Hello everyone! This is a friendly reminder that any of these fun places we may visit, we are a guest at. Please treat both businesses and trails with the utmost respect. We here at Hidden California follow the 'Leave no Trace' mantra, meaning whatever you bring with you comes back with you. If you see trash on a trail, please do your part to help remove it. Remember, we are not picking up trash from another person but instead cleaning up for Mother Nature. Happy adventures!
Campground, Two Harbors, CA 90704
Dog-Friendly: Yes Kid-Friendly: Yes (if you’re hiking between the two campgrounds, older experienced hiker kids only)
800.626.1496
Article by Alison Hoover / Photos by Josh Claros
Many Southern Californians are looking for ways to get back to basics and take a time out from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Hiking and camping are two of the best ways to do this, and to truly unwind, Catalina Island’s Two Harbors is a great hidden gem you need to check out.
California’s west coast is one of the best places in the U.S. for hiking, and Catalina is an extension of that. With perfect weather, stunning views, and an even more relaxed vibe, Catalina is the ideal place for budding and experienced outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Even better is that Catalina boasts campgrounds connected by a well-maintained trail, making it easy to get lost in nature without actually getting lost in nature. 
You can get from San Diego to Catalina in about an hour, leaving from one of three points. Departures occur as often as 30 times a day depending on the season, and tickets are available online. 
After a pleasant ferry ride from San Pedro to Catalina, you will find yourself right at Two Harbors campground. 
Tent camping and tent cabins are available for rent at prices that vary throughout the seasons. With about 60 sites, Two Harbors is large enough to provide nice accommodations, but small enough that you’ll still feel one with nature.
Kayaking around Two Harbors
Once you’re situated, you can relax amongst the views of the bright blue water and the rolling hills. You can grill up dinner or relax with a beer or wine purchased from Two Harbors General Store. Visitor Services also rents stoves and sells firewood to ensure you have everything you need.
If you’re bringing a lot of your own gear or buying a lot of supplies, transfer and delivery services are available for a small cost. 
If you’re looking for something a little less rustic, enjoy a meal at Harbor Reef Restaurant. You can soak up some sun from the beach or experience the water from a kayak. Two Harbors also offers scuba diving as well as horseshoes, bocce ball, and an assortment of other activities.
Trans Catalina Trail
After a great night’s sleep, you can hit the dirt and explore the Trans Catalina Trail. While hiking you’re sure to spot various birds and small animals, but you might also have the chance to see bison, bald eagles, and Catalina Island foxes.
Do remember to keep your distance and respect Mother Nature – bison are a lot faster than they look! 
The Trans Catalina Trail is 38.5 miles long with a max elevation gain of about 17,500 feet. When trekking between Two Harbors and Little Harbors, you’ll travel just over 5 miles on what is considered a moderately strenuous trail.
The time and distance of this hike makes for a great day trip between sites. There is also an unpaved 7-mile bike trail if you prefer two wheels to two feet. 
As with any hike and outdoor adventure, be sure to pack water, sunscreen, and bug spray. For traversing the Trans Catalina Trail, you are required to have a hiking permit. However, these are free and can be easily acquired from Catalina Conservancy or through any of the campgrounds. 
Little Harbors
After an afternoon of hiking, you’ll be ready for some rest. Little Harbors has about half as many sites as Two Harbors, which makes for a more intimate experience with nature. While there are no tent cabins here, you can rent 4-person tents for just $40 a night if you don’t want to bring your own gear.
Little Harbors also provides delivery from Two Harbors General Store if you’re hoping for a night cap or some fresh fruit to go along with your barbeque. While the accommodations at Little Harbors are a bit more rugged, you will be well-rewarded with unparalleled views. Don’t be surprised if you see a bison walk along the beach while you’re enjoying a campfire.
The Wildlands Express Shuttle is an easy and inexpensive way to get from Little Harbors back to the ferry dock in Avalon. Reservations are required, but you can also take a taxi service or put on your walking shoes. Before you leave the island, schedule some time to explore the quaint villages and local shops and cafes. Again, you can have your gear transferred to the ferry for you so you don’t have to lug it all around while you explore.
If you’re a fan of exploring with your four-legged companion, know that dogs can take the ferry with you, but are not allowed to stay at Two Harbors Campground (however Little Harbors and other campgrounds on the island do welcome dogs). Be sure to follow all guidelines for traveling with your pup. 
Whether you’re already sold on the Two Harbors trek or you’re thinking you might lay out your own route, don’t sleep on the opportunity to explore Catalina Island. It’s just off the coast of California and yet a world away all at the same time.
Alison is a world traveler who loves to spend her time writing and reading. When she’s home, you can find her playing with her pet rabbit and baking.
