Catalina Casino — Attraction in Avalon

I recently visited Catalina Island with a group of friends, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience. This charming island, located just off the coast of Southern California, provided the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and enjoyable getaway. From the delectable food to the delightful ice cream and the scenic Descanso Beach Club, Catalina Island exceeded our expectations in many ways.

Upon arriving on the island, we were immediately captivated by its natural beauty. The crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscape were truly awe-inspiring. The island's tranquil atmosphere instantly put us in a vacation mood, and we couldn't wait to explore all that it had to offer.

One of the highlights of our trip was the wide range of dining options available. Catalina Island boasts an impressive selection of restaurants and eateries that cater to various tastes. During our stay, we indulged in numerous delicious meals, each one leaving us satisfied and craving for more. From fresh seafood to mouthwatering local specialties, the island's culinary scene did not disappoint.

Among our dining experiences, the Descanso Beach Club stood out as a true gem. This waterfront venue provided an exquisite setting for a leisurely lunch. With its stunning ocean views and relaxed ambiance, we felt instantly transported to paradise. The menu offered a diverse selection of dishes, and we savored every bite while soaking in the soothing sounds of the waves crashing nearby. The attentive service and friendly staff added to the overall exceptional dining experience.

In addition to the fabulous food, we found ourselves unable to resist the temptation of the island's delectable ice cream. Numerous charming ice cream shops lined the streets, offering an array of flavors that catered to all tastes. We indulged in creamy scoops of homemade goodness, which provided the perfect treat to cool down on warm summer days. Whether it was a classic flavor or a unique creation, the ice cream on Catalina Island was simply divine.

When we weren't satisfying our taste buds, we took full advantage of the island's recreational activities. From hiking and biking to snorkeling and kayaking, there was no shortage of things to do. We explored the island's stunning trails, discovering hidden coves and breathtaking viewpoints along the way. The crystal-clear waters beckoned us to dive in, and we marveled at the vibrant marine life that thrived in the area. Each day brought new adventures and countless opportunities for fun and relaxation.

Overall, our trip to Catalina Island was a resounding success. The combination of beautiful scenery, delectable food, and delightful ice cream made it an unforgettable experience. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a fun-filled vacation with friends, Catalina Island is the perfect destination. It offers a little something for everyone, ensuring that you'll create cherished memories that will...

The Catalina Casino is full of rich history! I would highly recommend that you visit if you have the chance. The guided tour will likely be your best option, and at the price of $35, it's totally worth it for all the behind the scenes areas you get to check out.

Guess what? It's called a Casino. But it's not a casino at all! What is it? A giant ballroom, and a huge movie theater / stage. Built and operated by Mr. Wrigley (the gum dude), there are some amazing pieces to highlight. A few must sees are the black oak wood panels as you enter the casino (worth approximately $4m today). As you head upstairs to the ballroom check out the chandelier. Each chandelier, made by Tiffany's is $8m a pop, specially designed for the casino, making them one-of-a-kind (4 of a kind?). There is also an early rendition of a disco ball. The wood panelled floors are original. The outdoor patio views are amazing. Nearly 360 views of Catalina and the ocean, are worth the visit just in itself! Fun fact: a worker lives at the Casino 24/7.

Tips: It's not really a casino. Mr. Wrigley never drank or gambled, so know what you're getting into ahead of time! It's a movie theatre and ballroom. If you're super hot in the summer on Catalina (as there can be minimal shade), pop into the Casino for a tour! Yes, some parts of the Casino are haunted (so they say!) Most paranormal activity is in the women's bathroom on the mezzanine level, and near the coat check room. While some parts of the Casino are ADA compliant, much of the building is not. Be mindful if you're bringing a wheelchair, or even a stroller. No discounts provided. Including AAA. Don't opt for the self guided tour yet, as they're still building it out. For a few more dollars, get the...

I am editing this review that I wrote initially because we did have a great time on the tour. It was honestly very cool and the casino is a great treasure.

While on Catalina Island my boyfriend and I were bit by some really nasty bugs that seem to have followed us home. I thought it happened in the casino because we began to feel itching on our legs while we were on the tour, specifically in the theater watching the 15 minute movie. But it is more likely that we began to feel the effects of the bites in there rather than being bit while inside (we do not know for sure but I have to apologize for blaming the casino initially). We seem to have brought whatever they are back to the mainland, because over a week after returning home I got the same kind of bites (very swollen, dark red coloration, painfully itchy and some blistering after 3-4 days, with dozens of tiny bites in lines along my calves). After weeks of trying to figure out what it was and a visit to the hospital, the doctor thinks it was unlikely bedbugs. The bites were not as widespread as bedbug bites would be. These bites were focused in one part of our calves (we were both bit on the center area on our calves), where we were bit dozens of times. Whatever they were, it definitely happened somewhere in Avalon. So a warning to hikers and other visitors if you are exploring the island, bring bug repellant, long pants, and check your legs often if you do...