Santa Catalina Island sits in the Pacific Ocean about 20 miles south southwest of Los Angeles. The island has two main towns; the much larger Avalon and the unincorporated Two Harbors. Catalina has an incredibly rich history that blends Native American settlement, military occupation, and golden age Hollywood filming. Most visitors get to the island by ferry.
Catalina Island is only 22 miles from Los Angeles, but the pace of life is a world of difference. Most islanders only travel by foot and by golf cart.
Most people get to the island by boat, and then many get right back on the water for fishing, sailing, and cruising. For visitors, the island has several great operators that provide memorable experiences on the water.
Catalina is a very rocky island, and there is no shortage of ways to explore. Local providers rent everything from jeeps to golf carts to segways to electric bikes. For adventurous types, consider ziplining.
While Catalina offers endless options for outdoors activities, the most popular place to visit is the Catalina Island Casino. Even if you don’t enjoy gambling, the casino’s architecture is stunning, and they offer tours.
January through March is the wet season, as well as the slow season for tourism.
Spring is a great time to visit as long as you strategically miss the spring break crowd (unless you're 19 years old and that's your thing).
Catalina gets very busy during the summer. The weather is dry and sunny, with highs in the mid-70s. The crowds can get overwhelming.
September and October are fantastic months to visit as the weather is still beautiful while the crowds have thinned out a bit.