Santa Catalina Island is a beautiful rocky island off the coast of California. It is part of the Santa Barbara Islands, also known as the Northern Archipelago or Channel Islands, off the coast of California.
It covers an area of 194 km² and is located 35 km southwest of Los Angeles, California, a county to which it belongs. Here is a brief guide to help you enjoy your stay on this beautiful island:
- Avalon: It is the main city on the island and is where most tourist services are located. There is a wide variety of hotels and bed and breakfasts to choose from, as well as many restaurants offering local dishes and cuisine from different parts of the world. There is also a wide selection of shops and boutiques where you can buy souvenirs and other items. Other interesting places to visit in Avalon include the harbor, from where boats depart to the island, and the Casino, a historic building built in 1929 that houses a theater and a ballroom.
- Descanso Beach: It is a very popular beach near Avalon and is ideal for relaxing and sunbathing. You can also snorkel and observe marine life, as there is a wide variety of fish and other aquatic creatures that inhabit this area. In addition, there is a small equipment rental shop and a picnic area where you can eat while enjoying the views.
Watch a video about Descanso Beach
- Santa Catalina Island National Park: It is a large part of the island that is protected and houses a wide variety of unique flora and fauna. You can hike the trails and enjoy panoramic views from the viewpoints. There are also various water activities available, such as diving and snorkeling, and you can visit some of the wilder and less crowded beaches on the island.
- Santa Catalina Island Lighthouse: Located in the northern part of the island, it offers spectacular views of the ocean and the coast. It is an ideal place to take photos and enjoy the fresh air. There is also a small museum where you can learn more about the history of the lighthouse and the island in general.
Watch a video about Santa Catalina Island Lighthouse
Santa Catalina Island has been the setting for multiple films, such as ‘Chinatown,’ ‘Dawn of the Dead,’ or ‘Waterworld,’ among others, but undoubtedly, ‘Jaws‘ directed by Steven Spielberg, has made the most of this beautiful natural environment.
We hope you enjoy your stay on Santa Catalina Island and make the most of everything it has to offer. Enjoy your trip!