Hilltop view of Avalon Harbor, Catalina. Photo Credit: Karen Chazanovsky

One of the island's iconic bison, originally brought over for a film in the 1920s and 30s. The herd currently numbers around 100.

Under three hours' travel from San Diego, Catalina Island is truly a world of its own. Avalon, the island’s main (and only incorporated) town, offers equal parts relaxation and adventure.

Here’s how to enjoy a day of island fun in the sun!

Getting to Catalina

Avalon is closer than you think. It’s a one-hour drive from San Diego to Dana Point Harbor and a 1.5-hour ferry ride via the Catalina Express. Or, if you’re short on time but not money, you can schedule a helicopter ride from Long Beach to Avalon.

Before leaving home, dress comfortably and wear walking shoes. Don’t forget to bring layers (the afternoons can get chilly), snacks, and a reusable water bottle.

Where to Stay

If you’d like to be close to the action in Avalon, book a room at the Pavilion Hotel or Hotel Atwater.

William Wrigley Jr. purchased the Catalina Island Company more than a century ago, and Hotel Atwater was the first hotel built on the island under his direction.

Vacation rentals and campground reservations are also reliable alternatives.

What to Do

Stroll along the waterfront, or rent a golf cart and zip around town. It’s easy to spend the entire day exploring the boardwalk boutiques and family-owned stores. Avalon is a shopper’s heaven.

The Ridgetop Eco Tour's biofuel Hummer Photo Credit: Karen Chazanovsky

Play a round of mini golf at Golf Gardens. This attraction has been a source of nostalgic fun for over 50 years. Considered by mini golf enthusiasts as one of the most unique courses in the world, its challenging 18-hole layout will bring out the best in you. No one game is the same.

Tour the backcountry of Catalina Island with Ridgetop Eco Adventure. As you cruise the rugged canyons that open to ocean horizons, you’ll get an up-close-and-personal feel for the island’s topography.

This memorable 4-wheeling adventure makes stops along the way so that you can take in sweeping views of both sides of the island. Who knows, you might even spot a herd of bison…

Catalina Casino

Before you board the ferry back to Dana Point Harbor, enjoy a late lunch at Descanso Beach Club, which is a short walk past the historic Catalina Casino.

Ceviche at Descanso Beach Club Photo Credit: Karen Chazanovsky

The beachfront restaurant and bar offers an open-air setting with comfortably spaced tables and serves a variety of appetizers, burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, and classic cocktails. Trying bison milk is a must!

A Day Well Spent

A day trip to Avalon on Catalina Island is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the mainland.

Don’t you owe yourself a little close-to-home escape?