Catalina Island

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Introducing Catalina Island

Mediterranean-flavored Catalina Island is a world removed from the bustle of LA and a popular day trip or overnight getaway. It is part of the Channel Islands, a chain of semisubmerged mountains off the coast of Southern California. Catalina has a unique ecosystem and rather tumultuous history. Before appearing on the radar screen of vacationers in the late 19th century, it went through phases as a hangout for sea-otter poachers, smugglers and Union soldiers. Chewing-gum magnate William Wrigley Jr (1861-1932) purchased the place in 1919 and brought his baseball team, the Chicago Cubs, here for spring training. Most of the island’s interior of sun-baked hillsides, valleys and canyons is owned by the Santa Catalina Island Conservancy, which ensures that most of it remains free of development.

Catalina’s main tourist season is June to September, when prices soar and the island seems to sink from the load of day-trippers. Consider spending the night, as the ambience goes from frantic to romantic in no time.

Last updated: Sep 14, 2009

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