The improbable island that’s LA’s answer to Rottnest

Suddenly, we see some – way off in the distance, drinking at a lake between rolling dry hills. They’re furry blobs at this range, to be honest, but we feel pleased to be seeing bison at all.

Moving on, we pause at a lofty lookout to enjoy the view in blissful silence. That serenity is soon replaced by music, however, as a new phase of the tour begins. Having warned us to hang on, our driver puts the Hummer through its paces with a demonstration of rough-road driving to the background of heavy beats. I’m glad at this point that I’m not sitting up the back, though the sheer drop from my open-sided doorway sparks adrenaline enough.

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After the thrill ride, we head up to the local airport where we take a break at the pretty Spanish-style terminal building, buying drinks and admiring the views. Then it’s back into the Hummer for the return ride to Avalon.

But wait! A passing guide in another vehicle tells Andy about a new bison sighting, and before long we’re parked near a cattle grid, admiring a huge creature who’s relaxing beneath the shade of roadside trees. No one thought these bison would last on Catalina, but here one is – a miracle on this improbable island, courtesy of Hollywood.

THE DETAILS

TOUR
Bison expedition from $US103.95 including fees, see visitcatalinaisland.com

STAY
Hotel Metropole on Santa Catalina offers comfortable accommodation in a central location near dining options. Rooms from $US211 a night, see hotel-metropole.com

FLY & SAIL
Fiji Airways flies to Los Angeles via Nadi, see fijiairways.com
Catalina Express sails regularly to Santa Catalina Island. Adult one-way fare including fees $US47, Commodore Lounge $US67. See catalinaexpress.com

MORE
lovecatalina.com