Catalina Island – The Inn on Mount Ada

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Once you disembark the ferry in Avalon look up and to your left you will see the newly renovated Inn on Mt Ada.  It was once the home of William Wrigley, Jr. and it was named in honor of his wife Ada.  It is a six guestroom mansion overlooking the Avalon Bay with impressive views of Catalina Island, Avalon and the Pacific Ocean. A wrap around terrace allows for spectacular views from various angles.

I think of the Inn as an all-inclusive Bed and Breakfast with a complimentary Butler’s Pantry which is available throughout the day.  The Inn serves a hearty breakfast each morning and offers a seasonal lunch menu planned especially by the company’s executive chef.  Every evening a great selection of appetizers are served and paired with wines from all over the world. A complimentary shuttle will pick you up at whatever your arrival point on the island. And, for your convenience a golf cart is provided upon check-in to get you to and fro around the island.

2014-10-28_1500Duri2014-10-28_1038ng your stay think of the Inn on Mt Ada as a home away from home. The downstairs has a den which was once the pool room of Mr. Wrigley. It has been converted into a beautiful den with a cozy fireplace, bar and game table. The room steps out to the glassed-in sun porch where you can enjoy spectacular views of the Village of Avalon and the bay.

If you are thinking about a visit to Santa Catalina think of the Inn on Mount Ada.  Make your reservations quickly because it books fast. I understand it is also available for buyouts. To me that means small business retreats and family events.

 

 Santa Catalina beckons with yet another lodging option.

 

By: Rosa L. McArthur, CMP

Meeting Planners Plus

Santa Catalina Island – Southern California’s Island Oasis

CatalinaArial-2CatalinaAiralCasinoA bit of trivia, did you know that Santa Catalina Island is the southernmost island of the Channel Islands of California? I did not realize they stretched that far! It is just 22 miles south southwest of the City of Los Angeles. Many people know it as the island once owned by the William J. Wrigley Family which was purchased by him in 1919. Yes, you are right, the chewing gum person and owner of the Chicago Cubs. The destination has a rich and storied history, where movies were made (especially between the 30’s and the 50’s), movie stars lived, baseball team practiced (Chicago Cubs), couples fell in love and major galas and Jazz Festivals were staged.

 

 

CatalinaFlyerCatalinaDockRecently the Island has undergone a renaissance which is visibly seen as soon as you come ashore. Most people travel to the island by ferry. The Catalina Flyer departs from Newport Beach and the Catalina Express offers service from Dana Point, Long Beach and San Pedro.  You can conveniently book your tickets online. Just sit back and relax; you will enjoy the ride.

Santa Catalina Island is made up of two towns, the incorporated town of Avalon to the east end and unincorporated town Two Harbors to the west end. Outside of the two towns is a rugged wilderness with majestic beauty, owned and operated by the Catalina Island Conservancy. The Island is 22 miles long and 8 miles across. The Catalina Island Airport allows helicopter and private planes to land which is another way to access the island.

 

Catalina Island golf cartsCatalinaAvalonPoemSo leave behind the rush of city life and enjoy the slow island life of Santa Catalina. Miniature cars to deal with, just bikes, golf carts and walking.

The island is a great leisure destination but it also works well for small meetings, board meetings, retreats and team building programs. The island also offers a variety of hotels, restaurants, and shopping options.

For a small island there is a lot to talk about. Follow my next few blogs as we explore, places to see, things to do, where to stay and the fabulous Island Spa that just opened recently.

Santa Catalina beckons!  Just Come.

 

By Rosa L. McArthur, CMP

Meeting Planners Plus