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free-roaming American Bison, descendants of those left after a movie shoot in the 1920s, and upon arrival, we explored El Rancho Escondido's Spanish-style courtyard and stables, and enjoyed a horse exhibition. e Saddle & Trophy Room houses just that, and many other Wrigley family memorabilia. e tour also includes a visit to the ranch's newly built Bishop's Chapel to enjoy awe-inspiring aerial views of Catalina's windward side, as well as a stop at Airport in the Sky, which sits on a plateau 1,600 feet above sea level, one of the highest points on the island. at evening, we dined at Avalon Grille, which offers elevated cuisine in an upscale yet relaxed setting overlooking Avalon Bay. A menu of chef-inspired dishes includes Classic Beef Tartare and AG Grilled Octopus, which we loved. e restaurant's swanky central bar serves craft beers, signature cocktails, and world-class wines — and after the vineyard I had just seen, a glass of Rusack wine seemed quite appropriate. On the morning of our final full day, we walked about ten minutes, past the historic Catalina Casino, to Descanso Beach Club, home base for Catalina Island's Zip Line Eco Tour. We tested our bravery with two hours of adrenaline-fueled fun that began 600 feet above sea level. Five separate lines zigzag across the canyon and through a grove of towering eucalyptus trees at speeds approaching 35 MPH (those ages 5 to 9 or less than 80 pounds must ride tandem with an adult). e tour ended at picturesque Descanso Beach Club, overlooking the lapping waves, where we recalled the thrilling moments over oysters, ceviche, sips, and yes, more chicken tenders. e sparkling turquoise water calling to us, we rented a double kayak and stand up paddleboard from the adjacent Descanso Beach Ocean Sports to explore the coastline, and where I tested my core and quad strength (I'm pleased to report that I didn't fall off the board the entire time, even through boat wake). e smiles on our faces were a testament to the pure joy and beauty we were so grateful to be a part of in that moment and during our entire getaway. On the ferry ride back to the mainland, with happy bellies and happier hearts, we already began dreaming of our next excursion back to our newfound favorite summer family destination. 800.626.1496, visitcatalinaisland.com OPPOSITE Catalina Island is just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California; Catalina Express' fleet of modern boats make for a quick, easy getaway TOP LEFT The newly renovated Hotel Atwater is centrally located and offers modern, upscale amenities LEFT Nestled in Catalina's interior 12 miles outside of Avalon is El Rancho Escondido, originally started as the Wrigley family's Arabian horse ranch MIDDLE LEFT Making new friends — and quickly returning them to their home — in Avalon Bay MIDDLE RIGHT Enjoying the pristine water with rentals from Descanso Beach Ocean Sports ABOVE Pier 24 is Avalon's newest waterfront culinary debut @ranchandcoast RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024 89