Catalina Island Trip
Living in California the fall transition is almost non existent. So with October upon us it means that beach getaways are still on the calendar. Last weekend we packed our bags and sailed off to Catalina Island via the Catalina Express. I had visited Catalina Island before but this trip was much more special because Gabe was coming with me and because we were going to spend the night.
We took the Ferry from Long Beach, CA early morning Sunday and arrived within less than 2 hours. You can take the Ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro or Dana Point which makes it super easy and convenient. You can check the fares and schedule here.
Beside the bay
I left my love at Avalon
And sailed away
Oh I, dream of him at Avalon
From dusk until dawn
And so I think I’ll travel on
To Av… va-lon… ”
We arrived early so we stopped by our hotel to check in our bags so we could explore. We were staying at the beautifully renovated Hotel Atwater. This hotel was opened originally in 1920 so the renovation came with lots of changes while still keeping some elements of the Wrigley family legacy. One of my favorite thing was the lobby with its beautiful staircases. Another favorite was the complementary bubbly that comes standard in all rooms as tributes to Helen Wrigley’s love of flowers and glass of bubbly she enjoyed every evening before bed.
First thing first we put on comfortable shoes and walked to the other side of the Island to do some Zip lining. You can really bring anything with you when you go zip lining. Sadly all I have is a blurry video but we had an amazing time. You can find more info about Zip line Eco tours here.
We then headed back to our hotel to change and make it in time to see the Casino Twilight Tour. The tour begins on the ground floor of the Casino in the historic Avalon Theatre and ends in the Casino’s Romance Promenade. The views from up there is one of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen.
To end the night we had the most delicious meal at Avalon Grille which was conveniently located 1 block from our hotel. The restaurant serves meats and fish and farm fresh produce. I enjoyed the best steak and Gabe had fish for dinner.
Next morning we visited Descanso Beach for Lunch and explore around that side of the Island. We wanted to make up time so we rented a golf cart. This is by far the easiest way to get around the island. We did not rent a Pink Golf cart like the one pictured below. But if I lived in Avalon it would for sure be.
This was our last day in the Island so explored Avalon and found so many picturesque homes and colorful attractions that I couldn’t resist taking pictures with. There is so much shopping to do and history to learn from this beautiful island. One thing I learned during this trip was that Island was initially purchased by William Wrigley, Jr. – Yes the same owner of Wrigleys Gum!
Thank you to Visit Catalina Island and Catalina Express for such an amazing stay.
