Restaurant Reservations??
Trying to make reservations for 3 nights at different restaurants but they don't seem to take reservations?
Catalina Island, particularly Avalon and Two Harbors, is a popular tourist destination but many of its restaurants operate on a first-come, first-served basis rather than formal reservations. This can be frustrating when trying to plan meals across multiple nights, especially during weekends or holidays when the island is busiest.
Here’s some detailed guidance on handling restaurant visits on Catalina:
- Call ahead: While some restaurants do not take formal reservations online, calling them directly can sometimes allow you to put your name on a waitlist or confirm availability for larger groups or specific times.
- Arrive early or off-peak: Dining before typical dinner hours (e.g., around 5:00–5:30 PM) often ensures seating without waiting. Similarly, avoiding the peak 7:00–8:30 PM window reduces wait times.
- Consider lunch instead of dinner: Many restaurants are less crowded for lunch and may accommodate seating more easily.
- Alternative dining options: Some cafes, casual eateries, or grab-and-go spots may not require reservations at all and can provide a similar experience. Some resorts also offer dining for guests without public reservations.
In general, flexibility is key when dining on Catalina Island. While it may not be possible to secure reservations for every night, planning around off-peak hours, calling ahead where possible, and being prepared for a short wait will help ensure you can enjoy meals at your preferred spots.
