If you are new to Santa Catalina, then you might want to familiarize yourself with some of the local businesses. Many of the merchants are involved in local transportation or transportation that connects to the mainland. Tourism, restaurants and shopping centers are also big business in Santa Catalina. The two main parts of the island are Avalon and Two Harbors. These are the most developed parts of the island, and feature the most modern conveniences.

There are numerous museums in the area, as well as historical sites. Over 88% of the land is controlled by the Conservancy organization, which protects natural habitants from over-development. Culturally speaking, the area has an obsession with Hollywood, as much of the land’s early history involved movies, film shootings and famous faces.

The most successful businesses in town are tourism-related, whether directly (hotels and stores) or indirectly (fauna or flora care). Some of the top companies in the area include the Catalina Island Casino and Catalina Express. There is a wide variety of shops on Crescent, as well as Claressa. The Descanso Beach is another active part of town, as is Pebbly Beach.

There are numerous art and crafts stores in Avalon, particularly around Crescent, Sumner, and the Metropole Market place. Most the stores you will find her cater to the tourist, not the city dweller. Therefore, many residents (and some ill-prepared tourists) have to travel back to mainland to get certain living supplies, large appliances and name-brand merchandise. Biking is actually a successful industry in the island, since the majority of people walk to their destination.

Resources for business owners include the Catalina Island Chamber of Commerce and the city of Avalon. This is definitely a market with high potential, considering that one million people visit Catalina and nearby islands each year. Come meet the Catalina community!