Avalon's Only Waterfront Beach House! Best Location! Best Views! Best Deck!

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You're Not Dreaming - This Is Your Deck and View!

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 81 sq m

Popular amenities

Barbecue grill

Kitchen

Outdoor space

Ocean view

Explore the area

Avalon, CA

Catalina Island Visitor Center2 min walk
Catalina Island Museum5 min walk
Catalina Island Golf Course18 min walk
Orange County, CA (SNA-John Wayne)54 min drive

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Double Bed

Other (See Description)

1 Double Bed

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Bathroom 3

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Dining Area

About this property

The GRISHAM HOUSE: AVALON'S ONLY WATERFRONT BEACH HOUSE!

You can throw a stone into the water from our spacious 65 FOOT WIDE wrap around deck with SPECTACULAR, sweeping views across the harbor, the town, the beach and the ocean. This is the ideal place for dining, drinks, entertaining, sunbathing, playing cards or simply watching the world go by. You'll never want to leave!

We are superbly located just steps away from the beaches, shopping, restaurants, bars and all the recreational activities like swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, parasailing, basketball, volleyball and the many great sightseeing tours which are available. We are also a very short, 2 minute level walk from the boat dock.

During the day, we are right in the middle of all the activity Avalon has to offer; full of hustle and bustle. And nearly everyone who takes the ferry walks right past our property, so if you enjoy people watching, you'll be in heaven. At night however, after the 'day trippers' go home and the businesses below us close, it is pretty calm and quiet.

Our beloved home is 109 years old, but it is well cared for, comfortable and cozy. It's a classic beach house where couples and families will make lasting memories. BUT if you need a "room service Mariott hotel type experience" then you should go look elsewhere.
Our superior location and wonderful and spectacular view decks is what attracts guests to us year after year. Several of our regulars have been coming for more than 20 years. THERE IS NO FINER SPOT FOR A FAMILY VACATION OR A COUPLES GETAWAY.

This unit is located on the middle floor of a 3 story property. THERE IS NO ELEVATOR. This unit is 14 steps up from the ground. On the ground floor are 2 clothing/gift shops, an electric bike rental, a snorkel rental, and a psychic.

This Middle Floor Unit sleeps 8. It consists of:
- Bedroom with Queen bed, small TV & private 3/4 bath
- Bedroom with Double (full) bed & private 3/4 bath
- Bedroom with Queen bed and great harbor view
- Bedroom with Queen bed & small TV
- There is a 3rd Full Bathroom off the living room & the living room also has a small TV.
- Wireless Internet Access
- Gas BBQ
- Fully stocked kitchen with electric stove, microwave and plates, cups, utensils, blender and basic coffee maker.
- Wall Furnace. The is no air conditioning.

As mentioned, our property is 109 years old and sound can travel between floors. Therefore, unless you have rented both units, we have a 'Quiet Time' policy after 10:00 PM and before 8:00 AM, where you must reduce the volume of your TV, music and conversations.

- NO SMOKING and NO PETS ALLOWED.

WHY STAY ANYWHERE ELSE? Our property offers you the BEST location; the BEST beachfront viewing decks in town; and the BEST vacation rental value for your money. We get repeat guests year after year; you'll see why! (Go online to VRBO or CIVR Catalina Island Vacation Rentals to compare our rates with other properties that don't even have views!).

This property is best suited for 2 families; 1 large extended family or 3-4 couples. . There is no air conditioning, although it's not needed very often at the beach. We do have portable fans. Lastly, we do NOT have a golf cart.

Sorry, but this is our family vacation home and it is not our policy to rent out to groups such as bachelor/bachlorette parties; fraternity/sorority parties, 21st birthdays, college spring break, etc. ALSO, if you are part of an even larger group or family reunion, we have restrictions on the number of visitors you are allowed. Minimum age limits apply and young adults renting on their own must be 25 years of age. 2 NIGHT MINIMUM at all times and 3 Night Minimum in High Summer Season. Higher rates apply around special events and major holidays.

**BOOKING IN ADVANCE** We have many regulars that come year after year and we always give them first opportunity to re-book for the following year. Therefore we do NOT book more than about 10 months in advance.**

keywords: beach house, waterfront beach house, oceanfront property

Property manager

Randy Grisham

Languages

English

Amenities

Kitchen

Outdoor space

Ocean view

Barbecue grill

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Air conditioning

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

It is NOT our policy to rent to groups such as bachelor/bachelorette; fraternity/sorority; 21st B-days, etc.

AGE RESTRICTIONS: Single adults on their own must be 25 years of age.

QUIET TIME In consideration of any guests in the top unit, you must reduce all TV, music and conversations to quiet levels between 10:00 PM - 8:00 AM.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Avalon

Located in Avalon, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Catalina Island Museum and Avalon Theater are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Catalina Island Golf Course and Avalon Port. Three Palms Avalon Arcade and Nature Center at Avalon Canyon are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and cycling nearby.

Avalon, CA

What's nearby

Catalina Island Visitor Center - 2 min walk
Avalon Port - 3 min walk
Catalina Island Museum - 5 min walk
Catalina Casino - 11 min walk
Catalina Island Golf Course - 18 min walk

Getting around

Avalon, CA (AVX-Catalina) - 1 min drive

Restaurants

‪Descanso Beach Club - ‬15 min walk
‪Catalina Island Brew House - ‬2 min walk
‪Bluewater Grill - ‬4 min walk
‪Luau Larry's - ‬2 min walk
‪Pancake Cottage - ‬1 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Avalon's Only Waterfront Beach House! Best Location! Best Views! Best Deck! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Avalon's Only Waterfront Beach House! Best Location! Best Views! Best Deck!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Avalon's Only Waterfront Beach House! Best Location! Best Views! Best Deck!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Avalon's Only Waterfront Beach House! Best Location! Best Views! Best Deck! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Catalina Island Visitor Center and Catalina Island Golf Course. Avalon Pier and Avalon Port are also within 5 minutes.

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Kelly C.

13 June 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Epic

Our long over due family vacation was epic! We loved staying at this lovely waterfront home and truly hope to be able to enjoy the accommodations again in the near future! Convenient location! Everything was clean and fresh! The patio is awesome and the view just completed the whole effect! Thank you!

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gregory B.

2 June 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location

Great property. Perfect to relax on the deck with friends. Conveniently located near shops, bars, restaurants, etc.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle B.

2 June 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Girls Birthday Weekend

Our stay in Avalon was amazing! The property was perfect! Exactly as described. The location couldn't have been better. All of the girls plan on returning on with their families.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robert F.

10 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great getaway

Great getaway great location great house!

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan R.

27 Apr 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The best location

The magnificent wrap around deck allowed seven women to enjoy our morning coffee in very comfortable outdoor seats and lunch and/or dinner at the large table with eight chairs and a new cover. As it overlooked the main street we were able to watch the people coming into town from the ferry or cruise ships. We walked to shops, coffee house, grocery store, and shopping with ease. The location absolutely could not have been better. Inside the kitchen was very well stocked with anything you needed. There was a large table for eating or playing games at night. Two couches provided comfortable seating. We all slept well in the beds. Closet and drawer space was plentiful. With seven women, having three bathrooms, two of which were en-suite, was extremely helpful. The listing doesn’t mention it, but there is a twin bed in one bedroom, making five beds total. We all agreed we would rent this again and would recommend it to friends and family as the perfect place to stay on the island.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jill P.

8 Apr 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location

We had a great girls weekend. Location is perfect! Would definitely stay here again.

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kami V.

1 Nov 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Celebrating my 60th with my 5 daughters

We have stayed at two other VRBO's this year which is a change from always staying at hotels or resorts. Our first experience in Alabama came with serious challenges with regard to cleanliness and overall upkeep. The second was amazing, however the property was in the process of being 'reapproved' by the city (New Orleans) leading to constant inspection and maintenance interruptions. This stay was flawless!!!! The property is perfectly located right in the heart of Avalon. Restaurants, beach, ferry port (less than 5 min walk), shops, activities, and lots of people watching. You literally can walk 3 minutes for coffee each morning, faster than you can brew your own. By the way, this property has it all. It is so well stocked with everything you would need to enjoy and have fun. Including; puzzles, games, dishes to prepare a meal, a snack, or a cocktail. There are so many leftover spices, coffee filters, coffee, creamer, the list goes on. I would highly recommend checking out the supplies before heading to the store. Beds were very comfy, atmosphere awesome, extremely clean and cared for, and the decor so incredibly homey. You don't feel like you're anywhere but home. Now for the wrap around deck. It's so spacious with ample furniture to sit and enjoy the view. We sat outside a great deal, reading, chatting, playing games and did I mention people watching :-) ! Thank you to the Grisham's for allowing us to experience their property. It's absolutely beautiful.

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Donald S.

23 Oct 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome home

Location, location,location

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

steve d.

11 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family fun

Best view in Catalina. The huge deck allowed our grand children to run and play. It’s that big. 150 yards from Catalina Express. Steps from rentals, restaurants. Love it

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Diane S.

6 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing! Best place in the island!

Randy’s place was amazing. Steps away from everything. This is a must stay place!

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Heidi G.

1 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location!!!

We had a wonderful time at this beautiful home. It was comfortable, roomy, and clean. We felt very special to stay at such a great home. The location was fabulous. If you like a beautiful view and accessibility to everything on the island, this is the house!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa W.

23 Apr 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The BEST place to stay in Avalon!!

This is by far, the very best place to stay in Avalon. It's a short walk from the ferry landing, which is nice. The accommodations were excellent. The kitchen had everything you would need, if you wanted to cook. The wrap around deck was amazing with spectacular views of the town and surrounding areas. We spent hours sitting on the deck people watching!! E-bike rentals are on the first floor and golf cart rentals were right next door. Everything is within walking distance. We stayed three nights and loved every minute of it!! Randy was very communicative and responded to any questions we had about the property. He also provided a lot of local information on restaurants, night life, things to see and do!! We will definitely stay here again!

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Geoffrey B.

18 Apr 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The best location in Avalon

I was very surprised that this place was available. We have been visiting Avalon for 10 years now and this house is by far the best we have experienced. The house is well maintained and the best part is the beautiful deck with comfortable furniture and a brand new bbq. I will be booking this one again for sure, you can’t beat the location which is right on the strip with easy access to all restaurants and shops.

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bob H.

19 Mar 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Totally worth it!!

Great views. House was very comfortable and located perfectly. Will definitely book again

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tommy A.

16 Mar 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family trip

The property was AWSOME and everything went as planned Grisham house is in the heart of the island I loved looking out in the harbor every morning thank you for having us we will definitely be back.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Allison K.

14 Mar 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

We had a wonderful stay at this rental. The location and views are unbeatable! It comes with a little street noise in the evening but it wasn’t obtrusive. We enjoyed the patio and kitchen was well appointed for cooking. We would love to stay here again for our next trip.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ron K.

30 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome!

Can’t beat the location. Located in the heart of everything. Awesome patio overlooking Avalon bay. While the location was excellent, I don’t think the home has been updated in 50 years.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shannon M.

14 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Catalina Dreamhouse!

This place captured the essence of Catalina!! I don't ever want to stay anywhere else! Thank you so much Randy!

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jaimie R., ventura

11 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location. We want to come back next year!

Fantastic

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Andrea P.

27 Aug 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best place to stay in Avalon

This place is amazing. It’s all about the location and the deck for relaxation. This is the second time my family and I have stayed here and we plan to make a a yearly thing. We don’t want to stay anywhere else when we come to Avalon. The communication with the owner is also amazing. Anytime I had a question his response was prompt! I really appreciated the quick response to anything questions I had when we were there. Very helpful!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer L., San Diego

4 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay

Epic deck with and epic view. Really nice place to stay.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bryan U.

23 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome VBRO

We loved our stay, and this will be our #1 choice when we get back to Catalina. Everything we wanted in a VBRO. Thanks for having us!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ryan A.

21 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

great location with a great deck

always a great time at this property. our second time and we spend a lot of it on the deck. such a great location and view. this is our go to property in Catalina.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Vellany N.

5 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Love Love Love!

I have known about this rental property for the last 10 years, but this is the first time that I decided to splurge to rent it. Wow Wow Wow! Super cute and deceptively spacious, the #1 winning feature is the huge deck overlooking the front street! Although we spent a lot of time in town, my favorite thing to do was to make a drink, lay out on the chaise lounge chair, and people watch. Be aware that it can be a bit noisy with the golf cart rental next door, but that didn’t bother us one bit. We had a wonderful time, Randy was so generous and flexible, and I will absolutely be visiting this property again.

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kirsten G.

13 Apr 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best trip ever!

Such a wonderful trip! The house and location couldn’t have been better. Randy was reachable when needed and very communicative. Can’t wait to come back!

Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022