Wheelchair Accessibility
on Catalina Island
by Giselle Hames, higiselle@aol.com
Part of the charm of Catalina Island is the fact that it is beautiful, undeveloped and much like it was 50 years ago. While the aesthetics are undeniable, the Island can present some challenges for the wheelchair user. However, with proper planning, a trip to this Island paradise will be enjoyable and a lasting memory. There are many things to do on Catalina, I have listed below some of the things I think the wheelchair user will find useful.
Transportation to Catalina Island
- Catalina Channel Express
- The Express runs out of Long Beach and San Pedro. There is handicap parking available at both locations. The Express boat takes about one (1) hour, and there are daily departures. The newer boats are very accessible. For reservations, directions to the boat terminal, and luggage requirements call: (800) 995-4386
- Catalina Cruises
- Catalina Cruises runs out of the downtown Long Beach area and has handicap parking. There are daily departures year round. The "Big Boat" takes about 2 hours, and the new catamaran boat takes about 1 hour. For reservations call: (800) 228-2546.
- Catalina Passenger Service
- The "Catalina Flyer" departs from Newport
Beach. The terminal doesn't have handicap parking. The steep boarding
ramp makes this boat very un-accessible. The trip to Catalina takes
about 75 minutes. For reservations call: (714) 673-5245.
Note: Bathroom access is limited on boats, as space is so limited.
Getting Around Catalina Island
The City of Avalon on Catalina Island is about one (1) square mile. Most people find the walk from the boat dock to downtown very enjoyable. However if you need transportation to a hotel or residence, a wheelchair accessible cab is available. The average cab ride for two (2) people averages $5.00 to $7.00. However rates are higher for areas outside the downtown area. There are many courtesy taxi phones located throughout the downtown area. The other accessible transportation is the "Island Hopper" tram which runs a regular route through town and costs $1 a ride. For Catalina Transportation Services call: (310) 510-0025.
Where to stay on Catalina Island
There are many quaint, old hotels located on Catalina Island, most of them are not ideal for wheelchair users for various reasons (stairs, small bathrooms/bedrooms, etc.) There are also many houses and condos available for rental. Because parts of Catalina Island are very hilly, and many of the rental properties are older homes with small bathrooms, it is necessary to be specific with your vacation needs when talking with the rental agent.
Hotels
- Pavillion Lodge
Located just 14 steps from the beach, the Pavillion Lodge has a large courtyard for relaxing and sunning. Wheelchair accessible rooms are on the ground floor. The Pavilion Lodge is the only hotel on the island that has roll-in-showers. For reservations call: (800) 626-5440.
Note: I haven't mentioned prices because rates change according to season, and some hotels offer special rates with tour packages.
What's Happening Around Town
The sun and sea are the great attraction here. The beaches are great for sunning,
relaxing and people watching. The walk along Crescent Street (runs parallel
to the beach) is a shoppers paradise. Many of the shops are small, but
most are accessible. The scenic stroll out to the Casino is a must.
There are several interesting historical sites on Catalina Island:
Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens ~ accessible with assistance
due to the sloping rocky ground cover.
The Art Deco Casino Theatre ~ has a ramp.
The Casino ballroom ~ has elevator access.
Catalina Museum ~ Featuring Island history is
accessible.
There are several island tour buses. None are accessible. Island Transportation
Co. offers charter tours of the town and inland island. Call for information.
(310) 510-0025
There are many special events throughout the year. Most of them are wheelchair
accessible. Some of the most popular upcoming accessible events are:
The 4th of July
Celebrate with the golf cart parade and fireworks display.
The Catalina Festival of Art (September 18-19)
Stroll along Crescent Street (Parallel to the Beach) and see great art
by island artists (and by artists who just love this island)
The Catalina Jazz Trax Festival (October 1-3, 8-10, 15-17)
Great music played in the beautiful Casino Ballroom.
Other special events include "The Country Music Celebration"
in April & the New Years celebration in the Casino Ballroom. Many
additional events are planned throughout the year. For further information
contact the Catalina Island Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau
at
(310) 510-1520.
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