The nearest Channel Island to mainland California, Santa Catalina lies in the southern region of the group. Towering 2,000 feet above sea level, its rugged landscape stands out amidst its more scarce beaches at the mouths of canyons. This remote isle has been a home for humans for about 7 millennia, with researchers hypothesizing that early Native Americans made the trek from mainland California to settle and cultivate an aquatic culture.
In 1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, a Spanish explorer, was the first European to set foot on the island. For the next several centuries, Spaniards visited the place periodically. However, in the late 1700s it was drastically changed due to Spanish colonization of California coast that initiated migration of majority of its native inhabitants to mainland over following decades; whether by choice or coercion.
Before the US annexed California and its isles in 1846, the Mexican government bequeathed ownership of Catalina Island to a single person. Subsequently, it shifted hands various times throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries before settling into possession of the Wrigley family in 1919. Settlers began herding cattle and sheep on Catalina Island around the mid 1800s, instituting a ranching industry which persisted until the 1950s. Additionally, exploitation of resources and brief wartime interventions by the US army have added more nuances to its past.
In the late 1880s, George Shatto, the island’s owner, began his vision of turning Catalina Island into a destination for tourists by establishing the town of Avalon as its centerpiece. This initiative was followed through and furthered by successive owners, who built hotels, golf courses and other recreational activities such as hunting and fishing to transform Catalina Island into the resort we see today.
History of Catalina Island
Santa Catalina Island boasts an extensive and vibrant past. People have lived on the island for seven millennia. The first Europeans who ventured there took control of the area for Spain, followed by Mexico and eventually, the United States. Throughout its existence, the island has seen smugglers, fortune seekers, privateers, game hunters, Union soldiers and missionaries come through its doors. However, it was about 125 years ago when its history as a premier vacation destination started to take shape.
A Series of Owners
In 1864, James Lick had acquired full ownership of Catalina Island, at one time acclaimed as California’s richest individual. Having experienced difficulties with a proposed resort scheme, he offloaded the island to the sons of Phineas Banning in 1891. The siblings went on to launch the Santa Catalina Island Company in 1894 and inaugurated its metamorphosis into an iconic holiday retreat by constructing resorts, attractions and highways leading into the craggy interior.
The Banning Years
The Banning siblings were trailblazers when it came to constructing places of relaxation such as the Banning House Lodge, in addition to offering tours via stagecoach throughout the isle. This gave people access to serene shorelines like Descanso Beach, Lovers Cove, and Sugarloaf Point – an area which would eventually become the location of Catalina Casino. Moreover, they erected the Pleasure Pier in 1909; a site that can still be seen in Avalon Bay nowadays.
In 1915, half of Avalon’s buildings were consumed by fire, leaving the brothers to attempt to make something of their investment. Thus, Hotel St. Catherine was constructed in Descanso Canyon in order to entice more guests; unfortunately, they had no choice but to part with the island four years later in 1919.
The Wrigley Vision
In 1919, William Wrigley Jr., a chewing gum entrepreneur, purchased nearly all shares of the Santa Catalina Island Company in order to gain control. His vision was to create a leisure paradise on the island and thus he devoted millions towards this purpose, constructing amenities such as a reservoir, Hotel Atwater, Bird Park and various other sights.
In 1921, William Wrigley Jr., an avid supporter of the Chicago Cubs, constructed the Catalina Country Club to provide the team with locker rooms and a place to come together for training. The squad regularly trained on Avalon until 1951.
In 1929, the late William Wrigley Jr. created the iconic Catalina Casino; this monumental building held within it the largest circular ballroom in the world and also introduced theatre audiences to the marvels of talking motion pictures. Upon his passing, his son Philip Knight Wrigley took over, continuing on his father’s legacy. Sadly, during World War II, access to Catalina Island was restricted as it was being utilized for military training purposes.
During the 1930s, 40s, and 50s, Catalina Island was a hotspot for Hollywood’s most esteemed celebrities. Additionally, it has been utilized by various production companies as the backdrop to an astounding 500 films, documentaries, commercials, and television programs- many of which have taken place in Two Harbors at the island’s western terminus.
To this day, descendants of William Wrigley Jr.still own the Catalina Island Company and carry on his vision to create a world-class island resort.
A Legacy of Conservation
In 1975, the Wrigley family (Philip Knight Wrigley, Helen and Dorothy Wrigley Offield) generously bequeathed 42,000 acres of Catalina Island to the Catalina Island Conservancy. Established three years earlier in 1972, the Conservancy is now Southern California’s oldest and largest non-profit land trust with a commitment to achieve equilibrium between conservation, education and recreation.
12 Facts About Catalina Island That Will Surprise You
Not far from the Southern California coast lies a picturesque island with glass-bottom boat rides, Lovers Cove for excellent scuba and snorkeling, and breathtaking Pacific views. Santa Catalina Island is what it’s formally known as; yet most locals simply call it ‘Catalina’. For those wanting to escape the city life, this is usually their destination of choice, and it’s not difficult to understand why.
Catalina is a secluded, aquatic paradise with its beaches that can be accessed by an hour-long ferry ride. Before your arrival, there’s more to explore beyond the beaches – a tropical utopia that features opportunities for relaxation and leisure as well as trekking and outdoor activities. Have a seat in a cabana or quench your thirst with an iced drink while soaking in the sun and breeze of this special place!
1. Casinos don’t always involve gambling.
With its twelve-story tall circular structure and distinctive pillars, the Catalina Casino serves as a classic California landmark, sitting majestically atop Avalon Harbor. Taking its name from the Italian definition of casino – an elegant house or gathering place, it may give off the impression of being a Greek temple in front of the Mediterranean sea. However, there has never been any form of gambling held within its walls.
For almost a century, the Casino has been entertaining people in multiple ways. At the on-site Avalon Theatre, you can attend special events and watch first-run movies. Furthermore, you are only steps away from golfing, shopping, and memorable boat tours right by the waterfront. Don’t forget to take stunning photos for your Instagram account! Afterward, make sure to visit one of its renowned historical tours or observe a movie in the large theater; moreover, numerous festivals and events occur regularly at the venue.
2. The hit song “26 Miles” romanticizes the island…but it’s not exactly accurate.
While enjoying some body surfing in Los Angeles, Bruce Belland wrote the song lyrics Twenty-six miles across the sea; Santa Catalina is a-waitin’ for me. Although depending on which port you are referring to, this distance may differ, according to the LA Times, a friend of Belland once said that it was 26 miles away and he took it from there. In 1957, Belland and his band The Four Preps went into the studio and recorded it. Amazingly, it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1958.
It makes no difference how far it is–whether it’s 20, 22, or 26 miles–when you travel to Catalina Island with the Catalina Express. You can expect to arrive in just an hour via their high-speed ferries that offer thirty trips a day from San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as you relax and forget about standing in line when you upgrade to the Commodore Lounge which offers priority boarding, reclining seats, and even a complimentary drink. A signature Bloody Mary awaits your selection!
3. The island was once closed to tourists…
From 1942 to 1945, Catalina Island became exclusively dedicated to military training as visitors were not allowed on the island. The U.S. Maritime Service, Office of Strategic Services, U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Army Signal Corps all set up their bases there in Avalon to train personnel responsible for transporting essential war supplies by ships. Nowadays however, it is far more common to spot people engaging in activities like ziplining, waterskiing and hiking rather than wartime-related ones that used to be commonplace a long time ago.
To pay homage to its past, take a trip to the Catalina Island Museum in the Ada Blanche Wrigley Schreiner Building in Avalon. A lasting collection exhibits the history of the island, as well as transient exhibitions like the Chihuly exhibit (think of all those glass displays throughout Seattle/Tacoma). Now’s your chance to view an impressive 18-foot chandelier!
4. …but today, even its private beaches are open to the public.
Situated to the north of the Casino, Descanso Bay’s east-facing shoreline is peaceful in the early hours but turns into a bustling area around midday. While Descanso Beach Club has access rights to this beach, it is open to all; consequently, it has become an ideal spot for people wanting to relax and soak up some sunshine.
Once you settle in, beverages and meals from the Descanso Beach Club restaurant and bar are delivered right to your cabana or beach chair. On Saturdays during summertime, a DJ can be heard at the club. If you’re feeling active, they have several activities such as a 3,700-foot long zipline tour, 32-foot climbing wall and soon-to-be available Catalina Aerial Adventure and Descanso Drop Tower coming in summer 2017. Best to get all that activity done before chilling out with an icy beverage on the sand.
5. “Buffalo Milk” can only truly be had right here.
During a winter season, an innovative bartender in Two Harbors invented the infamous cocktail, much to the joy of locals. It is composed of Crème de cacao, Kahlua, crème de Banana and vodka stirred over ice cubes with a dollop of half and half cream garnished with whipped cream and nutmeg. The flavorful signature drink can now be requested at most local taverns; enjoy the original at Harbor Reef Restaurant in Two Harbors or savor it at Avalon Grille in Avalon.
6. Arabian horse ranches and vineyards are basically the same thing.
At the 75+ year old El Rancho Escondido, Rusack Winery cultivates its coastal vineyards, comprising of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel planted on southwest-facing slopes with loam and clay soils. These plantings are relatively young despite the historic age of the ranch.
At one point, Philip and Helen Wrigley were the proprietors of these grounds. In the old days, they would nurture wild horses on the isle. By the 1950s, they had successfully produced a number of first-class Arabian show horses. Currently, it is owned by the Rusack family and breeding thoroughbred horses has been substituted with grape cultivation. Though there isn’t a tasting room on the island itself, customers can obtain wines through their Isla Wine Circle Club or go to their winery in Ballard Canyon near Santa Barbara (the site where their wine is both produced and vended).
7. It’s legal to drive golf carts on the road…
Owning a car on Catalina Island comes with an almost insurmountable twenty-year wait list, according to the Catalina Chamber of Commerce. However, a vehicle is not needed for navigating Avalon – just one square mile – as golf carts are welcomed on its roads. Taxis and hotel shuttles are ready for you at your destination, accessible by the Catalina Express, or you can even rent a cart to traverse town independently. Initially walking may feel like an annoyance; yet, upon disembarking onto this Southern California island paradise, it becomes apparent that there is no other location that can quite match its tranquility.
8. …but hiking is even easier than driving.
With only a single square mile, Avalon is far smaller than the entirety of Catalina Island – stretching 22 miles long and 8 miles wide. Visitors wishing to explore the wild terrain must hike, bike or join an off-road land tour; however, traversing 37 miles on the Trans-Catalina Trail from Renton Mine Trailhead in the east to Starlight Beach in the west provides arguably the most expansive view. To make it easier, travellers can use the Chamber of Commerce’s app which allows you to plot routes and build plans while staying connected.
It’s necessary to obtain a free permit or become a member of the Catalina Island Conservancy if you plan on taking an interior hike or bike ride. Although the paperwork may seem like an unnecessary step, the effort is worth it when you research what views are available online.
9. Catalina has the most diverse animal species of any of the Channel Islands.
Being one of eight Channel islands, Catalina stands out amongst the other five which are preserved as national parks due to its diverse range of flora and fauna. Out of all the islands, it reigns supreme when it comes to biodiversity.
Catalina Island is home to a plethora of wildlife, both native and introduced. This includes four types of amphibians and eight reptiles, as well as endangered species such as the Baja California tree frog and San Diego alligator lizard. Arboreal salamanders and Santa Catalina Island foxes also live in the region. For those looking for an introduction to the island’s natural history, there are self-guided tours at Avalon Canyon Nature Center; alternatively, you could take a secluded hike to encounter the animals personally.
10. The Wrigley family is still involved with the island.
In 1919, William Wrigley Jr., the founder of well-known chewing gum brands like Big Red, Juicy Fruit, and Doublemint, obtained a large share of the Catalina Island Company. His descendants remain engaged in the firm to this day. He poured millions of dollars into developing the island.
William Wrigley Jr. established the Chicago Cubs’ spring training location at Wrigley Field in 1929 and erected the Casino at the same time. The generous philanthropists later donated 42,000 acres of land to the Catalina Island Conservancy for preservation. Even today, the Catalina Island Company is still run by the Wrigley family and offers exciting holiday packages from sailing to zip-lining and camping.
11. Record-sized lobster and marlin swim the Catalina waters.
Fishermen have found deep fulfillment in the culture of this island, setting numerous records of their own over the years. The most impressive accomplishments include a massive 16-pound 1-ounce spiny lobster in 1968 and an astonishing 339-pound striped marlin caught in 1985. Those seeking their own fortune may enlist one of the local charters such as Afishinados for assistance on an adventure targeting Sea Bass and Yellowtail among other large sport fish.
12. The oldest trail marathon in California takes place on the island each year.
The Catalina Island Marathon, celebrated in mid-March for the past 41 years, has gained the reputation of being California’s most long-standing trail marathon. Those eager to put their physical abilities to the test can sign up for one of Run Catalina’s numerous races each year, such as a 50-mile ultra, triathlon, eco marathon and half marathon. Though the event is indeed a challenge to all competitors, it certainly does not take away from the wonderful weather and majestic views that await along the course.
FAQs About Who Owns Catalina Island
Who owns Catalina Island?
Catalina Island is privately owned. The island is owned by the Catalina Island Company, which is a subsidiary of the Delaware North Companies.
How big is Catalina Island?
Catalina Island is about 47 square miles (122 square kilometers) in size.
What is there to do on Catalina Island?
There are many activities and attractions on Catalina Island, including:
Hiking and exploring the island’s many trails and parks. Swimming, snorkeling, and. diving in the crystal-clear waters. Golfing at the island’s golf course. Visiting the Catalina Island Museum. Taking a tour of the island by boat or bike. Going whale watching. Relaxing on the beach
How do I get to Catalina Island?
There are several ways to get to Catalina Island:
You can take a ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point in California. You can fly to the island on a small plane from Los Angeles International Airport or other nearby airports. You can also take a helicopter from Los Angeles or other nearby locations.
Conclusion
To summarize, Catalina Island is a privately owned island located off the coast of California, United States. It is owned by the Catalina Island Company, which is a subsidiary of the Delaware North Companies. The island is a popular tourist destination, with many activities and attractions to enjoy, including hiking, swimming, golfing, and visiting museums. There are several ways to get to Catalina Island, including taking a ferry, flying, or taking a helicopter.
It is privately owned by the Catalina Island Company, which is a subsidiary of the Delaware North Companies. The island is about 47 square miles (122 square kilometers) in size and is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors, including hiking, swimming, diving, golfing, and more. There are several ways to get to the island, including by ferry, plane, or helicopter.
