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.
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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: Apr 19, 2010
Thorn Tree forum discussion
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Re: Areas to stay around LA for a family for 3-4 weeks
by studenttraveler1975 31 August 2011
September is a great time to travel in LA. It's still a bit hot, but that's relative - you're probably looking at weather in the 80's…
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RE: Areas to stay around LA for a family for 3-4 weeks
by CascadeBob 30 August 2011
In general: If L.A. is your base, then stay within a mile or two of the coast and don't even think of visiting without renting a car.…
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RE: Vegas to San Fran 5 days
by montereyjack 05 July 2011
Yosemite does not close. Overnight in Yosemite is always recommended, if you reserve a room, but your schedule sounds like you might only…
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