Toyon Bay(Bannings Beach)

For dining near Toyon Bay, visitors can explore the variety of restaurants in Avalon. Bluewater Avalon offers a waterfront seafood experience with a deck and a lively atmosphere. Descanso Beach Club provides a casual dining experience with great cocktails and beachside views. Avalon Grille is known for its American menu and bayside dining. The Lobster Trap is a popular spot for seafood lovers, offering a casual menu and lively vibe. These options offer a mix of seafood, American cuisine, and casual dining experiences.

Avalon offers a range of accommodations for visitors to Toyon Bay. The Avalon Hotel provides Craftsman-style rooms with garden or ocean views. Pavilion Hotel is a relaxed option overlooking the beach. Hotel Metropole is an upscale waterfront hotel with a spa and dining complex. Hotel Atwater offers simple yet comfortable accommodations with ocean views. These hotels cater to different tastes and preferences, from casual to upscale experiences.

Toyon Bay itself is primarily focused on educational activities and does not offer public amenities like restrooms or showers. However, the nearby Avalon area provides a range of amenities, including public restrooms and showers at the public beaches along Crescent Avenue. Visitors can also rent equipment for activities like snorkeling or kayaking from shops in Avalon. The CIMI facility at Toyon Bay provides dorm-style housing and dining for participants in their programs, but these are not available for general public use.

Toyon Bay is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and volleyball. The beach is part of the Catalina Island Marine Institute, which focuses on marine science education and provides a variety of educational programs for students. Nearby Avalon offers additional activities like zip lining, an aerial adventure course, and a scenic golf course. The crystal-clear waters around Catalina Island make it a perfect spot for snorkeling and exploring marine life.

Toyon Bay itself does not provide specific disability access features as it is primarily a private educational facility. However, the nearby public areas in Avalon offer wheelchair-accessible amenities, including restrooms and parking. Many of the hotels and restaurants in Avalon also provide accessible facilities, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the broader area.

Parking near Toyon Bay is limited due to its private nature and location. Visitors typically park in Avalon and then access the beach via a short drive or hike. Avalon offers various parking options, including free street parking and paid lots, but these can fill up quickly during peak season. It's advisable to plan ahead and consider using public transportation or shuttle services available in Avalon.

Toyon Bay has a rich history, having been originally inhabited by the Pipi Mari (or Pimugnans) and Torqua tribes. It was later known as Banning's Beach due to its use by the Banning family. During World War II, the site was used as an Office of Strategic Services training camp. Today, it serves as a marine science facility and summer camp, providing educational programs focused on marine life and conservation. The bay's unique history and natural beauty make it a fascinating spot for both historical and environmental enthusiasts.

Toyon Bay is surrounded by several attractions that make it a compelling destination. The nearby Avalon area features the historic Catalina Casino, which offers tours and hosts events. The Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour and the Catalina Aerial Adventure provide thrilling outdoor experiences. Additionally, the island's scenic hiking trails and beautiful beaches like Descanso Beach and Lover's Cove are popular attractions. Visitors can also explore the charming shops and restaurants along Crescent Avenue in Avalon.