Catalina

"Catalina Winemixerrrr"....Okay, okay, we're not straight out of the Step Brothers movie. But I find every time I mention Catalina Island, located off the coast of California, someone will throw that movie quote out there. In case you're not aware, there is a Catalina Wine Mixer event with live music every year (June 4-5th) on the island.

As a native Southern California resident,

On a clear day I can see Catalina from my parents home or while at the beach, but yet I hadn't been to Catalina since a 7th grade educational school trip. I have heard from multiple friends the island is a quaint, friendly beach town, perfect for a day trip or overnight stay. The town of Avalon is only 1 square mile containing many beach shops, restaurants, and bars.

We took the short boat ride, only an hour, from Long Beach to Avalon. There is a 7am or an 11am departure to ride the Catalina Flyer across. Mimosas are available from the bar on the flyer. Cheers!

Activities:

Hike one of the many trails on the island. Protip: if you are hiking outside of Avalon you need a permit, but you can easily obtain one free from the Catalina Island Conservancy website before voyaging across.

There are some great trails to hike, but we opted for Hermit Gulch Trail (5.9 miles) at a pretty steep incline. The views of Avalon, on a clear day, are worth the glute-busting climb. Trust us!

• Avalon offers a few spots to shower, which was perfect after our hike. But bring a roll of quarters to use them.

Go Zip Lining- Catalina has a great zip lining adventure if you want a birds-eye view of the entire island. Protip: If you book 7 days in advance you will get a 15% discount.

Rent a Golf Cart-Catalina is such a small island they only allow around 200 full size cars. So the main way that visitors can cruise the island and get the lay of the land is by renting one of the adorable golf carts.

Grab a sandy spot at Descanso Beach- Most of the beaches along Catalina are quite rocky and not great spots to lay by the ocean. However, Descanso Beach Club has everything for the perfect beach day. One caveat is that you must rent the chairs/cabana to get their beach access. The chaise lounge chairs will run you $95-$110 but come equipped with towels, waters, an umbrella and welcome smoothies. If you don't want to spend your whole day at Descanso Beach, grab drinks beachside at the restaurant. Protip: if you go later in the afternoon they will let you use the chaise loungers from guests who have already left for the day free of charge! Address: 1 St Catherine Way, Avalon

Parasailing- We didn't get the chance to do this, but it has been added to our bucket list for our next Catalina trip. The island is known for its' abundance of water activities from parasailing, to snorkeling, to scuba diving, to boating to floating.

STAY

Hotel Atwater- It's a cute little hotel in the heart of Avalon. If you are looking to be right in the mix of all things in this little beach town. This place will be perfect for you.

Vacation Rental- many of the homes on Catalina are rented out to those wanting a little getaway. Many of the beach houses we walked by displayed signage indicating they rent them to guests.

Pavillon Hotel- It boasts being the 'resort-like' hotel on the island. Complimentary wine and cheese is offered nightly to guests, as well as complimentary breakfast.

Mt Ada- this is a 4-star hotel nestled in the hills above Avalon Bay. Equipped as a bed and breakfast, this is the most expensive of my recommendations. But the rooms are suites and they offer complimentary golf cart rentals, daily breakfast, beer, wine and snacks throughout the day. The views from their balconies are to die for.

We absolutely loved our little getaway. I feel like so many people forget how easy and affordable it is to get to Catalina. I hope these recommendations help you plan! Have a glass of rosé for me at Descanso Beach! Cheers to more adventures, activities and rosé!!!