Getting ready to go on vacation is very exciting, especially if your destination is on our local Southern California paradise, Catalina Island. You most likely visited many websites to help you plan your trip and learn about the events that will be happening during your stay. Now you are counting down the days to your departure. You’ve booked your boat, maybe even upgraded to Commodore Lounge to treat yourself, and now you’re on your way to get away from it all. Finally, it’s time to pack. What do you bring?

When the Aerial Adventure on Catalina Island opened, we didn’t have to think twice about trying it out. After tackling the climbing wall and undertaking the Action Flyboarding, we have been waiting for a new adventure on the Island. The convincing argument for this one: they have three levels of difficulty: beginner, intermediate and advanced. So there are no excuses for not trying at least the beginner level.

When visiting Catalina Island, don’t forget to pack your sweet tooth. The Island has treats ranging from the classic caramel apple to ice cream with a unique adult twist. One thing is for sure, you will not be disappointed with your choice!

Your Catalina adventure doesn’t begin on the Island but before you board the boat. Opened in the summer of 2012 just steps from the original San Pedro terminal, the Catalina Sea and Air Terminal is an architectural gem on the Port of Los Angeles waterfront that should be explored.

In honor of the iconic Christmas song, here are our 12 favorite Catalina holiday gifts – including nine presents we love to give and get, plus three that you can give to the Island.

Alongside tables of Thanksgiving bounty, evenings full of family and friends and football galore, the fall season reminds us to take time to be thankful. Family and friends are always on the list, but with Catalina Island just a short ride away, it’s easy to find even more to be grateful for this season.

With the holidays coming up, Avalon is a great place to find that unique gift for the ones you love. One would expect to find the typical souvenir shops but Avalon has a rich collection of unique items to offer: anything from fun color changing nail polish to high-end jewelry and art. There is something for everyone on your list.

With picturesque views and unique history, it’s no wonder visitors are captivated by Catalina and fill up their Instagram feed as they explore the Island. There is no shortage of Instagram-worthy places and moments while vacationing on Catalina Island.

Whether you are looking for an adventurous weekend or time to reconnect with loved ones special, Catalina has something for everyone when visiting this island hideaway. There are so many activities and restaurants to try on Catalina Island that it helps to have a direction based on the type of vacation you are looking to experience. Check out our itineraries while planning your next trip to the Island. Pay special attention to the Travel Tips for Catalina deals and the insider scoop.

Summer is here and everyone is looking forward to their adventure vacations, weekend getaways or at least a day trip to cool off. With a quick boat ride from San Pedro, Long Beach or Dana Point, Catalina Island is the perfect spot to take a break from the everyday life. The best thing about Catalina is that it doesn’t matter how long you stay, there are so many enjoyable activities offered, you won’t be bored. It was hard for me to pick one thing to do, but I finally decided on a fast and fun water sport activity that is just taking off. Action Flyboarding!

There’s always something to do on Southern California’s resort island destination. Whether you are looking for a vacation pumping with adrenaline or filled with nothing but relaxation, Catalina delivers year-round. Summer, however, is the Island’s high season and the myriad activities are just one reason why. Here are 12 of the best things to do on Catalina Island this summer.

Rather than staying home this year, enjoy Independence Day Island-Style on Catalina Island. With afternoon parades, USC marching band performances and dazzling fireworks, Catalina takes celebrating the United States of America’s birthday to the next level.

Last summer, the highly-anticipated Ada Blanche Wrigley Schreiner Catalina Island Museum opened to rave reviews. The expansive facility offers space for permanent and temporary exhibits as well as unique event space. Since its opening, the combination of events and exhibits have made the museum a must-see attraction on Catalina Island. Here are just a few reasons why.

Mother Nature has graced Southern California with mild weather year round, so seasonal changes tend to be more subtle on Catalina. This island paradise has its own rhythm and its own way marking the year’s passing – here are seven sure signs that spring is here.

For new visitors to the Island or visitors who have never explored past Avalon, the interior of the Island is like being transported to another world. A world where flora and fauna abound and wildlife roam free. The Jeep Eco Tour run by the Catalina Island Conservancy is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and feast on what Mother Nature has to offer.