Nature and friendly hospitality on Catalina Island
Beyond the horizon: Catalina Island
The not so well-known Catalina Island lies just beyond the horizon in the Pacific Ocean. Officially named Santa Catalina Island, this rocky island is 35 kilometres long and has only one small town, Avalon. The rest of the island is taken up by romantic coves and pristine nature. A boat tour from San Pedro, Long Beach, Dana Point or Newport Beach takes about an hour. Tip: stay at a Bed & Breakfast with your family. You will receive a warm welcome and discover that life on the island moves at a much slower pace than on the mainland. A welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Catch of the day: San Pedro fish market
There are many fish markets in and around downtown Los Angeles. But real seafood lovers will be happy to travel a few kilometres south to eat fresh fish in the San Pedro harbour near Long Beach. San Pedro is known as the 'Disneyland of seafood’: it’s a lively and fun place, with plenty of activities for the young and old. Dozens of restaurants near the old fishing harbour serve up delicious fish and seafood. On weekends, local families pack these restaurants, so enjoy mingling with the locals as you soak up the atmosphere.
Baywatch beach
Sand, sun, Pamela Anderson and David Hasselhoff – that can only mean one thing: the TV series 'Baywatch'. The beautiful beach actually exists. To unfold your towel on the Baywatch beach, head to Temescal Canyon, northwest of Los Angeles. Park your car near the entrance next to the Pacific Coast Highway. Here you will find the pier that was featured in the background of many episodes. Those looking for the lifeguards chairs will be disappointed as unfortunately these were only props. Other scenes from the series were recorded on Venice Beach, Santa Monica Beach and Paradise Cove in Malibu – all of them beautiful places also.