{"id":334,"date":"2025-06-04T17:19:28","date_gmt":"2025-06-04T21:19:28","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/superiorsista.travel.blog\/2025\/06\/04\/catalina-in-a-day-best-things-to-do-eat-see-on-this-hidden-gem-island\/"},"modified":"2025-06-04T17:19:28","modified_gmt":"2025-06-04T21:19:28","slug":"catalina-in-a-day-best-things-to-do-eat-see-on-this-hidden-gem-island","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/superiorsistatravel.com\/?p=334","title":{"rendered":"Catalina in a Day: Best Things to Do, Eat & See on This Hidden Gem Island"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Let me tell y\u2019all about my day in Catalina Island aka one of the most unexpectedly beautiful little escapes I\u2019ve been to lately. It definitely gives very much little Italy. I\u2019m sure The California natives don\u2019t find this as a gem. For the rest of us this is my take. I stopped there on a Carnival cruise and even though I was only there for the day, I did a lot and still left feeling like I need a full weekend trip next time with my future husband. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

First stop? The Submarine Tour.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yes, I went full tourist mode and got in one of those semi-submarine boats, and it was actually really cool. Yes I know it may sound scary, but we weren\u2019t going to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. You\u2019re not fully underwater, but you\u2019re low enough to see the fish and coral, and they even give you fish food to shoot out so the fish swarm right in front of your window. It\u2019s fun and chill, and you can bring kids or go solo like me. Either way, it\u2019s a peaceful little start to your Catalina day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Everything I booked was via Viator right here. One place where I know the reviews are real. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Beach Time Done Right<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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After the tour, I headed straight for Descanso Beach. You can rent a beach chair and umbrella (which I did because I\u2019m not built for that direct sun anymore), and just vibe. There\u2019s also a beach club right there if you want drinks or snacks while you lounge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And if you\u2019re trying to get around and explore more of the island, definitely rent a golf cart. That\u2019s how most people move around Avalon, and it\u2019s a fun way to see the hills, neighborhoods, and those crazy views from above the harbor. There\u2019s even a botanical garden tucked away up the hill if you\u2019ve got time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Get There (if you\u2019re not cruising like I did)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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If you\u2019re in SoCal, you can take the ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point, or Newport Beach. The ride is only about an hour and the views on the way are a whole vibe too. It\u2019s a perfect weekend getaway without needing to hop on a plane.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Eat \u2013 My Top 5 Picks<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yes, I peeked into menus and did some food stalking so y\u2019all don\u2019t have to. There are only so many restaurants I can try in a day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bluewater Avalon <\/strong>\u2013 Fresh seafood and waterfront views. Get the clam chowder and thank me later. The Lobster Trap<\/strong> \u2013 Dive-y in the best way. Casual, great fish tacos. Descanso Beach Club<\/strong> \u2013 Eat, drink, beach. Repeat. Lloyd\u2019s of Avalon<\/strong> \u2013 Candy and ice cream heaven. Perfect for a little sweet treat before heading back to the boat or ferry. Maggie\u2019s Blue Rose <\/strong>\u2013 Cute spot for Mexican food and margaritas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Stay If You\u2019re Doing an Overnight Trip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If I had more than a day, these are the places I\u2019d check out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hotel Atwater<\/strong> \u2013 Chic but not too pricey. Great location near the pier. Pavilion Hotel<\/strong> \u2013 Right on the beach walk. Cozy vibes and includes wine hour! Aurora Hotel <\/strong>\u2013 A little tucked away, quiet, and has a rooftop deck. Seaport Village Inn<\/strong> \u2013 Family-friendly and affordable. Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel<\/strong> \u2013 For the views alone. It sits above town and has a nice historic feel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

My daughter and I loved it very much. It\u2019s a place I felt a peace at. Most people who love on the island get around by walking, biking, or renting golf carts. Residents even have to apply for a permit to have their own car. & it is usually one car per household. I learned a lot from the walking tour as well<\/a>. Catalina is giving romantic getaway, solo self-care retreat, and girls\u2019 trip energy all in one. Whether you\u2019re cruising in like I did, or taking the ferry over from the coast, the island\u2019s charm hits you right away. The water is clear, the pace is slow, and there\u2019s just something magical about it. I really enjoy it. The fact I think about it often means I need to go again. Next time, I\u2019m staying longer. And maybe doing zip-lining. Or kayaking. Or both.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sike! I\u2019m not that bold yet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Until then\u2026 Catalina, I\u2019ll be back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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