want something cozy and clean for the night, the Pavillon Lodge is great. It look a little “antique” from the outside, but the rooms are clean, modern, and the staff is always happy to help their guests! Otherwise, the most visited hotel is the Avalon Hotel of course. You get spectacular views, the rooms are beautiful and the experience is just amazing. This hotel is the number one of the island for its luxury, its service, and also location. Most hotels offer different packages for your stay to combine golf, spa treatment or other with your room.
Did you pack your tent? Great! You have the choice of 6 different campgrounds on Catalina Island.
Catalina Island – What to do
One of the greatest attraction of Catalina Island is Whale watching! You can leave from Newport Beach for a day trip, or take the full adventure package and go with Catalina Ocean Rafting on an inflatable boat! It is a great fun family experience! They also offer snorkeling trips and tours of the island. Catalina is also a great place to dive.
If you are searching for something else than building sand castle with you kids, the mini-golf court is always a fun activity and assures you a good time.
For people that like the indoors more, Catalina Island is a great place to find a spa and relax. And after that you can always stop for a little shopping. From craft to vintage clothing, Catalina Island has a great selection of little shops to give you the typical island experience.
Note: Every October, you can enjoy a Jazz festival on the Island. Catalina Island Jazz Trax lines up 30 artists from all over the world, for 3 weekends. It takes place at the Avalon Hotel. Make sure to get your tickets!
So come on, board the ferry and leave the crazy city behind you for a while and come relax and enjoy the fun, and the sun of Catalina Island!
