About Catalina Island

Floridians have Key West, New Englanders have Nova Scotia and Californians have Catalina Island. Twenty-two miles off the coast of Southern California sits the plucky little playground only 76 square miles in size. From Catalina’s one square-mile city of Avalon to the minuscule town of Two Harbors, this haven is certain to put the wop back in your doo-wop. Catalina is both refined and rugged. Seizing the difference allows visitors to enjoy one town’s yin to the other’s yang.

Thirty-five miles of zigzagging roads separate Catalina Island’s two towns. Avalon - the main drop-off point for visitors - is positioned on the southern end. The 3,500 residents throw open their polished, souvenir shop doors and cater to a surfeit of tourists. Cruise ship passengers dally on Crescent Avenue, mesmerized by the urban blend of quaint and commercial.

Extracted from this city is a cluster of 150 residents who chose to live on the West End of Catalina Island in Two Harbors. Raw landscape, plunging gorges, crags and coves provide the perfect opportunity to hike, mountain bike, fish or snorkel. Visitors are welcomed like family. One of only two, single-room schoolhouses in California resides in Two Harbors. Nine students from Kindergarten through 5th grade learn their ABC’s in this historic enclave. Life is uncomplicated here.

In 1972, the Santa Catalina Island Conservancy was established as a nonprofit, private organization dedicated solely to the conservation and preservation of the island. The organization is responsible for the island’s plants, such as the St. Catherine’s Lace, and animals, such as the Beechey Squirrel; both endemic to the area. More than 42,000 acres fall under the watchful eye of the conservancy. We have them to thank for Catalina Island’s beauty.

Article Written By: Maggie Espinosa, San Diego Travel Writer