CATALINA ISLAND

BY: CONNIE YOUNG AND DIANE SORENSEN

Catalina Island. . . .you’ve heard about it, read about it, possibly even gazed at it across the water on a clear day. Well, today’s the day to make plans for a visit to this jewel located just off the Southern California coast offering broad valleys, 2,000-foot peaks, shoreline palisades, and pristine beaches with clear waters and colorful marine life.

Catalina Express takes you there with scheduled departures from Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point Harbor. Enjoy a fast, comfortable ride across the channel. Their courteous crew will make your trip memorable. Reservations: 310/519-1212 or online at www.CatalinaExpress.com.

Catalina offers abundant choices for adventures on both land and water. And believe it or not, if you’re eager to take to the air, parasailing and zipping. Let’s start at the “top” with parasailing and their newest offering, zip lines, opened Spring 2010.

Virtually anyone can parasail. No special skills are required. Taking off and landing directly from the boat is easy using a specially designed winch system. Fly high and stay dry while enjoying a panoramic view of the island.

Zip from the mountain to the sea on five consecutive zip lines nearly 4,000 feet long with a total drop of almost 600 feet. Soar from the top of the island down Descanso Canyon to the beach. Observe Catalina’s flora and fauna while hitting speeds approaching 45 mph 300 feet above the canyon. Explore the island by motor coach, golf cart, Segway, bicycle, Hummer, jeep or your own two feet. Visit the original Wrigley estate, Airport in the Sky and Conservancy Nature Center. Take in the Casino Ballroom and Theatre, Catalina Island Museum, Wrigley Arabian Horse Ranch, Botanical Garden and Wrigley Memorial, and both regular and miniature golf courses. Stroll along Avalon’s palm lined streets and shop for unique gifts while exploring the town’s history, architecture, fountains and “Catalina Tile”, originating only on Catalina Island.

Take your time and stop to eat when the mood strikes. Choices include everything from a simple ice cream cone to elegant dining at several notable restaurants. The Ristorante Villa Portofino has perfected a sampling of regional Italian specialties along with the best of European and American cuisine. Executive Chef, Gregory Wenger CEC will take you on a culinary journey. Call ahead for reservations at this “must experience” restaurant, 310/510-2009, or visit online at www.RistoranteVillaPortofino.com .

Find the ocean irresistible? View Catalina’s undersea life in a glass-bottom boat or semi-submersible submarine. Go fishing, snorkeling or diving. Rent a jet ski, boat, kayak, or peddle boat and explore Avalon Harbor. See flying fish, dolphins and sea lions on one of several guided tours. Catalina Adventure Tours offers all of these experiences. Enjoy yours by calling 877/510-2888, or online at www.catalinaadventuretours.com .

You might be surprised at the extensive list of island accommodations. The Hotel Villa Portofino, a luxury boutique hotel, is located at 111 Crescent Avenue, directly across from the sand. Cool ocean breezes, a cozy fireplace and spectacular bay views await. Try their superb hospitality. Make your reservations by calling 888/34OCEAN or online at www.hotelvillaportofino.com.

Whether you’re looking to spend the night in a historic hotel, vacation rental, campsite, bed and breakfast inn, beach cottage or boutique hotel, you’ll have a long list to choose from. All of the above adds up to this: When you’re on Island Time, you’re having the time of your life!

For more information contact the Catalina Island Chamber & Visitors Bureau at 866/228-3101 or visit www.CatalinaChamber.com