Finding Romance on Catalina Island

By Lindsey Lin

Looking to escape LA for a romantic weekend getaway with your main guy or gal? Beat the rush of the crowds during the summer months and escape to Catalina Island this spring. Go for a relaxing, luxurious, and rejuvenating long weekend or day trip that will leave you recharged and revitalized upon your return to the “real” world.

Just over an hour boat ride by Catalina Express from Long Beach or San Pedro, Catalina is the ultimate getaway for the couple looking for a romantic escape. Rocky hills plunging into turquoise waters await you at the port of Avalon, where the old Hollywood feel blends with Mediterranean charm. Stroll along winding brick streets, enjoy brilliant sunsets, or take a boat trip to secluded coves and beaches on the island.

If staying over, the Avalon Hotel is the ultimate in luxury. Voted as Travelers’ Choice 2006 by tripadvisor.com, this boutique hotel offers large wrap around balconies, luxurious 350 thread count sheets, flat screen TV’s, and oceanview rooms with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

If pampering yourself is at the top of your list, the Island Breeze Spa offers couples Swedish and Hot Stone Massages in the comfort of your hotel room, or try a Moonlit “Massage by the Sea” at Descanso Beach.

Feeling adventurous? There are more water and outdoor activities to keep you busy on Catalina than there are days in a week. Activities like scuba diving, kayaking, golfing, biking, boating, hiking, parasailing, and horseback riding are all available on the island. Rent a golf cart with your mate for a few hours and spend a fun afternoon zipping up and down the hills of Catalina taking in the stunning views of the crystal blue waters and coastline below.

Looking for an afternoon of leisurely sightseeing? Spend a few hours exploring the Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Garden or the Casino Ballroom, which is considered one of the world’s finest art deco palaces.

Cap off a full day at Ristorante Villa Portofino, which is one of Catalina’s first class restaurants. With its menu of gourmet entrées, extensive wine list, and oceanview, it’s sure to be a romantic culinary experience. For Surf and Turf in an upscale setting, try Steve’s Steakhouse, and enjoy their ocean and harbor views. After dinner, complete the perfect day with a moonlit walk on the beach. Does it get any better than this?