The Pavilion Hotel

The grounds look cared for, but the rooms feel badly dated for the prices. Ours had a rusty lamp base and rust in the bathroom. Breakfast was a letdown too, just frozen pastries and coffee with almond milk or creamer. We also needed a microwave to warm baby milk. The front desk said they couldn't lend us one and didn't suggest anywhere else to find one. We asked for help with our bags, but that was mishandled and we had to carry them ourselves. Their text line was no use either, since nobody replied. There's only one way in and out, so staying near the noisy back street means a longer walk each time. Staff weren't as welcoming as you'd hope, and the service overall fell short. The place has plenty of potential, but it's missing the mark. We visit the island regularly and probably won't be back to Pavilion.

The room itself was a standard hotel room, and the temperature control kept resetting to its default. I woke up sweating at 4am every night and only worked out what was going on on my last night. The hotel is attractive and well maintained, with a pretty building and friendly, seemingly helpful staff, though interactions felt rushed, like they were moving guests through transactions. Maybe staying higher up the hill would have felt different. Catalina as a whole left me feeling like visitors weren't really wanted. One large corporation seems to own most of the island's stores and hotels, and it gave the place a Disney land feel in all the wrong ways. You're stuck on an expensive island, and several restaurants seem to share a kitchen. The waterfront isn't really a beach. It's where boats park, with a little sand spread over a platform and a ladder into murky, rocky water. I can't see the appeal of lying on that narrow patch or swimming there. The hotel offers beach towels and sometimes sets up an umbrella, on a first come, first served basis, as they say about everything. There's a free glass of wine and a pretty crummy snack plate in the evening. Breakfast is prefab pastries and bagels, while the coffee was fine. See my golf cart and 'Casino' / theatre reviews for more. My theme across these reviews is that Catalina Island sucks, and you shouldn't waste your time or money.

Kaylee at the front desk was so caring and helpful, and knew her stuff. The ocean is right in front, while the rooms are tucked away at the back. Ours was clean and a good size, with a roomy bathroom and an outside sink. The shaded patio greenery has a lovely jungle feel. We got enough rest to enjoy the beaches, and it's a great place for wedding guests. We'll come again and stay longer next time.

We visited in February 2014 and ended up staying an extra night after a storm canceled every ferry back to Long Beach. It was a great place for a vacation, with lots to see and do and spectacular views around the island. We took a submarine tour with a glass viewing window and had a really cool look at the underwater scenery. Also saw what I think was the smallest FedEx truck ever.