Catalina Island
Sun, Sea, and My Favorite Girls
My bachelorette started as a simple island getaway and turned into one of my favorite weekends with my girls. Catalina felt like a true escape even though it was so close to home. Sunny days, ocean views, nonstop laughs, a few happy cries, and memories I’ll hold onto forever. It was the perfect way to celebrate this season of life!
Why Catalina for My Bachelorette
I eloped in September 2024 and was planning our part two wedding reception for August 2025. We already had a big announcement party, but I still wanted a smaller bachelorette moment with my girls. Something fun, low-pressure, and celebratory but without the chaos of a full-blown destination trip.
Keeping It Local
Since most of my friends are in or around San Diego, keeping things local felt like the move. Catalina Island was the perfect choice because it feels like a full vacation without actually being one. Most of us had never been, and it gave us that “we’re far away” energy while still being close to home. We went in June fully expecting June gloom… and somehow got perfect weather. A miracle!!
The Weekend Breakdown
We took the ferry over Thursday morning, grabbed lunch, and immediately started cruising around in golf carts like we owned the place. The views from the top honestly look like Italy, and I stand by that statement. After checking into our Airbnb, we stayed in for a girls’ night filled with games, drinks, and laughing until our stomachs hurt. Day two started with brunch and cocktails, followed by a boat rental where we sailed, partied, and collectively forgot what day it was before ending at the beach club. That night, we rallied for dinner and a night out - truly impressive behavior.
Beach Days and a Perfect Sendoff
Day three was spent at Descanso Beach Club, where we had a cabana and aggressively relaxed all day. Drinking, eating, sunbathing, repeating. On our last morning, we grabbed coffee, emotionally processed the weekend, and headed home. It was the most perfect bachelorette - fun, chaotic in the best way, and exactly how I wanted to celebrate part two.
Here’s What to Know Before You Go
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early fall (May–September). Summer brings the warmest weather and clearest skies, while June can be a bit of a gamble thanks to June gloom - we got lucky, but fog is always a possibility!
Getting There: Take the ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point, or Newport Beach. Book tickets in advance, they fill up quick!
Getting Around the Island: Golf carts are basically the island’s version of cars, and yes, they’re as fun as they look! Renting one makes exploring easy and lets you get up to the scenic overlooks.
Accommodations
Avalon is the best place to book if you want to be close to restaurants, beach clubs, and nightlife! Everything is walkable.
We stayed at an Airbnb that was perfect for our group and gave us plenty of space for games, drinks, and late-night laughs. The host asked that it not be shared since they no longer allow large group bookings, but Avalon has plenty of great group-friendly options.
Restaurants & Food Picks
Cafe Metropole - a casual, go-to breakfast and lunch spot with coffee and pastries.
Avalon Grille - American fare and craft cocktails, perfect for a nicer dinner without feeling stuffy.
Naughty Fox - fun, cozy, and known for great cocktails and a lively late-night atmosphere.
Bluewater Grill - fresh seafood, waterfront views, and a classic Catalina dining experience.
Topside by NDMK - modern coastal dishes with panoramic harbor views.
Luau Larry’s - a Catalina classic for tropical drinks, live music, and unapologetically fun island energy.
My Bachelorette Itinerary
Day 1:
Take the ferry in & arrive in Catalina
Lunch at Bluewater Grill
Rent golf carts, explore the town, get groceries for the weekend
Check into Airbnb, dinner, games, girlie time!
Day 2:
Brunch at Naughty Fox
Boat Party - booked with Catalina Adventure Sail
Dinner at Topside Restaurant
Drinks and dancing
Luau Larry's
Chi Chi Club
Day 3:
Cabana at Descano Beach Club
Dinner at home or see where the vibes are at!
Day 4:
Dinner at home or see where the vibes are at!
