Wrigley Memorial and Garden

The Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden fills the upper end of Avalon Canyon, about two miles from the waterfront, with a tower faced in colorful Catalina tile and a collection of plants found on the island and nowhere else. William Wrigley Jr. died in 1932 and the memorial was completed a few years later; it is a monument built of local stone and glazed tile, with a flight of steps leading to a viewing terrace over the canyon and bay. The surrounding garden, managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy, showcases endemic and native species, including the Catalina ironwood, the island manzanita and the cactus gardens that thrive on this dry, sunny slope. A small admission fee supports the Conservancy's work.

Getting there is part of the pleasure. The route follows Avalon Canyon Road out of town, past the little bird park, the golf course and the old stone buildings, and most visitors walk it in 30 to 45 minutes or take a shuttle or taxi for the uphill leg. The road is mostly gentle, shaded in places and flat enough for families, though sun and heat can build in summer, so carry water and wear a hat.

Golf carts and bikes are other options, and the canyon is lovely in the morning when the light is soft and the air smells of sage and eucalyptus.

At the garden, take your time. The paths pass through plantings arranged by habitat, from coastal sage scrub to chaparral, with labels that explain which species are endemic. Spring is especially colorful when native wildflowers bloom, and fall brings a quieter, golden mood. The tower itself is decorated with tile in blues, greens and ochres, the same pottery that appears in the Casino and many Avalon fountains.

Climb the steps for views down the canyon to the bay and the town's red roofs, and look for hummingbirds and the island's quail among the branches.There is a calm, reflective quality here that contrasts with the bustle of the waterfront.

Bring a picnic or buy a snack at the entrance, and sit in the shade of the garden while the bay shimmers below. The garden also offers guided walks at certain times, so ask at the gate or check the Conservancy's calendar. Combine this visit with the Catalina Island Museum earlier in the day and a late lunch in town.

If you plan to hike further, the Conservancy's trail network connects here, with routes into the interior for those who want a longer walk. Dogs are generally not allowed in the garden, and visitors should stay on paths to protect fragile plants.Seasonal timing is worth thinking about.

Spring brings the most flowers, summer brings long light and the need for shade, fall is warm and gentle, and winter can be crisp with the occasional rain that turns the hillsides green. In any season the garden is quietest early and late, and the tower catches the sun beautifully near the end of the day.

Remember that this is a working conservation landscape, so follow signs, avoid picking anything, and keep to the paths. Photography is welcome, and the combination of tile, cactus and sea view is hard to beat. Early arrivals often have the whole tower terrace to themselves, which makes the views feel private.