Story Ideas

Historic Avalon– From chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. to author Zane Grey, Catalina Island has been home to some of history’s most interesting figures, and a favorite vacation spot for others!  Explore Avalon’s rich history, famous landmarks, and fascinating architecture. Take in the Catalina Island Museum, go on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Casino building or enjoy the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden. In 2013, the City of Avalon celebrated it’s 100th anniversary on June 26th and 2019 was the centennial year of the island purchase by William Wrigley Jr.

Romantic Catalina Island – Catalina Island is the perfect place to escape for a romantic getaway.  Where else can you enjoy moonlit walks along the shore, snorkeling in Lover’s Cove, ride a bicycle built for two, and spend a cozy night alone in an ocean-view hotel with a fireplace and jacuzzi right in the room?  Known as the Island of Romance, no wonder Catalina Island is such a popular wedding and honeymoon spot!

Discover Catalina Island’s Vast Interior – With 88% of the island protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy, the island is home to plant life you won’t find anywhere else, as well as many animals just as rare, including the tiny Catalina Island fox, the stately bison, and even bald eagles!  Go camping, hiking or biking in the more than 42,000 acres of Catalina’s vast interior.  Or, explore the island on a Jeep eco-tour, sightseeing tour bus or van.

The Ultimate Day Trip – With so many people visiting southern California to enjoy theme parks, what better place to escape for a day than Catalina Island?  Take a break from long lines and expensive souvenirs to enjoy a peaceful day at the beach, go snorkeling, kayaking, or take a sightseeing tour.  And with travel time of one hour or less, you can be back in your hotel in time to get a good night’s rest for tomorrow’s adventure. Day packages are available that include the boat transportation and a wide variety of tours.  

Transportation – Getting to Catalina Island is half the fun!  With two boat companies serving the island from four ports (Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point and Newport Beach) and helicopters serving the island from three ports (Long Beach, San Pedro and John Wayne/Orange County Airport) visitors can reach Catalina in about one hour by boat or 15 minutes by air.

Shopping and Dining – From fresh seafood on an oceanfront patio to a champagne brunch with live jazz, Catalina Island has excellent restaurants with something to satisfy every taste and budget.  Shoppers will enjoy a wide variety of unique shops featuring everything from resort-style clothing to saltwater taffy and great Catalina souvenirs.

Travel Bargains – Many hotels offer packages throughout the year for ample savings including room, transportation and tours.  This is a good way to enjoy a memorable vacation on a budget!  Check out Catalina Hot Deals for your special offer.

Explore the Island

Catalina Flyer

Catalina Flyer from Newport

$10 Off Catalina Island Ferry

Hop onboard the Catalina Flyer for daily ferry service from Newport Beach to Avalon, Catalina Island in just over 1 hour.