Two Harbors

Two Harbors on Catalina Island’s West End, is full of exciting activities and adventures ready to explore. Uniquely nestled between two ports that is its namesake. Ruggedly beautiful and infinitely peaceful, this charming town is surrounded by turquoise waters and emerald green mountains that welcome visitors to its sandy shores.

Home to only 298 people, the town is second in size to the only other major development on the island, the town of Avalon. This small size makes for a cozy and quiet beachside stay that many visitors appreciate. Considered an “Outdoor Lover’s Paradise,” the village offers a plethora of outdoor activities for nature lovers of all sorts. From hiking, to biking, to kayaking, fishing, camping, snorkeling and world-class SCUBA diving, this scenic town has it all. Contact the Two Harbors Dive and Recreation Shop or Two Harbors Visitor Services for more information.

For history buffs, this area has a robust and colorful story. Originally inhabited by Native Americans, the Isthmus was also home to Spanish explorers, fur traders, Civil War Union Army and even pirates!

This town was also home to several films throughout the 1920s-1930s such as the movie “The Vanishing American,” a western film based on the novel by Zane Grey. Incidentally, this history also gives way to one of Catalina Island’s main attractions, the bison. After the filming of the movie, crews were unable to round up the then small heard that they released. It was decided to leave the bison on the island and the heard quickly grew. Today, the island is home to over 100 American Bison.

Many people arrive in Two Harbors by private boat, but boat transportation from the mainland is available from the Catalina Express port of San Pedro. The distance from Avalon to Two Harbors is 13.4 miles by boat or 22 miles by road. During summer months, guests can take the Cyclone boat from Avalon for a scenic 40 minute coastal ride to Two Harbors. Overnight accommodations include a 12-room bed & breakfast called the Banning House Lodge, or two vacation rental properties, as well as a variety of Two Harbors camping options.

Start planning your trip today to see all that Two Harbors has to offer.