It's the perfect beach getaway in Southern California. Catalina Island's stunning shores offer an incredible coastal experience for both tourists and LA locals.
Best Beaches on Catalina Island 🏖️
AVALON
1. Descanso Beach
📍 1 Saint Catherine Way, Avalon
Insider Tip: Reserve a cabana for a VIP experience.
Descanso Beach is a private LA County beach that offers pristine waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding. The popular Descanso Beach Club, Avalon's only beachside restaurant & bar is full of amenities such as nice restrooms, outdoor showers, and cabanas.
2. South Beach
📍 Crescent Ave, Avalon
Insider Tip: South Beach is a great family spot.
South Beach attracts many visitors to Catalina Island with its nearby food, shops, and bathrooms. Enjoy soft sands, calm waters, rocky areas, and a port for boats, plus plenty of outdoor activities.
3. Middle Beach
📍 Crescent Ave, Avalon
Insider Tip: Check out Avalon Grille, a waterfront restaurant overlooking Middle Beach.
Middle Beach, located opposite South Beach near Pleasure Pier, offers a calm and scenic spot perfect for friends and family to relax. It's conveniently close to restaurants, public bathrooms, and shops.
4. Step Beach
📍 Casino Way, Avalon
Insider Tip: A great option for a more secluded beach day.
Step Beach, a smaller strip of sand just north of Middle Beach, offers a relaxing atmosphere with direct ocean access. With lifeguards present during summer, it's a safe spot for families to let their kids swim.
5. Toyon Bay
📍 Toyon Bay Rd, Avalon
Insider Tip: It is a camp spot for schools and students but also open to the public.
Toyon Bay, a picturesque cove a few miles from Avalon, is perfect for exploring and learning about the ocean. Once a boarding school, it now hosts the CIMI summer camp, offering a variety of activities for students.
6. Whites Landing
📍 Whites Landing Rd, Avalon
Insider Tip: Rent a boat for a relaxing day.
White's Landing features expansive sandy areas and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most picturesque and best beaches on Catalina Island. It's perfect for a relaxing day in one of LA's stunning coves.
7. Goat Harbor
📍 Airport Rd, Avalon
Insider Tip: Just south of White's Landing is Moonstone Cove.
Goat Harbor Beach, situated halfway between Avalon and Two Harbors, features cobblestones and a flat area ideal for sunbathing or camping. It's popular for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, thanks to its rich marine life.
TWO HARBORS
8. Emerald Bay
📍 West End Rd, Two Harbors
Insider Tip: Unless specified on their website or at the bay, only the boaters can access this beach.
Emerald Bay boasts over 100 moorings and anchorage for 5-10 boats. This incredible cove features a long, natural stretch of soft, sandy beach.
9. Harbor Sands
📍 Catalina Isthmus, Two Harbors
Insider Tip: The perfect spot for couples looking for a romantic beach getaway.
Harbor Sands, located on the shore of Isthmus Cove, is a stunning LA beach featuring rent-able lounge chairs and umbrellas. There is stunning beachfront dining and drink service from Harbor Reef Restaurant, as well as a group picnic area with catering for large parties.
CATALINA ISLAND BEACH MAP
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