As we’ve officially hit the one-year mark since everything shut down (we base that on Jude’s birthday—it all seemed to hit while we were in the hospital), we’re sure everyone’s feeling that itch to *safely* travel again. (We sure are!!!)
As we’ve begun to plot and plan our family adventures, we’ve realized how picky we are now about the destinations we visit. Not only because of post-pandemic fears, but because traveling with a one year old is NO JOKE. Our most recent family getaway could not have been more perfect (or more convenient). Beautiful, uncrowded, socially distant, and an easy one-hour boat ride from OC/LA…
That’s right. We’re talking Catalina Island! It’s the perfect spot for anybody to ease back into travel and get on island-time. Here are 5 reasons to go to Catalina now!
Easy Plan, Pack and Go
For our Southern California based crew, Catalina Island is such an easy getaway. Whether you’re the planning type that likes to book months in advance or you’re more like us, and you decide to go the day before, either way works! Whenever you’re ready, just hop on to the Catalina Express website and book your tickets. Pack light, since the weather will likely be delightful. Or don’t pack at all… hop on the 7:05 AM departure from Long Beach and head back on the 6:30 PM boat. Talk about an epic day trip!!
Light on the Crowds
We’ve visited Catalina Island on cruise ships before, and while it’s always charming, this quaint little island can get crowded. Not right now!! As cruises are halted and capacities are limited, the island feels calm and peaceful. From the boat ride over, to our favorite mini golf course, to even the submarine adventure we went on were all mellow and crowd free. Considering we’re currently traveling with a loud, crawling baby boy, it was delightful.
We love when crowds are minimal on Catalina Island!
Affordable Activities for the Family
One of our favorite things about Catalina is that it is affordable and accessible for everyone! Some of our favorite activities are mini-golf, renting a golf cart, and the submarine adventure. Jude was OBSESSED with the submarine and all the fish. He even took the wheel :)
Jude was mesmerized on the submarine adventure!
Covid-safe
Catalina has done a fantastic job of implementing safety measure that will give you peace of mind while you visit. Everybody must wear their masks on the boat trip over, which goes as far as no eating and drinking so that masks aren’t even lowered. Once on the island, there are areas that remind you when/where you need to mask up. There are also hand sanitizer stations on the boat, in the hotels and restaurants… basically everywhere you need to make sure you’re germ free. We felt safe throughout our stay!
Eat, Drink, Sleep, Repeat
We could have a whole separate blog on this, but this is why we go to Catalina. Eating, drinking, and sleeping… in any order you prefer. For food and drink, here are some of our favs -
Bistro at the Atwater - The Bistro at the Atwater will deliver your morning caffeine fix, or everything you need for a beach picnic. Grab one of their refreshing salads or a hearty and healthy sandwich and head out for your day in the sun
Catalina Coffee & Cookie - Great for coffee, even better if you add a cookie
Original Jack’s Country Kitchen - Hearty eggs benedict or mouth-watering steak burgers, this spot is solid for breakfast or lunch.
Descanso Beach Club - Drinks, lunch, and lounge chairs. We love the vibe at Descanso Beach Club for lunch with the family, or sunset just the two of us. Sorry Jude.
Maggie’s Blue Rose - One of the best things that happened to Maggie’s Blue Rose during the Covid-era was that they were forced to move dining onto the sand. Not next to the sand. ON the sand. Combine that with their mouth-watering Mexican food, and we’ll be there every time we’re in town. Two margaritas, please!
Avalon Grille - Date night! Such tasty food and drinks, Avalon Grille is perfect for a more romantic evening. Get the Ribeye!
The Lobster Trap - A local favorite for seafood, we ate here on our last trip (pre-Jude) and loved the vibe and food.
Antonio’s Pizzeria and Cabaret - Wine and delicious pizza on the beach? Yes please!
Luau Larry’s - Our go-to spot for Buffalo’s Milk, the official drink of Catalina Island
The Naughty Fox - This is on the top of our list for our next visit. We haven’t been to here yet, but have heard AMAZING things about their cocktails and seaside inspired menu.
First stop of the day - Bistro at the Atwater
Our daily breakfast sandwich from the Bistro!
Drinks with a view at Descanso… we can’t get enough!
Dinner on the sand at Maggie’s Blue Rose
Having stayed in a few different hotels as well as on board sailboats, we’ve experienced of variety of Catalina’s accommodations. Our favorites are the Pavilion Hotel and Hotel Atwater. The Pavilion is right across from the sand, and we love enjoying our morning coffee looking out on the water. We love the design and cozy beds at the Atwater, and Jude was a big fan!
Jude’s already addicted to hotel life :)
While Catalina will always be an easy getaway where you can find both rest or adventure, we’d really recommend sooner rather than later. Eventually, cruise ships will be back and business will be booming on the island… great for them but not as great for the super relaxed vibe. So maybe leave the kids and go tomorrow! We’ll see ya there!
