What are the best places to stay on Catalina Island?
Santa Catalina Island, often referred to simply as Catalina Island, is a picturesque island off the coast of Southern California.
With its relaxed island atmosphere, it’s a perfect destination for escaping the mainland hustle.
I’ve previously published a detailed article about how to plan a perfect day trip to Catalina Island, which includes information about how to get to the island and the best things to do on the island.
And although it is a great destination for a day trip, if you can, I highly recommend spending at least one night on the island.
When you start looking for the best place to stay on Santa Catalina Island, you’ll discover a variety of options that cater to different preferences and budgets.
Whether you’re seeking luxurious beachfront accommodations or charming boutique hotels, there’s something to suit every traveler.
But, before we look at hotels and other options, let’s discuss where on the island to stay.
Where to Stay on Catalina Island
Most hotels on Catalina Island are in Avalon. And if it’s your first time visiting Catalina Island I’d definitely recommend staying in Avalon.
Avalon is the main city on the island, although it’s so small it feels more like a cute, laid-back town.
But, staying in Avalon gives you easy access to the island’s main attractions and a wide range of accommodation options.
In the heart of Avalon, you can find popular choices such as Hotel Metropole, known for its elegant rooms and stunning ocean views, or Pavilion Hotel, offering a relaxing atmosphere just steps away from the beach. But I’ll discuss the best hotels on Catalina Island later in this article.
If you’re looking for a more peaceful and secluded setting, then staying around Two Harbors can be a good option.
Located on the northwestern side of the island, Two Harbors offers a more serene atmosphere than Avalon. With a population of only around 300 people, this quaint village provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.
When staying here you can spend the day hiking scenic trails, relaxing on less crowded beaches, or exploring the crystal-clear waters while snorkeling or kayaking.
You could even choose to go camping at Two Harbors Campground.
But as said, most of the island’s activities happen around Avalon, which is why most of the accommodation options on the list below are also located around Avalon.
Here are 10 of the best places to stay on Santa Catalina Island, along with reasons why they are popular choices:
The Best Hotels on Catalina Island & Other Accommodation Options
1. Hotel Metropole
Located in the heart of Avalon, Hotel Metropole offers luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views. It’s known for its elegant rooms, rooftop jacuzzi, and proximity to the beach and local attractions.
It has a prime location overlooking Avalon Bay and offers stunning views of the harbor and the Pacific Ocean. The hotel has a rich history, dating back to its establishment in 1888.
The accommodations range from cozy guest rooms to spacious suites, offering modern amenities and comforts.
Tip: Hotel Metropole offers several packages, including a Honeymoon Package and a Family Fun Package.
2. Pavilion Hotel
Situated just steps away from the beach, the Pavilion Hotel offers a relaxing and charming atmosphere, with a beautifully landscaped tropical garden with comfortable seats and fire pits.
The hotel has comfortable rooms and suites, some with ocean views.
It’s a popular hotel on Catalina Island and a great place to stay to both explore the island and enjoy a peaceful getaway.
Pavilion Hotel is conveniently located only a 5-minute walk from the ferry and right in the heart of Avalon. And if you’re not someone who travels light you’ll appreciate that the hotel offers a free luggage service from the Avalon ferry dock.
Oh and let me not forget to mention the complimentary wine and cheese reception in their courtyard!
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, visiting Catalina Island with friends, or are planning a solo trip, this hotel is a great option.
3. Hotel Atwater
Hotel Atwater is a historic hotel in the center of Avalon. It has been a prominent landmark on the island since it was first established in 1920.
The hotel is known for its charming atmosphere and convenient location, just steps away from the beach and Avalon’s main attractions.
The hotel was completely renovated just a few years ago and now combines historic charm with modern amenities. It offers stylish rooms, a welcoming lobby lounge, and a convenient location near shops, restaurants, and the beach.
They also provide luggage service to and from the ferry terminal.
If you’re looking for a cozy boutique hotel on Catalina Island with easy access to everything Avalon has to offer then this is a great place to stay.
4. Aurora Hotel
The Aurora Hotel is a nice boutique hotel with a great rooftop deck with panoramic views.
The hotel is known for its intimate atmosphere and ocean views.
Although located a little further from the beach and ferry than the above-listed hotels, this is another one of the hotels on Catalina Island that is conveniently located for exploring everything the island has to offer.
Rooms are comfortable and stylish, and some come with beautiful ocean views.
The hotel has a cosmopolitan lobby and includes a wine & cheese hour every Friday evening, plus a mimosa bar on weekends.
Free continental breakfast is included.
5. El Terado Terrace Mini Suites
Situated on a hillside overlooking Avalon, El Terado Terrace offers cozy suites with kitchens, making it a great place to stay on Catalina Island for families, or longer stays.
The suites are spacious with full granite kitchens, they are nicely decorated and some rooms have ocean views.
If you need more space they offer two-bedroom townhouses as well.
There is a nice sunbathing patio and another garden patio with BBQ facilities.
Located in a quiet area yet still less than a 10-minute walk away from the main street and attractions of Avalon.
6. Seacrest Inn Catalina
This is a charming and popular place to stay on Catalina Island.
The Seacrest Inn is known for its convenient location, just a short walk from the Catalina Island ferry terminal and Avalon Bay.
Each room is decorated in a different theme and most have soaking or spa tubs with showers.
The nice thing about Seacrest Inn is that they have different accommodation options to fit different budgets and types of travelers. Their largest option is a holiday home with a private entrance that fits up to 6 people.
Another plus is that the hotel has a covered rooftop patio to sit back and relax, and a sundeck with ocean views.
7. Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel
If you’re looking for a more secluded place to stay on Santa Catalina Island then this can be a great option.
Overlooking Avalon Bay the hotel has a beautiful setting and still isn’t far from all the action in Avalon.
The Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel is a high-end boutique hotel and a historical landmark named after the famous author who frequented the island.
It was completely renovated and updated in 2019, featuring 17 comfortable rooms with a touch of nostalgia.
You can book standard rooms, suites, and an apartment-style penthouse.
There’s a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a nice terrace, a restaurant, and stunning views.
8. The Avalon Hotel
The Avalon Hotel is located in the center of Avalon and has a great rooftop terrace with a beautiful 360-degree view of the harbor and the surrounding mountains.
Most rooms have a great view as well and several have balconies.
It’s a very charming, cozy place to stay with friendly staff and a nice complimentary breakfast.
If you’re looking for a romantic place to stay on Catalina Island, this is definitely one of the hotels I’d recommend.
Note: Avalon Hotel is often listed as one of the best hotels on Catalina Island, which also means it’s often fully booked. So if you want to stay here, book early!
9. Banning House Lodge
As I mentioned previously, most hotels on Catalina Island are located in Avalon. But, this is one great option that isn’t.
Set on a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Two Harbors, this is a perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a secluded getaway. The nature surrounding the bed and breakfast creates a tranquil setting that allows you to unwind and appreciate the island’s landscape.
Banning House was built in 1910 and the hotel still has that nice historic charm.
The B&B offers a complimentary breakfast, but also a shared kitchen, a sun terrace, and a games room.
You can rent bicycles at the hotel to explore the island.
Being located within Two Harbors, Banning House Lodge offers convenient access to the village’s amenities and attractions. Explore the quaint village, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and snorkeling, or simply relax by the waterfront.
10. Hamilton Cove Villa
If you prefer to rent a house instead of staying in a hotel, or want to be close to Avalon but prefer a more secluded place away from the crowds, then the Hamilton Cove Villa is a good option.
The villa can host four people, has beautiful views, and is located in a gated community.
And, the villa comes with a golf cart to explore the island!
Final Thoughts About Where to Stay on Catalina Island
The accommodations listed above offer a range of options for different preferences and budgets.
I hope you’ve found a place to stay that perfectly fits your needs and that you’ll enjoy visiting Catalina Island!
It really is a beautiful island and I find it an incredible contrast to busy city life in nearby Los Angeles or San Diego.
Check out this article if you want more information about how to get to Catalina Island, and the best things to do on the island.
Also Read:
- Important Things to Look for When Booking a Hotel
- The Best Things to Do in Los Angeles
- Things to Do in Los Angeles With Kids
- Things to Do in San Diego
- The Best Day Trips from Los Angeles
- Unique Hotels in Southern California
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