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Opened in 1929, this Art Deco masterpiece is one of the most famous attractions on the island, but you won't find any gambling in here. Instead, take a tour back in time to explore the world's largest circular ballroom or catch a flick in the original movie theater. This post was created for Away We Go with Carnival, the destination for getting in the getaway state of mind. Follow our social media and blog for the latest cruise and travel news, including our best vacation deals.
Things to do in Catalina Island
Eat to your heart’s content – On Carnival Imagination, there’s no shortage of food since there are dining options 24/7. The city of Santa Barbara is one of California’s most desired destinations and a highlight on any cruises to Ensenada and Catalina. Enjoy world-class shopping along State Street, then browse artisan cheeses, wine, and gifts at the Santa Barbara Public Market. For a more adventurous experience, take a kayak tour of Santa Barbara Harbor, and paddle around Stearns Wharf. End your stay by exploring the quirky and creative “Funk Zone”, where street art and boutiques line the narrow passages and locals mingle over coffee and wine. Travel to another country – The second stop on this cruise is to Ensenada, Mexico.
Catalina Island, CA
This dinner is limited to only 15 guests and you will be personally escorted by the chef to the galley where you’ll see where over 20,000 meals are prepared each day. This marine geyser phenomenon is caused by ocean waves being forced into a partially submerged sea cavern, causing large amounts of air and water pressure to build. The air and ocean water is expelled through the only exit, launching it several stories into the air. Experience Carnival LIVE – The cruise we were on was a special one, because we got to see the amazing Carrie Underwood perform live! She delivered an outstanding performance and blew us away with her incredible vocals. Carnival LIVE will be bringing more top performing artists on future cruises, see the schedule here.
Vacation Deals
You’ll take another small boat from the cruise ship to the shoreline of Ensenada. (Unlimited drinks included for an additional fee. Click here for details) So feel free to relax, grab some food and explore the ship. My (now) husband and I had only been dating for a few short months when I bought him this cruise as a surprise for his birthday.
Explore the Breathtaking Beauty of the Pacific Coastline
There’s a casino onboard and you’ll get to play your favorite table games and maybe even win a jackpot on the slots. Watch some great shows – Looking for something to do after an amazing dinner? Enjoy one of the live musical shows, watch some comedy, sing (or just watch) at the karaoke bar – there are endless entertainment options. I'm a Los Angeles local, yogi, traveler, foodie, pescatarian, Pom mom, hiker and adventurer sharing with you everything that I know about my awesome hometown and my favorite travel destinations.
There’s no point in worrying about getting bored on the cruise because there’s literally a million things to do. Since I don’t want this blog post to go on forever, I’ll only highlight my top 13 things to do on a Carnival Cruise to Catalina Island and Ensenada. Hashtag your cruise photos #carnival and #catalinaisland — you may see them right here. William Wrigley, Jr. was the one responsible for developing beautiful Catalina, so why not spend the afternoon paying tribute to him?
Art Deco Appreciation
Eat local Mexican cuisine – During our time in Ensenada, my mom and I had an incredible lunch featuring fresh oysters, steamed clams, abalone pasta and a panna cotta to finish. The shops onboard feature souvenirs, fine jewelry, cosmetics, liquors, accessories and more! They have lots of sales and promos going on all the time, so make sure you drop by a few times. Pop into one of the many stores for fun souvenirs to take home for the whole family.
If you're looking for something unique to the island, the Avalon General Store should top your list. It's your vacation, so grab your swimsuit and towel and find a spot on the soft sand at Descanso Beach. It's the only beach where you can legally drink on the island, so you can order your ice-cold treat of choice from the nearby beach club, then dig your toes in the sand as you soak up the view. This blowhole is an amazing natural marine geyser that is capable of shooting water well over 60 feet in the air.
Cruise Itinerary – Day 2: Catalina Island
Carnival Cruise Line Opens Departures From Long Beach - Porthole Cruise and Travel
Carnival Cruise Line Opens Departures From Long Beach.
Posted: Thu, 05 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Enjoy world-class customer service – If there’s anything I can really rave about the Carnival cruise, it’s the service! The crew is really service-oriented and will go out of their way to make your trip the best one ever. From our room steward, Ketut, who always made sure we had enough towels, to Ian, the senior maitre’d, and his assistant Rod, who made sure our food was always impeccable, the attention blew us away.
Take a wine tasting and vineyard tour at the Bodegas de Santo Tomas, Baja’s oldest winery. Finish your day with a delightful stroll around the Parque de la Bandera, where you’ll see dancing fountains lit in rainbow colors and choreographed to music for an outdoor show that’s sure to entertain. It’s a great option for an extended weekend getaway since lodging, meals and entertainment are all included in the cost. You won’t have to worry about driving anywhere and you can have fun all night long and be just a few flights of stairs away from your room. Dine at the Chef’s Table – For fellow foodies, I highly recommend experiencing the Chef’s Table dinner.
On Catalina Island, dive deep below the ocean’s surface on a submarine expedition to marvel at the colorful and diverse marine life. Continue your thrill-seeking on a zip line eco tour through the Descanso Canyon, where you’ll soar 600 feet above the ground. In Ensenada, you’ll find Aztec art, superb beaches, and some of the best wine and vineyards in all of Mexico.
The Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico Carnival Cruise is one of the most affordable cruises and vacation options out there! Sail the beautiful Pacific coast of California and the Mexican Riviera on these fabulous cruises to Ensenada and Catalina. Experience some of the most exciting ports along the U.S. and Mexican Pacific coast, as well as the beautiful Catalina Island. Hashtag your cruise photos #carnival and #ensenada— you may see them right here.
