65.4
°F
|
°C
Overview
Located in Santa Catalina Island, Gibraltar Beach is a remote long, and narrow rock-and-sand beach with some pebbly parts. This beach has a wonderful backdrop of a series of oceanfront mountains.
Amenities
Gibraltar Beach does not have lifeguards. However, a ranger from the Catalina Island Conservancy patrols this beach daily. Gibraltar Beach does not have any other amenities except picnic tables, so plan your trip accordingly. Dogs are not allowed on Gibraltar Beach.
Activities
Gibraltar Beach offers many fun activities including sunbathing, beachcombing, camping, wildlife watching, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, scuba diving, and snorkeling. The water near Gibraltar Beach is often exposed to waves coming in from the northwest. However, the water here can be occasionally calm during summers. You can launch your kayak from Gibraltar Beach and explore interesting rock formations and sea caves present to the west of this beach. Scuba divers and snorkelers often go into the water to explore the vibrant underwater biodiversity present here. Divers also often explore the Little Gibraltar Reef present to the east of this beach. This reef and the surrounding kelp beds are home to many kinds of fish and marine invertebrates including moray eels, octopus, baitfish, opaleye, sheepshead, garibaldis, perches, gobies, lobsters, nudibranchs, and flatworms. In addition, you can also occasionally see marine mammals in the water near Gibraltar Beach including seals and sea lions. During low tide, you can also explore interesting rock formations present around Gibraltar Beach.
A popular activity in Gibraltar Beach is overnight tent camping - the beach offers an amazing and memorable oceanfront camping experience. However, if you are planning to camp here, please note that this beach does not have any amenities except picnic tables and you need to dispose of all the waste generated during your camping in order to preserve the beach’s pristine natural state. It is also important to note that campfires are not allowed here and you need to cook your food on a camp stove or a self-contained barbecue. We also recommend being careful while camping here as the beach and the areas around it are known to have rattlesnakes. In addition, it is also recommended that you carry a VHF radio during your visit so that you can easily send out distress calls in case of emergencies. If you are planning to camp here, you can visit Catalina Island Company’s website for more information regarding booking a campsite in Gibraltar Beach. In addition, you can also call Two Harbors Visitor Services at (310) 510-4205 for useful information regarding camping including weather conditions and site verification.
Parking
Getting to Gibraltar Beach can be difficult - the only way to get to the beach is via a boat or a kayak. Gibraltar Beach is five-and-a-half nautical miles away from the community of Two Harbors and around seven nautical miles away from the city of Avalon. You can rent kayaks from Two Harbors Dive & Recreation Center present in the community of Two Harbors. In addition, there are many private concessions in the city of Avalon which offer kayaks on rent including Descanso Beach Ocean Sports, Wet Spot Rentals, and Joe’s Rent-A-Boat. Boat operators are also available in Avalon who might drop you off at this remote beach for a fee. We recommend wearing layered clothing while visiting Gibraltar Beach as the weather here can change unpredictably.
Attractions
There are many attractions near Gibraltar Beach. The Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden has an interesting monument dedicated to the memory of the eminent industrialist and chewing-gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. In addition, the site’s botanic garden is also home to a wide variety of interesting flora. The garden also has a special emphasis on rare plant species endemic to California’s islands. The memorial and botanic garden also offer access to one of Santa Catalina’s most popular hiking trails known as the Garden to Sky Trail, which offers amazing Instagram-worthy views of the Santa Catalina Island shoreline. The Catalina Chimes Tower has Spanish-style architecture and was constructed in 1925 by William Wrigley Jr. The tower has around 200 chimes that play a melodious tune every 15 minutes between 8 am to 8 pm. If you are looking for another attraction near Gibraltar Beach, the Catalina Island Mini Golf Gardens has an 18-hole golf facility that offers a fun and challenging golf session.
Restaurants
If you get hungry, there are many great restaurants near Gibraltar Beach. Bluewater Grill Avalon is an upscale restaurant with an oceanfront dining area. In addition, this restaurant also serves fantastic seafood. Harbor Sands offers a pleasant oceanfront dining experience. In addition, the restaurant also serves amazing salads, seafood, burgers, tacos, and chicken skewers. If you are looking for another good and affordable restaurant near Gibraltar Beach, the modestly priced Coney Island West has a patio dining area and offers amazing burgers, fries, hot dogs, corn dogs, barbecue dishes, and sandwiches. In addition, this restaurant was also awarded TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice award in 2020
Hotels
If you are looking for a hotel near Gibraltar Beach, there are many great nearby options in the nearby city of Avalon. The 4-Star Mt Ada Bed & Breakfast was the former retreat of renowned industrialist William Wrigley Jr. and offers many amenities including a bar, a fireplace, a terrace, complimentary access to the butler’s pantry throughout the day (which includes alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, fruits, mixed nuts, and ice-creams), access to a golf cart for exploring the city of Avalon, and complimentary shuttle service from the airport, heliport, boat terminal, or other hotels. A more affordable hotel is the 3-Star Catalina Island Inn which offers many amenities including a spa and complimentary breakfast. In addition, this hotel is also situated conveniently close to some of the major landmarks in the city of Avalon. If you are looking for another good and affordable hotel near Gibraltar Beach, the 2-Star The Edgewater offers many amenities including a guest-use kitchen and beach chair and towel rental facility. In addition, this hotel also offers complimentary breakfast and afternoon drinks in the summer.
Amenities
Activities
Camping
Scuba Diving
Snorkeling
Rentals
Kayaking Canoeing
Sailing
Food
Access
Features
Top Traveler Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!
Does Gibraltar Beach have parking? If so, is it free or paid?
No, this Beach does not have dedicated parking but has street parking near the entrance.
Does Gibraltar Beach have lifeguards?
No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.
Is Gibraltar Beach a family-friendly beach?
No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.
Is Gibraltar Beach good for swimming?
Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.
Does Gibraltar Beach have restrooms?
No, this Beach does not have restrooms on or near the beach.
Is Gibraltar Beach a nude beach?
No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.
Is there food near Gibraltar Beach?
No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.
What are the activities at Gibraltar Beach?
Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Camping, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling.
Does Gibraltar Beach have accommodations for people with disabilities?
No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.
Is Gibraltar Beach a dog-friendly beach?
No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.
Is Gibraltar Beach good for surfing?
No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.
EXPERT ADVICE AND TIPS
October 9th, 2024 Sandee
Discover how hurricanes, like the powerful Hurricane Milton, are classified into categories and the damage each category can cause. Learn how Florida and other regions prepare for such storms.
October 2nd, 2024 Sandee
If you're visiting California's iconic beaches this season, you might encounter some unusual, vibrant blue creatures washed ashore. These tiny marine organisms, known as Velella Velella, are captivating tourists and locals alike. Often referred to as "by-the-wind sailors," these creatures have recently been appearing in large numbers along the West Coast, including popular beaches in Santa Cruz, Malibu, and Santa Barbara. This phenomenon adds a touch of intrigue to California’s already scenic shores, making your beach visit even more unforgettable.
August 20th, 2024 Sandee
Quick! That’s how fast it happened—one moment, Jamie Acord was enjoying a peaceful stroll along the beach with her husband, and the next, she was waist-deep in quicksand.
May 28th, 2024 Sandee
Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California
May 14th, 2024 Sandee
Discover the top cliff jumping beaches in the United States! Dive into our expert guide to find the most exhilarating spots for adrenaline-pumping jumps, breathtaking views, and unforgettable beach adventures. Perfect for thrill seekers!
February 7th, 2024 Sandee
For pet owners, leaving Fido or Fluffy behind while the family hits the beach just won't do. Luckily, many coastal destinations now cater to vacationing animal lovers by allowing dogs, cats, and other pets to enjoy the seaside fun too. From wide open spaces to play, pet perks, and accommodations, here are the top pet-friendly beaches to visit for a pawsome vacation with your furry best friend.
February 7th, 2024 Sandee
A successful beach trip requires thoughtful preparation and packing. You don't want to forget essential items and have to cut your day short or run out constantly for supplies.
February 7th, 2024 Sandee
You've dreamt of this beach vacay for months. The sunscreen is packed, cute swimsuit donned, and you made your playlist filled with sunny tunes. You head out ready for a blissful, relaxing day soaking up the summer sun, waves, and vistas. Then...something happens that puts a damper on the day. Beach trips don't always go as envisioned. From weather mishaps to forgetting necessities, here are 8 common things that can sabotage and ruin an otherwise glorious beach day.
February 1st, 2024 Sandee
With over 800 miles of coastline, California is synonymous with beach culture. Up and down the Golden State, you’ll find lively seaside towns and cities where you can wake up to ocean views, spend the day tanning on the sand, and enjoy fresh coastal cuisine.
February 1st, 2024 Sandee
The United States Virgin Islands offer a beautiful tropical escape for travelers looking to experience the stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. For those who are interested in naturism or nudism, it's important to be aware of the laws and cultural attitudes towards nudity in this region.
February 1st, 2024 Sandee
Nudism, also known as naturism, is a lifestyle that promotes the freedom and comfort of being nude in a non-sexual context. In the United States, there are laws and regulations that dictate where and when nudism is permissible. As a travel blogger and enthusiast of naturist activities, I have explored the various laws and cultural attitudes towards nudism in the US.