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Catalina Island is quite the hidden gem in Los Angeles. I have been living in Southern California for about seven years now and the first time I heard of the island was just a few years ago. It’s located southwest of LA and it’s a gorgeous resort town that has a European-esque vibe that can only be reached by ferry. It’s hard to believe this island is part of LA county as it feels like you are thousands of miles away from it.

There are various styles of accommodations available in Avalon, but if you want the best views on the island with outstanding amenities, I highly recommend this VRBO. Every room is spacious with each having its own bathroom suites and you can’t beat the spectacular 360-degree ocean views. It’s an ideal accommodation if you are traveling with family or a group of friends.

FIRST IMPRESSION

Check-in was a breeze with an entry door keypad that was very easy to operate. When I walked through the door, I was blown away by the elegant and spacious entrance. The details in the decor are exquisitely modern with one-of-a-kind pieces throughout the property. I was already impressed by the entrance and was so excited to see the rest of the property.

LOCATION

You can’t beat the location of this property. It’s situated at the top of the hill where you get amazing views of Avalon Harbor and the Village of Avalon. It’s centrally located and only a 5-minute walk to downtown, but you also have the option of using their 4-seater electric golf cart that is included with the stay. This golf cart especially came in handy when we wanted to make quick runs to the local grocery store (Vons) down the street.

LIVING & DINING SPACE

I have never been so impressed by floors and ceilings until I stepped foot in this one. It felt like I had just walked into a Restoration Hardware showroom. The custom-built ceiling was such a unique and intricate part of the living space and the finish on the hardwood floor was simply stunning. There was plenty of seating in the living space with a fireplace sitting right underneath the large TV.

There were a ton of remote controls on the coffee table which seemed a little overwhelming at first glance, but it was actually really easy to figure out the TV and cable. There was no need to sign into any apps as the TV is installed with Direct TV.

Adjacent to the living space is the dining area which had the most unique light fixtures that hung above the spacious dining table. My stay was right before the Thanksgiving holiday so the table was adorned with seasonal decorations like pumpkins. It was aesthetically pleasing and it also made you feel like you were at home for the holidays. The table can accommodate up to 8 guests, but should you need more room, there is seating at the kitchen island. Additionally, there is another table and with seating outdoors. You definitely won’t run out of places to sit.

MULTIPLE DECKS

There was a total of three decks on the premises which is more than anyone could ever ask for. I absolutely loved the views from all the decks and whenever the sun was out, I made it a point to get out there and enjoy it. All the decks are spacious and can accommodate a group of people.

On the main floor, there are two decks. The larger one has the most amazing views of Avalon Harbor with lounge seating arrangements and a patio heater. I went out here quite often to relax and really soaked in the views. On the other side is a smaller deck with a dining table and chairs.

On the top floor, sitting above the rooms is another deck that had 280-degree views of the city. This deck had an array of colorful succulents, hanging lights, and multiple lounge chairs. There is plenty of space up here for everyone to hang out and relax, sunbathe, or even practice some yoga. I wish I had packed my yoga mat because there was more than enough space for a group of people to enjoy some sunrise (or sunset) yoga.

3 BEDROOMS + BATHROOM SUITES

It’s rare to find accommodation that provides three bedrooms with their own bathroom suite. Basically, each bedroom was its own master bedroom. There were two bedrooms on the main floor that were both equipped with a TV, queen-size bed, closet space, and bathroom. The design of the rooms are exquisitely modern with a hint of vintage flair. Both rooms have a built-in bench along the wall which made for a perfect area to either sit or place your luggage.

The bathrooms have plenty of towels and the amenities are plentiful. Everything is clearly labeled and it was easy to find extra toilet paper and hair dryers. There is plenty of counter space to place your toiletries for one or two people. Both bathrooms are vastly different in design and have plenty of natural light throughout the day.

The downstairs bedroom is more modern in decor and was equipped with its own bathroom suite, mini-refrigerator, wet bar, and microwave. This room also had a separate entryway, but we just stuck to using the main entrance.

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The property sleeps a total of 8 people with the remaining beds in the washer and dryer room. It’s a unique little nook with two bunk beds with porthole windows, which is such a fun space that I imagine kids would enjoy. This room also leads to the back balcony which is where the grill is located.

KITCHEN

This kitchen is HUGE and fully equipped with everything you could ask for. You can cook a Thanksgiving meal here and not even have to worry about buying an oven baking bag or roaster. The kitchen is equipped with high-end stainless Bosch appliances and the island counter has a built-in sink. That was super convenient while cooking meals along with the pull-out trash can right underneath it. The large sink and dishwasher made cleaning up after meals a breeze.

I typically don’t look forward to cooking in kitchens that aren’t my own, but this kitchen had me wishing it was mine. I even used the grill outside to cook some steaks and the grates looked like they were brand new. The grilling tools are placed inside the grill and there is no need to worry about running out of propane as there was a backup.

AMENITIES

The amenities include internet, central heating and air, a washer and dryer, and a 4-seater electric golf cart. If this is your first-time visiting Catalina, you will quickly learn that the only way to get around town is by electric golf carts. There are taxi services, but rideshares are nonexistent. The price tag for renting a golf cart is pretty hefty (average is about $50/hr), so having one that comes with the Vrbo is a HUGE amenity.

It was super convenient having this 4-seater electric golf cart and it was easy to operate. Although we are within walking distance to the main attractions, it was nice to have the golf cart for the occasional grocery runs since the walk back up the hill can be tiresome. The only house rule is that you must be at least 25 years of age to drive it.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I can’t imagine a better place to stay in Avalon. Jan, a Vrbo premier host, was super responsive and always just a text away. This was my first Vrbo experience and I am not surprised that this listing has an exceptional rating of 5 out of 5 stars. It was close to the grocery store, market, shops, restaurants, and more. I was so impressed by all the attention to detail and the thoughtful design tributes to old Avalon. Many of the reviews I read say the pictures don’t do this place justice and I 100% concur.

HOW DO I GET THERE?

There is only one way to get to Catalina Island and it is by a ferry called the Catalina Express. There are three port locations: San Pedro, Dana Point, and Long Beach. The most popular port of embarkation is Long Beach and that is the port I used. Here is my step-by-step guide from booking my ticket to the onboard experience on the Catalina Express.