As a longtime resident of Seal Beach, I have often viewed the majestic Island of Catalina right across the sea from the Seal Beach pierI recently had a fantastic birthday (aren’t they all when you’re 65+) on Catalina Island and the lovely seaside community of Avalon.
Where and how else can you spend a full day of adventure, ambiance, birthday wishes and even nostalgia for under $100?
Catalina Express, an Island commuter ferry service leaving from downtown Long Beach is celebrating its 30th birthday of Island service.
Through April 30, 2013, you can travel free to Catalina on your birthday. The return doesn’t have to be on the same day. The service, comfort and speed of the trip (about an hour crossing) was impeccable.
The free trip to the Island, comes with a package of coupons valid only on this special “Birthday Island” adventure. You can check out the “Specials & Packages” link at www.catalinachamber.com for the details.
Here is some of what I did in an adventuresome day in Avalon:
• Visited many of the special shops and boutiques lining the beautiful sand beach and bay front.
• Strolled up the eucalyptus shrouded Avalon canyon road, past the golf course, to the Nature Center, and botanical gardens further along.
On this trip I chanced upon the long-time resident and artist, Will Richards, and much enjoyed a visit to his canyon studio.
• Obtained a free hiking permit from the Catalina Island Nature Conservancy for a solo five hour Island hike.
• Took advantage of a birthday coupon (only $20) for a parasail ride in Avalon Bay—1,200 feet of line, don’t know what height I reached, but it was way up there. Never done this before. (Remember, I’m 65+). This from Parasail Catalina. What a fantastic view and experience. It’s so peaceful and quiet when you are airborne. They can take pictures while you’re up there to prove you did it to your skeptical friends.
• Took a special tour of the Avalon Casino and Ballroom (there is also an Island museum located here) by Chuck Liddell. What a wonderful art deco edifice built by William Wrigley in the late 20s and still used as a movie theater and location for special Island dances and events.
