AVALON, CATALINA ISLAND - With gas prices at an all time high are you looking for a summer getaway that won't cost you an arm and a leg? If that's the case, park the car, jump on a boat, and leave your worries behind when you visit the tranquil island of Catalina. Located just an hour away from the mainland, Catalina Island is a perfect choice for a relaxing Southern California summer getaway. Catalina Island is picture perfect and her large selection of accommodations, including beach-front hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, well-appointed condos, charming vacation cottages and a lavish four-star country inn are eager to welcome visitors.

With its quaint Mediterranean charm, the main town of Avalon is easy to navigate by foot and walking is a wonderful way to explore. In fact Avalon is the only city in California authorized by the state legislature to regulate the number and size of vehicles allowed to drive on city streets. The picturesque harbor that nestles Avalon provides a good excuse to slow down the pace and enjoy the view. Many people enjoy the opportunity to stroll through the town and discover the unique history of the island. Wrigley family influences are evident in everything from the vibrant Catalina tile gracing the walkways to the brilliant architecture at the legendary Casino Building. With residents and visitors alike, walking is the preferred mode of transportation; however if you feel like going for a drive, golf carts are available for rent.

With some of the clearest water in the world, water activities such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking and parasailing are popular. Also well-liked by many visitors wanting to see the fascinating marine life but not wanting to get wet, are the glass bottom boats (which were invented on Catalina Island), the semi-submersible tours and the famous flying fish tours.

Besides the water activities, other land based activities include horseback riding, golfing, bicycling or taking in the Catalina Island Museum or the legendary Casino Building. Or take a tour to the interior of the island and search for the buffalo that call the island home. What more could you want to do on an Island? Except maybe sit back on the beach with a good book and watch the world go by.

Catalina Island, located just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, can be reached in less than one hour by boat or 15 minutes by air.