Catalina Island, with its stunning coastal beauty and a wide array of outdoor activities, is a perfect destination for a family vacation. From exploring the island’s diverse marine life to enjoying water sports and hiking adventures, Catalina offers a variety of experiences for families to cherish. To help you plan the perfect family getaway, we’ve put together a list of the best family-friendly hotels on Catalina Island, along with an extensive activity guide to ensure you make the most of your visit.
Top Picks for Family-Friendly Hotels on Catalina Island
Pavilion Hotel
Family-Friendly Features: Pavilion Hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms with a charming island atmosphere. While it may not have extensive family-specific amenities, it’s conveniently located near the beach and town center.
Why Families Love It: Families can enjoy the hotel’s proximity to the beach and various island activities. The welcoming ambiance of Pavilion Hotel makes it a great base for exploring Catalina with your loved ones.
Aurora Hotel
Although the rooms are cozy, the Aurora Hotel can comfortably accommodate families. It offers a rooftop deck with ocean views and is praised for its excellent service. The hotel provides a complimentary continental breakfast and hosts wine and cheese receptions on Fridays.
Casa Mariquita Hotel
Located close to the beach, this boutique hotel offers excellent service, complimentary beach towels, and a kitchen area for guests. While smaller in scale, its cozy atmosphere and proximity to the beach make it a great choice for families.
The Avalon Hotel on Catalina Island
This boutique hotel provides a personal touch with services like taxi pickup from the boat terminal and loaner laptops. It also offers a complimentary breakfast and has a beautiful garden patio with a koi pond, perfect for relaxing.
Hotel Metropole
Recently remodeled, this hotel features family suites that can sleep up to six people. Located on the beach, it’s on the livelier side, with the ground floor hosting the Metropole Market Place, which includes shops and an espresso bar.
Catalina Island Activity Guide for Families
Catalina Island offers a wide range of family-friendly activities:
- Snorkeling: Explore the island’s underwater beauty by snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Lovers Cove Marine Preserve is a fantastic spot for families.
- Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Take a glass-bottom boat tour to observe Catalina’s marine life without getting wet. It’s an educational and fun experience for all ages.
- Island Adventures: Embark on a hiking or biking adventure through the island’s scenic trails and enjoy breathtaking views.
- Catalina Island Museum: Discover the island’s history and culture through interactive exhibits and family-friendly programs.
- Catalina Aerial Adventure: Experience an adrenaline rush with ziplining and aerial obstacle courses suitable for older kids and teens.
- Mini Golf: Enjoy a game of mini golf at the family-friendly Golf Gardens Miniature Golf.
- Boat Rentals: Rent a pedal boat or kayak and explore the island’s coastline at your own pace.
Conclusion
Catalina Island offers a wealth of family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation. While the island’s hotels may not have extensive family amenities, they provide comfortable and convenient accommodations for your stay. Choose the one that suits your family’s preferences, and embark on an adventure-filled journey exploring the natural beauty of Catalina Island.
