Santa Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island: Southern California’s Island Escape

Located just 22 miles (15 minutes by helicopter or 1 hour by boat) from the mainland beaches of Southern California, Catalina's crystal-clear ocean waters, rolling foothills and charming beaches make this island resort an ideal spot for a weekend getaway.

Points of Interest

Santa Catalina Island is made up of two significantly populated areas at opposite ends of the island: the city of Avalon and the unincorporated town of Two Harbors. These two hubs of population host some of the island's main points of interest:

• Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Gardens – Catalina’s temperate marine climate provides the perfect environment for this 37.85-acre garden, featuring plants endemic to the Island, as well as those from around the world.  The Wrigley monument, which honors the late chewing gum tycoon and owner of the Chicago Cubs, stands as the "crowning jewel" of the botanical garden.
• Catalina Casino – As Catalina's most recognizable landmark, the Catalina Casino building played host to the biggest of Big Band era bands during the 1930's and 40's.  Daily tours of the iconic, 12-story building include the Casino's grand ballroom and movie theatre, which were recently renovated and are still used for special events.
• Catalina Visitors Country Club – Originally built for William Wrigley’s Chicago Cubs, the lavishly renovated Club has an elegant ambiance with an eclectic mix of sports memorabilia and Early California Revival architecture.

Outdoor Activities

Catalina also has a variety of outdoor activities to choose from. Biking, diving, fishing, golfing, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking and snorkeling are just a few recommended outdoor activities for your visit.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing pace, sunbathe at Descanso Beach, tour the Island by golf cart or explore Avalon’s village boutiques and galleries.

Getting There

If you would like to travel by sea (which takes about one hour), you can escape to Catalina Island aboard the Catalina Express from Dana Point or aboard the Catalina Flyer from the Balboa Pavilion in Newport Harbor. You can also contact the Catalina Island Chamber of Commerce for information on how to get to the island by helicopter or private aircraft.

Travel Like A Local

Santa Catalina Island's Major League Baseball History
For thirty years (1921-1951) William Wrigley Jr. and his Chicago Cubs came out to Catalina Island for spring training.  The Cubs were able to warm-up for their regular season on a field that was built to the exact dimensions of Wrigley Field in Chicago.  And while the field is now gone, the clubhouse that housed the team's lockers still remains and now features a restaurant, bar and a wealth of Chicago Cubs memorabilia.