Delight yourself and your best girlfriends in all that Southern California has to offer -- from wine to city lights to great eats to sandy beaches and an ultra-chill vibe.
Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a hidden gem off the California coast. Like a Caribbean island retreat just an hour ferry ride from Long Beach it is an ideal day trip for girlfriends looking to chill out and rejuvenate. The island (once owned by the famous Wrigley family) only has approximately 5,000 residents -- most of who get around via golf carts -- giving it a cool country club feel. It's quirkiness and charm will win you over instantly and its quiet disposition is a great break from the bustle of LA.
Where to stay: The Aurora Hotel & Spa
In such a quaint town like Avalon, you might be surprised to find this luxury hotel and spa with a sleek and contemporary feel. But it's the ideal spot for a group of friends to stay, relax and spa. Right in the middle of the small town of Avalon, any room will give a great view of the lights and harbour at night. For more information visit auroracatalina.com.
What to do: Jeep tour
You can rest on the beach in Avalon, or if you're a bit more adventurous you can book a jeep tour of the island. You'll learn about the history of the island and see all its uninhabited beauty. A stop for lunch at the island airport (called Airport in the Sky) at one of the highest peaks is a great place to relax under the sun. For more information visit catalinaconservancy.org.
Where to eat: Catalina Country Club
Any local restaurant will be a feast of delicious and fresh seafood, but to get the true country club vibe of the island you need to in fact dine at the Catalina Country Club. Posh and upscale, it's where the who's-who of Catalina dines and where you'll find some of the best high-end food on the island. For more information visit visitcatalinaisland.com/avalon/poin_countryClub.php.
For more information on Catalina Island visit catalina.com.
