Catalina Islands CA
Are you a Whale watcher? Catalina Island is
prime for both the Grey whale and the giant Blue whale's
migration routes. The island itself sits directly in the
middle of their bi-annual path, so on either side of the
island you're likely to see a spout at almost any time of
the year, and not too far from the shore, either. Still not
close enough? Take a whale tour or rent a private boat (Much
less than it would cost on the mainland) to go see if you
can TOUCH one of the largest creatures on the planet.
Just an outdoors-y, nature lover in general?
The hiking, biking, and mountain climbing, just outside of
the city limits of Avalon, are completely unmatched in their
offerings. Rarely in my life have I felt that I've had a day
where I've seen so much, and accomplished such great things
as the day I spent at the botanical gardens, and then
ascended the mountain behind it. It took no equipment at all
save good shoes and a canteen. The view from the top was
nothing short of spectacular, -in every direction- and the
climb, while challenging, was never so dangerous that I
wouldn't recommend it to an active 65 year-old.
The Botanical gardens itself was a rare
find, too. I've been to a few in other states, and soon left
in boredom. In this historical garden however, I saw many
species of plants that exist nowhere else on the planet!
Also, the largest collection of Cacti in the world included
some very strange plants indeed, so be sure to not let the
family miss this one. It's just a quick trolley ride from
the main strip. (As is everything near Avalon.)
In the interest of time, there are MANY
other reasons to visit that I'm leaving out here, but more
can be found on our website if you're interested.
How to get to Santa Catalina
Island

Catalina Island
Ferry
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