Did You Know

Here’s everything you need to know about the Catalina glass bottom boat, one of the many things to do on the island. It’s one of the oldest attractions on Catalina Island. Fishermen began replacing the bottom of their skiffs with glass to take tourists to see the undersea world in the early 1900s. The popularity…

For most people, getting to Catalina involves a relaxing ride on the Catalina ferry, an hour-long experience that frequently involves seeing dolphins, chatting with friends and perhaps an adult beverage or two. However, the helicopter to Catalina is another way to get to the island. Previously known as Island Express, IEX Helicopters has been providing…

In the fall, it’s easy to answer the question: What is there to do on Catalina Island? Here are just a few of the many events you’ll find on the island calendar this autumn. Buccaneer Days: Things will be getting wild and pirate-y at Two Harbors for the annual Buccaneer Days bacchanal. With plenty of…

As summer warms the temperatures, the crystal clear waters around the island become irresistible. Contemplating a dip? Here are 7 Catalina things to see underwater. Kelp forest: This is what they mean when they talk about “Catalina’s undersea gardens.” Kelp is one of the fastest growing organisms on earth and around Catalina it creates spectacular…

Throughout the year, the calendar of events on Catalina overflows with great things to do. There are so many great island events, in fact, that it can be hard to chose which to attend. Here are our Top Ten events on Catalina. JazzTrax: For two weekends every October, Catalina Island is filled with the cool…

Luckily, the weather on Catalina Island is seldom frightful, but there’s no denying that winter can bring a bit of a chill to the air. Here are five family-friendly things to do on Catalina this winter. Take on a Catalina Escape Room If you’ve yet to try an escape room, what have you been waiting…

For nearly 100 years, the Catalina Casino has been the island’s most iconic landmark. With its red-tile roof and Moorish influences, this dramatic building has come to define Avalon Harbor; overshadowing the other Catalina landmarks. Just to make sure you draw your eyes away from the icon, here are five Catalina landmarks that aren’t the…

Now that Thanksgiving has passed and all the leftovers have been consumed, we can officially start getting into the spirit of the season. Here are three ways to enjoy the holidays on Catalina Island. For 25 years, Catalina Island has welcomed the season with shopping, carolers and seasonal cheer at an Avalon event now known…

Most visitors to Catalina never explore beyond the limits of Avalon, the island’s only city. With its charming waterfront and quaint streets, the seaside resort offers the perfect respite from the mainland. But venture beyond Avalon and you’ll be rewarded with an entirely new vision of Catalina Island. Camping, hiking and boating and are few…

Santa Catalina’s idyllic seaside resort atmosphere can sometimes obscure its fascinating history and unique environment. Here’s just a few activities on Catalina Island that will get you off-the-beaten path and immerse you in an authentic island adventure. Catalina Happy Hour Tour: Avalon features more than two dozen bars and watering holes. Sample some of the…