Farewell Catalina
05 September 2013 | Sailing Southern California
Terri Potts-Chattaway
September 4, 2013
We have been here before. Many times before. But this time it is different, of course, because when we leave we will head south instead of north. And this time, when we leave, we don't know if we will ever be back. But then do we ever really know what the next day, or even the next moment, will bring? I think not. So maybe this is yet another reminder to always live in the present moment. That being said (or written), if you live in Southern California and have never visited Santa Catalina Island,or worse yet, never explored the multitude of harbors and coves beyond Avalon, you are missing a beautiful experience.
One of our favorite places to visit is Isthmus Cove, Two Harbors. They call it Two Harbors because this is the narrowest part of the island where you can actually walk from one harbor (Isthmus) on one side of the island, to the other harbor (Cat),on the opposite side of the island. I believe it is about a half mile walk.
Our friends prefer Cat Harbor as this is labeled as a "Year-round Safe Harbor" and they love the beauty of its surroundings. It is more secluded and reminds them of the anchorages of Santa Cruz. I think this is precisely why Jay and I would rather moor at the Isthmus. After years of visiting the national parklands of Santa Cruz with all its ruggedness and authenticity of years past, we long for a taste of comfort. And that is what the Isthmus offers; a bit of luxury, but not too much.
They have one general store, showers and a laundry, a beach, dinghy dock, of course, a café - that serves both breakfast and lunch and onefine-dining restaurant with two bars; one inside and one outside for those beautiful sunny afternoons.
There are many other coves too, July Fourth and Cherry Cove, named for the Catalina Cherry trees lined up along the canyon behind the cove. There is White's Landing and Moonstone Cove. There are probably a half dozen or more coves, too many to list here, but another of our favorites is Emerald Bay. It is as rich in color as its name suggests.
So, if you are wondering where to go on your next vacation,why not try your own backyard. Southern California's Channel Islands are truly a treasure to be enjoyed.