When visiting Catalina Island, you’ll find a variety of things to do. There’s hiking, scuba diving, the Bistro at the Atwater, and scuba tours. Here’s a look at some of the most popular activities. If you’re a thrill-seeker, you’ll love the thrill of riding the zip lines at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour.
Scuba diving
Scuba diving in Catalina is a great option for a day trip from the mainland, and there are a variety of sites to choose from. Some of these sites are suitable for beginners, while others are best for advanced divers. There are also several sites suitable for underwater photographers. You can dive year-round in Catalina, though you should be prepared for the cold waters in winter months. Scuba divers are advised to wear a 7-mm wetsuit when diving in this area.
Scuba diving in Catalina is best done at a shallow depth, about 60 feet. Wrecks can be found in the deeper parts of the water, but you will need permission to explore them. If you are a novice, it’s a good idea to take a scuba dive refresher course first before venturing into the water.
The kelp forests on the Catalina Islands have a diverse range of marine life. These include angel and horn sharks, as well as garibaldi sharks. You’ll also find schools of manta rays and stingrays in the region.
One of the most popular Catalina dive sites is the Casino Point Dive Park, located next to the old Hollywood casino. The dive site is marked by buoys, and is ideal for beginner and intermediate divers alike. There’s even an air fill truck and lockers available on site. You can dive in the Casino Point Dive Park year-round, with a plethora of different depths to choose from.
Surface temperatures on the island hover around 68-72 degrees, making it one of the most pleasant dive destinations in California. It’s also possible to see giant kelp forests, playful sea lions, and an abundance of colorful sea life. You can also hire a dive guide to teach you about the local marine life.
Scuba diving in Catalina Island is a great way to enjoy crystal clear water, and breathtaking seascapes. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced diver, you’ll be sure to have an incredible time at Catalina Island.
Scuba tours
Scuba tours in Catalina Island are a great way to see some of the best marine life in Southern California. The island’s waters are home to thousands of different species of fish, invertebrates, and mammals. In addition to colorful coral and a wide range of fish, you can also see humpback whales if you’re diving at the right time of year.
Scuba tours in Catalina Island are ideal for beginners and experienced divers alike. The water is pristine and clear with visibility of more than 90 feet. The island is home to colorful marine life and majestic kelp forests. There are several dive shops that offer equipment rentals and certifications, as well as guided trips.
If you’re looking for a diving excursion that is both educational and fun, consider choosing a tour that includes a delicious Dominican lunch. The menu includes fresh lobster caught the day before, pork, chicken, and salads. Scuba tours in Catalina Island also include a Caribbean-style feast, where you can try some of the island’s famous seafood dishes.
Diving on Catalina Island requires a wetsuit. While some people may be able to dive in a 5mm wetsuit in the summer months, the majority of people are advised to wear a 7mm wetsuit. The water temperature on Catalina Island is typically between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit. You should also bring a pair of fins and a mask if you plan to snorkel.
There are many beautiful places for scuba diving on the island. You can explore the giant kelp forests and spot sharks. The island also has a fantastic golf course, hiking trails, museums, and delicious restaurants. Catalina Divers Supply is a great place to rent equipment. Their 42-foot aluminum Cat Dive is a great dive vessel that offers year-round service.
Bistro at the Atwater
If you are visiting the Catalina Island, you can’t miss the famous Bistro at the Atwater, where you can enjoy a picnic-style sandwich or a delicious salad. The restaurant also features an extensive baked goods selection. Bistro at the Atwater is a member of the Art Deco Society of Los Angeles, so you can also enjoy its festivities and avalon ball, a throwback to the past.
Bistro at the Atwater also features healthy and fresh beverages. The menu includes Pressed Juicery’s organic blends and Bai Bubbles antioxidant infusion drinks. You can also enjoy a gourmet ice cream treat at the Bistro or order a specialty frozen coffee.
While on the island, you can also indulge in a great selection of local fare. The Bistro at the Atwater is located adjacent to Hotel Atwater and offers a large selection of breakfast items, coffee, and cool drinks. The island is also home to an island donut shop, where you can enjoy classic donuts and specialty flavors.
If you’re looking for a romantic setting with spectacular views, the Hotel Atwater is an excellent choice. The hotel opened in 1920, and was recently renovated by the Catalina Island Company. The hotel is named after Helen Atwater Wrigley, wife of famous chewing gum industrialist Philip Knight Wrigley. Helen Atwater Wrigley loved fresh flowers and champagne before bed. The hotel’s decor is decorated in her honor.
Located right in the heart of Avalon, the Hotel Atwater is one of the island’s premier hotels. Its lobby is expansive and provides free wifi throughout the property. A room at the Atwater also features a mini fridge and quality linens.
Hiking
If you love hiking, the state park in Catalina offers many trails that you can follow. It also offers biking and horseback riding opportunities. There are eight different trails that vary in length and difficulty, and all are dog-friendly. Hikers can choose between multi-use and single-use trails, including the Romero Ruins trail. Trail maps are available at the park.
Hikers can enjoy the island’s native forests and other natural landscapes. Trails are maintained by the Catalina Island Conservancy, a private nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the island’s natural environment. It owns about 88% of the island and manages the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in Southern California. The conservancy also manages campgrounds and trails for hikers and campers. Hikers may also take on the Trans Catalina Trail, a 62-mile hike through the island’s native lands. The trail was not created until 2009, but the organization has been encouraging hikers to tackle the island’s trails.
Hikers can also enjoy scenic views and backcountry trails. The island is home to more than 165 miles of hiking trails, and there are hiking routes for all levels. The famous Trans-Catalina Trail can be completed in a day, or there are various day hikes available. Hiking in Catalina is a great way to see another side of the island, away from the crowds and traffic.
Hikers can enjoy the island’s natural landscape and cultural heritage. Hikers can even explore ancient ruins on the Romero Ruin trail, located within Catalina State Park. The trail passes through a scenic canyon before dropping into a large area with multiple pools. The trails are well maintained and provide a unique experience. Hikers are required to stay on designated paths, and there are interpretive signs along the way.
The Trans-Catalina Trail is a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty. It’s a 7.2-mile trail that begins in Two Harbors and ends at Parsons Landing Campground. The campground has eight campsites, picnic tables, and fire pits. It also features a beautiful sandy beach and a secluded area for picnicking.
