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If You're Ever In Avalon, California...
By Jill Weinlein
"Twenty-three miles across the sea, Catalina Island is waiting for me..."
My family used to sing this tune while crossing the Pacific Ocean aboard the Great White Steamer. We stood on the deck, taking in the fresh salt air and watching the flying fish skim the wake of the ship. Twice a year, we vacationed in Avalon, the only beach town on the island. It was perfect for children. Beaches with soft sand, clear water and gentle waves.
Catalina Island hasn't changed much in 30 years. Now the boat ride is only one hour from San Pedro or Long Beach. Almost 90 percent of the island is owned and protected by the Catalina Conservancy. The city of Avalon is still quaint, safe and family friendly. This charming community is almost free of cars. Only a few of the full-time residents own cars, so they can drive into the interior of the island. Most walk, ride bikes or drive golf carts to get around the one-square-mile town.
For families, Avalon is full of fun activities. They have a challenging miniature golf course, horse rentals, hiking trails, boat rentals, movie theater, snorkeling and scuba areas and game arcades. Avalon is my favorite beach town in California for a family weekend or summer getaway.