Cary Ordway is a syndicated travel writer and president of Getaway Media Corp, publisher of www.californiaweekend.com, a site focusing on California travel, and www.northwesttraveladvisor.com, which features Pacific Northwest travel
Boarding the Catalina Express at Dana Point, we have the feeling we're going to escape Southern California traffic and congestion in VERY short order. We are right. Within minutes, we're "at sea" in the channel between Los Angeles and Catalina Island - no horns honking, no crawling along the freeway and no worries.
We're on our way to Avalon, the picturesque little town built near the southern tip of Catalina Island. It's just a 75-minute ride from the dock at Dana Point, and even a shorter distance from other points closer to L.A. Our slight trepidation about potential seasickness quickly evaporates as we see how well our sleek craft cuts through the moderate waves on what will become a perfect sunny Southern California day.
Along the way we see merchant vessels as well as a half-dozen or so 30-odd-foot pleasure craft obviously rigged for fishing and congregating at what must be a prime fishing ground. Later, to the port side we run a race with dozens of dolphins who seem intent on showing that anything man can do, they can do better.
Arriving in Avalon, the colorful, ornate - and, yes, expensive -- homes arrayed on hillsides and mountain tops combine with the myriad of boats and other sea-going vessels to create the impression we have just been transported to the French Riviera. Not bad considering a roundtrip ticket on the Express was only about 45 bucks and when all is said and done, we'll be home tonight for dinner.
But it's obvious from the gear being packed off the Express that there are many more overnighters than daytrippers. On this particular voyage, the hold is chock-full of suitcases, packs, tents, coolers and everything that would allow one to wander off and get to know the island upclose and personal.
For us it's a quick diversion from the rat race. We soon get our bearings on Crescent Street, the aptly-named street that follows the contour of the harbor. About six streets intersect with Crescent, all heading mauka (island-speak for "toward the mountains"). It's in this tiny little grid that you find most of the shops, restaurants and other tourist services.
We're traveling as a family today - mom, dad and three-year-old - so it's a burger joint for lunch. But the burgers are tasty and quite reasonably priced. You'll also be able to find finer dining and pricey menus to go with it.
On this warm summer day there is an abundance of families visiting with kids of all ages. But it's also not difficult to find couples holding hands or checking into one of several boutique inns, or frolicking in the unusually warm ocean. In fact, it's not much of a stretch to say that Catalina is good for both romantic couples and families. They peacefully co-exist on this little island, and neither experience seems negatively impacted by the other.
As Gwen Bronson explains, there are many opportunities for a couple to slip away on the island and do what romantics do. The many hotels and inns, just by themselves, are pretty darn romantic and, as Communications Director for the Catalina Chamber of Commerce, Gwen's doing her job to point that out. But she's also figuring we might want to look at one of several romantic adventures such as sea kayaking up the coast. In a very short distance you will find a beach that is not accessible by anyone who does not have a boat.
"Just visit the market and pick up your picnic lunch first and go about a half hour up the coast," she says. "Ninety-nine percent of the time, you'll have the whole beach to yourself."
Or rent a golf cart and drive the many roads around Avalon - just $40 an hour. Horseback riding is always good for a romantic mood, as long as it doesn't create any physical limitations. Botanical gardens are here for communing with Nature.
Like most visitors to Catalina, we find plenty to keep us occupied for the day. We enjoy people-watching in the outdoor cafes and exploring the winding roadways that climb out of Avalon to spectacular views of the harbor. In general, we just soak up this island atmosphere, recognizing it may be a while longer before we get back to the real French Riviera or anywhere else in the world with such island charm.
Our day on the island goes by quickly and the trip back to Dana Point is a relaxing end to a perfect Southern California daytrip. Soon we are back in San Diego, completely refreshed and relaxed, and ready to share stories about our daytrip to the "Riviera".
AT A GLANCE
Where: Catalina Island is about 26 miles west of the L.A. area. There are four boat companies that service Catalina from seven ports in Orange and Los Angeles counties.
What: Catalina Island offers many recreational activities ranging from deep-sea fishing to horseback riding to hiking to snorkeling. There are also many attractions such as submarine rides and golf cart rentals.
When: Catalina is a great destination year-round, although the lowest prices are in the shoulder season, April-May and September-October. Most hotels offer lower prices then, but combo packages help reduce the overall cost of lodging and transportation any time of year. Several events are offered throughout the year, so check with the Chamber of Commerce for a listing.
Why: Catalina is close, easy to reach, incredibly picturesque and the perfect daytrip or getaway weekend for any living in or visiting Southern California.
How: Call the Catalina Chamber for a complete list of transportation and lodging options. Phone (310) 510-1520.
- Related Videos
- Related Articles
- Ask / Related Q&A
- Historic Dana Point Is Popular Ca Getaway
- Island Life is Just a 75-minute Boat Ride From L.a
- A Southern California Wedding in San Juan Capistrano
- Vacation Ideas - 5 Great Places to Visit in Southern California
- Summer Fun Along the Southern California Coastline Road Trip
- Recollections and pieces of the Past: a look at a Veteran




Thailand Hotels- Visit Phuket for Things to Do While Staying in Luxury Thailand Hotels
By: Vikram kuamr | 10/11/2009There is plenty to see and do when you stay in luxury Thailand hotels no matter where you choose to stay. If you’re looking for action, adventure, or even just a relaxing vacation away from home, Phuket has many different events and destinations that can be enjoyed by all. One of the most popular travel purposes for Phuket visitors is the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, which is a 1.8K swim, 55K bike, and 12K run through the tropical paradise that is Phuket. If you come to town at the right time, you c
Luxury Hotel Dubai- Things to See and Do While Staying in a Hotel Dubai
By: Vikram kuamr | 10/11/2009Staying in Dubai affords many different types of activities that can be enjoyed by vacationers of all types. Regardless of whether you’re looking for spa resorts or luxury hotels, or if you’re in search of more adventure by going out and doing activities, there is something out there for just about everyone. There are tour companies that offer tours, different events, historical areas, and attractions to see when you visit Dubai. With all of the great attractions that can be found here, vacation
Riverside Paradise - Xong river in Vangvieng, Laos
By: Activetravel Asia | 10/11/2009A small and beautiful town surrounded by mountains and rivers, Vangvieng is a place of delight and wonder for visitors from around the world.
New York Car Rental - Need To Rent A Car In New York?
By: Elijah James | 10/11/2009New York is a popular travel destination. Whether its business or tourist travelers, the state plays host to millions of visitors each year. Being the largest financial district in the world, New York undoubtedly attracts millions of business travelers each year. As such, New York doesn't only have a wide...
Occasions to Hire Limos in Coventry
By: Joe Smith | 10/11/2009A limousine car can be hired for any occasion or event. Different types if limos are available for different occasions adding up to the style and comfort.
5 Occasions to Hire a Limo in London
By: Joe Smith | 10/11/2009The top occasions to hire a limo in London include weddings, birthdays or anniversary parties, school proms, hen and stag nights, and corporate meetings.
Bhutan - Incredible Destination and Great Hospitality
By: Tod Martin | 10/11/2009If you would like to visit a country which offers the most beautiful destinations with warm and friendly environment, then Bhutan is an ideal place for you.
Splendid Beauty Of Nepal
By: Tod Martin | 10/11/2009India is among the most famous tourist spots especially for the travellers who love rich culture and heritage. Every year thousands of visitors from all over the world visit the land of colorful assortment. In this majestic land you can pick up any type of tour packages like cool retreats, eco tourism, deserts, adventure sports, wildlife safari, luxurious wheel tour, spa and yoga tour, spirituality tour, royal retreat, heritage sites and beaches etc.
San Diego ideal departure point for Mexican cruise
By: Cary Ordway | 05/11/2009 | TravelCruise customers find it convenient to take Mexican Riviera cruise from downtown San Diego
How to find movie stars when visiting L.A
By: Cary Ordway | 29/09/2009 | TravelNext time you visit L.A. you'll be able to find out who's filming what and where you can see your favorite movie stars upclose
Lake Berryessa is California vacation jewel
By: Cary Ordway | 16/09/2009 | TravelRenting a houseboat on Northern California's Lake Berryessa turned out to be a highly rewarding large-family vacation adventure
Fastest way to Victoria, B.C. is float plane
By: Cary Ordway | 09/09/2009 | TravelA trip to Victoria, B.C. is spectacular anytime, but especially if you fly in a float plane from downtown Seattle.
Extra-special getaways in California Wine Country
By: Cary Ordway | 04/09/2009 | TravelTwo special accommodations in California Wine Country
Hermosa Beach a little off the L.A. tourist path
By: Cary Ordway | 01/09/2009 | TravelSanta Monica and Venice may get all the attention, but L.A. visitors would be wise to visit quiet but spectacular Hermosa Beach
San Diego waterfront ideal for quick getaway
By: Cary Ordway | 26/08/2009 | TravelThe San Diego waterfront is a vibrant and exciting place to visit any time of year
California's Great America is top-notch theme park
By: Cary Ordway | 19/08/2009 | TravelCalifornia's Great America is a family friendly theme park just south of San Francisco that, surprisingly, offers shorter lines even during some summer days