The South Coast and Catalina Island Travel Guide

Guidebooks

Fodor's Southern California 2013
Trade Paperback

Photo: John Connell/Courtesy of the Newport Beach CVB

With its tropical flowers and palm trees, the stretch of coast between Seal Beach and San Clemente is often called the California Riviera. Sure, few of the citrus groves that gave Orange County (OC) its name remain, and this region—south and east of Los Angeles—is now ruled by affluent subdivisions, high-tech businesses, theme parks, and shopping malls. But Orange County is still bucolic and refined enough to hold lots of appeal to both outdoor enthusiasts and culture vultures alike.

The South Coast and Catalina Island Hotels

Along the coast there's been a flurry of luxury resort openings in recent years; Laguna's Montage elevated expectations and was followed by the renovation...read more

Fodor's Choice

The South Coast and Catalina Island Restaurants

Much like L.A., restaurants in Orange County are generally casual, and you'll rarely see men in jackets and ties. However, at top resort hotel dining rooms...read more

Things To Do in The South Coast and Catalina Island

Explore the best sights, entertainment, and shopping with our top choices and insider tips.

$294 -- LA Oceanfront Hotel near Santa Monica Pier, 40% Off BookIt.com
$189-$209 -- Weekends & Holidays at Beverly Hills Hotel Residence Inn Beverly Hills
$113 -- Los Angeles: 4-Star Hollywood Hotel — $113 Hotwire.com
$106 -- 4-Star Los Angeles Downtown Hotel — $106 Hotwire.com

* Some taxes, fees additional

The South Coast and Catalina Island Experiences

Top Reasons to Go to the South Coast and Catalina Island

Catalina Island: Just a short hydrofoil away, Catalina Island feels a thousand miles away from the rest of the state of California. Wander around... Read more
The Great Outdoors

Water sports rule the coast of Orange County. Those inexperienced at riding the waves along the coastline can get a feel for the waves by riding... Read more