Catalina Island – An Insider’s Guide
The Inn on Mt. Ada offers a panoramic view of the marina in Avalon Bay.
Catalina Island – the place that’s “26 miles across the sea,” has a reputation as being touristy, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There’s also an authentic side to Catalina. On my last visit, I found a charming inn, a great place to eat, and a spa that truly reflects the island’s heritage – all only about an hour from mainland SoCal cities.
Authentic Catalina
Let’s start with the lodging. Mt. Ada (formerly The Inn on Mt. Ada) was built by William Wrigley Jr. (the chewing gum tycoon) in 1921 and named for his wife. At the time, Wrigley owned the entire island, which is about 25 miles long and 8 miles wide. He also owned the Chicago Cubs baseball team, and he brought them out to Catalina for spring training.
The Wrigley’s mansion (Mt. Ada) is perched on a peak overlooking Catalina Island and Avalon Bay. William and Ada divided their time between five houses in the U.S., but they were always on Catalina in the spring because he loved watching his team train. He often did this from a window in his study.
The cozy rooms at the Inn on Mt. Ada all come with a water view.
Today, the mansion is a charming six-room inn, which still feels like the gracious home of well-heeled residents. Traditional furnishings, a plethora of books and games, and “family” portraits make the Mt. Ada feel homey, not hotel-ish. However, what I love the most is the drop-dead gorgeous view of Avalon Bay and sailboats in the marina from the bedrooms and a wide terrace around the house.
Guests of the inn have the use of golf carts for getting around the island, and tariffs include breakfast, lunch, and wine with appetizers in the evening. Another reason guests feel at home here? The well-stocked butler pantry (think popcorn, freshly-baked cookies) which guests can access 24/7.
Things to do on Catalina
Day trippers take the Catalina Express ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point and walk around the shops, grab something to eat and maybe sit on the beach a while before heading home.
Island Express Helicopters provide the best views of Catalina.
Authentic travelers may take the ferry, although I recommend the birds-eye view offered by Island Express Helicopters at least one way. More important, authentic travelers stay for more than a few hours – two or three days is best – and come prepared to hike, bike, snorkel, and maybe zipline or parasail. In addition, Catalina Island Conservancy offers Jeep tours into the interior of the island where wild bison roam.
Island spa Catalina
I also suggest making appointments ahead of time for treatments at Island Spa Catalina.
This full-service spa is located in a multi-level, Spanish-style complex with a central courtyard that was built in the 1930s. Over the years, it was home to various restaurants and retail businesses, but not long ago, the Santa Catalina Island Company transformed the historic building into a state-of-the-art spa. Fortunately, they were able to preserve the white stucco exterior, clay tile roofs, and classic mosaic work for which the island is known.
Island Spa Catalina reflects the heritage and culture of the island.
The result is a charming space in which to relax and de-stress. I am especially enamored with the alfresco deck on the second level where comfortable seating faces the harbor dotted with white yachts. This spacious co-ed relaxation area invites lingering with good friends or a good book. You could even pick up lunch or a beverage at the Spa Café and enjoy it here.
Seriously, have you ever seen a dreamier relax lounge than this one at Island Spa Catalina?
I also really like the cozy sitting niches for one or two dotted around the complex, and I absolutely love the fact that there are a small tiled pool and a hot spa pool in the courtyard. (So remember to bring your suit.) A staff of 25 therapists and estheticians offer popular treatments including the Seaweed Surrender Wrap (good for detoxing), The Hydra Facial, and Island Deep Massage.
Where to dine on Catalina
I like the clam chowder at Bluewater Grill Avalon but, in general, Avalon Grille is my favorite place to eat on Catalina. Everything I ordered here was delicious, and I like the stylish surroundings.
My final insider tip…the mac and cheese appetizer at the Avalon Grille is divine.
Enjoy!
View of the Catalina Casino (now a movie theater) from the road up to Mt. Ada.
Category: Southern California
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I love reading your articles. They always give me the urges to get up and go to these places. You have the great gift of finding the best, places for feeling as if you are traveling authentically.
I couldn’t agree more about the compelling, authentic features of Avalon. Many years ago, when I first went to Catalina for a quick visit, I came away unimpressed. But that was my fault, not Catalina’s. As you describe & show so well, the key to unlocking a delightful experience in Catalina is to participate in a variety of activities, in addition to hanging out at the beach or the nice restaurants. I imagine that you’ve whetted the appetites of those who have upscale European tastes but limited time that can be better used in Catalina than on transoceanic flights.
wow, what a great escape! It looks a bit like some Spanish or Portugueuse places, that’s very surprising to see such a location there.
Dear Elizabeth,
Thank you for the lovely article! We have changed the name of the property to Mt. Ada. Would you be able to update?
Best,
Lynn
The ballroom is available year-round for weddings, private celebrations, and corporate events. More information on how to rent the Casino and other Catalina Island venues is available on our Meetings and Events page.