9 Best Hotels in Catalina Island, Orange County and Catalina Island

Located one block from the beach in the heart of Avalon, Hotel Atwater originally opened in 1920 and was recently redesigned in 2019, offering an impeccable sense of style and Catalina Island memorabilia. The hotel honors Helen Atwater Wrigley (daughter-in-law of famed local William Wrigley). Splits of champagne await in each guest room mini refrigerator, as a nod to her favorite before-bedtime beverage. Explore the soaring lobby to see two of Helen's prized instruments: a Dellape Stradella and a golden harp. There are curio cabinets filled with photos of the Wrigley family and an old bank safe filled with books and board games for guests to borrow during their stay.

The exceptional attention to detail includes a color palate of cream, blues, greens, and a pop of Garibaldi orange. Views from the rooms include Avalon Bay, Catalina Canyon, and businesses below. There is a $40 destination fee per room per night includes a split of sparkling wine; a $20 credit per day for Catalina Island Company restaurants; 15% off Catalina Island Company activities and tours; Wi-Fi; the use of beach towels; and luggage service to and from the ferry terminal in Avalon. The Bistro at the Atwater offers coffee and pastries in the morning and grab-and-go items for a picnic on the beach.

Bestselling Western novelist Zane Grey built his home in 1926 as a retreat to take in the views of Avalon while writing more than 100 books; later his home was turned into a boutique hotel with suites named after Zane Grey book titles. Every room has a blend of historic charm with modern comforts. Views for the rooms are either Avalon Bay or city and canyon view. it's also worth noting that this is the only ocean view hotel with a heated swimming pool. Located near the Avalon bell tower, guests hear the bells ring throughout the day. The staff prepare a complimentary breakfast daily and are happy to pick up guests at the boat terminal and take guests into town in the Zane Grey golf cart.

The newer tower offers beautiful suites ideal for families. The three-bedroom penthouse sleeps seven.

In a town dominated by historic properties, the Aurora is refreshingly contemporary, with a hip attitude and sleek furnishings. Done up in shades of chocolate and sky blue, the standard rooms are small but inviting, with flat-screen TVs. Suites have jetted tubs or elaborate showers—the Aurora Suite is a spacious splurge. There are striking ocean views from the rooftop deck. A complimentary continental breakfast is presented in the lobby. 

This charming boutique hotel one block from the beach, decorated with photos and artifacts of Avalon, has clean and well-maintained rooms and a showstopper rooftop lounge area to luxuriate in Avalon Bay views and breezes. Guest rooms have garden, balcony, and ocean views; most rooms have either a queen or king size bed and some offer a Murphy bed option. Enjoy your continental breakfast near the koi fish pond and water fountain in the morning.

One of the closest boutique hotels to the Catalina Casino and the beach, this sea theme hotel also offers a communal rooftop lounge area where guests can enjoy a cup of coffee and take in the 180-degree views of Avalon. Guests often gather here with a bottle of wine and cheese and crackers to toast the sunset. Oceanfront suites and some guest rooms have balconies overlooking the bay. Rooms are decorated in soothing marine blue and green accents and have cloud-like mattresses to ensure a good night's sleep. Ask for beach towels and chairs to take to the beach across the street. Beach cruiser bicycles are available to guests. The on-site bar and restaurant, Naughty Fox, offers seasonal breakfast served at 9 am, and an all day menu is offered from 11 am to 7 pm on weekdays and 9 pm on weekends. Coastal dishes include ahi poke tacos, a lobster BLT sandwich, and flavorful Catalina salad.

Set over a bustling maze of shops, this boutique hotel offers beach decor in a quaint setting. Some guest rooms have balconies overlooking a flower-filled courtyard, while others have ocean views. Many have fireplaces. Room 102, an oceanfront suite with vaulted ceilings and lavish bath, is a pricey indulgence. For a harbor panorama, head for the rooftop deck Jacuzzi open from 10 am to 10 pm. An included continental breakfast is served in the lobby from 7 to 10 am Guests can reserve spa service at Heaven Day Spa.

On the bay-facing Crescent Avenue, this third-floor property is steps from the beach, so complimentary towels, chairs, and umbrellas await guests as do rooms with balconies, views, and fireplaces. Rooms are aligned along a lovely glass-covered promenade; the two suites face the waterfront. A generous continental breakfast, nightly milk and cookies, and in-room fireplaces and whirlpool tubs make the hotel a popular spot for honeymooners and couples seeking a quiet getaway. Furnishings are traditional, including the popular wicker rocking chairs on the balcony.

Calm, comfort, and charm await at this adults-only escape where you will find picturesque mountain, harbor, or ocean views from Cape Cod--chic rooms. Each room in this small, six-room inn is uniquely decorated and all feature comfortable king size beds and deep-soak jetted bathtubs. Friendly and attentive staff prepare a continental breakfast in the morning and display wine and hors d'oeuvres each evening.