Catalina Island is a picturesque oasis only an hour ferry ride away from L.A. County, and I got a front row seat to witness it’s beauty.
9:50AM – Catalina Express Ferry To Catalina Island
As I stepped onto the Catalina Express Ferry, embarking on my maiden voyage across the open waters, I felt a mix of excitement and curiosity. The sun stretched lazily over the horizon, casting a warm glow on the ferry terminal. Little did I know that this journey would etch itself into my memory as an unforgettable experience.
The check-in process was a breeze, smoother than a calm sea. The ferry itself was surprisingly spacious and comfortable, providing a smooth hour-long sail away from the bustling chaos of L.A. County. Ahead lay a tropical oasis, nestled right in my own backyard.
A Catalina Express ferry at dock
11:AM – Check in at Bellanca Hotel.
A quick online search for the Bellanca Hotel might yield decent pictures, but reality far surpasses those images. The room I entered was nothing short of immaculate. Picture this: a cozy nook where you can sit and watch the sunrise, cradling a steaming cup of coffee (or in my case, tea) brewed fresh from the in-room Keurig. The amenities were thoughtful—microwave, fridge, and DirecTV—all within arm’s reach. And the attentive staff ensured that every need was met.
But let’s talk about the pièce de résistance: the bed. Oh, that heavenly bed! Whether it’s the luxurious king-size or the regal queen-size, leaving its gentle embrace becomes a delightful challenge.
Bellanca Hotel
12 PM – Lunch at Bluewater Avalon
Bluewater Avalon, perched by the sparkling blue seascape, beckoned with promises of exceptional food. Part of the esteemed Bluewater Grill Group of restaurants, they source the globe for the finest seafood. Skepticism crept in as my meal arrived promptly—after all, mainland fast food often equates to rushed and lackluster fare. But this was wholly different. My plate held tender, flaky fish alongside creamy potatoes, all plated with care. A bed of crisp green beans and a sprinkle of capers elevated the dish. Each bite was a kiss of perfectly balanced flavors, leaving me with a single thought: this food was simply outstanding. And as my father, a lifelong seafood aficionado, would say “give this place a 10/10.”
As the sun dipped lower, bringing its golden haze over the shoreline, I found myself with a rare gift: time to explore this hidden gem. The salty breeze invigorated my senses as I strolled along the water’s edge, absorbing the sights and sounds. How had this tranquil oasis eluded me until now? It was as if my proverbial backyard had finally shared its most cherished secrets.
Lunch @ Bluewater Avalon
DAY 2
9:00AM – Breakfast at Naughty Fox Restaurant
I stepped into Naughty Fox Restaurant, an extension of the Bellanca Hotel. The vibrant outdoor seating and the sleek indoor bar seamlessly blended with the island’s laid-back vibe. My morning hunger led me to order their breakfast sampler—a delightful medley of thick, crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and juicy fruit. But the real star: the view. Picture this—your plate before you, the harbor just steps away. Birds sing their morning melodies as the ocean air fills your lungs, a serene start to a promising day.
Naughty Fox Restaurant
Breakfast @ Naughty Fox
10AM – Catalina Island Golf Cart
In the charming town of Avalon, where space is at a premium, golf carts reign supreme as the preferred mode of transportation. Catalina Island Golf Cart stands out among the crowd. The staff greeted me with warmth, and the check-in process glided along as smoothly as a coastal breeze.
I secured my golf cart for a leisurely 2-hour exploration. They handed me a map—an illustrated treasure trove of sights and photo-worthy moments. As I zipped around the island, the sense of freedom was intoxicating. Driving up a mountain, wind tousling my hair, and the vast ocean winking at me from the periphery: It was sheer bliss.
And the sights! From the historic Wrigley family estate to the strategically placed lookout points, each view was a postcard waiting to be captured. Fellow millennials, take note: dust off those paper map-reading skills. Yes, I took a few (okay, several) wrong turns, but now I feel like a modern-day Lewis and Clarke, charting my course through uncharted territory like a boss.
12:45PM – Parasailing?
Due to temperamental weather my first parasailing appointment was canceled. Fortunately, the accommodating staff worked with me to reschedule for the next morning before my return ferry.
4PM – Dinner at Naughty Fox
As the sun leisurely sauntered toward the horizon, I found myself back at Naughty Fox, ready for dinner. The menu options were as enticing as they had been earlier in the day. This time, my taste buds led me to their blackened chicken salad—a revelation in every bite.
Imagine a symphony of flavors dancing on your palate. Juicy cranberries and sweet figs mingled with crunchy pecans, all harmonizing with creamy goat cheese. And the headliner—the catalina sage vinaigrette—transported me to a sun-kissed Mediterranean island. For a moment, I forgot I was merely an hour away from the bustling streets of Los Angeles County.
The salad was more than refreshing; it was an oasis in itself. Generous portions and an immaculate atmosphere completed the experience. Bon appétit!
Dinner @ Naughty Fox
The Last Morning
9:45 AM – Parasailing at California Parasail
I sprang out of bed, bubbling with excitement for my first parasailing adventure. At the check-in booth, friendly faces welcomed me, and the onboarding process glided as smoothly as a seabird skimming the waves.
My fellow adventurers? Two spirited older women and their equally adventurous daughter. They promptly nominated me to take the first flight—a mix of nerves and anticipation dancing in their eyes. But our guides, Jack and Johnny (seriously, someone should write a sitcom about them), were seasoned pros. Their signature banter and wit eased any lingering jitters.
And then, the moment of liftoff. As the parachute billowed above me, I ascended into a realm of wonder. The world unfolded beneath my dangling feet—a patchwork of cerulean ocean, rugged cliffs, and distant sailboats. It was a rare treat, this bird’s-eye view, and it left me spellbound.
When the time came to descend, I reluctantly returned to the boat, my heart still soaring. Round two called to me, but unfortunately, so did my ferry.
For a whimsical and comical escapade, look no further than California Parasail. And if you can swing it, ask for Jack and Johnny!
Soaring with California Parasail
11:50AM – Return ferry on Catalina Express
Allow me to confess—I’m a bona fide homebody. I’m notorious for craving a staycation even during a vacation. But this time, something shifted. As I stepped onto the ferry bound for Long Beach, a twinge of melancholy tugged at my heart. Uncharacteristically, I wished to linger.
It wasn’t my room or my bed that I wanted—it was that tiny island. And you know what? That’s a good sign. Leaving on a high note leaves you with something to cling to, something to anticipate, something to return to.
And I have the memories, frozen in snapshots, to accompany me—until my next island escape.
For more information on Catalina Island or to plan your own oasis-bound adventure, visit here.