Escape to Catalina Island
On a summer vacation in 1981 I fell in love with the Island of Catalina. Time seemed to stand still as we bathed in the sun, swam and rode paddle boards in the bay, and toured the town from the Chimes Tower to the Wrigley Mansion. I was amazed by the art, style and décor of the Catalina Casino was we gazed at the theater during an evening movie. The smell of fresh air in California hills, a taste of the ocean breeze and the hot sun on my skin stirred up a passion for this island get-a-way that would not fade.
A quarter century later, these memories returned as we cruised “over town” from the mainland to Avalon. On this trip I carried the anticipation and thrill of introducing these memories to my wife and children. Only 26 miles and about an hour cruise along the smooth ocean I found very little change in Avalon. I could not believe my eyes – the pier, town and bay all seemed just as inviting as I remember it two decades ago.
Accommodations
The people in Avalon share a friendly hospitality with their visitors and each other. We were kindly welcomed to the city with friendly service from the Glenmore Plaza Hotel manager and staff. The Glenmore is a historic and charming part of California history.
This Victorian hotel is the oldest on the island and the second oldest in the state. During the 1920’s and 30’s numerous celebrities favored the amenities and beauty of the Glenmore. The hotel has been completely renovated and currently expanding with a new addition. We enjoyed a tour of the famous Clark Gable and Amelia Earhart suites. The bedroom with a 360-degree view of the harbor and mountains, found in the Clark Gable room, was quite impressive and breathtaking.
Our suite was comfortable for a family of six, fully equipped with cable TV, refrigerator, jacuzzi bath and an ocean view from the balcony. We were steps away from the beach, harbor boardwalk, including shops and dining. This was truly a great place to create memories that will last for a lifetime. We enjoyed the combination of old world and modern amenities; including daily continental breakfast, wireless internet access in the lobby and courtesy shuttle service from the boat. Our stay at the Glenmore was relaxed and enjoyable. Like tradition, I wished that I could stay forever.
Food
With the boardwalk just steps away we could dine anywhere with a wide variety of food choices from seafood, steak, Mexican, Italian and even Chinese just across the street. Also adjacent to the Hotel is Coldstone Creamery.
Spending a day on foot we packed up subs from the market and finished up the tour with pizza at my all-time favorite pizzeria, Antonio’s, next door to the Glenmore. We were greeted with a smile and peanuts (in the shell) on our table. While our order was being cooked we tossed the shells on the floor and listened to the juke box. The restaurant is filled with famous headshots and classic décor, even a large stuffed buffalo added to the festive atmosphere.
Activities
Catalina is known as the Island of Romance, Avalon offers an escape from Orange County for all walks of life. Lovers, families, singles, kids and seniors gathered to fill the boardwalk shopping, dining, lounging and playing on the sand – just enjoying life. Sailing, spear fishing, diving, snorkeling, island tours above and below the water, nightlife and dining are just a short list of attractions. During the summer you can enjoy concerts at the Catalina Casino Ballroom. Call the Glenmore at 310-510-2833 for a complete list of attractions or visit www.catalinachamber.com.
Catching sea bass on the pier with a drop-line filled our family with joy as we watched the sun head over the hills. Descanso Beach (a private club just past the Casino) provides fun for the whole family or just a couple having cocktails on the oceanfront. One great way to tour Avalon is to rent a golf cart. Another fascinating activity is a ride on the Glass Bottom Boat or Semi-submarine, My favorite is snorkeling at Lover’s Cove.
Rates and Info:
- Economy and Standard Rooms from $89
- Deluxe and Family Rooms from $109
- Mini Suites from $140
- Ocean View Rooms and Suites from $190 (based on double occupancy, rates may change and are adjusted for peak periods, call for details)
- www.glenmorehotel.com
- www.catalinaconcerts.com
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