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Romance is always in the air on Catalina Island. With beautiful beaches where you can find sea glass and experience the most incredible sunrises, and delectable restaurants to share exquisite meals and conversations, Catalina has many romantic treasures for everyone to experience. Here are 8 romantic things to do on Catalina Island:

1. See a movie at the Casino Movie Theater
Enjoy a night out in the art deco walls of the mythical Avalon Theater as you sit together surrounded by stunning murals and incredible sound. The twinkling ceiling stars and vibrations of echoing sounds fill the entire space. The theater plays newly released movies every night at 7:30pm. Great date night in the famous Casino!

2. Plan a picnic at Botanic Gardens
If you appreciate walks, take a 30-minute stroll to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Gardens. To save some time, rent a golf cart and sightsee more of the island. The Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden is truly one of the most romantic sights to see as you walk up the stairs to the top of the monument and take in the beautiful view. You can set up a picnic on a bench or space along the way and just enjoy the peace and serenity.  

3. Couple’s Massage at the Island Breeze Spa
Enjoy a soothing couple’s massage in a private room with your sweetheart. What a wonderful way to relax side by side with such a tranquilizing experience.

4. Indulge on a Food Tour
For all the foodie couples, which let’s be honest, is mostly all of us, you will absolutely love the Taste of Food Tour. This is a cultural way to share a delicious tasting adventure together as you experience different flavors, architecture and learn historical insights about the Island. The way to everyone’s heart is through the stomach.

5. Take in ocean views from your suite
There are many lovely places to stay on the island with amazing views right to the bay. One of my favorites, Hotel Metropole, offers mini-suites, a VIP wing and even an entire beach house you can book. With a romantic fireplace, a view to die for and pillows to last you forever, it will be very hard to leave your room, especially after a glass of champagne!

6. Take a bike ride together
One of the many wonderful things to do on the island is rent a bike and explore the breathtaking views. With electric bikes, it is now easier to go up hills without any strain and let your hair blow in the wind. Share the views together as you stop and capture photos, enjoy the scenery and even run into some wildlife.

7. Share a Caramel Apple
Stop by Lloyd’s for a delicious caramel apple! Yes, I said apple. This confectionery has been around since 1941 and is known for their peanut brittle, caramel apples and salt water taffy. From so many options to choose from, you can’t go wrong. The apples are cut into pieces for you so that they are easy to share. Sit by the water, enjoy the view, and indulge.

8. Enjoy the clear waters
The waters of Catalina Island are like no other in Southern California. The best way to enjoy them is to dive in! For those who like to stay a little drier, I highly recommend renting a double kayak from Descanso Beach Ocean Sports and explore out to the east. As you look down in the waters, you will see beautiful orange Garibaldi fish, or if you are lucky enough, sometimes you will even spot a seal or a giant water turtle. What a scene to share!

by Angela Puchala