On Catalina, the casino isn't for gambling. and other Santa Catalina Island, CA Things to Do Tips

The Casino is one of Catalina Island's major landmarks. Built in 1929, the Casino is located on Sugar Loaf Point, just a short walking distance north of Avalon Harbor. This casino was never used for gambling, but rather a place for dancing and entertainment. It houses an enormous ballroom where famous swing bands used to play and an grand theatre complete with pipe organ. The Casino is filled with art deco charm and detail. Two major events that take place in the Casino these days are the Silent Film Festival and the Swing Camp Catalina, both held in the summer and dedicated to reviving the old pleasures of the Casino. If you visit Catalina, a trip to the Casino is a must!

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Directions: You can see the Casino from almost any point in Avalon. Simply walk north from the Harbor and follow the sidewalk to the Casino.
Website: http://www.scico.com/cirs/maincasino.html

The Wrigley Memorial was built in honor of William Wrigley Jr. (of the chewing gum company), who lived on Catalina for many years and was critical to its development. The monument is a vision of elegant simplicity. Built largely of flagstone and local stones and decorated with gorgeous tile, the monument is a quiet, meditative refuge. It overlooks the botanical gardens and a gurgling stream. The gardens started with a collection of desert plants, but grew to emcompass plants from many regions. It isn't a huge garden, but it is interesting and well-tended. The momument and gardens are a must-see on Catalina Island!

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Phone: (310) 510-2595
Directions: The memorial and gardens are 1.5 miles up Avalon Canyon Road. You will pass the ballpark and golf course.
Website: http://www.catalinaconservancy.org/visitors/destinations/wmg.asp

The Inn on Mt. Ada is one of the nicest places to stay on Catalina Island. Even if you choose not to stay there, you should still pay it a visit and check out its lovely details and fantastic view.

The Inn is the former of of William Wrigley Jr., the man who owned and developed most of the island in the 1920s. Mr. Wrigley was the heir to the chewing gum fortune and the owner of the Chicago Cubs.

The Inn stands 350 feet above the town of Avalon and the harbor. It was finished in 1921 and served as Wrigley's private home for may years. The hilltop was named Mt. Ada after Mr. Wrigley's wife, Ada. In the seventies, the home was given to USC to be used as a conference center. USC and the Santa Catalina Island Conservancy now own it and renamed the property The Inn on Mt. Ada.

The Inn is open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

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Phone: 310-510-2030
Address: #398 Wrigley Road / PO Box 2560 / Avalon / Califor
Website: http://www.catalina.com/mtada/

Catalina Island is a wonderful place to try some water sports. One of my favorite activities there is kayaking. It's very easy for the beginner and will allow you to explore the harbor and coastline of Catalina.

Catalina Kayak Adventures is located right on the harbor, near the dock where boats arrive from the mainland. The prices range depending on how long you'd like to use a kayak, but are generally affordable. You'll be given a life jacket and instructions on how to operate the kayak.

We had a great time kayaking near the harbor. We even saw a sea lion, who swam near us!

Be sure to wear sunscreen while you're on the water or you will burn! Also, be sure to wear a bathing suit, because you will get wet.

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Phone: (310) 510-2229
Address: 120 Pebbly Beach Rd.; Avalon, CA 90704
Website: http://www.catalinakayaks.com/