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Yelp’s guide to Santa Catalina Island



Photo of Descanso Beach Club

Grab your flip flops and sunscreen — we’re escaping to an island oasis just 22 miles off the coast of California. 

Whether your ideal vacation involves relaxing with a tropical cocktail, exploring local hiking trails and zip-lining adventures, or trying your luck at the Avalon Casino, you’ll fall in love with the little piece of paradise that is Santa Catalina Island. 

Keep reading for the top 30 ranked* places to explore throughout Avalon, Two Harbors and the island wilderness between them.

Hotels

Photo of Snug Harbor Inn

From beachside campsites to five-star resorts, Catalina Island has accommodations for every preference. Book one of these local gems and wake up to stunning views and sandy beaches.

Avalon Hotel

Old Turner Inn

Pavilion Hotel

Snug Harbor Inn

Hotel Vista Del Mar

Local Eateries

This charming island is shore to keep you fueled with a smorgasbord of local cuisines. Nibble on small bites, feast on full meals, and refresh with hand-crafted cocktails at these highest ranked* eating establishments on Catalina Island. 

Breakfast

Photo of Catalina Coffee & Cookie / Alec W

Toyon Grill

The Cove Bar & Grill

The Sand Trap

Original Jack’s Country Kitchen

Catalina Coffee & Cookie

Lunch

Photo of NDMK Fish House

NDMK Fish House

Cafe Metropole

Coney Island West

Bluewater Grill

The Lobster Trap

Dinner

Photo of El Galleon

M Restaurant

El Galleon

Maggie’s Blue Rose

Steve’s Steakhouse

Avalon Grille

Sip and relax

Photo of Descanso Beach Club

Drink in the views with a hand-crafted margarita from Descanso Beach Club, a locally-brewed beer from Catalina Island Brew House, or a Buffalo Milk, the official cocktail of the island.

The Naughty Fox

Descanso Beach Club

Catalina Island Brew House

Marlin Club

Harbor Sands

Explore the island

Photo of Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour

Spend an afternoon spotting American Bison, hiking to the top of Mt. Orizaba, or enjoying an undersea sub expedition. When it comes to adventure on Catalina Island, the sky truly is the limit. 

Eco Tours by Catalina Island Conservancy

Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour

Catalina Casino

Wet Spot Rentals

Trans-Catalina Trail

*Methodology: This is an all time list of the best spots in Catalina, CA according to Yelp. We identified businesses in the hotels/resorts/restaurants/attractions categories, then ranked those spots using a number of factors including the total volume and ratings of reviews. All businesses were marked open on Yelp as of June 9th, 2021. When available, all businesses on this list have a passing health score as of June 9th, 2021.

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