Catalina Island: A Hidden Gem Just Off the Coast
Angelenos are incredibly fortunate to live just a ferry ride away from Catalina Island, one of California’s most alluring destinations. This historic island, with a rich legacy as a resort haven for over a century, has welcomed the crème de la crème of Old Hollywood during its Golden Age, making it a locale steeped in nostalgia and charm.
Recent accolades from Condé Nast Traveler, which named Catalina Island among the “best places to go in North America and the Caribbean in 2026,” reaffirm its status as a must-visit destination. The island is featured alongside other iconic locales like Route 66, celebrating its centenary, as well as contenders like Buffalo, NY; Guadalajara, Mexico; and Barbados. Here’s a closer look at what makes Catalina so special.
Things to Do on Catalina Island
Catalina offers an impressive variety of activities that cater to every traveler’s tastes, mixing nature, adventure, and history seamlessly.
Explore the Catalina Casino
A standout attraction is the Catalina Casino, located in Avalon, an iconic landmark that has served as a glamorous haven for Old Hollywood luminaries for nearly a century. The casino houses the stunning Avalon Theatre, where visitors can catch classic films in a beautifully restored Art Deco setting. For those looking to partake in a bit of nostalgia, the Wrigley Ballroom invites guests to don vintage roller skates and glide around the floor.
Nature Lovers’ Paradise
For those who seek a more nature-infused experience, Catalina Island is a paradise waiting to be discovered. Aside from the small towns of Avalon and Two Harbors, most of the island remains a sanctuary for wildlife, carefully preserved to protect native species like the Channel Islands fox. You can hike the Trans-Catalina Trail, a breathtaking 38.5-mile trek offering stunning vistas of the island’s rugged terrain. Adventurers can also snorkel at Lover’s Cove, a serene spot teeming with marine life, or take an exhilarating zipline tour that offers unparalleled views of the island’s landscape.
Unique Tour Opportunities
For an unforgettable experience, consider embarking on the Catalina Island Day Trip with Zipline Eco Tour. This adventure combines the thrill of ziplining with the opportunity to experience the island’s unique ecosystem, making it a perfect outing for both families and thrill-seekers alike.
Visiting Catalina Island from L.A.
Catalina Island makes for an ideal day trip from Los Angeles, but there are some tips that can enhance your visit. Most travelers reach the island via the Catalina Express ferry, which departs from various ports including San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point. The ferry ride lasts about one hour each way, but be mindful that these trips can sell out quickly during holidays and weekends.
Once you arrive, you’ll notice that car travel is heavily regulated; there are no ride-sharing apps available on the island. Avalon itself is compact and beautifully walkable, and many visitors opt to either stroll through the picturesque streets or rent a golf cart for a unique way to explore this charming town.
Whether you’re drawn to its stunning natural beauty, the thrill of adventure, or the allure of its historic charm, Catalina Island is a treasure trove just waiting to be explored.
