Romantic Getaways on Catalina Island: Where to Stay and What to Do

Southern Californians are so lucky. In just a little over an hour away—a boat ride across the ocean—lies an island getaway like no other. Catalina has been a romantic destination ever since it became a favorite resort town in the late 1800s. Of course, there’s plenty to do on Catalina for family vacations, outdoor adventures, and fishing and diving trips. And, maybe most importantly, if you’re looking for the best way to spend a romantic weekend with your significant other—head to the Island of Romance. Read on to learn all about romantic getaways on Catalina Island, including where to stay and what to do.

Book the best place to stay. Catalina Islanders are known for their hospitality, and the Aurora Hotel is one place where that welcoming spirit shines. Conveniently located, the Aurora will serve as the cornerstone for your romantic Catalina trip. Celebrate romance with the Aurora’s Dash of Romance package, which includes round trip boat transportation, a taxi to the hotel from the boat, and even a welcome bottle of wine and bouquet of flowers. Enjoy a couples massage and the spend an evening relaxing on the Aurora’s rooftop deck—taking in the spectacular views of Avalon Harbor. 

Have an unforgettable anniversary. The Aurora Hotel offers an Anniversary Escape package that is truly the ideal mini-vacation for couples. This romantic package includes roundtrip boat transportation for two, taxi rides to and from the hotel and boat dock, a welcome bottle of wine (or cider), daily continental breakfast, fresh flowers, and a private 2-hour tour of the island’s interior. You’ll explore the lesser traveled parts of the island together, making for a memorable shared adventure. 

Pop the question. Catalina’s picturesque coves, charming seaside town, and gorgeous natural settings all lend themselves to being the most beautiful places to propose. Plan your engagement on Catalina Island, and make Aurora your home base while you celebrate this special milestone. Whether you get down on one knee at the Catalina Casino, on the beach, at the botanic garden, parasailing, or on a golf cart tour, your story will have an extraordinary start with a magical island setting. 

Make your vows.  Of course, to get married on Catalina Island, you might need to set a few details beforehand. Choose a venue, secure your California marriage license, and arrange for your ceremony along with any other necessary permits you might need. Some popular wedding spots on Catalina include Descanso Beach, the Country Club, or the iconic Catalina Casino. 

Escape and elope. What would be a more romantic place to elope than a special spot on a California channel island? Whether you choose a more secluded location like Shark Harbor or a local spot like Lovers Cove, you will want to ensure you have permits and licenses all taken care of ahead of time. No matter if you have a big wedding party or a private elopement, you (and your guests) can book your stay at the Aurora Hotel. 

Adventure together. If you and your loved one are less beach bums and more explorers, Catalina has plenty to offer. Build your romantic getaway on a schedule of island adventures like zip lining, ropes course, parasailing, fishing, kayaking, and hiking. At the Aurora Hotel, you can fuel up with a free breakfast for those long days spent outdoors together. Later, come back to relax on the rooftop or in your cozy suite. 

The food of love. Breaking bread together can be one of life’s greatest pleasures. On Catalina, foodies can find some great dining options (and drinks!). Anywhere you go in Avalon, the romantic island setting is an added bonus. Drink your morning coffee on the rooftop deck of the Aurora, and have your breakfast treats from Catalina Coffee and Cookie Company. Stroll the streets of Avalon to shop and tour, and find the best fish tacos for lunch. Have a happy hour beachside cocktail at Descanso Beach or a local bar, and find your favorite fine dining restaurant downtown for dinner. You can even pack a picnic from a local café for when you take an interior tour or do a day hike. Ask the staff at Aurora for some favorite recommendations. 

Float away. Spending time out on the water is inherently romantic. Around Catalina, there are so many options for watercraft rides. Paddle board around the bay together. Pedal a rental boat around Avalon’s anchored boats. Book a flying fish voyage for the evening or a glass bottom boat tour for the afternoon. You can even get a glimpse under the water from aboard a sub. There’s so much to see together all over Catalina.

The winter months can be some of the coziest on Catalina Island, and the Aurora offers some great midweek deals for couples to enjoy a sweet escape. Start and end your days on Catalina at the Aurora, where you’ll feel welcomed by our hospitality and our amenities. Ready to book your romantic getaway? Give us a call at 310-510-0454, and check out our options for rooms and suites at the Aurora.