Considering a romantic getaway in California? I think that one of the most romantic spots you’ll find in the Golden State is Santa Catalina Island, just off the coast of Los Angeles. Better known as Catalina, this island has been a favored resort and getaway for the rich and famous, including Hollywood movie stars, for decades. One of the best things about Catalina is that it’s not very crowded at most times, and for good reason. Being an island, you can’t just drive there! The only ways to get out to Catalina are by small private plane (there’s a tiny airstrip, but no commercial traffic can land there) or by boat. You can rent or charter a boat, or for a more affordable experience, take one of the regular Catalina ferry services that operate out of Long Beach.

The voyage out to Catalina by ferry will take little more than an hour and this is where your romantic getaway in California will begin. Walking the decks side by side, enjoying the salt tang of the air and the caw of seagulls, you’ll enjoy the cruise both for itself and because it promises some time alone for the two of you once you get to Catalina. Once the ferry docks, you’ll find a charming little village by the pier, with storefronts and stands offering a variety of nautical and whimsical products. Catalina is set up to cater to tourists and they do a good job of it.

Most of the recreational activities available on Catalina center on the ocean. When I went to Catalina for an anniversary, we toured the coastal area of the island in a glass bottomed boat, which gave a lovely view of the marine life just beneath us. Catalina hosts an underwater nature preserve where fishing and other damaging activities are prohibited, so here you get to see the sea in its natural state, with all its variety of sea life, including fishes in a wild array of vibrant colors. If a close up view of the sea life is of even more interest, there is also a submarine tour of the underwater nature preserve that you might want to try. Either way, enjoying the ocean together can be a great activity during your romantic getaway in California.

Perhaps you’ll only make it a day trip to Catalina, which means dinner out in a seaside restaurant offering fresh fish choices, and then taking the last ferry back to Long Beach. However, lodging on the island is readily available and you might decide that your romantic getaway in California ought to include at least one night staying in a hotel on the island. That’s simple enough to arrange and then, after your breakfast by the seashore, the ferry can take you back to the mainland!