People cross the the whole country just to get to Southern California. Why? Because it’s awesome; there are so many things to do here; in my 23 years of living here I still have not done them all. In this month’s Staycation we are highlighting Catalina Island. Let’s go over a couple epic activities.

Activities in Catalina Island

There are plenty of activities to do in Catalina Island. Here we highlight our two favorite things to do whenever we visit the island.

  1. Flying Fish Voyage

Have you guys ever seen someone flying fish? It is something that will instantly mesmerized you. Its pretty much one of those things you have to see to believe. The cruise takes place at night aboard the open-deck Blanche W. The boat has searchlights that are used to spotlight the fish as they glide over the water. It’s a very majestic experience that has to be seen in person. The spotlights are what entice the fish to jump out of the water and put on a show for the people on board the ship.

  1. Zipline Eco Tour

This is one of the highest rated activities in the island on review sites. There are 5 separate ziplines that drop from 600 feet above sea level all the way down to the beach. This activity is not for the faint of heart, you can reach a max speed of up to 40 mph, so this one is mostly for the adrenaline junkies. The tour begins at the Hogs Back gate which is located high up in the hills near Avalon. Later, you will begin your descent through Descanso Canyon pausing several times and designated eco-stations so you can enjoy the wildlife and beautiful views. You will eventually exit at Descanso Beach after 2 hours of fun on the ziplines and eco-stations.

Food

There are quite a few restaurants on the Island, here are a couple of my favorites.

Steve’s Steakhouse

The service is wonderful and the food us fabulous. The restaurant is right on the main street seaside, and the view is wonderful. If you love steak you will not be disappointed. You can cut the fillet mignon with a fork! Although the steak is amazing,namely, I go for the BBQ Baby Back Ribs, they are some of the best ribs I’ve ever had.

Address: 417 Crescent Avedddd, Avalon, Catalina Island, CA 90704
Web: http://www.stevessteakhouse.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Steves-Steakhouse-132296656844236/
Phone: 310-510-0333

Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co.

This cafe is a lovely hidden gem on Catalina Island. They offer gourmet coffee, espresso, latte, chai, frappe & smoothies. They open at 5:00 a.m. daily and offer delicious morning goodies and afternoon treats. I put together my own breakfast sandwich (exactly how I like it) there every morning, and they were hearty enough to keep me full for an entire mourning’s worth of adventures. Try their Cinnamon Roll, one of the best!

Address: 205 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704
Web: http://catalinacoffeeandcookieco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatCookieCo
Phone: 310-510-2447

Luau Larry’s

Firstly, Luau Larry’s has an awesome view, it’s right on the water and eating lunch here is a must while on the island. They have been serving great cocktails and food for 20 years on the island. If you order cocktails you get Wiki Wacker hats. The cocktails are a perfect refreshment for lunch or dinner. If you’re a thin crust pizza lover you’ll really like this place. The pizza is my go-to for lunch, but I’ve also had their turkey club with curly friend (I could eat a whole bucket of their curly fries!).

Address: 509 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704
Web: http://www.luaularrys.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Luau-Larrys-72329639212/
Phone: 310-510-1919

Where to stay?

Need a place to stay in Catalina Island? Do not worry, let me share a couple great places.

Pavilion Hotel

If you’re looking for luxury and top notch service, the Pavilion Hotel is the place to stay on your trip to Catalina Island. It is located just steps from the beach and offers complimentary breakfast and has a semi private courtyard with a fire pit.

Address: 513 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704
Web: http://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/hotels-packages/avalon/pavilion-hotel
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PavilionHotelCatalina?fref=ts
Phone: 310-510-1788

Hotel Mac Rae

This is a very cute place in midtown just a short distance from the water. It has been operated by the same family since 1920. The prices here are reasonable and the rooms are nice and clean. If you’re on a smaller budget, this is your spot.

Address: 409 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704
Web: http://www.hotelmacrae.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hotel-Mac-Rae-on-Catalina-Island-353716662801/
Phone: 310-510-0246

The Perfect Getaway

Catalina Island is a perfect weekend getaway, there are plenty of things to do, and most you can do spontaneously, without too much planning. Speak with the locals to see what they recommend. Living in Orange County is wonderful, and places like Catalina Island make it easy to have a great time right in our own backyard, enjoy your Staycation!

Francisco Macia

Francisco Macia is a staff writer for OC Foodie Fest. He is an Orange County native from Mission Viejo.He enjoys attending many events in Orange County and discovering new restaurants, bars and cool places in Orange County. When he's not writing, Francisco can be found body boarding at the beach or playing basketball with friends.

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