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Catalina has very few hotels with pools, and for families the one to book is the Catalina Canyon Inn. It has a heated outdoor pool in a quiet canyon setting above town, and a shuttle into Avalon so you are not walking the hill with kids. Hotel Atwater is the other family favorite, a historic hotel in the middle of town near the harbor, but it has no pool of its own, so swimming means the ocean at the beaches nearby. Most other Avalon hotels, like the Pavilion and the Bellanca, put beach access ahead of a pool. Below is how each one scores on the four things that matter at the pool.
| Hotel Name | Best For | Pool Highlight | Key Amenity | Booking Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Atwater | Quiet Retreats | Descanso Beach Club Access | Complimentary Breakfast | Compare Rates → |
| Pavilion Hotel | Beach Lovers | Serene Garden Setting | Wine & Cheese | Booking.com |
| Catalina Canyon Inn | Relaxed Families | Heated Outdoor Pool | Free Shuttle | Compare Rates → |
| Bellanca Hotel | Modern Comfort | Easy Beach Access | Rooftop Deck | Booking.com |
Hotel Atwater
Hotel Atwater is a historic hotel near the harbor, a quiet and central base where everything in town is a short walk.
- What it’s like: Historic, updated inside, and right in town.
- The Pool: There is no pool on site. Swimming means the ocean, at the town beaches or Descanso Beach Club a short walk away.
- Tip: Walk to the beach in the morning and back for lunch, since nothing is far.
Good to know: Without a pool at the hotel, keep a beach bag packed and ready by the door.
Every hotel below gets our own 1-10 rating for how genuinely relaxing it is to bring kids poolside. Not a generic star rating, but four specific things that actually matter to tired parents:
- Toddler Entry: How easy it is for small children to get in. Zero-entry pools, splash pads and shallow areas score highest.
- Lazy River: Whether there’s a lazy river or float feature, and how good it is.
- Shade Coverage: Cabanas, umbrellas, or covered areas so you’re not baking in direct sun all day.
- Lounge Chairs: How much comfortable poolside seating there actually is to relax in.
Catalina Canyon Inn
The Catalina Canyon Inn sits in a canyon away from the busy town, for families who want a quiet afternoon at the pool.
- What it’s like: Quiet and green, tucked away from the harbor crowds.
- The Pool: A lovely heated outdoor swimming pool that is perfect for casual afternoon splashes.
- Tip: Take the free shuttle into town and skip the walk up the hill.
Good to know: The pool is in full sun, so bring extra sunscreen.
FAQs About Family Trips to Catalina Island
Do all hotels on Catalina Island have swimming pools?
No, not all hotels feature a traditional pool. Many, like the Pavilion Hotel or Bellanca Hotel, prioritize beach access or beautiful garden spaces instead.
Is it easy to get around the island with kids?
Yes, the town of Avalon is very walkable, and many hotels offer shuttle services. We recommend embracing the slow pace and walking to nearby ice cream shops.
What is the best way to book a family stay?
Check availability on a booking site to compare rates, and confirm the room fits your family before you book.
Catalina Island is one of the seven towns in our ranking of the best California beach towns for families.
More Family Travel Guides for Catalina Island: