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Catalina Island

Catalina Island History

   Santa Catalina Island, commonly known as Catalina Island, is part of the Channel Islands chain. Once a base for otter hunters, the island is now known as a resort community that draws 1 million visitors annually.
   Chewing gum magnate William Wrigley bought the island in 1919. After his death, his son placed Catalina Island in a conservancy to protect it for future generations.
   Most of the island is now owned by the Catalina Island Conservancy, whose mission is to maintain the island's natural state. Although much of the island is undeveloped, it's home to two residential areas: the city of Avalon in the southeast and the small village of Two Harbors toward the northwest.
   There are many options to get to the island, including plane and helicopter, but most guests come by boat from Long Beach, San Pedro, Newport Beach or Dana Point. Once they've arrived, many visitors find it hard to leave the island, due to its beauty and small-town charm.

Activities

   Catalina is famous for its glass-bottomed boat excursions, but there are plenty of other outdoor activities. Avalon offers everything from bicycling and boating to golf, tennis and sailing. The smaller town of Two Harbors also offers a variety of outdoor sports, including hiking, fishing and kayaking.
    Take a trip out into the country to see wild foxes and bison in their natural state. The bison were brought to the island for a 1924 movie shoot, and a herd of about 200 still roams free throughout the island. And visit the Catalina Island Conservancy's Nature Center to learn more about the area's flora and fauna.
   There are no cars on Catalina Island, but you can get around via bicycle or golf cart. The best way to see the island is on foot. Take a leisurely stroll through Avalon's quaint shops and restaurants. Or make a day of it at one of the island's relaxing spas.
   The Catalina Island Museum explores 7,000 years of the island's history. Rancho Escondido is a working ranch that boards champion Arabian horses. And the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden offers a beautiful view of Avalon Bay.

Catalina Island Fast Facts

   Location: Catalina Island is located 22 miles off the coast of San Pedro, about 45 miles from downtown Los Angeles
  *Total area: 76 square miles. Much of the island is undeveloped. Its main city, Avalon, is 3.15 square miles (2.81 square miles land area; 0.33 square miles water area)
  *Population: 3,127
  *Housing units: 1,839
   Average annual rainfall: 11.88 inches
   Average temperatures: 70ºF in summer, 57ºF in winter
  *Information provided by 2000 Census

Schools

There are two public schools on Catalina Island: Avalon (grades K-12) and Two Harbors Elementary.

Beaches

   There are several small beaches on Catalina Island that provide ample chances for swimming and snorkeling. The beaches near Avalon draw more tourists, while beaches up the shore near Two Harbors can be nearly deserted at times.
   Crescent Beach is the most popular beach on Catalina Island. The beach faces Avalon's harbor, which cuts down on choppy seas and makes it perfect for those seeking a dip in Catalina's crystal waters.
   For those hoping to avoid the crowds, head to Ben Weston Beach, a locals' favorite that's one of the island's top surfing beaches.

Maps of Catalina Island

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