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Just off the coast of Southern California away from the
hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, its freeways and millions
of inhabitants is a quaint little island in the Pacific
called Catalina. Catalina Island is only 22 miles long and
8 miles across and is a beautiful oasis full of wildlife,
quaint hotels, bed and breakfasts and Inns.  There are a
large variety of attractions on Catalina that include
snorkeling, fishing, shopping, hiking, spas and relaxation.
The island is easily accessible from both the Los Angeles
and Orange County areas of Southern California by either
boat or plane.

The most popular arrival method into Catalina Island is via
boat from the mainland in the town of Avalon. Avalon is
considered the central point of the island where visitors
can get information on all aspects of the Catalina
experience from lodging to hiking. Located on the eastern
coast of the island, Avalon is home of most of the hotels,
shopping and dinning opportunities on Catalina. Small
little streets and walking paths criss cross through
Avalon. At the center of Avalon’s shores is its harbor,
home to dozens of private yachts and sail boats.

Avalon is home to over 30 restaurants, hotels and inns. The
accommodations of Avalon range from small bed and
breakfasts to larger hotels. Outside of Avalon, Catalina is
known as a haven for campers and offers a variety of
camping opportunities.

All around the perimeter of Avalon are quaint drives and
hiking trails that branch out from the town center to
points all over the island. For those not inclined to walk,
there are many alternatives including golf cart rentals and
shuttle buses that take visitors from either end of the
island. The hiking trails on Catalina are expansive, yet
beautiful as on many points they afford hikers 360 views of
the ocean. One of the more unique attractions for those
seeking an outdoor and nature experience are Catalina’s
many free roaming buffalo. Originally introduced to the
island in the 1920s, the buffalo were used in many old
western Hollywood shoots. Today the buffalo population is
over 250. The island offers a safari like tour where
visitors sit in back of giant jeeps and are taken through
the area where the buffalo’s roam much like a tour you
would see in Africa.

Catalina offers many opportunities for engaging with the
sea life that surround the island. The island offers one of
the most popular snorkeling and dive spots in all of
California. Catalina’s water temperatures vary seasonally,
from a low in the fifties to a high in the low seventies.
As well as offering excellent visibility, Catalina Island’s
underwater gardens and spectacular kelp forests provide a
beautiful back drop for the diverse variety of marine life
and local fish.  In addition there are many hidden coves,
underwater reefs and cliffs, as well as dolphins, sea
lions, harbor seals and aquatic birds that are both
residents and frequent visitors along the coast of Catalina.

Catalina has many transportation options from the mainland
to the island. Catalina Express, a ferry service is the
most popular and departs with frequent service from the
mainland to Avalon. Visitors can board a Catalina Express
boat in Los Angeles, Long Beach or Orange County. The trip
is about forty five minutes. In addition there are daily
helicopter flights as well chartered and scheduled fixed
wing air service from Long Beach and Orange County.

The island of Catalina is a fun destination that is full of
sights and attractions that are fun for groups, solo
travelers and families. Popular all year round, Catalina is
a quiet and serene retreat that can be an easy escape for
all those visiting or living in Southern California.

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See http://journeycontinent.com for additional information
on what to see and do when visiting Catalina Island.