Shopping

Question

I haven't been to Catalina for 20 years and only remember touristy shops. I've heard that has improved. Can you recommend any art or clothing shops which are unique?

Thanks!

Answer

Catalina Island’s shopping scene has evolved beyond the typical touristy souvenir shops, and there are now several unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores in Avalon that offer a more curated experience.

For art and local crafts:

Catalina Island Museum Shop: This shop features local artists’ work, unique prints, jewelry, and handmade crafts that reflect the island’s history and culture.
The Artisan’s Shop: Small boutique with handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and home décor made by local artisans. Great for unique gifts and one-of-a-kind items.
Gaffey’s Art Gallery: Showcases paintings, photography, and sculptures by regional artists, often featuring Catalina-inspired scenes.

For clothing and accessories:

Catalina Island Apparel & Boutique: Offers island-inspired clothing, casual wear, and unique accessories that you won’t typically find on the mainland.
Bluewater Shop: A boutique that blends nautical-themed clothing with artisanal jewelry and beachwear, all locally sourced where possible.
Island Treasures: Mix of casual wear, jewelry, and hand-crafted items. Focused on quality and local flavor rather than mass-produced souvenirs.

Other tips:

Stroll along Crescent Avenue and Avalon Canyon for smaller galleries and pop-up shops that often feature local crafts and contemporary art pieces.
Look for limited-time artisan markets or craft fairs on weekends—Catalina sometimes hosts events with local artists, which are a great opportunity to find unique items.

Overall, while there are still traditional souvenir shops on Catalina, you can definitely find art-focused and boutique-style shopping if you explore Avalon’s main streets and the smaller side alleys where independent shops are clustered.