This article will explore the most promising highlights of a trip to the beautiful Catalina Island. From cozy Airbnb vacation rentals to the many sightseeing activities scattered across the island, you’ll find everything you need to know in this post.
When thinking of California, what comes to mind? Stunning coastlines, California music festivals, and avocados. So this island getaway is something a little outside of the typical Golden State stereotype.
Known for its majestic land and sea wildlife, mesmerizing diving sites, and the infamous Mt. Orizaba, Santa Catalina Island is one of California’s most prized island treasures. It’s also the southernmost island of California’s Channel Islands and comprises two towns that boast a mild, subtropical climate all year round.
This island’s beauty attracts visitors from across the world, whose only wish is to stay and never have to leave. Unfortunately, most of us only have a short period of time to spare. So keep reading for a list of the best Airbnb accommodations from across the island, ready to welcome you for your visit.
Airbnb Catalina Island: The Best Vacation Rentals
In a bit of a rush? No worries. I’ve curated a shortlist of our top picks of Airbnbs from around Catalina Island. Take a look at some of our favorites below:
- Best Family-Friendly Airbnb Avalon Catalina Island – Charming Renovated Avalon Townhome, Walk to Beach!
- Best Resort Vacation Rental Airbnb Santa Catalina Island – The Big Blue, 1 BR+Den!
- Best Luxury Vacation Rentals Catalina Island – BEST 2 BEDROOM DEAL IN HAMILTON COVE
- Best Unique Airbnb Avalon Catalina Island – Catalina Private Charter Stay on a BOAT
- Best Modern Catalina Island Condo Airbnb – Fully Remodeled 1 bedroom, 2 baths, sleeps 4
Throughout this post, there are some helpful and entertaining videos that’ll help give you a better idea of what to expect when visiting Catalina Island. From where to eat to popular landmarks to explore, these videos cover it all. So don’t be shy – check them out!
Top 15 Airbnbs in Catalina Island, California
Framed by charming towns and majestic wilderness, the island’s landscape is made up of rugged hills, scenic coastlines, and breathtaking views all around. So you can imagine all the different accommodation options that this island has in store. Luckily for you, you don’t have to just imagine. Keep reading for more!
1) Charming Renovated Avalon Townhome, Walk to Beach!
Best Family-Friendly Vacation Rental
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $563+ USD per night
Located in the heart of Avalon and just minutes away from the beach, this lovely vacation home should be your go-to for family getaways! Stylish features, tasteful decor, and bright, open-space planning, this all makes any stay at this historic townhouse unforgettable.
It’s conveniently located within walking distance to shops, museums, restaurants, and more. And with such close proximity to the island’s activities, planning daytime trips becomes a breeze.
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Guest Review: “Stayed for the weekend in this beautiful home! Was spacious and very clean and was close to everything in town! The pictures don’t do it justice and we hope to stay again soon! Veronica was amazing and responded quickly to any questions we had!”
2) The Big Blue, 1 BR+Den!
Best Resort-Style Airbnb Vacation Rental
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $296+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5325020
What better way to experience the island lifestyle than to wake up with the ocean on your doorstep? Guests can enjoy 180-degree panoramic at any given time of the day.
Whether you’re stepping out on the balcony for a breath of fresh air, or enjoying a meal from the indoor dining area. This spacious condominium is the perfect setting for your stay.
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Guest Review: “My family had a wonderful stay at Helmut’s place. The location was beautiful and the house was very clean with the necessary amenities. The golf cart provided was also very useful to getting around. We would love to visit again and recommend the place to anyone traveling with kids as well.”
3) BEST 2 BEDROOM DEAL IN HAMILTON COVE
Best Luxury Vacation Rental Airbnb
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $354+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/30321435
Let this stunning condo welcome you with a chic, antique-style interior and sweeping views of the dazzling ocean. The rustic, beach-themed decor and comforting blue hues embody the essence of the island lifestyle. While maintaining all the highlights of contemporary comfort.
A charming living space and well-kept bedrooms ensure that you’re well-rested throughout the duration of your stay. So when the sun comes up, step out through one of three sets of French doors to the expansive patio. Here you can enjoy meals and mimosas with good views and great company.
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Guest Review: “Such a great location, beautiful view, clean and host is always responsive. We had a fantastic time!”
4) Catalina Private Charter Stay on a BOAT
Best Unique Airbnb Accommodation Catalina Island
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $961+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/22294901
If you’re looking to stay close to the ocean, why not stay right on top of it? This is a delightful experience where guests can stay overnight on a private charter boat while a certified captain navigates the clear, blue waters. With access to the entire boat and all its amenities, this stay serves as a magical marine escape.
During the stay, guests can also go fishing, dolphin and whale watching, standup paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Two tandem kayaks, standup paddleboards, and a lily pad is included.
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Guest Review: “This is not just a stay, its an absolute adventure! We had the time our lives. Ralph is absolutely accommodating, skilled and down right fun!! I highly recommend this trip!!”
5) Fully Remodeled 1 bedroom, 2 baths, sleeps 4
Best Modern Airbnb Condo Catalina Island
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $233+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/39298757
Combining modern comfort and prime location means enjoying your stay in style and convenience. This Bahia Complex condo is fully remodeled with a fully-stocked kitchen, two 50-inch Smart TVs and a full-size sleeper sofa.
A fireplace awaits in the living area for cooler nights. And for a breath of fresh air, an outdoor patio with a barbecue and seating area makes for a great social event.
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Guest Review: “Great stay at Jose’s. Rosie and Jose are amazing hosts. Rosie took us around Avalon and showed us different buildings and landscapes. The apartment is super clean and super equipped. Would definitely recommend it!”
6) Hamilton Cove Catalina Island Condo 13-37
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $334+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/40083270
This bright, chic vacation station is conveniently located in the Hamilton Cove community – a gated community with over 200 privately-owned condos.
Guests have access to an array of amenities during their stay. These include a fitness center, heated pool, barbecue area and clubhouse, a volleyball court, tennis courts, and even a private beach.
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Guest Review: “We loved our stay and look forward to visiting again soon. The condo has gorgeous views of the ocean and lots of space for visiting with family.”
7) Beautiful Newly Upgraded 4BD/3BA!*Closest to Beach
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $499+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/45236752
This delightfully renovated vacation home is one of the closest rental addresses to the beach! It boasts ample space that can host up to ten people, making it the perfect vacation home for your friends and family.
Catch a glimpse of the stunning views of the neighboring Avalon Harbor right from your window. And being just a hop, skip and jump away from all island activities, it’s the ideal spot for an island getaway.
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Guest Review: “This is one of the most amazing homes we have stayed in yet. It was just a hop skip and a jump away from all the restaurants, activities and the beach. I highly recommend this home to anyone coming to the island. My Family and I didn’t want to leave and will definitely be back soon!”
8) Family-Friendly Avalon Penthouse
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $517+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13684502
A modern penthouse with breathtaking views of the ocean and the Catalina hillside is one of the best ways to get a feel for this charming island. Especially being just three blocks away from the harbor.
Three bedrooms and an open-plan living space give you plenty of room to relax and stretch your legs. And with two balconies from which you can admire this picturesque landscape. You won’t want to spend your time anywhere else.
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Guest Review: “My family and I loved staying at this Airbnb. Karin was available and communicative throughout our stay and the home was equipped with everything we needed.”
9) Catalina Two Bedroom View Home
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $493+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/42051334
Climb the flight of stairs leading up to this quaint vacation home for unparalleled views of the island scenery. Like many of Catalina Island’s lodging rentals, this home serves as a cozy viewpoint for the Pacific seascape.
The outdoor patio with an on-site barbecue grill serves as a great way to socialize and soak up the fresh ocean breeze. And during cooler evenings, retreat to the living area with an electric fireplace to provide the most peaceful ambiance.
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Guest Review: “Never have I had a more communicative and thoughtful Airbnb host. This place is quiet, close to everything, and the views are spectacular. Our trip was a dream, and that is in no small part due to the awesome host. Can’t wait to stay again. A rare treat”
10) 61 Avalon Terrace – Summer Breeze
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $296+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/38485723
This cozy condo is warm, welcoming, and within walking distance of the rest of the town. With a fully-fitted kitchen, flat-screen television, wifi, and barbecue grill, it’s a delightful space with all you need for a sunny vacation.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast with ocean views from the patio. Or take a dip in the hot tub and sparkling swimming pool, before relaxing on one of the sun loungers where you can catch a tan.
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Guest Review: “Jacob’s home was gorgeous! The golf cart was so fun and easy to drive. The decorations were unique and welcoming, and the beach towels that were provided made a quick trip to the beach so easy! We had a great time and had the hardest time saying goodbye to this awesome hidden treasure.”
11) Excellent Catalina Condo w/King Bed*Close 2 Beach!
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $229+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/42473596
Sleek interiors and plenty of natural light make this lovely apartment a stellar choice for your stay on Catalina Island.
Glossy wooden floors and modern finishes make for a simple, homely atmosphere. Guests can expect neat, homely touches throughout the apartment. With shops, restaurants, and entertainment only a few steps away!
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Guest Review: “It’s so close to the beach and right in the middle of town and close by everything. You’ll love William, he was super nice and very responsive.”
12) The Sumner Cottage
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $250+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/24671338
This colorful, beach-style cottage welcomes couples, small families, and solo travelers to its cozy seaside space. Fully equipped with all basic amenities, your stay is pretty much taken care of.
A round bistro-style table is perfect for playing board games with the kids. While the front porch is an especially great spot to spend mealtimes with friends and loved ones.
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Guest Review: “Cozy, cute cottage minutes from everything. Host is super responsive and accommodating.”
13) Tropical Island Escape w/ Deck, Walk to Avalon Bay
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $206+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/41096234
Combining a unique tropical charm with snug, everyday comforts, this vacation rental is ideal for those looking to enjoy the island life and family-friendly recreations. The cozy living space leads out to the outdoor patio, where a seating area and charcoal grill awaits your next social gathering.
Avalon Bay and the Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens are only a few blocks away, so you’re in just the right location for any sightseeing activities.
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Guest Review: “We had a wonderful stay. The place was in close proximity to everything in town – ideal for a family weekend vacation.”
14) Villa Bahia Penthouse Harbor View B45
Location: Avalon
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $361+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/12957025
Towering above the rooftops and greenery of the charming city of Avalon is this marvelous vacation penthouse. Fresh contemporary touches characterize the delightful interior space, where guests can enjoy each other’s company in style.
A short walk away from restaurants, shopping, beaches, and the boardwalk; this place is ideally located for a perfect island getaway. Not to mention, the views from the outdoor patio are so much more special when the sun goes down. You’re able to admire the sea, the city, and the twinkling nighttime lights.
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Guest Review: “Will definitely recommend this unit to anyone looking to have top of the class lodging.”
15) Glamping Tent at Whites Landing Pimu Eco Village
Location: Los Angeles County
Airbnb Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $73+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/43832060
Situated on the longest sandy beach on the island, this fun glamping accommodation is a unique way to spend your time on Catalina Island. Whites Landing is a 3-mile coastal tour away from Avalon’s shores, where guests are invited to explore a 25-acre glamping retreat.
Kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking tours are the highlights of your stay in this scenic sanctuary. So if you’re looking for an interesting place to bide your time, this camping site is all you need.
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Guest Review: “An awesome place to get away! By yourselves or with the kiddos. We brought a cooler to keep in our tent but u don’t have to. They have a ginormous refrigerator and each guest gets plenty of room and a shelf with your name on it. The Continental breakfast was great and free! It’s definitely a great way to start your day and meet n greet your fellow Campers. Staff is super friendly, welcoming and accommodating! The location was a gem. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there.”
Best Day Trips from Santa Catalina Island
Although your vacation rental may offer sweeping views of the island city, rest assured that you’ll still want to explore it first-hand and get a good taste of all that it has to offer.
Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour
“Experience the thrill of soaring 600 feet above sea level, across multiple high-speed ziplines on this incredible Catalina Island zipline eco-tour. After a safety briefing and equipment fitting, cruise along 1,100 lineal feet of line (335 meters)—close to three-quarters of a mile—and fly some 300 feet (91 meters) above scenic canyon floors. Daredevils and thrill-seekers will love reaching speeds of 40 miles per hour as they take flight on this epic adventure.”
https://www.viator.com/tours/Catalina-Island/Catalina-Island-Zip-Line-Eco-Tour/d24024-13327P2
Price: $134+ USD
Journey to the Sky
“Travel ten miles into the protected wilderness of Catalina Island along the scenic Skyline Drive in a classic 1950s Flexible Bus. Enjoy sweeping views of the canyons, coves and ocean, and perhaps spot the island’s resident herd of American buffalo. Visit Airport in the Sky, located at 1,600 feet (488 meters) above sea level, and have time to visit the Catalina Island Conservancy’s Nature Center before returning to Avalon.”
https://www.viator.com/tours/Catalina-Island/Catalina-Island-Skyline-Drive/d24024-13327P9
Price: $57+ USD
Catalina Island Aerial Adventure
“Challenge yourself on the rope ladders, balance beams, and ziplines at the Catalina Aerial Adventure park. Suspended in a eucalyptus grove on Catalina Island, this aerial obstacle course is a convenient adventure destination and is easy to fit into your busy vacation schedule. Plus, it has three different difficulty levels to choose from, ensuring there is something to challenge everyone from kids to athletes.”
https://www.viator.com/tours/Catalina-Island/Catalina-Island-Aerial-Adventure/d24024-13327P14
Price: $51+ USD
Am I Missing Any Catalina Vacation Rentals?
I’ve done my best to include some of the most beautiful lodgings I could find on this delightful island. But if you feel there are any other Catalina Island rentals worthy of mentioning, feel free to get in touch and let me know!
Other Recommended Reading
If you liked the idea of island vacations and scenic views, you’d probably enjoy some of the other articles listed below. From local music festivals to the coolest Airbnbs, this list has it all – so be sure to check it out!
- The 25 Best Music Festivals In America To Experience Before You Die
- The 10 Best Camping Music Festivals In California
- 15 Stunning Airbnb Maui For Sun, Surf & Serenity
- The 17 Coolest & Best Airbnbs In Oahu For An Amazing Hawaii Vacation
- The 17 Best Airbnbs In Las Vegas For All Budgets & Travellers
- The 17 Best Airbnb Estes Park Vacation Rentals [2020]
- 30 Cultural & Music Festivals In New Orleans For Your Bucket List
- 18 Coolest & Best Airbnbs In Napa Valley
- 17 Best Airbnb South Padre Island Rentals & Beachfront Homes
- Airbnb Alternatives: Top 12 Airbnb Alternatives To Try For Your Next Booking
- 23 Best Rap & Hip Hop Music Festivals In The USA
Final Thoughts On Catalina Airbnb
Santa Catalina Island rentals are arguably some of California’s best-kept secrets. From its quaint, small-town and tropical lifestyle, to the stunning ocean views accessible from every balcony and window. This tiny island paradise will keep you coming back for more.
Let yourself be welcomed by friendly locals, cozy abodes, and a range of scenic adventures ready to whisk you away to the getaway of a lifetime. Home to some of the best Airbnbs in California, you’ll regret not having visited sooner!
