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 Part
of the charm of Catalina Island is the fact that it is beautiful,undeveloped
and much like it was 50 years ago. While the aesthetics are undeniable,
the Island can present some challenges for the wheelchair user.However,
with proper planning, a trip to this Island paradise will be enjoyable
and a lasting memory. There are many things to do on Catalina, I
have listed below some of the things I think the wheelchair user
will find useful.
Transportation
to Catalina III Getting
Around Catalina III Where
to Stay
What's Happening Around Town
Catalina
Channel Express
The
Express runs out of Long Beach
and San Pedro. There is handicap
parking available at both locations. The Express boat takes about
one (1) hour, and there are daily departures. The newer boats are
very accessible. For reservations, directions to the boat terminal,
and luggage requirements call: (800) 995-4386
Catalina
Explorer
Daily services in Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter season Friday,
Saturday, and Sunday. Catalina Charters available. Come let us show
you the fun! 949-492-5308
Catalina
Passenger Service
The "Catalina Flyer" departs from Newport
Beach. The terminal doesn't have handicap parking. The steep
boarding ramp makes this boat very un-accessible. The trip to Catalina
takes about 75 minutes. For reservations call: (714) 673-5245.
Note:
Bathroom access is limited on boats, as space is so limited.
The
City of Avalon on Catalina Island is about one (1) square mile.
Most people find the walk from the boat dock to downtown very enjoyable.
However if you need transportation to a hotel or residence, a wheelchair
accessible cab is available. There are many courtesy taxi phones
located throughout the downtown area. The other accessible transportation
is the "Island Hopper" tram which runs a regular route
through town. For Catalina Transportation Services
call: (310) 510-0025.
There
are many quaint, old hotels located on Catalina Island, most of
them are not ideal for wheelchair users for various reasons (stairs,
small bathrooms/bedrooms, etc.) There are also many houses and condos
available for rental. Because parts of Catalina Island are very
hilly, and many of the rental properties are older homes with small
bathrooms, it is necessary to be specific with your vacation needs
when talking with the rental agent.
Hotels
Pavillion
Lodge
Located just 14 steps from the beach, the Pavillion Lodge
has a large courtyard for relaxing and sunning. Wheelchair accessible
rooms are on the ground floor. The Pavilion Lodge is the only hotel
on the island that has roll-in-showers. For reservations call: (800)
626-1496.
Note:
I haven't mentioned prices because rates change according to season,and
some hotels offer special rates with tour packages.
The
sun and sea are the great attraction here. The beaches are great
for sunning, relaxing and people watching. The walk along Crescent
Street (runs parallel to the beach) is a shoppers paradise. Many
of the shops are small, but most are accessible. The scenic stroll
out to the Casino is a must.
There are several interesting historical sites on Catalina Island:
Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens ~ accessible
with assistance due to the sloping rocky ground cover.
The Art Deco Casino Theatre ~ has a ramp.
The Casino ballroom ~ has elevator access.
Catalina Museum ~ Featuring Island history
is accessible.
There
are several island tour buses. None are accessible. Island Transportation
Co. offers charter tours of the town and inland island. Call for
information. (310) 510-0025
There are many special events throughout the year. Most of them
are wheelchair accessible. Some of the most popular upcoming accessible
events are:
The 4th of July
Celebrate with the golf cart parade and fireworks display.
The Catalina Festival of Art (September)
Stroll along Crescent Street (Parallel to the Beach) and see great
art by island artists (and by artists who just love this island)
The Catalina Jazz Trax Festival (Fall)
Great music played in the beautiful Casino Ballroom.
Other special events include the New Years celebration in the Casino
Ballroom. Many additional events are planned throughout the year.
For further information contact the Catalina Island Chamber of Commerce
& Visitors Bureau at (310) 510-1520.
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