Catalina Island might be best known for the buzz of Avalon, where golf carts zip along the streets, restaurants hum with conversation, and shops tempt visitors with Island souvenirs. But tucked away on the Island’s quieter west end is a different kind of Catalina experience — one where the pace slows, the crowds disappear, and rugged coastline meets rustic charm. Welcome to Two Harbors, a hidden gem beloved by boaters, beachgoers, and those craving a laid-back escape.
But if you venture west across the Island’s rugged interior, you’ll find a completely different Catalina. Two Harbors, nestled between Isthmus Cove and Catalina Harbor, offers a quieter, more rustic experience for those looking to unplug and soak in the Island’s natural beauty. This small village, often called Catalina’s hidden gem, feels like a world away from Avalon’s busy streets, with just one restaurant, one general store, and one hotel catering to its small number of visitors.
Getting to Two Harbors is part of the adventure, and the Cyclone makes it easier than ever. Operated by the Catalina Island Company, the Cyclone is a seasonal, high-speed passenger boat that runs between Avalon and Two Harbors from May through October, shaving hours off the overland journey. “The Cyclone has been running seasonal service between Avalon and Two Harbors since 2016,” says Michelle Pring, Director of Marketing for the Catalina Island Company. “It’s the fastest and most direct way to travel between Avalon and Two Harbors, with a travel time of approximately 40 minutes.”
The trip itself is part of the appeal. “Riders will enjoy open-air seating and stunning views of the island’s coastline,” Pring notes. “Compared to longer inland travel by bus or hiking, the Cyclone offers both speed and a fun experience on the water.” For boaters, campers, or hikers looking to experience both sides of the island in one visit, the Cyclone is a welcome connector. “The Cyclone makes it easy to experience more of the island with day trips or overnight stays in Avalon or Two Harbors,” Pring explains. “Campers can arrive in Avalon and head straight to Two Harbors via Cyclone, or vice versa. Hikers tackling the Trans-Catalina Trail often use the Cyclone to connect starting and ending points efficiently.”
For first-time riders, Pring offers a few helpful tips. “Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in and board,” she advises. “Seating is first-come, first-serve, so early arrival can help secure the best views. Sunscreen, a light jacket, and water are recommended, as the open-air ride can be breezy and sunny. Don’t forget your camera—this ride offers some of the best coastal views on the island, and you may even spot some dolphins along the way!”
The Cyclone’s schedule is seasonal but flexible. “While currently a seasonal service, typically operating May through October, additional times are added on peak weekends or holidays, and schedule adjustments continue to be evaluated based on guest feedback,” says Pring. Weather can occasionally cause delays or cancellations, particularly in early spring or late fall when winds or rough seas pick up, but safety remains the top priority.
Guests consistently praise the Cyclone for its quick travel time and the friendly crew that welcomes them aboard. And while there are no major changes planned immediately, Pring says the Catalina Island Company is “always exploring new ways to enhance the guest experience and create lasting memories on the island.”
Life in Two Harbors moves at a different pace. With fewer than 300 residents and wide-open spaces, the village attracts boaters, campers, scuba divers, and anyone seeking a laid-back Island experience. Visitors can rent kayaks, snorkel gear, paddleboards, or mountain bikes from the Dive & Recreation Center, located right at the foot of the pier. Those looking to kick back can relax at Harbor Sands, where swaying palms and oceanfront seating provide the perfect spot for a beachside nap or a cool drink.
The village may be small, but it delivers when it comes to charm. A meal or cocktail at Harbor Reef Restaurant, with its ocean-view patio, is a must before exploring the nearby trails or unwinding by the beach. For those craving adventure, miles of hiking routes, including sections of the Trans-Catalina Trail, wend through the Island’s untouched interior, offering sweeping views of land and sea.
Many visitors take the Cyclone to Two Harbors for the day and return to Avalon in the evening, but plenty opt to extend their stay. Overnight options range from the historic Banning House Lodge and its cozy villas to world-class campgrounds under the stars. And for travelers heading directly back to the mainland, Catalina Express operates ferry service from Two Harbors to San Pedro.
The Cyclone’s open-air ride adds to the experience, but it’s worth packing a light jacket for the ocean breeze, along with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and, of course, a swimsuit for beach time. Keep luggage light, too — carry-ons must stay with passengers, and bikes or surfboards require a small transportation fee if space allows.
While Avalon offers the conveniences and comforts of a classic Island vacation, Two Harbors invites visitors to slow down, explore, and reconnect with nature. It’s the kind of place where stress melts away, starry nights stretch on forever, and the sound of the ocean is all the entertainment you need. Thanks to the Cyclone, that journey is as scenic as the destination itself — making it easy for visitors to experience both Catalina’s vibrant waterfront town and its wilder, more tranquil west end.
