TWENTY SIX MILES ACROSS THE SEA
Santa Catalina has been home to Russian otter hunters, Spanish smugglers, Chinese pirates, Franciscan monks, gold and silver miners, Union troops, cattle and sheep herders…the Chicago Cubs, World War II military, fishermen, vacationers, movie stars, millionaires and more. In 1887, George Shatto, a real estate investor purchased Catalina for $200,000 and became the first owner of the island to create a settlement called Avalon. The Banning Brothers bought the island in 1891 and started the Santa Catalina Island Company to develop Catalina as a resort. In 1919, William Wrigley, Jr. gained controlling interest in the Santa Catalina Island Company and devoted his time to preserving and promoting it. In 1921, Wrigley sold lots for building in Avalon town. He had the Catalina Casino created in 1929 for 2.5 million dollars to serve as a “Palace of Pleasure”. In 1975, Philip Wrigley deeded the Wrigley shares in the Santa Catalina Island Company to the Catalina Island Conservancy that he helped to establish. To date, the Catalina Conservancy continues the mission of balancing conservation, education and recreation on 86% of the island.
The Edgewater is built on one of those lots originally purchased from William Wrigley, Jr. in the 1920’s. Vincent Petrich purchased the lot from Wrigley and built the Vincent Apartments on it in 1922. Later, the apartments were converted into hotel rooms and it became The Edgewater Hotel. Vince then married Louise Taylor and they opened and operated a variety of businesses within The Edgewater Building. It has been home to The Silver Dollar, Brazil Club, a tobacco store, an ice cream parlor, John’s Cafe, a Pool Hall, Weezies’ Basket Bazaar, Weezies’, and one of the oldest souvenir shops in Avalon, The Catalina Souvenir Shop which her son Bill opened in 1947 and his wife Beverly continued to run for over 60 years. Four generations have owned and operated businesses within The Edgewater Building. The Edgewater Team welcomes you to enjoy your stay at The Edgewater.
WELCOME TO SANTA CATALINA ISLAND
Catalina Island has something for everyone! Avalon is filled with an array of activities, attractions, and dining options that are sure to please. Below are some recommendations of our island favorites including recommended dining, shopping, water sports, hiking and more.
AVALON DINING RECOMMENDATIONS
STEVE'S STEAKHOUSE
A local favorite, Steve's boasts fresh seafood, mouthwatering steaks, daily dinner specials paired with breathtaking harbor views. The Steakhouse is conveniently located next door.
COYOTE JOE'S
Offering authentic Mexican and American Specialties, Coyote's is located at the foot of the Green Pier and serves lunch & dinner. Coyote Joe's offers outdoor dining, a full bar and happy hour.
BUFFALO NICKEL
Get out of town and head to Pebbly Beach for lunch or dinner! Try their famous "Pasta Night" every Monday. The Nickel offers complimentary transportation to and from Pebbly, call to learn more.
MI CASITAS
Located on Clarissa, Mi Casitas is a great spot for mexican food and fun ambiance. Try their Rancheras Enchiladas, Tostada and Cazuela cocktail (shareable)!
310.510.1772
THE SANDTRAP
Located at the edge of the Catalina Island Golf Course, this is a great spot to grab breakfast, lunch or dinner! See Pedro at their patio bar for great margaritas, Buffalo Milks and other festive island cocktails!
CATALINA ISLAND BREW HOUSE
The Brew House serves morning pastries, cakes and fresh coffee. They feature their own "Catalina Island Brew" as well as a specialized wine menu. This spot is perfect for a quick bite and gorgeous views. Try their Flat bread pizza and pretzel rolls!
ISLAND DONUTS
Avalon's Newest waterfront donut shop! Grab a donut, cup of joe and be on your merry way. Apple Fritters are a must!
CATALINA ISLAND ACTIVITIES
WEEZIE'S
Located downstairs from our guest rooms, and serving as our front desk location, Weezie's is the island's newest resort boutique! Come experience our bright and fun clothing, accessories and flowers. We are a Lilly Pulitzer Specialty Store and carry Vineyard Vines, Sail to Sable and more! Hope you love pink!
CATALINA SOUVENIR SHOP
Talk about vintage, the Catalina Souvenir Shop was established in 1947 and is still around today! Pop in for souvenir trinkets, Tahitian Pearls, and special island & nautical items. CSS is conveniently located directly below The Edgewater.
CATALINA ISLAND CASINO BUILDING
Built in 1929, the historic Catalina Island Casino Building boasts a ballroom, Avalon Theatre, gorgeous murals and classic Catalina Tileworks. This is a must see while visiting the island. Daily tours are available of the Casino and nightly showings of features films are played in the Avalon Theatre.
CATALINA ISLAND MUSEUM
Established by P.K. Wrigley in the 1950s, the Catalina Museum features an array of historical items, photos and occasionally themed exhibits. If you are curious about the history of our beautiful island, this is the place to go!
310.510.2414 | CatalinaMuseum.org
DISCOVER CATALINA'S RUGGED INTERIOR
You haven't truly experienced Santa Catalina Island until you've gone out in "the hills". View the island's rugged interior, pristine coastline and flora & fauna. You can experience the island like a local on Wet Spot Rentals' Little Harbor Outback Tour!
KAYAK & SNORKEL
Discover Catalina's vast coastlines from the comfort of a kayak or in the water via fins and snorkel by renting from Wet Spot Rentals. Venture to Lover's Cove, a protected marine reserve, and view the island's kelp forests and marine life.
ZIP LINE ECO TOUR
Zip Line through Descanso Canyon on the most popular Zip in Southern California. If you're daring, try the thrilling Night Zip where you will travel faster down the five lines in complete darkness and learn about Catalina's nocturnal locals!
DESCANSO BEACH CLUB CABANAS
Relax & recharge in the privacy of your very own cabana at Descanso Beach Club! Take time to marvel at your spectacular surroundings, breathe in the salty air and bake in the sun! Prices change seasonally.
HIKE CATALINA
Explore Catalina by foot on an array of hiking trails. Popular routes include Pebbly Beach Road, Mt. Ada, Hog's Back, The Wrigley Memorial and if you're adventurous...Hermit Gulch trail where you can view the other side of the island.
SOPHISTICATION, ISLAND STYLE
