Catalina Island is full of charm, history, and a few surprises you might not expect. Whether you’ve visited before or are planning your first stay, these fun facts will give you a deeper appreciation for everything that makes the island so unique.
Here are 26 things you might not know about Catalina Island.
A Little History (and a Few Surprises)
1. Catalina has been inhabited for thousands of years
The island was originally home to the Tongva people long before it became a vacation destination.
2. It briefly played a role in the Civil War
Union troops were stationed on the island in 1864 at what is now Two Harbors.
3. The Chicago Cubs once trained here
From 1921 to 1951, the Cubs held their spring training in Avalon.
4. Hollywood has a long history on Catalina
Classic films used the island as a stand-in for tropical locations.
5. The famous casino isn’t a casino
The iconic Catalina Casino was designed for entertainment, not gambling.
Nature & Wildlife
6. Catalina is home to wild bison
About 150 bison roam the island – descendants of animals brought over for a film shoot. Book a bison tour here.
7. The bright orange fish you’ll see everywhere is the garibaldi
It’s California’s official state marine fish.
8. Catalina’s waters are part of a protected marine sanctuary
This helps preserve its clear water and diverse marine life.
9. There are foxes found only on Catalina
The Catalina Island fox is a species you won’t find anywhere else.
10. Much of the island is protected land
Nearly 90% of Catalina is preserved, limiting development and keeping it wild.
Getting Around (and Slowing Down)
11. Most visitors arrive by boat or helicopter
Ferries are the most common way to reach the island. Learn more about traveling to Catalina here.
12. Cars are limited in Avalon
Golf carts are one of the most popular ways to get around Avalon. Stay in one of our stunning oceanfront Hamilton Cove villas and get a free golf cart rental!
13. Two Harbors feels like a different world
Located on the island’s isthmus, Two Harbors offers a quieter, more remote experience.
Fun Experiences You Might Not Expect
14. You can go zip lining over canyons
Adventure seekers can fly above the island’s interior landscape. Book here.
15. There’s an airport on top of the island
The “Airport in the Sky” sits high above sea level with incredible views. Learn more here.
16. You can see flying fish at night
These unique fish glide above the water and are best seen on evening tours.
17. The island hosts a famous wine mixer
Yes – the Catalina Wine Mixer is a real event.
18. There are mermaid experiences
From classes to photo ops, Catalina leans into its playful side.
Island Lifestyle & Culture
19. Avalon is only about one square mile
It’s small, walkable, and easy to explore.
20. The island has a strong art community
Festivals and local artists are a big part of Catalina’s culture. Visit the Catalina Island Museum for Art & History.
21. The Casino Ballroom is one of the largest circular ballrooms in the world
It’s as impressive inside as it is outside.
22. Catalina has no traffic lights
Another reason the pace here feels so relaxed.
Little Details That Make Catalina Special
23. The water is some of the clearest in Southern California
Perfect for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
24. You’ll hear the phrase “island time” a lot
Things move a little slower here – in the best way.
25. Sunsets hit differently on Catalina
With open ocean views, they’re consistently unforgettable.
26. Every visit feels a little different
From seasonal events to quiet beach days, no two trips are exactly the same.
Experience Catalina for Yourself
Catalina Island is full of personality – part coastal getaway, part historic escape, and part outdoor playground. The more you explore, the more you discover.
When you stay with Catalina Dream Vacations, you’re perfectly positioned to experience it all – from the energy of Avalon to day trips out to Two Harbors and beyond.
Browse our vacation villas and start planning your Catalina Island getaway for 2026.
Our Villas
Villa 15 – Catalina Cove, 2BR, sleeps 6
Villa 33 – Pacific Panorama, 2BR, sleeps 6
Villa 56 – Pacific Cove, 2BR, sleeps 6
Villa 68 – Catalina Dreaming, 2BR, sleeps 6
Villa 97 – Paradise Cove Penthouse Suite, 1BR, sleeps 4
Looking to rent two villas for your larger group? Villa 33 and Villa 56 are next to one another and can accommodate up to 12 guests total — each with its own golf cart!