A Celebrity Resort Close to Los Angeles! Tourist Attractions on Santa Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island is a secluded island floating about 40 km off the coast of Los Angeles. It is a resort island reachable by a little over an hour’s ferry ride from various Los Angeles ports—or in just 15 minutes by helicopter.

Developed for the affluent since the late 1880s, Santa Catalina Island is still loved as a resort destination for Los Angeles. With its warm and pleasant climate that allows enjoyment all year round, the island has plenty to offer to visitors. Here, we introduce some of the tourist attractions on Santa Catalina Island.

1. Catalina Casino

At the northern end of Avalon Harbor on Santa Catalina Island stands the Art Deco circular building known as the Catalina Casino. Constructed in 1929 to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the island’s resort development, the Catalina Casino is not a gambling hall with slot machines or roulette. Originally, the Italian word “casino” meant “a gathering place,” and at that time it was used as an entertainment facility where islanders could watch films, dine, and dance.

Today, the ground floor houses a movie theater, and the top floor is a ballroom; guided tours of the interior are available for a fee. The luxurious architecture of the casino is well worth seeing! The view from the cape beyond the casino is also highly recommended.

2. Wrigley Botanical Garden

In 1919, William Wrigley, the founder of the world’s largest chewing gum company, purchased most of Santa Catalina Island and began developing it as a resort. When Mr. Wrigley passed away in 1932, his wife erected a commemorative monument – reportedly built almost entirely using local island construction materials.

Although Mr. Wrigley’s remains were later moved off the island, his children maintained and landscaped the area around the monument and opened it as a botanical garden. The garden is planted with species native to Santa Catalina Island and delights its visitors. With freely accessible grounds, the view from around the monument is simply breathtaking!

3. Catalina Island Museum

If you want to learn about the history of Santa Catalina Island, be sure to visit the Catalina Island Museum! The museum features films and exhibits detailing the island’s history, and it also hosts contemporary art exhibitions.

By the late 1880s, Santa Catalina Island was already known as a resort destination for the wealthy; after William Wrigley purchased and developed the island, many Hollywood stars began to visit. The museum also highlights illustrious clubs such as “The Avalon Tuna Club,” reputed to be the oldest fishing club in the United States, which even counted former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill among its members. At the museum, you can discover the glamorous history of Santa Catalina Island.

4. Island Activities

Today, aside from Avalon—the major port area—very few people live on Santa Catalina Island, so much of its pristine nature remains untouched. Since you’ve come to a California resort island, why not take full advantage of the activities on offer?

You can enjoy diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, glass-bottom boat tours, and even deep-sea fishing. Dolphin and whale watching are also very popular. If you venture inland, you can try horseback riding, golf, or hiking. The island also boasts relaxing spas that let you indulge in the luxurious resort atmosphere. Of course, don’t forget to have fun playing in the waves on the island’s beaches!

◎ Summary

Santa Catalina Island can be visited on a day-trip from Los Angeles, but if possible, spending the night will allow you to truly relax. The island is home to several hidden resort hotels that exude romance, and there are many excellent dinner spots as well, making it possible to enjoy an adult resort lifestyle.

With ferries departing from various Los Angeles-area ports such as Long Beach, San Pedro, and Newport Beach, you can enjoy a fabulous resort experience according to your schedule and budget.

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A Celebrity Resort Close to Los Angeles! Tourist Attractions on Santa Catalina Island