Most visitors to California usually check out Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. But many are not aware of an island off the coast of California that models itself more like a Caribbean destination with 360 views of blue ocean, spas and hiking opportunities. Catalina Island is an oasis that offers visitors relaxation and fun away from the excitement of mainland California.

The most popular arrival method into Catalina Island is via boat from the mainland in the town of Avalon. Avalon is considered the central point of the island where visitors can get information on all aspects of the Catalina experience from lodging to hiking. Located on the eastern coast of the island, Avalon is home of most of the hotels, shopping and dinning opportunities on Catalina. Small little streets and walking paths criss cross through Avalon. At the center of Avalon's shores is its harbor, home to dozens of private yachts and sail boats.

Avalon is home to over 30 restaurants, hotels and inns. The accommodations of Avalon range from small bed and breakfasts to larger hotels. Outside of Avalon, Catalina is known as a haven for campers and offers a variety of camping opportunities.

In the surrounding area around the town of Avalon are charming lanes and hiking trails that branch out from the town center to destinations all over the island. For those not inclined to walk, there are many alternatives including golf cart rentals and shuttle bus aervices that take visitors from either end of the island. The hiking trails on Catalina are expansive, yet beautiful as on many points they afford hikers 360 views of the ocean. Many of the trails are ideal for more experienced hikers with proper equipment. One of the more unique attractions for those seeking an outdoor and nature experience are Catalina's many free roaming buffalo. Originally introduced to the island in the 1920s, the buffalo were used in many old western Hollywood shoots. Today the buffalo population is over 250. The island offers a safari like tour where visitors sit in back of giant jeeps and are taken through the area where the buffalo's roam much like a tour you would see in Africa.

Catalina offers many opportunities for engaging with the sea life that surround the ialand. The island offers one of the most popular snorkeling and dive spots in all of California. Catalina's water temperatures vary seasonally, from a low in the fifties to a high in the low seventies. As well as offering excellent visibility, Catalina Island's underwater gardens and spectacular kelp forests provide a beautiful back drop for the diverse variety of marine life and local fish. In addition there are many hidden coves, underwater reefs and cliffs, as well as dolphins, sea lions, harbor seals and aquatic birds that are both residents and frequent visitors along the coast of Catalina.

Catalina has many transportation options from the mainland to the island. Catalina Express, a ferry service is the most popular and departs with frequent service from the mainland to Avalon. Visitors can board a Catalina Express boat in Los Angeles, Long Beach or Orange County. The trip is about forty five minutes. In addition there are daily helicopter flights as well chartered and scheduled fixed wing air service from Long Beach and Orange County.

Catalina Island is an amazing destination full of activities that are fun for the family, nature enthusiast, solo backpacker or groups. Catalina is a popular destination all year round and is a quiet and beautiful retreat that can be an easy escape for those living and visiting Los Angeles.