Descanso Beach Club and Restaurant

Just a short walk from your hotel, past the Avalon Casino is the quaint Descanso Beach Club. It is Avalon's sole seaside bar and has everything you need to relax the day away. In addition to daily sunbathers Descanso Beach is often used for weddings and other special events occurring on the island. It is a great place to kayak, swim, or even snorkel if you wish to spend the day in its clear blue waters.

The beach club is open April through October and is the one place on the island to enjoy a beachside drink and canopied massage. When I last visited the beach club still charged only one dollar for entry. The fee is charged in order to comply with Long Beach County law to serve alcohol in an open area. So enjoy the Catalina Island open views from white sand or the green lawn as Descanso Beach has them both.

As far as what to be prepared for, remember this is a small beach. Certain days can get crowded especially if there are several cruise ships anchored offshore. The grassy lawn may seem luscious and the sand may feel warm between your toes, but the area leading to the water is nothing but stones. So if you have sensitive feet or plan to take the kids, make sure there are some water shoes on their feet.

The experience is continuing to grow as the club is expanding. Since our last visit, Descanso Beach Club has added two more outdoor bars, several more cabana areas and also a new zip line. So now it really is the central location for excitement on the island. When it has all ended for the evening, remember you are just that short walk back to your hotel.

As always many of the evening events at Avalon are held at Descanso Beach Club and there is no better place on the island to enjoy the evening and some melodic steel drums. The perfect island experience accompanied with the cool evening breeze coming fresh off the rippling ocean waters makes for a good time for all. Be one of the relaxed by being sure not to miss the party!