Descanso Beach Ocean Sports Snorkeling on Catalina Island

Something I have always wanted to try on Catalina Island was snorkeling. It was early spring, and of course, the ocean water was freezing, but amazingly with wetsuits on, it becomes bearable and absolutely fun! I am talking about going 9 AM in the morning with children and not being bothered by the temperature of the water. We were only planning to be out there about an hour but that was not long enough. We didn’t have to go very far to see an abundance of sea creatures right off the coastal waters of Avalon, California! My husband and I both agree that this is our new favorite activity on the island. DESCANSO BEACH OCEAN SPORTS had everything we needed – mask & snorkel, fins, wetsuits for both adults and children, boogie boards, and water shoes (highly recommended because of the rocky bottoms unless you are using fins).

Catalina Island’s Golf Gardens Miniature Golf

One of the activities that we absolutely love to do together as a family on Catalina Island is a round of miniature golf at GOLF GARDENS. It’s inexpensive and fun for all ages. You can easily spend a good hour to two hours here. Four years ago, we introduced the children to mini-golf right here, and ever since then, it has become a tradition on the island! When my children were much younger, I appreciated that the area was enclosed and fenced off so if they ran ahead of me, I could still see that they were safe. They didn’t necessarily follow the rules, sometimes they held the clubs upside … READ MORE >>

Where to Eat on Catalina Island: Ben’s Bakery at the Shops at the Atwater

Headed to Catalina Island and need a quick bite to eat? Avalon, California has a bakery cafe located inside the Shops at the Atwater. We stopped in for a tasting during our last visit to Catalina, and we liked it. Owned by the Catalina Island Company, BEN’S BAKERY offers a casual dining experience with a selection of grab-and-go sandwiches, breakfast items, paninis, wraps, baked goods, soups, salads, and pastries. BEN’S also serves fresh brewed Illy coffee, espresso drinks, iced coffee drinks, frozen blended drinks, hot tea, iced tea, smoothie bar and fresh juices of the day. I listed a sample of their menu below…

Waterfront Dining at Blue Water Grill Avalon

Imagine waterfront dining on your birthday overlooking beautiful Avalon Bay with a spectacular view of Catalina Casino all the while enjoying a delicious seafood dinner – that is what dining at Blue Water Grill Avalon was like. It’s one of our favorite spots to dine on Catalina Island. While we waited, we are taking it all in. Is this a dream? The kids are searching for fish in the water, because we are literally on the water. It really doesn’t get any better than this. Calamari Fritti for starters served with a sweet chili dipping sauce and cajun remoulade. They are great to share! Followed by our entrees. Our favorite item on … READ MORE >>

Catalina Island: Maggies Blue Rose Mexican Restaurant

This is a post written by me for #CatalinaExpress. If you’re craving great Mexican food while you’re vacationing on Catalina Island, check out Maggie’s Blue Rose at Front Street and Crescent. Oh my gosh, the food is yummy. Margaret, the owner, wanted to bring authentic Mexican food to the City of Avalon. Maggie’s Blue Rose won “Best Taste of Food” for their Pork Adobo with pineapple salsa, Avocado Enchiladas and Mole Braised Duck Taquitos. We were in for a delicious treat! If you came hungry, their giant Carne Asada Platter includes sliced top sirloin with 3 cheese quesadilla, tomato, and avocado served with tortillas. It’s also great to share! Maggie’s … READ MORE >>