3 minute read
Catalina Island Visitors Guide
By Melanie Maxwell
For many Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival attendees, the 26-mile voyage across the Southern California coastline to Avalon is their first. This guide to dining, spa and shopping options is for first-timers as well as seasoned JazzTrax patrons and those seeking a respite from the stresses of mainland life. Unlike most vacation destinations, there are no rental cars in Avalon, the 1-square-mile slice of Santa Catalina Island, and its only city. Walking is the main mode of transportation for visitors, while most locals zip around on golf carts, unless they hold a permit to own one of the 400 cars issued to residents on the island (there is a 45-year waiting list for a new permit). However, one can hail a taxi, take the Garibaldi Public Bus or rent a golf cart (two- or three-hour maximum). And, a few hotels offer shuttle service from the Cabrillo Mole, where the Catalina Express high-speed ferries dock. But, most people roll their luggage along the waterfront and stroll to their accommodations.
The clean seaside air competes with the aroma of freshly caught seafood and other delights cooking in the kitchens from the abundance of eating establishments; temptations that can be indulged before, after and between the shows. There are also a variety of shopping, spa, sightseeing and other activities to explore. With so many enticing choices (zip lining, golfing, jet skiing, parasailing, glass bottom boat and undersea excursions), adding an extra day or two to your trip is a good idea. Here are some suggestions to include in your JazzTrax itinerary— or anytime you visit the island.
Dining
Antonio’s Pizzeria & Cabaret has been an island tradition for 30 years. Antonio’s offers a casual, fun atmosphere serving lunch and dinner with indoor dining and patio seating on the bay. Traditional Italian dishes, steaks, seafood, grilled chicken breasts, hot and cold sub sandwiches, burgers made with premium certified Black Angus beef, soups, salads, calzones and a large selection of pizzas make Antonio’s a local favorite. Enjoy one of their house specialties that includes Mamma Mia’s day-old spaghetti, which is a local favorite.
The best breakfast place on the island, according to Smooth Jazz News, is Original Jack’s Country Kitchen. This Catalinathemed diner offers extensive breakfast and lunch menus as well as desserts. Enjoy fresh-fruit crepes, chicken and waffles, homemade soups and chili, burgers, sandwiches, salads, hot-plate meals and more. Their meals are made with the finest ingredients such as eggs from cage-free hens, Jidori free-range chicken, Niman Ranch beef and pork. Pies, bolillos, croissants and muffins are baked daily at their adjoining bakery, and, coming soon, Mrs. T’s Chinese Kitchen. Original Jack’s Country Kitchen is just a few doors up from the Green Pleasure Pier.
Shopping
Looking for a cute outfit or accessories to spice up your wardrobe? The Stare Case is the unofficial jazz-ensemble headquarters. Shop owner Mona Casarini is an icon of the Catalina Island shopping experience. They offer a wide variety of clothing and jewelry (a lot of bling-bling!), including elegant eveningwear, stylish after-five dresses, casual wear, bathing suits, thongs, Spanx Shapewear, and they offer a 10 percent discount to JazzTrax attendees.
Pampering
A Touch of Heaven Day Spa offers relaxing, therapeutic massage treatments and reflexology. The serene, full-service spa situated in the Metropole Market Place also provides foot scrubs, peppermint scalp treatments, mud wraps and an aromatherapy body polish. Ask about the 10 percent “JazzTrax” discount.
