Catalina is a guaranteed escape, a shift in pace to island time. It’s also a getaway from gay cliché, and jump head first into romance. This is a seriously dreamy destination, so accessible from mainland Los Angeles, and so charming with the compact houses and restrictions on full-size vehicles. Snuggle up with a glass of wine and a blanket and watch the sky turn purple from the beach, or take in a hefty meal of lobster at El Galleon. Or for the sporty gay, nibble on some history at the old Cubs clubhouse transformed into the Catalina Country Club.

For those looking to bring their own party, groups of friends are often seen carousing around the newly developed Descanso Beach. Descanso has been outfitted with private cabanas, plush lounge chairs, and a fully-stocked bar clad all in soft white to transform this once sleepy beach into a rousing good time during the summer months.

Moving from Avalon into the interior, and there is always camping – or glamping, if you prefer – along the Trans-Catalina Trail, a visit to the Airport in the Sky, or a trek for Hollywood’s leftover bison. Buffalo burgers and bountiful seafood – score one for the home team!