There's a little piece of heaven off the coast of Los Angeles. Fifty years ago,
Santa Catalina, one of the Channel Islands, was 21 miles of undeveloped beauty
boasting clear waters and isolated beaches. It hasn't changed much in the past
five decades. Today, Catalina Island offers a small-town charm, rugged natural
beauty, and a wealth of opportunities for fun.
Catalina's two main towns are Avalon on the east end, and
Two Harbors, to the west. Visit Avalon if you're interested in engaging in
water activities (snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking are popular), or
taking a sight-seeing tour to get a look at the marine life near the island,
which includes whales, dolphins, flying fish, and sea lions. Two Harbors,
pristine and somewhat isolated, is a perfect starting point for adventurers
who want to indulge in mountain biking, camping, or hiking.
A variety of accommodations options are available on the
island. Sprinkled throughout Catalina are quaint hotels, guest cottages, bed-and-breakfast
inns, and oceanfront villas. For those who prefer to commune with nature,
Catalina has five scenic campgrounds.
The island offers opportunities for a number of family-oriented
activities: rollerblading, miniature golf, swimming, arcades, and shopping,
as well as special water programs for kids that include fishing, kayaking,
and boating. Teens can enjoy the pool tables or video games at the Community
Church, at the corner of Beacon and Metropole in Avalon, which has a recreation
hall and study center located in its basement. Or if they're feeling more
cerebral, they can use the Study Center's computers and reference books.
Location
Catalina Island is located 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles. You can
reach the island by boat or helicopter.
Hours of operation Six Flags Magic Mountain has varying hours, depending on the day and the
time of year. For specific information regarding the hours on the day you
plan to visit, check the calendar.
Cost
Island Express Helicopter Service leaves from Long Beach and San Pedro
Boat Terminals. The cost for the 14-minute flight is $68.86, one way, or
$126.98 round trip. Call (310) 510-2525 for more information.
Several boating companies offer passage to Catalina. Travel time ranges
from 75 minutes to 2 hours. Fares start at about $42 (adults) and $33 (children)
for a round-trip, depending on your point of departure. For information
on specific boats and fares, visit the Catalina
Island Web site.
Contact information and reservations
Contact the Catalina Island Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Bureau
at (310) 510-7645.
A 64-page visitors guide is available by sending an e-mail request to
info@visitcatalina.org.
Disabled access Disabled people can fully enjoy Catalina Island. Not all areas and hotels
are handicap-accessible, however, so it's important to investigate before
you go. You can find the information necessary to make your vacation plans
on the access
page of the Catalina Island Web Site.
Special considerations
The temperature can vary, so bring long pants and a jacket for windy days.
Advance reservations for boat transportation are highly recommended..
Tickets may be purchased the day of departure, based on availability, but
departure times frequently sell out.
A photo ID is required to board transportation to the island.
No cars are allowed on Catalina Island. Buses shuttle between Avalon
and Two Harbors while making stops at attractions along the way.
Golf carts are available for rental.
Additional information
For a general overview of the island, visit the Catalina
Island Web site.
For more information on camping facilities, visit the camping
page.
For help in choosing a place to stay, visit the lodging
page.
Please note
Cost, hours of operation, or other information about this attraction is subject
to change without notice. We suggest you confirm with the attraction prior
to your visit.
