Take the Bus Tour
by marinarena
A highlight of my trip was taking the bus tour (more info to read on transportation link), guiding by a well-knowledgable Avalonian named Starr. Ask for her if you arrive here. She is a fantasic guide who tells about the history of Avalon and Catalina island. Here's a fact that I learned: Before it was officially named Avalon, the town was known as Shatto, after a businessman, George Shatto.
Avalon has a nicer, more dreamy sound to it, doesn't it so? Overall, I will miss the "small town with lots-to-do" feel of Avalon. Avalon itself is only a 9 mile stretch but there are so many fun and entertaining activities for everyone- dine, shop, hike, swim, sail, kayak, etc. What was best was that even on a weekend, there were no huge crowds. Surely, many people arrive to the island off the boat but when walking around , one does not bump into another like one would in popular destinations in mainland California. Some room to roam is always welcomed!
Avalon Tip
by bruingirl
Sitting on the deck above our little bed & breakfast during sunset. Although it was overcast and a bit on the chilly side, it was really nice. My boyfriend and I sat there watching the water, sipping on some chardonnay and having some cheese and crackers. It really doesn't get any more relaxing than this!
Beach life
by Gypsystravels
Basically a beach resort Catalina Island is geared towards all things outdoors. While we were walking along the waterfront a large group of divers were getting ready to take a dive.
There are so many activities you can choose from snorkeling, diving, swiming, beach activities you are sure to find them here.
SO MANY GOLF CARTS, THERE MUST BE GOLF
by travelgourmet
If you go to Avalon on Santa Catalina Island and don't want to stay on a beach, in the water or shopping around, try golfing. Yes, on perhaps one of the oldest golf courses in California, 1895, it now is an executive 9 hole course of 2,100 yards with par of 32. The Catalina Island Golf Club allows public useage of the course and you can get in 18 holes with the double set of tees. The best part is that there are few players during the week and getting a tee time is easy. Call ahead and reserve. Bring your clubs with you over to Avalon or rent them at the Club House. Golf cart rentals for course. Check on type of shoe to wear when reserving time.
The history of Catalina is...
by AdriannaTex
The history of Catalina is what is usually not known. Catalina was bought by the Wrigleys of Chicago in 1919. They used Catalina Island as a place for the Cubs to train. They also imported herds of buffalo for a movie they were filming. When they were finished, they kept the buffalo on the island and now you will see buffalo running rampant inland. (You don't often see any in Avalon.) This link is a very good resource for reading about Catalina's History.
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GIFTS GALORE
A GREAT VIEW FROM THE TURRET LOOKOUT
FINE ART AND JEWELRY
COBBLE STONE STREET OF THE METROPOLE MARKETPLACE
