Travel and Vacation on Catalina Island
♦ Routes (free): Detailed travel itineraries in USA
Catalina Island is located 36 km off the coast of Los Angeles. The island is 34 km long and 13 km wide. Its capital city is Avalon. The island, which was discovered in 1542, formerly served as a hiding place for pirates, but today it is a charming vacation spot. Most of the island is uninhabited, and its two main towns are: Avalon and Two Harbors.
Catalina's beaches are enchantingly beautiful, convenient for swimming and water sports. The sea is rich in colorful fish and attracts many divers. The towns are very picturesque, with small white houses and long promenades featuring numerous shops and restaurants. Various organized tours and excursions can be taken on the island: a tour of the circular Casino building (no longer functioning as a casino) located at the end of the Avalon promenade, a glass-bottom boat trip, an inland safari tour, and more.
Recommended hotels in the city of Avalon on Catalina Island:
A 4-star hotel in the city center. Free internet.
A 4-star hotel. Free breakfast and internet.
The Avalon Hotel in Catalina Island
A 3-star hotel in the center of Avalon. Free internet.
Book guided tours on Catalina Island from GetYourGuide.com:
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The sailing duration to the island by fast boat is between 60 to 90 minutes. Cruises to the island depart from the ports of San Pedro and Long Beach. The Catalina Express company has up to 22 daily sailings to the island (at the height of the tourist season), phone: 310-519-1212.
Another company that sails to the island is: Catalina Cruises (only from Long Beach port). A fascinating but much more expensive way to reach the island is by helicopter flight. The flight also departs from San Pedro or Long Beach and lasts about 15 minutes. The main visitor center is located in Avalon, near the harbor, and its address is: 1 Green Pier.
The Casino on Catalina Island
Map of Catalina Island