On Feb 28, 2008, Chuck and I rented a Cessna 172 and ventured out to Santa Catalina Island (airport code KAVX) which is about 20 or so miles of the So. California mainland, As we approached the island we saw low level marine layer clouds all around the island, which is common is Southern California. The airport is at 1600 feet above sea level was well above the low layer. Look at the clouds surrounding the island in the runway approach pictures. It was neat landing "above the clouds" At the departure end of the runway, is a straight drop-off cliff down 1600 feet to the water. No pilot mistakes forgiven here by mother nature!

Once we landed at Catalina Airport there is a 30 min bus ride down the twisty roads to the small island city of Avalon. The rest of the island is protected undeveloped land. The bus ride down the high mountain roads with no guardrails was a treat!! The weather was perfect that day, 70's and Sunny! I will say this visit to this fascinating island was very different than the flying island get-a-ways in the northeast I am used to like Block Island Rhode Island and Nantucket Massachusetts, to name a few.. Catalina was known as a homestead for the famous Wrigley family, and is also known for great diving and snorkeling.

Catalina Island is one of many islands off Southern California. Other islands nearby are San Clemente, Santa Cruz, San Miguel, and some others. Unfortunately, Catalina is the ONLY island you can fly a general aviation private airplane to. The other ones mentioned are either used by the military and are restricted or wildlife refuges and no airports available.