Catalina Island Unveils Summer Adventures From Rollerskating to Ranch Tours
Who needs a flight to the Amalfi Coast when paradise is only 22 miles away? Catalina Island offers that dreamy Mediterranean feel—minus the jet lag and international price tag. It’s the SoCal escape we forget is basically in our own backyard.
Think Amalfi Coast—minus the jet lag and international price tag.
And to add extra incentive, Catalina Island debuts exciting new summer adventures that blend beachside relaxation, small-town charm, and unique experiences for travelers seeking quick getaways within sailing distance of San Diego.
Rollerskating in an Iconic Setting
The island’s biggest buzz this summer is Skate the Wrigley Ballroom, a brand-new roller-skating experience inside the legendary Catalina Casino.
You can lace up vintage-style skates and glide around the historic circular dance floor while taking in sweeping views of Avalon Bay—combining nostalgia with one of California’s most distinctive architectural landmarks.
This unique experience transforms the historic ballroom into an active entertainment venue that captures both the island’s golden age glamour and contemporary fun.
Beachside Dining With Toes in the Sand
Descanso Beach Club offers something rare in California—the chance to legally sip cocktails with your toes in the sand. As Catalina’s only beachside restaurant and bar, it provides food, drinks, and private cabanas on one of the state’s last publicly accessible private beaches.
The waterfront dining scene continues with Pier 24, featuring harbor views and fresh coastal fare, while Flx Biergarten brings the island’s first biergarten experience with craft brews and light bites in an inviting open-air atmosphere.
Adventure Beyond the Beach
For those seeking thrills, the Zip Line Eco Tour sends you soaring above Descanso Canyon along five exhilarating zip lines with breathtaking ocean views. The Catalina Casino Tour provides behind-the-scenes access to Avalon’s iconic landmark and reveals the storied past of this remarkable island.
El Rancho Escondido offers exploration of the Wrigley family’s historic “hidden ranch,” touring the island’s rugged interior and providing insight into Catalina’s fascinating heritage beyond the waterfront.
Perfect Pop-Up Escape Destination
With its unique combination of vintage charm, outdoor adventures, and beachside relaxation, Catalina Island delivers the ideal summer retreat if you want memorable experiences without a long travel time. The island’s compact size and diverse offerings make it perfect for both day trips and extended stays.
See you there!
Whether you’re skating under chandeliers or discovering secret spots off the beaten path, Catalina Island is full of unexpected magic this summer. It’s close, it’s beautiful, and it’s calling your name.
ℹ️ More info here
See you there, San Diego!
