Nine in the Canyon: Golfing Catalina’s Historic 1892 Course
Historic island fairways, small target greens, and big coastal views—Catalina’s classic 9 rewards smart shots over brute force.
The first tee sits tucked into Avalon Canyon like a secret worth keeping. Morning light spills over the ridgeline, the ocean lifting a faint salt note on the breeze. Somewhere down-canyon, Avalon Bay glints and the Catalina Casino’s curved silhouette stakes out the horizon. A red-tailed hawk drifts the thermals as if it owns the line of play. The fairway ahead runs long and narrow, ribbed by rough and guarded by sand—an invitation and a dare. Catalina’s historic 9-hole layout doesn’t shout; it nods, then asks you to bring your best.
Trail Wisdom
Book an early tee time
Mornings are typically calmer with softer light and fewer crowds—ideal for those small, fast greens.
Club up into the breeze
The canyon funnels ocean wind; choose one more club on exposed holes and favor knockdown shots.
Respect the bunkers
Deep traps demand a committed, open-faced escape—practice a few sand shots at the practice area before your round.
Wildlife has right of way
Deer and the island fox often graze near fairways; pause and give them space before you play through.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Avalon Canyon Nature Center, a short walk up the road for a quick look at local ecology
- •Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden for a post-round stroll among endemic Catalina plants
Wildlife
Catalina Island fox, Mule deer
Conservation Note
Much of Catalina is managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy; stay on paths, give wildlife space, and pack out any trash to protect fragile island habitats.
Built in 1892 as a three-hole loop, this course grew to 18 holes in 1929 and returned to nine after WWII—one of California’s oldest island golf experiences.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calm mornings, Green hillsides and wildflowers
Challenges: Occasional marine layer, Cool canyon starts
Expect mild temps and crisp greens. Early tee times offer great light and fewer winds.
summer
Best for: Consistent conditions, Long daylight windows
Challenges: Midday heat, Breezier afternoons
Plan around midday warmth; late-afternoon rounds bring a welcome ocean breeze and golden-hour views.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Clear visibility
Challenges: Intermittent Santa Ana winds, Dry rough
Clear days and shoulder-season calm can be superb; be ready for occasional gusty spells.
winter
Best for: Quiet fairways, Value-friendly travel
Challenges: Cool temps, Potential showers
Layer up for cool mornings and watch for passing fronts; greens can play softer after rain.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Spikeless golf shoes or sturdy sneakersEssential
Stable footing matters on sloped lies and firm canyon turf.
Light windbreaker
The canyon can hold a cool breeze even when the town feels warm.
32 oz water bottleEssential
Catalina’s dry air sneaks up on you—sip between holes to stay sharp.
Broad-brim hat and SPF 30+ sunscreenEssential
Island sun reflects off light-colored bunkers and fairways; protect face and neck.
Common Questions
What’s included in the 9-Hole Round Package?
Golf fees, rental clubs, balls, and tees are included for one 9-hole round.
Do I need my own clubs?
No—rental clubs are included in the package, making it easy to travel light.
Is a golf cart available or included?
Cart details aren’t specified in the package; contact the clubhouse directly to confirm availability and pricing.
What is the course layout and par?
The course features five Par 4s and four Par 3s with small greens and deep bunkers that emphasize accuracy.
Is there a dress code?
A formal dress code isn’t listed; standard golf attire and soft-soled shoes are recommended.
Are there practice facilities?
Yes, there’s a driving net and a small practice putting area for warm-up.
What to Pack
Water bottle to combat Catalina’s dry air; spikeless golf shoes for traction on sloped lies; light windbreaker for canyon breezes; sun protection (hat, SPF, sunglasses) for reflective island light.
Did You Know
Catalina Island sits roughly 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles and is home to the endemic Catalina Island fox, which recovered from near-extinction thanks to focused conservation efforts.
Quick Travel Tips
Reserve ferry tickets early, especially on weekends; Walk or taxi to the course—parking is limited and most visitors travel on foot in Avalon; Aim for morning tee times for calmer conditions and better light; Build in extra time to visit the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden just up Avalon Canyon.
Local Flavor
Post-round, grab fish tacos and a cold drink at Descanso Beach Club with your toes in the sand, or sample small-batch coffee and pastries at Catalina Island Brew House near the waterfront. For a classic Avalon evening, stroll the Green Pleasure Pier for sunset and an easygoing harbor vibe.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: LGB, LAX, SNA. Ferry: Catalina Express to Avalon. Course address: 1 Country Club Drive, Avalon, CA 90704 (walk or taxi from the ferry). Cell service: Generally good in town and fairways, with occasional canyon dead spots. Permits: None needed to play; reservations recommended for tee times.
Sustainability Note
Catalina’s open spaces are part of a vital island ecosystem—pack out all trash, stick to paths, and never feed wildlife. Your low-impact round helps protect habitats for the island fox and native birds.
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