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This summers romantic gay getaway Catalina Island
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Santa Catalina Island is small, 21 miles long, its narrowest point less than a mile wide. Elevations 
range from sea level to 2,000 feet. The views from the cliffs are breath taking. The encircling undersea ledge provides a rich habitat for a variety marine life.
There are only two towns on the island: the largest, Avalon, with a population of around 2800, and Two Harbors, at the island's narrowest point. The rest is preserved in its natural state, thanks to a conservancy established by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley, the island's former owner.
Reserve a spot on the boat and a room as much in advance as you can, especially in midsummer or during any of the annual events such as the jazz festival in October.
Where to stay
Everyone who visits Catalina Island's town of Avalon notices it. The "big white house up on the hill," former home of chewing gum millionaire William A. Wrigley, is now a bed and breakfast inn called The Inn at Mt. Ada (named for Wrigley's wife). With one of the most beautiful views in California, and a staff dedicated to pampering their guests like royalty, The Inn at Mt. Ada is a welcome retreat for any occasion, but especially for a romantic getaway, anniversary celebration or wedding.
Aurora Hotel
The Aurora Hotel is the second entry into the Catalina hotel market from the folks who created the Avalon Hotel. It's located in an updated building, with ocean-themed decor finished in a modern style.
The upper floors offer better views and rooms with a private balconies are worth the extra cost. The floor plans of rooms varies, so your best bet is to call and discuss what you want, before reserving online.
Make sure you visit The Aurora’s onsite spa to experience their signature treatment called The Mermaid's Kiss.
The Aurora charges one night's deposit 30 days in advance, levies cancellation fees and may charge the full amount of your reservation if you cancel within 7 days and they can't resell the room.
The Pavilion Lodge
The Pavilion Lodge combines mid-century style with modern luxury. Located on Crescent Avenue just across from the beach, the Pavilion Lodge features the amenities and convenience you desire in a romantic getaway or family vacation. The Pavilion Lodge also offers wedding and banquet facilities at three offsite Avalon locations, and kids under 12 stay free in their parents’ rooms.
Each room features marine color schemes and fine appointments, ceramic-tile floors and beautiful furniture. Many ground-level rooms share access to a charming garden courtyard, and every room is nonsmoking.
The Avalon Hotel
Renovated from the ground up, the Avalon is a craftsman-style Catalina Island boutique hotel, with a rooftop deck offering ocean views. It's one of the nicest and most romantic places to stay in the town of Avalon.
Things to do
Take a hike
Hikers are now able to travel virtually the entire length of the Island on a dedicated walking path - the 37.2-mile-long "Trans-Catalina Trail." Bicyclists are also able to enjoy nearly the entire lengths of the Island, using multi-use portions of the Trail and alternate routes.
Experience Santa Catalina Island’s “outback” in a comfortable, open air, 12-passenger bus. With spectacular views, wild habitats and educational displays, this is truly a unique tour.
Go shopping
Just like the island itself, the shopping opportunities in Avalon are extraordinary. As you walk along Avalon’s romantic pedestrian walkway and take in striking views of the harbor, quaint shops and boutiques are everywhere, ensuring you go home with a memory to last a lifetime. From clothing to candy to beach supplies to world famous works of art, Avalon has everything to offer.
Safari to the rugged interior to view Santa Catalina Island’s largest resident: the American Bison, also known as buffalo. Along the way explore Catalina’s rugged canyons and back coast.
First introduced in the 1920s for supporting roles in Hollywood movies, nearly 250 buffalo roam the grassy Santa Catalina Island hillsides. In recent years the Catalina Island Conservancy has kept the buffalo numbers from growing too large by moving some of them to ranches in South Dakota.
Additional stops include a native plant nursery and the Bald Eagle Sanctuary. You’ll also learn about the Catalina Island Conservancy’s efforts to preserve the beauty of the island.
From the minute you step off the boat the two of you will find many exciting things to do, but sometimes the most romantic place to be is in each others arms watching the sunset over the ocean.
If any one has been to Catalina Island for a romantic weekend or wedding or adventure I want to hear from you. Contact me at Jaussaud@comcast.net .
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