Catalina Island – Like Greece But in The US
Located just over 20 miles Southwest of Los Angeles, Catalina Island is a highly accessible escape for sailing enthusiasts. With clear waters, whitewashed buildings and incredible seafood on offer, visitors are enchanted by the rustic and under-developed charm of the island, and are transported to what feels like one of the Greek islands – only it is in the US.
Catalina Island Map – By Lencer [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Under-Water or Above Ground
Although Catalina Island is only around 22 miles long and 8 miles wide, there is a wealth of activities suitable to people of every variety. Sailors, divers and holidaymakers enjoy this rocky island and all it has to offer. The sailing scene at Two Harbors is massive and the small village provides many coves with moorings and anchorages. The warm and clear water of the Pacific Ocean is home to an abundance of marine life and other interesting things for divers and snorkelers to explore like sunken ships – there is even a plane wreck. For those who prefer to stay above water when they’re not sailing, you can experience watching wild water buffalo and other animals or explore the island from the air with its famous ziplines.
Getting There
Getting to Catalina is part of the adventure – it is good sailing from most entry points with whale and dolphin sightings likely. Although you should watch out for currents, the biggest risk is that you may be pushed back toward the mainland. Another minor caution is the traffic when navigating through Long Beach Port. Although it is the busiest port in the world it can still be easily navigated by simply keeping in touch with VHF Channel 16 when within its boundaries. With all this in mind, Catalina Island is a joy to navigate and visit. After all, there are not many places in the world where you can enjoy sailing and water activities, while also giving buffalo milk a try.