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Off of the California coast, Catalina resembles a Mediterranean beach town. The temperatures are always mild and the views from luxurious oceanfront suites that line the beach are amazing.

Visitors to Catalina should prepare to leave their cars behind, and perhaps use a golf cart as a primary mode of transportation. This sleepy island off of the California coast touts year-round warm temperatures, although the lows can hit the 40s in the winter. Typically, the temperatures are in the 60s and during the summer months, the temperatures rise above the 70s.

Couples like to walk on the boardwalk, watch the boats and the people as they head to Lover’s Walk. When it’s warm out, a snorkeling trip to see Lover’s Cove, a protected underwater fantasy of fish, kelp, and underwater life will create lifelong memories.

Three beaches, Descanso Beach, South Beach, Middle Beach and Step Beach sit near Green Pleasure Pier and near Avalon Casino. Beware that Step Beach descends steeply into deep water. The other beaches offer gradual descents into the water, white sand, and clear water.

There are several accommodation choices on the island. Some of the Catalina hotels  include the Pavilion Hotel, with 71 rooms and Hotel Atwater, a historic hotel, which is walking distance from the beach. The Glenmore Plaza has ocean views, mountain views, and it is walking distance to dining and shopping options. Whirlpool and jetted baths are available in some of the rooms. The Catalina Canyon Resort and Spa invites guests to indulge in spa treatments, lie back in the hot tub, get some sun on a patio or balcony, or take the resort’s shuttle into town to shop. This  Catalina island hotel  is a pet-friendly resort with a $75 pet fee, and wireless internet service is available.

A romantic trip to Catalina Island would be remiss if it did not include an evening meal in a cabana. The Descano Beach Club rents lounges for beachfront dining, and the beach club also offers patio dining to patrons. The beach club arranges fire rings to add to the romantic dining experience or an evening of fun with friends.

Photo by the Catalina Express