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Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island sits on the same latitude as Casablanca and is just 2 degrees south of Crete. The island is 22 miles from the California coast. It has 75 square miles of interior wilderness where bison roam and many indigenous plants grow that are now uncommon on the mainland. Originally a tent city for summer vacationers, who paid about $150 a site, Catalina now has all the essentials: electricity, water, phones - even Internet access! Rainwater is stored in reservoirs through the island interior, purified and then piped to Avalon and Two Harbors. There is a desalination plant and can supply water during periods of drought. All the electricity and water service is provided by Edison Company and Pac Bell provides phone utilities. There are no stoplights as the few people who drive, do so primarily in golf carts. The one down side to the island (if you live there) is that everything has to be brought over by barge.

Calendar of Events

Gallery of Catalina Photos

Tours and Activities

Avalon

Avalon was named for an island in the King Arthur legends. Incorporated in 1913, the current population is about 3,200 residents, but in summer and on weekends the population rises to over 10,000. Almost 30% of the land in Avalon is independently owned, the other 70% is owned by the Santa Catalina Island Company. Private property may be purchased from individual owners. Although most visitors to Avalon stay in rented homes or hotel rooms, there is one campground located on Avalon Canyon Road - Hermit Gulch Campground can accommodate about 200 people. There are BBQ pits, (no wood fires), picnic tables, and indoor hot showers. This campground is handicapped accessible. Rental tepees and equipment is available, and there is a small general store. A ranger is on site 24 hours a day. There are additional campsites throughout Island.
(310) 510-8368.

El Rancho Escondido

The Wrigley family's Arabian horse ranch. This is a popular stop on the inland motor tour. It is a working ranch in the interior where horses are raised and trained. Some of America's finest Arabians are from this ranch. Stop by the tack room to see the many awards and ribbons on display. Visit includes a horse show. The day we went our son won a horse show just before the show, that he carried with him throughout the rest of the trip.

Two Harbors

Two Harbors is a more rustic town than Avalon and has been the location for several Hollywood movies such "Treasure Island" and "Mutiny on the Bounty". The area remains mostly undeveloped which along with the year-round good weather, affords some great camping and hiking opportunities. Camping options include campsites with toilets, showers and tent cabins, or for the more adventurous types - a simple corner of the wilderness. Hiking is accommodated by many trails ranging from beginner to advanced capabilities. There are many picnic tables and BBQ's on the beach. Before planning your trip, check on permits and reservation information.
(310) 510-2800.
Doug's Harbor Reef Saloon and Patio Bar
Here you can down a tasty grog, dance to DJ tunes in the summer and try the favorite, "Buffalo Milk." Breakfast and lunch are served outdoors on the patio during summer.
The Harbor Reef Restaurant
Serves fresh caught fish from the local waters along with steaks, ribs, chicken and prime rib. Atmosphere is South Seas casual. Open year-round and reservations are recommended.
(310) 510-4233
West End Galley
A snack bar in a casual setting where you can pick up a sandwich or something from the grill. Breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner during the summer.
Two Harbors General Store
An excellent selection of food and handles a complete line of marine supplies, fishing gear and camping equipment. Also offers clothing by local artists. Food and provisions may be preordered for pickup. Open year-round.
(310) 540-4217

Getting there:
Catalina Express leaves from Long Beach or San Pedro. About $36 round trip - call for pricing and reservations.
(800) 315-7925

Catalina Cruises sails from Long Beach. About $35 round trip - call for pricing and reservations.
(800) 228-2546

Catalina Passenger Service serves Orange County from Newport Harbor. About $33 round trip - call for pricing and reservations.
(714) 673-5245