Only an hour away by boat from San Pedro, Dana Point, Long Beach, and Newport Beach, Catalina Island offers a perfect family weekend getaway. Catalina Island (or Santa Catalina) is one of California’s Channel Islands in the southwest of Los Angeles. The island is only about 76 square miles in size. Its main town is Avalon, with a population of about 3,700, and the resort town of Two Harbors lies to the north.

Catalina Island Ferry

Adult tickets for the ferry voyage are about $40 per person each way, depending on the season and day of the week. The ride itself takes approximately one hour. While crossing the waters to the island, you can usually always spot pods of dolphins, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale. The ideal time to watch gray whales while migrating off Southern California’s coast is from December to April. Gray whales have one of the longest migrations of any mammal, covering approximately 12,000 miles round trip.

Things to do in Catalina Island

If you are going to spend a weekend with the kids at Catalina Island, here are some of the top things to do.

Bison Expedition

Catalina Island is currently home to a herd of approximately 120-150 American bison. Despite being called “American Buffalo” most of the time, buffalo are native to Africa and Asia, whereas bison are exclusively found in North America and Europe.

Catalina Rock Climbing Wall at Descanso

A 32-foot rock climbing wall with eight color-coded routes up for varying ability levels—from beginner to advanced—near the base camp of the Zip Line Eco Tour will put you through a serious workout. The Climbing Wall is ideal for children since it features a sophisticated mechanism that controls the lines, allowing climbers to descend safely and gradually.

Catalina Aerial Adventure

It is situated next to Descanso Beach Club, and an exciting journey is in store. Nestled amidst the Eucalyptus trees, the Catalina Aerial Adventure resembles an obstacle course consisting of five distinct self-guided courses that demand you to navigate a maze of rope ladders, balance beams, zip lines, and bridges.

Catalina Casino

The most famous sight on the island is the Catalina Casino, which is also frequently featured in travel magazines’ iconic photos of the island. Once home to the Catalina Island Museum, the Catalina Casino is a sizable gathering place with a ballroom and movie theater. In addition, it is one of the best Places To Visit In California.

Catalina Island Museum

It was founded in 1953. The Catalina Island Museum is housed in the historic Catalina Casino in Avalon. Its new location has all the conveniences of a contemporary museum, and it offers more than 18,000 square feet of exhibition space.

Catalina Island Camping

The sole campground on Catalina Island’s “backside” is called Little Harbor. Between Two Harbors and Avalon, there are nine more rustic campsites that are accessible only by boat. Hermit Guluch Campground, Little Harbor Campground, and Santa Catalina Island Campground are the greatest campgrounds.

Island Catalina Weather

Warm year-round temperatures and a mild subtropical climate characterize the weather on Catalina Island. The average annual temperature fluctuates between 52°F and 81°F; it is rarely lower or higher than 45°F or 91°F.

Catalina Island Map

Catalina Island snorkeling

An organized snorkeling excursion on Catalina Island! View fish, kelp, and other aquatic life while a knowledgeable guide highlights Catalina’s marine environment. It is by far Catalina Island’s greatest activity.

Best time to visit Catalina Island

Warm water and weather are available in the summer. Winter entices with its leisurely pace and peaceful streets. Many Catalina enthusiasts consider autumn to be their favorite season because of the ideal weather and abundance of activities. In addition, Spring is a great season to visit the island’s wildlands because of the lush green hillsides and vibrant wildflowers.

Different Distances From Catalina Island

The following lists several noteworthy distances from Catalina Island.

San Diego to Catalina Island

San Diego is around a 1.5–2 hour drive away. You cannot drive your car to Catalina, despite your best efforts. With a fleet of eight fast-moving vessels, Catalina Express can transport guests or passengers to Catalina Island in under one hour.

Huntington Beach to Santa Catalina Island

The Pacific Coast Highway is the quickest route from Huntington Beach to the Catalina Island ferry. There is no geographical connection between Santa Catalina Island and Huntington Beach. On the other hand, you can take a cab to Long Beach and then a ferry to Avalon.

Los Angeles to Santa Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island and Los Angeles are not connected directly. You can, however, drive to the Downtown Long Beach Station, stroll to Long Beach, and then get the ferry to Avalon from there.

Renting Golf Carts on Catalina Island, CA

If you are considering a vacation to Catalina Island? Renting a golf cart is one of the most original ways to experience the charming village of Avalon. It’s not only an easy way to move around; you won’t want to miss the exciting and unique experience it offers.

Catalina Island Hotels

Hilton Hotel Catalina Island, Hotel St. Laurent Santa Catalina Island CA, and Bellanca Hotel are mainly attracting hotels in Catalina Island. Moreover, there are more luxury hotels available all around the island to visit and stay.

Conclusion

The Santa Catalina Islands have historically been somewhat modest. The island’s natural beauty draws a large number of visitors. However, it will create the best vibes if you are visiting California and visiting Catalina Island. It has all the attributes that a famous and luxurious place should have. Beyond Avalon and its sunny beaches, Catalina Island offers much more. Go to Catalina during the winter and explore the island to fully experience it.