Wandering Catalina Island for the Day Takes You a World Away...

By Seth Porter

Santa Catalina Island is part of the beautiful Channel Islands Archipelago, which stretches for miles along the Southern California coast. 22 miles long and 8 miles wide at the widest point, the island is both rugged and beautiful, and has some of the richest marine diversity in the world. Catalina Island is the only Channel Island that is developed, but most of the island is still protected, and most the inhabitants are concentrated in the town of Avalon.

Just 22 miles southwest of Los Angeles, the island has long been a favorite for day trips, weekend vacations, honeymoons and weddings. All of the major cruise lines also use the island as a port of call. Visitors to the island can enjoy world class diving, sport fishing, golf at California's first golf course, kayak tours, and leisurely walks along the beach.

Most of the local population is centered in the town of Avalon, with the remainder scattered around the island and in the port town of Two Harbors. Island residents are a mixture of hardy seafaring types, tourist industry entrepreneurs, and retirees. Supplies on the island are more expensive than the mainland, which is to be expected on any island where everything must be brought in by ship or barge. Residents get around on bicycles, AVTs and by way of the islands most iconic form of transportation " modified golf cart. Cars and trucks are extremely limited on the Island and waiting list for these are prohibitively long.

Most of the island is managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy, which endeavors to restore the islands original flora and fauna. However, they are also charged with protecting one of the most interesting transplants to the island, a massive herd of wild Bison, which were brought in by a film production over 50 years ago.

Golf carts and bicycles are the best ways to explore the narrow streets and meet locals. for those interested in the islands rich history, or seeking adventure, there are guided tours for just about everything on the island.

Accommodations are available for all budgets, as well as international cuisine, spa resorts, and yearly jazz and dance festivals. Whether you plan to stay a day or a few days, there are plenty of activities, places to eat, boutiques, and endless walks along the beach to keep visitors occupied. Santa Catalina Island is truly another world away from the rest of California, and a perfect, accessible getaway that is easy to plan and will satisfy your vacation wanderlust.

About the Author:

Comments

0 Responses to "Wandering Catalina Island for the Day Takes You a World Away..."

Posting Komentar

Labels

PMII KOMFEIS