The 5 Best Catalina Island Hotels

Did you know there’s an island off the coast of California that is a great locale to relax in the sun, enjoy nature, and indulge in a bit of luxury at the hotels? Check our list of the best Catalina Island hotels for where to stay! Catalina Island was a popular spot for Hollywood stars in the 1930s, and Marilyn Monroe live here for a short time in the 40s when she was still Norma Jean. The natural beauty of this island, just a short ferry ride from the California coast, keeps Catalina a popular spot.

Avalon on Catalina Island is a fun beach town off the coast of California. Get there on the Catalina Express ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro, California. In addition to the beach and water activities, Avalon offers shopping, dining and outdoor adventures to fill your time on your weekend getaway, romantic escape or a weeklong vacation. No matter your vacation plans, there are hotels on Avalon that will meet your needs. Here are our picks for the best Catalina Island hotels.

1. Bellanca Hotel

Location: 111 Crescent Ave.

Bellanca Hotel is a two-story hotel, renovated in 2020, overlooks Avalon Bay. If you aren't lucky enough to get a room with a view, head up to the roof to enjoy the sundeck; you can check out towels and chairs at the front desk. A notable amenity is the free bicycle rentals. Guests can use the hotel bikes to travel around the island and visit the nearby shops and restaurants.

Accessibility: The hotel doesn't have an elevator. If taking stairs is a concern, book a room on the ground floor and ask about the ADA-compliant room if you require further accommodations.

2. Hotel Metropole

Location: 205 Crescent Ave.

Hotel Metropole is located above the Metropole Market Place across the street from Avalon Bay. Downstairs from the hotel in the marketplace, you will find plenty of restaurant options if you don’t feel like heading off the property. Breakfast at Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co. is a tasty option before heading out to the beach, Jeep tour or whatever adventure you have scheduled for the day.

Accessibility: Rooms at Hotel Metropole tend to be larger than the more compact rooms at nearby hotels, and the hotel has an elevator, making it a better option for those with mobility issues or in need of wheelchair-accessible rooms.

3. Hotel Vista Del Mar

Location: 417 Crescent Ave.

Hotel Vista Del Mar couldn’t be in a better location if you are going to Catalina Island for the beach. It sits directly across from the water and is a 5- to 10-minute walk from the boat terminal. The small hotel is on the third floor of a building, above shops and restaurants, overlooking Avalon Bay. The hotel itself offers a relaxing vibe with an atrium full of tropical plants. Staff provides milk and cookies in the evening, a small indulgence that is sure to please and is one of features that puts it on the list of best Catalina Island hotels.

Accessibility: Note that there is no elevator in the building, and all rooms require a climb up two flights of stairs.

4. Snug Harbor Inn

Location: 108 Sumner Ave.

Looking for a cozy and upscale stay? Snug Harbor Inn offers six rooms and personable service. Continental breakfast is delivered to your room every morning, and you can enjoy wine and cheese in the evening, also brought to your room. Other amenities include complimentary towels and chairs for the beach, which is a short walk from the hotel, and jetted tubs in every room to relax after your adventures on the island. The small size, hospitable staff and island location make this an excellent romantic getaway for anniversaries, long weekends or long-overdue retreats on Catalina Island.

Accessibility: The hotel, located on the second floor of a building, has no elevator.

5. Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel

Location: 199 Chimes Tower Rd.

If you prefer to stay at a hotel outside the shopping area, consider the Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel. The hotel is atop a hill, a 10-minute drive from the helicopter landing and a five-minute drive from the boat terminal via golf cart or taxi. The hill is steep, but you can use the hotel service to be driven to and from the hotel. The most notable feature of the hotel is the rooftop sundeck and pool. It has an airy design that complements the stunning views of the mountains and ocean.

Accessibility: One plus for the hotel, unlike several others on Catalina Island — this one has an elevator for all five stories and a wheelchair-accessible room.

Start Planning your Catalina Island Getaway

With a AAA membership, you can enjoy exclusive member benefits and savings on things like hotel stays, vacation tours and cruises. On Trip Canvas powered by AAA Travel, plan your stay on Catalina Island by finding and booking things to do in Avalon. You can also find AAA Diamond accommodations that have been evaluated by our expert AAA Inspectors who rate hotels amenities and comfort, and they guarantee that every AAA Diamond hotel is inspected clean.