Pavilion Lodge

Catalina Island has been a tourist
attraction longer than most might think.
Though William Wrigley Jr. successfully
modernized the Island, it was originally
dreamed up as a tourist attraction when
George Shatto bought it in 1887, and
started construction which included Hotel
Metropole. Unable to make the mortgage
payments on his island it was repossessed
and sold to the Banning brothers in 1892.
The brothers furthered the development of
the, now popular resort, and Avalon
incorporated as a city in 1913.

In 1915 a devastating fire burned out of
control for three days destroying a third of
the city including the Metropole, and the
St. Catherine Hotel was built in its place.
Unable to recover financially from their
loss, the Banning brothers sold their
interest to, gum mogul, William Wrigley Jr.
in 1919. He gave the island, among other
things, running water, electricity, the
Casino and the Atwater Hotel. Many more
hotels cropped up over the years with the
Pavilion Lodge laying claim in 1958 to a
coveted location just steps from the sand
at the south beach.

In it's suspected 7000 year history,
Catalina Island has amazingly retained it's
original character. Unfortunately many of
the first structures have since lost their
luster. Not the Pavilion Lodge, this family
friendly establishment was given a tasteful
make-over in 2003.

Our room was an unexpected surprise in relaxing hues of blues with
framed art that could be appreciated. Best of all was the extra
money they spent on bedding with cool cotton sheets, fluffy down
pillows and comforters. Air conditioning was a luxury, with an
oscillating fan and temperature regulated and controlled by remote.

Though our room #119 was small with two double beds filling most of
the room, we managed to fit in a rollaway bed for a fifth person.
There wasn't any room to store beach toys and suitcases after
unpacking our clothing into three drawers and a small closet.
Additionally there was a small bathroom with tub and shower, a
dining table for two and a dressing counter with a tray set for coffee.

The grounds are lush with tropical foliage. Well established palms
and banana leaf trees surround the large garden courtyard where,
throughout the day, guests can be seen lazily basking in the sun or
conversing at umbrella covered tables. A complimentary continental
breakfast is also offered here every morning from 7:00 to 10:30 with
muffins, cereal, fruit, coffee and juices.

Our August room rate for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday was secured
months in advance for a rate of $215 per night. Prices vary according
to supply and demand.

Pavilion Lodge meets the needs of those who choose to retreat here.
It's got the perfect location right off the beach, but is still quiet,
clean, stylish and comfortable. It gets two thumbs up!

Located at 513 Crescent Avenue in Avalon

Telephone (310) 510-2500