Hotels in Catalina Island

Zip across crystal-clear waters on a glass-bottom boat tour where orange Garibaldi fish dart beneath like underwater traffic signals. Avalon's compact streets invite exploration with ice cream in hand while locals zip past in golf carts – the island's preferred transportation. The iconic Casino building has nothing to do with gambling; it houses a spectacular Art Deco theater where films still play nightly. Hike the Trans-Catalina Trail for views that make your smartphone camera seem woefully inadequate. Rent a kayak to discover hidden coves where sea lions lounge with the casual confidence of celebrities. Paradise Cove offers swimming without the crowds, while the Catalina Island Museum reveals fascinating tales of Hollywood stars who escaped here when mainland fame became too much.