Banning House Lodge

Banning House Lodge is the characterful heart of Two Harbors lodging. Perched on a hillside above Isthmus Cove, the historic lodge was built in the early twentieth century as a home for the Banning family, who owned the island at the time, and it has been hosting visitors in various forms ever since. The setting is the main attraction: from the porch and windows you look out over two bays, with sailboats at anchor, the hills rolling away and the sky enormous at night. The lodge provides a rustic, peaceful alternative to Avalon, ideal for hikers, couples and anyone who wants to wake up to quiet instead of crowds.

Two Harbors is a small community with limited services, so staying at the lodge shapes your whole visit. You can walk down to the cove for a swim, snorkel or kayak, join a hike on the Trans-Catalina Trail, or simply sit on the porch with a book. The village bar and restaurant are a short walk away, and in the evenings the sunset over the water is a highlight.

Because there is little light pollution, stargazing is spectacular. Rooms in a historic building tend to be simple and may differ in size and bathroom arrangements, so check the details and manage your expectations; the experience is about place rather than polish.

Getting there takes planning. Ferries to Two Harbors run on a limited schedule from the mainland, and a seasonal shuttle connects Avalon with the west end. Arrive with essentials, as the village store has a limited selection, and bring cash and layers for the cool evenings. Wildlife is part of the charm: bison sometimes wander near town, foxes are curious, and birds fill the trees.

Respect the animals and keep food secured. If you are planning a hike to Parsons Landing or a backcountry tour to Island's End, the lodge is an excellent staging point.Book early, particularly in summer, spring wildflower season and holiday weekends, because the number of rooms is small. Ask about meal arrangements, as some stays include simple breakfast options, and check the transport schedules before you reserve. Travelers who enjoy solitude, birdwatching, photography or simply an escape from phones and traffic will find Banning House Lodge a refreshing change.

Combine it with a night or two in Avalon for a full island experience, and you will see both the lively and the wild sides of Catalina.Consider the seasons too. Spring brings green hills and wildflowers, summer brings warm water and busy coves, fall is calm and golden, and winter is quiet, with dramatic skies and a good chance of whales offshore. Whichever you pick, pack a warm layer, a flashlight and good walking shoes, and leave extra time for ferry connections.