West Coast Island Style
By Linda Ripoll
Angelenos are lucky! Not only do we have amazing weather, great shopping and some of the most beautiful beaches in the nation. We also have an island getaway only minutes away by ferry and a world away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Catalina Island is one of the West Coast’s most relaxing and enjoyable vacation spots for a quick refreshing weekend trip or even a nice honeymoon when you can’t invest in a two week jaunt to Hawaii.
So, you think you’re ready to embark on the Catalina Island experience? First things first, you’ll need to decide how you want to arrive on the island. You have two choices, by air or by sea, either one is quick, inexpensive and picturesque. There are several ferries and airlines to choose from, just visit www.visitcatalina.org for more information and to make reservations! Just 22 miles off the coast of Long Beach, getting to Catalina is probably quicker than your daily commute on the 405.
Once you arrive, it’s all about finding a great place to relax while you’re visiting the historic island. One of the best and most highly recommended hotels is the Hotel Vista del Mar. Just steps from the beach, this scenic hotel boasts beautiful ocean views and great packages combining island activities with luxurious accommodations for a weekend that will rejuvenate and restore some much needed energy! Rates range from $195-$395 and vary depending on the season and what type of room you reserve. This serene seaside hotel is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Catalina Island. For more information and to make reservations please visit: www.hotelvistadelmar.com
Once you’re ready to dine on some of Catalina’s premiere seafood delicacies, its time to experience Armstrong’s Fish Market and Seafood Restaurant. Located over the water on Avalon Bay, seafood lovers will be in paradise feasting on some of the freshest fish, clams, oysters, lobster and other amazing dishes Catalina is known for.
This historic restaurant also has a full oyster bar, serves sashimi and sumptuous wine. For locals, this is the place where they purchase fresh fish. Armstrong’s also grills up some of the tastiest steak and chicken for those who don’t or won’t do seafood! For more information, please visit www.armstrongseafood.com
No vacation is ever complete without a trip to the spa. On Catalina Island, the spa experience is definitely one that you won’t want to miss. With spa and salon treatments that relax, refresh and renew, the Island Breeze Spa & Salon is for the woman or man who believes that indulgence is something that you owe yourself rather than a treat. From facials to massages to wedding packages for the entire bridal party, there is something for everyone.
One of the best treatments at the Island Breeze Spa & Salon are the massages by the sea. Starting at $48 for 25 minutes, these luxurious treatments combine wonderful relaxing massages with the soothing effects of nature for a total sensory experience unrivaled by any other! For more information please visit www.islandbreezespa.com
With countless activities from fishing to hiking and swimming, there are so many ways to spend your leisurely days enjoying all that the island has to offer. It comes as no surprise that so many Angelenos find themselves craving a little Catalina!