Island hopping off the southern California coast
Catalina Island is a rugged and beautiful part of the Channel Island archipelago located just off the southern California coast. If you have lived in California for any time, you have likely heard about it, but probably don’t realize just how accessible it really is. Visitors to southern California should consider coordinating a day trip or weekend stop-over to Catalina Island.
Catalina Island is often compared to small Mediterranean coastal towns and has a distinclty different feel than the rest of California. Residents of the two main coastal towns of Avalon and Two Harbors are friendly and enjoy the slow pace of island life. All supplies for the residents and vistors to Catalina Island must be imported by boat or supply barge, making gas, food, building materials and everything else more expensive. Alimited number of vehicles are permitted on the island so residents use modified gof-carts to get around, which adds to the charm, and provides a dramatic change from the congested mainland freeways.
Upon arriving, vacationers will begin to discover a wide array of activities and a rich history and island culture. Catalina island has many historic secrets to reveal including being home to the first golf course in souther California, the birthplace of modern sport fishing, beach-combing bison herds, as well as the location for the famous Wrigley Estate.
Catalina island’s land and near-shore waters is protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy, are comitted to preserving the original animal and plant life, as well as protecting the bison herds. Catalina’s rich waters contain a bio-diverse abundance of marine life, making it a prime destination for biologists, eco-tourists, and scuba divers.
Planning your Catalina Island Vacation is surprisingly easy. Getting to the island is possible by ferry, helicopter, or private charter boat. The catalina ferry service is the most convenient, with many departure/return trips and is inexpensive. There are two main Catalina ferry companies that offer year-round service, with increased trips during the busy summer months.
Most island visitors take the Catalina Express, a high speed catamaran which departs from Long Beach and crosses the channel in approximately an hour. Departing from Newport Beach, the Catalina Flyer is another triple decker high-speed catamaran the also makes the short one-hour trip. Whichever Catalina Ferry you choose, the ride is usually smooth and comfortable with beautiful views of the southern California coast and frequent schools of dolphins, and migrating whales to make your voyage exciting and memorable!