Discovering The Best Of Catalina Island

Catalina Island is an idyllic paradise located off the coast of California that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From breathtaking natural landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures to stunning architecture and world-class cuisine, this beautiful island has something for everyone. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the best things to do and see on Catalina Island, including the iconic Catalina Casino, eco zip line tour, wild buffalo sightings, renting golf carts, hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail, scuba diving, and much more.

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Catalina Casino

Photo by Kaysha on Unsplash

One of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks on Catalina Island is the Catalina Casino, which was built in 1929 by William Wrigley Jr. This beautiful Art Deco building is not a casino in the traditional sense but instead houses a beautiful ballroom, movie theater, and museum. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about its rich history while marveling at its stunning architecture and decor.

Avalon Dance

If you’re looking for a fun and lively way to spend your evening on Catalina Island, then be sure to check out the Avalon Dance, a popular event held at the iconic Catalina Casino. This dance is held every Saturday night and features live music and dancing in the beautiful Casino Ballroom.

Eco Zip Line Tour

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If you’re looking for a thrilling outdoor adventure, then the Eco Zip Line Tour is the perfect activity for you. This tour takes you on a high-speed zipline ride through the beautiful Catalina Island landscape, offering breathtaking views of the island and its surrounding waters.

Wild Bison Sightings

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Catalina Island is home to a herd of wild bison that were brought to the island in the 1920s for a film shoot and have since thrived in their new environment. Visitors can take a guided tour of the island to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat.

Renting Golf Carts

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One of the most popular ways to get around Catalina Island is by renting a golf cart. These small vehicles are perfect for exploring the island’s many scenic roads and trails and offer a fun and unique way to experience the island’s beauty.

Hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail

Photo by Austin Schmid on Unsplash

For those who enjoy hiking and exploring the great outdoors, the Trans-Catalina Trail is a must-do activity. This 37.2-mile trail takes you through some of the most stunning natural landscapes on the island, including rugged hillsides, pristine beaches, and breathtaking ocean views.

Scuba Diving

Photo by Sebastian Pena Lambarri on Unsplash

Catalina Island is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. There are many dive shops on the island that offer equipment rentals and guided tours for divers of all skill levels.

Submarine Excursion

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For those who prefer to stay dry while exploring the island’s marine life, the Submarine Expedition is a unique and exciting option. This guided tour takes you on a submersible vessel through the waters surrounding Catalina Island, offering up-close views of the island’s abundant marine life.

Explore Downtown Avalon

Photo by Amy Vosters on Unsplash

Downtown Avalon is the heart of Catalina Island’s vibrant culture and is a must-visit destination for any traveler. This charming area features a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries, all housed in beautifully restored buildings that offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture.

Buena Vista Overlook

Photo by Emma Svalstad on Unsplash

For a breathtaking view of Catalina Island’s stunning landscape, be sure to visit the Buena Vista Overlook. This scenic overlook offers panoramic views of the island’s rugged hillsides, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

After a long day of exploring all that Catalina Island has to offer, you’ll want to treat yourself to some delicious food, and the best place to do that is at Bluewater Avalon. This popular seafood restaurant is known for its fresh and sustainable seafood, as well as its stunning waterfront views. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including clam chowder, fish and chips, and seafood pasta, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

Other Must-Do Activities on Catalina Island

In addition to the activities and attractions mentioned above, there are many other must-do activities on Catalina Island. These include:

Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Take a tour of the island’s beautiful underwater world without getting wet. These tours offer up-close views of Catalina Island’s abundant marine life, including colorful fish, sea stars, and kelp forests.

Parasailing

Photo by Doug Morris on Unsplash

Get a bird’s eye view of the island’s stunning coastline with a parasailing adventure. Soar high above the crystal-clear waters and enjoy panoramic views of the island’s rugged hillsides and pristine beaches.

Kayaking

Photo by Kasia Derenda on Unsplash

Rent a kayak and explore the island’s scenic coastline at your own pace. Paddle through hidden coves and pristine beaches, and keep an eye out for dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life.

Sunset Cruise

Photo by Justin Busa on Unsplash

Experience the beauty of Catalina Island’s sunset with a relaxing cruise. Enjoy a glass of wine or champagne as you watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in stunning shades of orange and pink.

Catalina Island is a truly special place, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a thrilling outdoor adventure, this idyllic island has something for everyone. From exploring the iconic Catalina Casino to zip lining through the island’s rugged hillsides, there are countless activities and attractions to enjoy on Catalina Island. So what are you waiting for? Book your dream vacation to Catalina Island today and experience paradise on earth.

Interested in more of California, check out: Best Things To Do In Santa Barbara

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