Love Letter from Catalina
Dear visitors and lovers of beautiful Catalina Island:
Last fall a group of sixty island stakeholders gathered in an ocean view room overlooking Avalon Bay to discuss how we as an organization, and as an island, wanted to position ourselves to the world. At the end of the day there was consensus, and Love was the word.
For generations, visitors have come to the island and upon their return home told “love stories” about all they had seen and done. Many fell in love, had a first date, proposed or even exchanged vows on the island. When residents ventured out into the world and shared that they hailed from Catalina Island, the most common refrain was, “I love Catalina.”
Thus, Love Catalina Island emerged. We were set to share our new look and name with the world on February 14th 2020 - after all, what better date for Love Catalina Island to make its debut? Delays ensued, as they sometimes do, and then along came a global pandemic. When we set out on this journey, we had no idea where we’d be as a city, community or country. But one thing we do know is that now, more than ever, is the time to share love.
After the island closed to non-essential travelers on March 20, hundreds of jobs were lost, a few businesses closed permanently, while others are now facing an uncertain future. Our always seasonal and fragile economy just wasn’t the same without you.
In accordance with the State of California guidelines, were ready to welcome visitors back to the island we all love so much. Restaurants and shops are now open for dining and shopping, while hotels will begin booking leisure travelers starting June 12, 2020. Please enjoy learning more about Catalina Island and everything it has to offer at LoveCatalina.com. From there, you can find a full list of what is reopened to help plan your next island getaway.
Soon we will also be launching an online “Summer of Love” concert series. Favorite acts like Taimane Gardner, the Xceptional Tribute to ABBA, Mick Adams and the Stones will all be performing.
Stay well – we’d Love to see you again soon!
With much love,
Jim Luttjohann, President & CEO
Love Catalina Island, Catalina Island Tourism Authority
P.S. Love us some more on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or #LoveCatalina.
View Official Press Release
