What can you expect when you visit Santa Catalina? To some extent, it depends on what part of the island you find yourself on. However, whether you are taking in the scenery, lying on the beach, or going on a bump eco-jeep tour, you are sure to remember your experience!
Santa Catalina is very popular for its nature hikes and free-roaming fauna. Children will love taking glass-bottom boats into deeper waters, just as they will enjoy touring the SS Nautilus. If mini-golf doesn’t impress the kids maybe the Lloyd’s Confectionery (which hits the sweet spot) will keep the little stinkers happy. Camping is a major attraction here. Some of the best sites are located in the back regions of the island, away from the resort part of town. The Hermit Mulch Campground is a popular destination, as is Mount Black Jack and the Two Harbors Campground.
If you prefer modern accommodations, then check out some of the bed and breakfasts and hotels in the area, such as the Banning House Lodge in Two Harbors, or the Old Turner Inn and El Terado Terrace in Avalon. One of the greatest joys of traveling to and from Santa Catalina is the scenic route, made possible by way of ships, ferries and helicopters. You can travel by way of Pebbly Beach helicopters or charter flights to and from the “Airport in the Sky.” You can also take boat lines from Newport Beach, Long Beach and San Pedro. Look up Catalina Express and Catalina Cruises, as these are the two most popular transportation companies.
Don’t forget, an important part of the Santa Catalina experience is the water activity. Plan on some boating, snorkeling, diving and swimming. There are intellectual pursuits here, such as the Museum of Natural History and the Santa Barbara Mission, but before long, the Descanso Beach will be calling you.
This is the best “exotic” location that’s within a few miles of your home city!
