On ISLAND TIME
FAR FROM THE CITY LIGHTS , thousands of stars glimmer in the night sky . As you gaze upward , glass of wine
EASY GETAWAYS TO or hot CATALINA chocolate in ISLAND hand , try to pick out OFFER OPPORTUNITIES the constellations FOR REST while , sitting around a RELAXATION AND ADVENTURE crackling campfire .
No doubt , it ’ s been
By SHARON STELLO a while since you connected like this , with nature or with friends and family . And , when it ’ s time to retire for the night , luxury tents are already set up only steps away . Fall asleep to the sound of the wind in the pines and the rushing river nearby .
On a clear day , Catalina Island can be seen from the coast of Laguna Beach — a silhouette on the horizon beckoning visitors to come and explore . Located just over 20 miles away , it ’ s an easy one-hour boat ride to reach the island for a quick weekend or midweek escape . Whether you ’ re in the mood for a relaxing vacation or adrenaline-fueled experiences , Catalina has it all , so you can build your own adventure .
The convenient Catalina Express ferry offers multiple departures from Dana Point , Long Beach and San Pedro to both Avalon and Two Harbors on the island . Consider upgrading to the Commodore ’ s Lounge for priority boarding and check-in as well as comfortable , leather-trimmed seats inside on the upper deck , with expansive windows to keep an eye on the water for dolphins , whales and seabirds that may make an appearance . The lounge also incudes snack service and an alcoholic beverage , if desired , to sip while cruising .
As you approach the island , Catalina looms larger , with Avalon ’ s boat-filled marina and the Casino soon coming into view . The large , round building is not a place for gambling , but rather it houses a ballroom upstairs and a movie theater downstairs , drawing from the Italian word for “ gathering place .” Guided tours of the art deco structure are available in addition to all kinds of other experiences on the island , from zip lining
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