Catalina Island lies 22 mi/35 km off the Southern California coast, but it feels like a world away. Just the name conjures images of the quaint seaside village of Avalon, picture-perfect harbors and lots of sandy beaches. Catalina is everything that Los Angeles is not—small-scale, nostalgic and slow-paced—and therein lies its charm.
Visitors often compare the island's compact town of Avalon with Amalfi, Italy, or a resort town on France's Cote d'Azur. Perhaps it's those rocky palisades rising from the sea that suggest a Mediterranean locale. Or maybe it's the tiled fountain, quaint storefronts and the Moorish-style casino. Foreign visitors have been known to ask local shopkeepers whether they accept U.S. currency. In all, the island promises a delightful departure from urban inconveniences—the more so because Catalina, alone in Southern California, disdains the automobile.
Location
Cruise ships sailing out of Los Angeles usually anchor in Avalon Bay (on the mainland side of Catalina) and tender passengers to Green Pleasure Pier or the boat/ferry landing. Both docks are within walking distance of one another in the heart of Avalon. In addition to Avalon Bay, smaller boats anchor at one of several coves at Two Harbors on the west end of the island. The visitor's bureau is located on Green Pleasure Pier, along with an ATM, a pay phone and an Internet kiosk.
Shore Excursions
Most cruise lines offer guided shore excursions. They may not be the least expensive way to see the island, but you won't have to waste your limited time making arrangements. Shore excursions—and their prices—vary from cruise line to cruise line. Most take advantage of the island's natural wonders, with snorkeling, scuba dives, kayaking and on-land tours. Check with your ship's shore-excursion staff or your travel agent for additional information.
