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A Cultural Experience

You may consider Catalina Island a summer destination but there is so much to enjoy year-round. Catalina has a variety of cultural and educational activities that showcase the positive impact this island has had in history. From hands-on tile making to hiking in a historical memorial, Catalina Island has something for everyone to experience. Catalina Island Tile Experience One of the first things you notice when you visit Catalina Island is the beautiful tile work that is displayed all over Avalon. From the sign welcoming you to Avalon to the gorgeous fountain located in the center of town.  Did you know you can make your own Catalina tile? Bring a piece of that rich history home with you with Catalina Island Tile Experience. On this 90-minute tour you will be able to get your hands dirty and make your own…

72 Hours in Avalon

Off the coast of Southern California is an island full of adventure and tranquility. With so much to experience in Avalon, why limit yourself to only a day? Extend your getaway by staying at one of Avalon’s inviting hotels and explore the island with various activities that is sure to make for a memorable vacation. Day 1 Head over to Catalina on one of Catalina Express’ morning departures so you can enjoy every minute of your island getaway. Once you arrive, check in to your hotel so you can store your bags before fueling up on breakfast at the Pancake Cottage. After indulging in your favorite breakfast treat, it is time for your first activity of the day: parasailing. Venture over to the Green Pier where Island Water Charters will have you soaring 800 feet in the air with the…

Breakfast Time

There is a reason breakfast is the most important meal of the day. You need the perfect fuel to start your day, and Catalina Island will not disappoint with its array of choices. From healthy to decadent, Catalina has a breakfast place that will satisfy any craving. The Pancake Cottage You can never go wrong with a good old-fashioned breakfast. The Pancake Cottage, located right when you arrive in town, has all your favorite breakfast foods. It wouldn’t be called The Pancake Cottage if they didn’t make a mean stack of flapjacks. It also serves a variety of Mexican breakfast favorites like huevos rancheros and chilaquiles. A personal fave is the waffle topped with strawberries and whip cream. Café Metropole Want to start your day on a healthy foot? Café Metropole is your place, located in the Metropole Marketplace in…

Fall Events

Miss running a marathon, dressing up as a pirate, appreciating a glass of wine or listening to Smooth Jazz? Catalina Island is welcoming long celebrated events back this year. Please plan early as these events have always been popular with visitors and locals. Please note, organizers are working closely with public health officials to provide an enjoyable and safe experience. Catalina Wine Mixer September 10 – 11 The Original Catalina Wine Mixer at beautiful Descanso Beach Club is one of SoCal’s most unique and entertaining wine and music events. Join your fellow wine lovers, foodies and Step Brothers fanatics at the Annual Catalina Wine Mixer. Buy your tickets now by visiting CatalinaWineMixer.com. Buccaneer Days September 30 – October 2 Aargh, mateys! Come celebrate the Annual Buccaneer’s Weekend. Don your best pirate attire and set sail for Two Harbors for a…

Friends’ Getaway

Catalina is the perfect getaway for you and a travel buddy to explore together. Whether this is the first trip together or you have traveled together for years, there are so many fun activities to try while on the Island. Escape Room Sharpen your collaborations and communications skills as you work together to solve a mystery….

Unique Island Experiences

Just off the coast of Southern California lies a local island getaway offering unique experiences you can’t find anywhere else. Catalina has rich history and one of kind activities that you will remember for the rest of your life. Tile Making Experience One of the many elements that makes Avalon stand out is its Spanish…

Cool Treats

After enjoying Catalina’s sunshine or a thrilling activity, cool down with a refreshing, frosty treat. From ice cream to frozen cocktails, delight in a variety of icy snacks on your island getaway. CHILL CHILL is a new spot at Descanso Beach Club that serves frozen cocktails to those needing a frosty treat. You can even order the cocktail in a palm tree cup! They offer a variety of flavors including Buffalo Milk, Mango Margarita, Strawberry Daquiri, Jack & Coke and more. Those under 21 can join in on the fun with a virgin Strawberry Daquiri or virgin Piña Colada. Lloyd’s of Avalon Lloyd’s has been an Island sweets’ institution since 1941. Visitors and locals flock to this confectionery to enjoy their homemade salt water taffy, fantastic caramel apples, perfect peanut brittle, creamy fudge and scrumptious chocolates. Their ice cream cones…

Give Dad a Catalina Vacation

Time to spend quality time with Dad and have a little adventure! Catalina Island is the ideal place for exploration or relaxing on the beach. This year for Father’s Day, give dad a getaway he will always remember on Catalina Island. Play Make some memories with dad that last forever. Start with parasailing, one of the most uplifting ways to spend with your dad. Soar 800-feet above Avalon and take in all beautiful views and fresh air. If you want to make your parasailing adventure a little more exciting, you can ask the crew to dip you in the ocean. If keeping your feet on solid ground is more your style, check out one of the tours to the interior and you might see Catalina’s famous locals, the bison and Catalina Island fox. Explore the Island’s miles of paved and…

Dine like a Local

While many visitors know Catalina Island for adventurous activities or relaxing on the beach, the Island also has a dining scene that deserves a culinary spotlight. With a wide range of cuisines, there is something for everyone on their island getaway. What better way to enjoy a new place than know where the locals go…

Mom’s Catalina Getaway

It is time to surprise mom with a trip to Catalina Island where she can enjoy family time and create memorable moments to last a lifetime. To make planning easy, check out a couple travel tips, so you can sit back and relax on this fun-filled vacation. Stay Catalina Island offers the perfect place to…

Titanic: Real Artifacts, Real People, Real Stories

At noon on April 10th, 1912, the Titanic set sail from Southampton on her maiden voyage. Less than 5 days later, she disappeared to the bottom of the North Atlantic, becoming one of the largest maritime disasters in history. While most everyone is familiar with the basic story of the RMS Titanic’s untimely demise, it…

Water Fun

As temperatures start to rise, the water is calling for you to jump in. Catalina Island has just what you need to get back to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Islands underwater wonders. Whether you decide to completely go underwater or just enjoy being on the water, Catalina Island has an activity just…