Catalina Island: Southern California’s resort getaway destination

AVALON — California’s only incorporated island city is one of the most frequented destinations by boaters and anglers from harbors and marinas between Santa Barbara and San Diego. About 4,000 residents live in Avalon but Catalina Island’s sole city continues to be a favorite place for locals from the Los Angeles and San Diego regions to visit.

Though most of the town remains familiar to frequent visitors, there are a few new destinations and activities in and around Avalon. Boaters and outdoor enthusiasts will certainly derive plenty of enjoyment when visiting the campgrounds near Two Harbors or the handful of coves along the Catalina coast.

Of course Catalina, as a whole, boasts plenty of character and personality.

Did you know Avalon is home to a post office that doesn’t deliver mail and a “Casino” where there isn’t any gambling? Walk around town and you’ll find a Third Street, but quickly realize First Street and Second Street are nowhere to be found.

Golf carts outnumber vehicles, the streets are completely devoid of signal lights, and only a handful of corporate chains have infiltrated the island (Vons, Bluewater Grill and US Bank).

On the other side of Catalina Island is Two Harbors, where a handful of Los Angeles County and Santa Catalina Island Co. employees are the only people permitted to declare residence. The westernmost U.S. Civil War outpost also resides in Two Harbors.

Are you headed to Catalina Island soon? Let us share with you a few places you might want to visit should you want to get off your boat and explore the island. In this special Catalina Issue of The Log, discover many of the island’s cultural, dining, entertainment and outdoor experiences available to you the next time you’re on the island. And remember, you’re on “Island Time.”

Click on any of the sections under the Discover Catalina Island menu (located top right) and find out more about all the island’s unique offerings.