Historic Landmarks on Catalina Island
The layered past of Catalina Island is visible throughout Avalon and Two Harbors, where historic buildings and landmarks help tell the island’s story.
Catalina's Airport in the Sky — Commissioned by P.K. Wrigley, the son of William Wrigley, Jr., Catalina Island's Airport in the Sky began with construction of its 3,200 foot runway in 1940.
Catalina Casino Building — The Catalina Casino is Catalina Island’s most recognizable landmark. Built in 1929, the Casino is not a gambling venue; it was created as a “place of entertainment.”
Catalina Chimes Tower — The Catalina Chimes Tower was built in 1925 and given to Avalon by Mrs. Ada Wrigley. Set above and across from the Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel, the chimes have rung every quarter hour between 8:00am and 8:00pm since 1925.
Catalina Country Club & Golf Course — For 30 years, aside from a short interruption during the war years, William Wrigley Jr. brought the Chicago Cubs to Catalina Island for spring training. A clubhouse was constructed as well, giving the players locker space and a place to gather socially.
Catalina Yacht Club — With roots reaching back to 1924, the yacht club holds a deep store of Catalina Island history and lore.
Civil War Barracks — These barracks, now used as the headquarters for the Isthmus Yacht, date to the American Civil War.
Electric Incline Railway — Built in 1908, this railway carried riders from the end of Crescent Ave, up and over Buena Vista Point, and down to Lovers Cove.
Green Pleasure Pier — The Green Pleasure Pier remains an active gathering place. The 407-foot pier is home to the Love Catalina Island Tourism Authority’s Visitor Center, which offers information seven days a week, along with tours, water activities, dive centers, and dining options.
Mt. Ada — Mt. Ada is a six-room bed and breakfast inn that once served as the home of William Wrigley Jr. and Ada. Perched on top of Mt. Ada, the inn offers sweeping views of Avalon Bay and Avalon and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Old Ben Park — Created in memory of a well-known sea lion, this statue and park greet visitors to Avalon each day.
Overlook Hall — Overlook Hall was originally built in 1929 in the style of an Italian chapel and served for many years as Avalon’s Christian Science church. After it eventually closed, the building was fully restored in 2010 and is now among Avalon’s most beautiful hillside venues. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
The Tuna Club — Founded in 1898, The Tuna Club is the oldest fishing club in the United States. Its original purposes were to raise the sport of fishing to the highest possible standard and to protect the game fish of Southern California.
Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden — Constructed between 1933-34, the Wrigley Memorial honors William Wrigley, Jr. and serves as the centerpiece of the Catalina Island Conservancy’s Botanic Garden.
Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel — In 1926, author Zane Grey built a hillside home overlooking Avalon Bay. He spent much of his later life in Avalon, where he wrote and fished. After his death, the home was converted to a hotel.