One of California‘s rugged Channel Islands, Santa Catalina Island (aka Catalina) is a little sliver of paradise, offering beautiful beaches, epic hiking trails, and unreal views everywhere you turn.
Base yourself in the main town of Avalon, and you’ll be able to spend your days cruising around the island in a golf cart and sipping cocktails in your cabana at Descanso Beach Club before dining with harbor views at one of Avalon’s many excellent eateries.
Whether you’re dreaming of seeing Catalina’s most famous residents on a Bison Expedition, spotting sea life on a scuba diving trip, or doing as little as possible, Catalina’s got you covered.
With so many things to see and do, you’ll want a nice hotel room to relax in at the end of the day. But with so many charming places to stay in Catalina Island, you might have a hard time choosing the perfect hotel. So we’ve created a list of the 10 best hotels in Catalina to help you plan the perfect getaway!
- Short on time and don’t want to read the whole article? Here are our top 3 picks!
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Where to Stay in Catalina Island
Measuring just 22 miles long and 8 miles wide, Catalina is a blissfully small island. You’ll quickly find that most of the best hotels in Catalina Island are located in the bustling town of Avalon.
Most of these hotels offer luggage service to and from the ferry terminal, which is a perk. Plus, Avalon is entirely walkable, so you’ll have easy access to the beach, restaurants, shops, and more. If you don’t feel like walking everywhere, renting a golf cart is easily the best way to get around the island!
Alternately, the island’s other town, Two Harbors, is located toward the western end of the island. This part of Catalina is perfect if you really want to unplug and get away from it all while being surrounded by the remote beauty of the island.
The 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Catalina Island, CA
1. Hotel Atwater
Located just one block from the beach in Avalon, Hotel Atwater first opened its doors way back in 1920. Not only is this place still hailed as one of the nicest hotels in Catalina Island, but the property was recently renovated, so everything is new and top-of-the-line, while still maintaining its historic art-deco style.
All guests get luggage service to and from the nearby ferry terminal, personalized concierge service, and a complimentary bottle of champagne in their room – just a few of the many thoughtful amenities.
You can choose from a variety of rooms and suites at Hotel Atwater, but no matter which you choose, you’ll love the stylish art-deco decor, luxury linens, smart TV, and handy minifridge.
2. Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel
If you’re wondering where to stay in Catalina Island for a luxurious getaway, Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel might just be the perfect pick. You’ll find this 1926 estate-turned-hotel perched on a hillside overlooking Avalon Bay, so expect unparalleled views.
From the Honeymoon Suite to the Historic King, you’ll have a variety of recently renovated guest rooms to decide between, but complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, plush bathrobe and slipper sets, coffee makers, and minifridges come as standard.
When you’re not relaxing in your luxury room, you’ll love taking in the panoramic views from the rooftop, lounging around the pool, and enjoying more views from the mountain viewing deck. Guests also get complimentary pick-ups and drop-offs from the ferry terminal, which is a thoughtful extra.
3. Pavilion Hotel
When it comes to the best places to stay in Catalina Island that are close to all of the shops and eateries in Avalon, the Pavilion Hotel is a very popular option. Not only are the guest rooms luxurious, but you’ll get fun extras like complimentary evening wine and cheese receptions, luggage service to and from the ferry, and personalized concierge service.
Pavilion Hotel is just 14 steps from the beach, and once you work up an appetite, you can use your food and beverage credit for drinks and dinner at the adjacent Avalon Grill.
Standard rooms at the Pavilion Hotel feature comfy beds, large flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and Keurig coffee makers with coffee pods. Although, if you’re in town for a special occasion, the Descanso and Moonstone suites both boast elevated private patios with partial ocean views and large living rooms with plenty of space to spread out.
4. The Avalon Hotel in Catalina Island
As the name implies, The Avalon Hotel in Catalina Island is another option in the heart of Avalon. This is one of the best hotels in Catalina Island if you’re looking for a resort-style stay.
The rooms here boast either garden or ocean views. But if you can manage, it’s well worth booking one of the Ocean View Rooms. Book room 301, and you’ll be spoiled with a private wrap-around balcony with a wet bar, a minifridge, two teak chairs, and two lounge chairs overlooking Avalon Harbor.
Other in-room amenities include coffee makers, microwaves, minifridges, flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and en-suites with bathrobes and handmade natural soap products. You can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast in the mornings before heading up to the spectacular rooftop deck for sunsets over the harbor each evening.
5. Bellanca Hotel
When it comes to luxury hotels in Catalina Island, Bellanca is a great choice. Also located in Avalon, you’ll be within walking distance of the beach, as well as a range of bars, restaurants, and shops.
You’ll absolutely love the boutique rooms and suites at Bellanca, which are all outfitted with signature serenity memory foam beds, HDTVs, and en-suites with Lather bath amenities. You’ll also get freebies like bike rentals and Wi-Fi.
Bellanca is also home to The Naught Fox, which serves up a creative selection of shareable plates, hearty bowls, juicy burgers, and much more. And if you want to make things boozy, you’ll love the list of creative cocktails and bubbly beverages!
6. Banning House Lodge & Villas
Banning House Lodge & Villas is where to stay in Catalina Island if you’re looking for something a bit more removed from the action of Avalon. You’ll find this 1910 Craftsman-style B&B situated on a hilltop above Two Harbors, toward the west end of the island.
There are only 12 individually-decorated rooms here and no internet access, so this is the perfect place to truly unplug. You’ll wake up in the morning to a complimentary continental breakfast complete with homemade scones, a spread of fresh fruit, excellent lattes and cappuccinos, and much more.
Return in the evening, and you can mix and mingle with your fellow B&Bers out on the patio at the wine and cheese social! The friendly staff also leaves out tea, cocoa, snacks, and cookies for guests to enjoy all day.
7. Catalina Island Inn
One thing that makes Catalina Island Inn stand out from other hotels in Catalina Island is that there are a variety of accommodation options to suit different types of travelers.
Traveling with a friend? Book the Bunk Room with two twin bunk beds. Heading to Catalina with the family? The Family Room offers a full bed and a bunk bed for little ones. Planning a romantic getaway? The Ocean View Room features a king bed and a balcony overlooking the harbor and Avalon Bay!
8. Hotel Metropole
If you’re searching for luxury hotels in Catalina Island that put you right in the heart of Avalon, Hotel Metropole has everything you need for a pampering weekend away.
Not only is this place just steps from the beach and all the shops and eateries of the Metropole Market Place, but you’ll love taking in the harbor views from the rooftop hot tub and getting massages and facials at the on-site spa.
With so many incredible accommodation options, Hotel Metropole is where to stay in Catalina Island if you’re planning a special trip. The newly completed VIP Wing Rooms are well worth it for their full ocean views, plush king-size beds, jetted tubs, and cozy fireplaces!
The Ocean Front Mini Suites are another great option with their private balconies and panoramic ocean views.
9. The Edgewater
If hotel chains aren’t your thing, The Edgewater is one of the best places to stay in Catalina Island for you. Dating back to 1922, this place is family-owned and operated, so expect a warm welcome and all sorts of homey amenities.
You can choose from two oceanfront suites (which can be connected) and six fountain-view rooms. Each is outfitted with luxury Beautyrest Black beds, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
In the summer months, take advantage of the complimentary afternoon wine and cheese social. You can also ask the staff for complimentary use of beach chairs and towels. Guests also get access to the kitchen, which has a microwave and fridge, perfect for heating up and storing food and drinks.
10. Aurora Hotel
Located smack in the middle of Avalon, Aurora Hotel makes for a convenient and comfortable home base during your trip to Catalina. This boutique retreat offers easy access to the beach and all of Avalon’s shops and restaurants.
The property boasts just 16 well-appointed guest rooms outfitted with Tempurpedic mattresses, Keurig coffee makers, plush robes, and complimentary Wi-Fi. But if you really want to go all out, the Celebrity Suite is the best room in the house. Book this massive suite and you’ll get a large living room with a flat-screen TV, fireplace, and bar, as well as a private sun porch.
Be sure to take advantage of the hotel’s weekend mimosa bar and Friday evening wine and cheese reception to truly get into the Catalina spirit!
