We spent 4 days last week on a combo Bachelor/Bachelorette party on Catalina Island. When asked if I recommend the trip I told you on Instagram I had *a lot of thoughts*. This is my own, unfiltered opinion, per usual.
I was a little confused before going to Catalina what to expect, because everyone I spoke to had a different opinion on it. It was a very love/hate mix, and now that I’ve been I think I know why. The “vibe” of the island varies A LOT, depending on what you do, where you stay, and what your expectation is.
If you aren’t familiar, Catalina is one of the Channel Islands off the coast of Southern California. It’s a quick ferry ride (just over an hour) out from Long Beach of Newport Beach, and is the only one of the islands that has development on it. Here’s my honest take.
Catalina Island Hot Take
Okay, let me start this by saying we LOVED our experience. It was 10/10 and we had the best time! That said, I would only want to go back to Catalina to pretty much do exactly what we already did, so it isn’t a place full of options. I’ll list specifics of what we did that I recommend below, but here’s an overview.
We stayed at Hamilton Cove Villas (Building 18, can’t imagine a better view) and they were STUNNING. Truly felt like we were in Europe somewhere, Amalfi Coast and Greece vibes! We golf-carted everywhere- a must, and so fun. And spent a day at Descanso Beach Club, another must in my opinion! The rest of the time was spent relaxing and eating, with quick bops into town (only 5 mins by golf cart).
The town itself is, just kind of like you’re in a touristy beach town. It’s clear they cater to day-trippers and really want people to come in, buy some tourist BS, and leave. I was expecting at least a couple fun shopping opportunities, but it is extremely limited unless you want a shirt that says Catalina or a mermaid bottle opener. Some of the shops and shopping centers are very cute, don’t get me wrong, but the merchandise is nothing special.
Catalina Island Recommendations
TO STAY
As mentioned, we rented 2 condos in Hamilton Cove Villas and LOVED them. The view was insane, as you can tell. It truly felt like the Amalfi Coast or Greece. It is a few minutes outside town and one of the only places you can stay up on a hill, versus down in the town itself. I, personally, would prefer not to stay *in* the town area. It just feels a little loud, dirty and touristy, so I loved that we were removed and could golf-cart in for meals. Plus, you don’t get these insane views anywhere in the town!
BIG NOTE about Hamilton Cove, each unit is individually owned, so MAKE SURE you get a unit that is well-maintained and has updated furniture & fixtures. Some of the units look dated and don’t have as good of views, so choose wisely. BOOK EARLY – bookings look very limited, so I would look way ahead of time to ensure you get a quality unit.
We were in building 18 and it was pricier than some of the other units, but absolutely worth it because it felt like we were in Europe. We actually wanted to spend time lounging on our balcony and at the house, and I think that is a must because island activities are limited.
TO DO
Descanso Beach Club
It’s a must for a day. Catalina actually doesn’t have much beach space and the little it does have is very crowded. With Descanso you get your own chair/Umbrella or Cabana (I recommend chairs over cabanas) and a server waiting on you all day. The food was delish – get the poke bowl!! – and the drinks were fabbb and stronggg. Mark may or may not have had too many “destroyers” and they did, indeed, destroy.
It’s only $55 for a chair & server for the day, and they sell them in pairs (but book early!). They also have a restaurant next to the beach that you can visit even without a chair or cabana reservation and it has the same menu, along with a small public beach area. It is definitely where I would choose to spend the day if I wasn’t able to get a chair at the beach club.
Things we didn’t do but I would next time:
+ Take a tile making class Catalina is known for it’s tile and a few shops and local artisans offer classes where you can make your own
+ Spa Day at The Island Spa looked beautiful and has great reviews. A massage, facial and hanging on their gorgeous balcony pool is exactly how I’d like to spend a day
+ Hike There are several trails on the island and I’m sure the views are incredible.
+ Take a food tour These are highly rated and would be a fun way to explore different restaurants and learn some history of the island
Other options:
There is also a zip-line/obstacle course park on the island, and several hummer & ATV type tours. Not my vibe but love it for you if it’s yours.
TO EAT
M Restaurant – We had dinner here one night and it was PHENOMENAL. Get the Scallop Pesto Linguine and thank me later. Iconic. That said, the service was truly AWFUL. Not sure if they were understaffed the night we went or what, but don’t be in a rush to get your food or leave. Also one of the only restaurants on the island that take reservations.
Descanso Beach Club – as mentioned above, this is the lunch vibe for sure. Some of the closest ocean views you’ll get while dining. The food is good, nothing unbelievable although I loved my poke bowl which I got twice, but it is exactly where I’d want to hang during the day and eat & drink. The atmosphere is fantastic.
I don’t have other recommendations we actually went to, but here are some restaurants that caught my eye for my next visit:
Avalon Grille – Looked beautiful, one of the most luxurious feeling restaurants we saw and open air windows looking out to coast.
Bluewater – One of the few places you can eat right on the water. Always had a line out the door.
Should You Visit Catalina Island?
My short answer is YES but it comes with caveats.
You should visit Catalina Island if you are:
+ Looking for a fun day-trip experience from LA
+ Looking to relax, rather than have a lot to do
+ Want an island feel without having to travel far from SoCal
+ If you’re staying overnight, are willing to pay $$$, only because I, personally, wouldn’t want to stay at any of the lower priced hotel options – the island overall can be a bit dated, and the closest you get to avoiding that is booking top of the line they have
Do not visit Catalina Island if you:
+ Want a ton to do
+ Are looking to shop
+ Want a luxury, resort-like experience
We would absolutely go back again for a weekend of relaxation, stay in the same Condo, and add in a few more restaurants but keep everything else pretty much the same. We were there 4 days (3 nights) and it felt long. I think a day for the beach club and a day for another activity- maybe a spa day or food tour, would be perfect. If you have any specific q’s feel free to comment here or DM me on Instagram!
Xx,
