Santa Catalina Island has drawn Southern Californians for since the mid-1820s. That's when the Pimungan tribe settled there, attracted by the island's rich marine life. But Catalina's true popularity dates from 1919, the year Chicago chewing gum tycoon William Wrigley purchased the island development. Overnight Catalina secured its reputation as a playground for wealthy magnates and movie stars.
Since 1975, the Santa Catalina Island Conservancy has held most of Catalina in trust. Buffalo, imported for a 1924 movie, roam the island's sere uplands. Offshore kelp beds shelter brightly colored Garibaldi fish, sea lions and seals. Gray whales pass on their annual migration, and dolphins are a frequent sight. It's no wonder the island - home to America's oldest fishing club - continues to woo weekend yachtsmen, deep-sea fishermen and divers as well as casual visitors content to explore Avalon's quaint lanes.
Since 1975, the Santa Catalina Island Conservancy has held most of Catalina in trust. Buffalo, imported for a 1924 movie, roam the island's sere uplands. Offshore kelp beds shelter brightly colored Garibaldi fish, sea lions and seals. Gray whales pass on their annual migration, and dolphins are a frequent sight. It's no wonder the island - home to America's oldest fishing club - continues to woo weekend yachtsmen, deep-sea fishermen and divers as well as casual visitors content to explore Avalon's quaint lanes.
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