Los Angeles — By on November 7, 2009 at 5:41 pm
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Take a Trip to Da Island Mon

No, not the Caribbean islands, but there is an island just off the coast of Los Angeles that makes a great weekend getaway!  According to Catalina.com, the island Santa Catalina has been inhabited for the last 7,000 years by various groups of Native Americans, making it rich in history.

Catalina Island is an hour ferry ride away from the Long Beach Landing, which is located right next to the Queen Mary(map).  The Catalina Express and the Catalina Flyer both offer tickets for almost $70 round trip, or take a 15 minute helicopter ride with Island Express helicopter service.

The ferries will take you to the coastal town of Avalon, where you are greeted with sailboats and the massive Catalina Casino.  After you get off the boat, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy!

catalina

Besides the sandy beaches that offer sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and fishing, take some time to wander around the Main Street stores, or stop for a bite to eat at one of the many delicious restaurants.

If you want to relax, the Island Breeze Spa is a great place for a massage or facial.  Like to golf?  Catalina Country Club golf course, built in 1892, is a 2,100 yard course that used to be home of the Bobby Jones Invitational Tournament.

For the more adventurous folks, there is a whole island to explore!  Rent a golf cart and go for a ride around town, check out the island by water by renting a kayak or going scuba diving.  Hiking the miles of back roads and trails, just be sure to pick up a free mandatory pass at the campground office, which you can find a map or ask around town.

Want to stay more than a day?  There are several hotel choices right on the main strip, including Hotel Atwater, built in the 1920s.

For more information, go to VisitCatalinaIsland.com.

Photo Credit: Flickr



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