Santa Catalina Island is the largest of the channel islands off the coast of Southern California. On a clear day,I can almost sorta-kinda see it from my house, or at least I would if the roof counts and binoculars are allowed. The ferry from LA to Catalina Island is less than an hour’s drive south, too. I was hard pressed to come up with the reason why, in the six years I’ve been a Californian, I hadn’t ever visited Catalina Island. Part of this was its reputation, I’m sure; touristy, touristy, touristy, was the word, with nothing but schlock shops and bars. But Los Angeles suffers its own negative stereotypes (surely you’ve heard). The terrific natural hiking trails and great family-friendly activities here contradict those bad LA stereotypes, so why not give Catalina Island a chance, too?
I took the Catalina Express ferry to Avalon, which is Santa Catalina Island’s only city. The ride was pleasant, 
took around an hour, with a cheerful staff to handle my suitcase. Avalon itself is more like a small town, with just over 3,000 residents. Catalina Island is mostly natural: The Catalina Island Conservancy owns most of it, this having been bequeathed to the nonprofit by the Wrigley family. Yes, the gum guy, who gave Chicago Wrigley Field, was also heavily involved in protecting and conserving the nature of Catalina Island.
Strolling along Avalon’s main road is peaceful, at least in the off season. Surely there’s a big crowd in the summer, but even in February the weather is balmy and pleasant. The water laps against the docks, with rowboats bobbing in the sun, and people smile as they walk by. It’s very mellow, friendly, and relaxed. The walk from one end of town along the bay (the ferry’s dock) to the other (a water sports equipment rental area on the beach) takes 15 minutes. It’s a great walk: There are very few cars, and most people get around on foot or on golf carts. This waterfront town has several rows of shops and restaurants, ranging from beachy to to elegant.
Without a doubt, my favorite store in Avalon was C.C. Gallagher. It’s an eclectic mix of interesting 
knickknacks, creative artisan objects and high-end food items, along with both a coffee shop during the day, and a wine bar at night. If there is any “must-see” store in Avalon, C. C. Gallagher would have to be it.
What else? Well, Brown’s Bikes and Catalina Kayak Adventures rent, obviously, bikes and boats. There are plenty of opportunities to be active on the island, or simply to kick back with a glass of wine and enjoy the views. In fact, the kick back and relax aspect of Catalina Island is what I liked the most. Santa Catalina Island makes for a relaxing weekend away, and anyone in Southern California should try it at least once. I’m glad I did.
