Catalina Island

40 photos

Sandy's 2014 Christmas present was a trip to Catalina Island. We flew down to John Wayne Airport, and then took a helicopter across the channel to Catalina. The first full day, we took an Eco Jeep tour around part of the island, and the guide taught us about the geological history of the island, the plants and animals, the early inhabitants, and what was currently happening around the island.

We also took a tour of the Casino (Italian style Casino, no gambling) and it's theater and ballroom (which holds 3000!)

On our last full day, we went up to the Wrigley Gardens and Memorial, and then took a 4 mile hike (with 1100 feet of climbing - a "moderate" hike according to the hiking guide) that took us to a summit where we had 360 degree views of the island.

Mixed in with all this was lots of wandering around Avalon, lots of fresh seafood, and watching the comings and goings in the harbor.

Finally, it was a helicopter flight back to the mainland, and then the flight home. All in all, a great way to spend a few days!