TWO HARBORS

Two Harbors is one of Southern California's treasures. You feel like you are a world away from L.A., even though the trip is less than 50 miles (90 minutes by boat). Though this island paradise is considered part of Los Angeles, it is strikingly different.

Two Harbors is a town with one hotel, restaurant, general store and even a school for the local children of families living here full time. Those seeking a quieter, rustic experience than Avalon on the other side of Catalina Island will want to visit here. Ideal for backpackers and campers, it is also an enjoyable day trip by boat. Catalina Express provides service from San Pedro with several daily departures and returns. Activities in Two Harbors include beach sunbathing, snorkeling and diving, yachting, kayaking, hiking, camping, nature observation and much more.

A year-round Mediterranean climate, with warm, sunny days and cool evening breezes, the average summer temperature is 75 degrees and 65 degrees in the winter. The sun shines an average of 267 days a year and the average rainfall is 14 inches/year.

Popularized in the early 1900's when the Hollywood movie industry sought locations for its productions, Mutiny on the Bounty and Jaws were both filmed here. For thousands of years, Indian tribes lived on the island. Accounts from mainland history include reference to smoke signal communications between mainland inhabitants and island residents. From Signal Hill where views of the smoke signals were best seen to The Bay of Smokes that spanned from Long Beach to the South Bay, the early California residents had an effective form of communications afforded by clear skies and generally temperate weather.

After California became a state in 1850, Union troops took great interest in Catalina Island. With the Civil War under way, this location was viewed as a breech in security of the mainland. In 1864 the Union Army took control of the island, evicting most of Catalina's residents. In September 1864 the military abandoned the island, leaving remnants such as barracks as a reminder of a war that pitted a country against itself.

Two Harbors features celebrations on Independence Day (July 4) and throughout the summer season. A variety of activities and tours are offered at Two Harbors through some of these contacts and resources:

Catalina Express offers 90 minute boat excursions to and from Two Harbors daily with a round trip fare of around $50. Parking is charged at $11-15 per day. Departing San Pedro Terminal, Berth 95, exit Harbor Freeway (110) south to San Pedro. Take the Terminal Island exit ramp 47. Stay in right lane, exit Harbor Blvd. Follow signs to Catalina Terminal, Berth 95.  Reservations are recommended. Call  (800) 481-3470.  www.catalinaexpress.com

Two Harbors Visitor Center at the foot of the Isthmus Pier provides assistance with a variety of services and information that include boat tickets, Safari Bus, Bicycle and Hiking permits, Hummer High Adventure Tours, Buffalo Safari Tours, camping information and check-in.

BANNING HOUSE LODGE, CATALINA ISTHMUS, TWO HARBORS, CA 90704
Property Type: Bed & Breakfast  Guest Rooms:  11  Year Built:1910
Directions:  Located on Catalina Island accessible by Boat from Mainland to Avalon, then by Road or Boat to Two Harbors, or Ferry Boat from San Pedro on Mainland to Two Harbors, or Helicopter from Mainland to Catalina Airport.

Features and Amenities:  Free Limited Breakfast, Non-smoking Rooms, Beach on site, Fishing on site, Tennis on site, Shops on site, Private Baths, Picnic Tables, Barbecue Grills

Area Attractions  Hiking, Biking, Kayaking, Beach Volleyball-on site

Two Harbor Enterprises Mooring Fees at Cat Harbor, Isthmus & Isthmus Coves, Emerald, etc. are available by contacting Harbor Patrol on Channel 9.

The Safari Bus links the village of Two Harbors with the City of Avalon, with stops at Little Harbor, airport, and Black Jack Junction (trailhead). A schedule is available and tickets are sold at Two Harbors Visitor Services. Call (310) 510-2800.

High Adventure Tour is a six-passenger open air Hummer with a canopy cover that takes a tour drive to the remote West End Interior of Catalina Island. It climbs 1800' above sea level to Silver Peak Trail. The tour leaves from Two Harbors Visitors Center and costs under $75/person for a two-hour trek. Call: (310) 510-4205