A Surprise, A Reset~Catalina Island

Everyone who knows my mom knows one thing—she is almost impossible to surprise. And yet, somehow… I finally pulled it off. I’m still a little proud of that.

I originally asked her to write down places she’d want to travel to. Of course, she didn’t. So I did what I always do—I leaned into one of my love languages: gift giving. Not just anything, though. I love gifting experiences. Something you can feel, remember, and carry with you.

After a lot of brainstorming, I landed on Catalina Island. It felt right. Peaceful, scenic, and intentional—everything I wanted her to experience.

We traveled May 24th through May 29th, flying from Atlanta to Los Angeles. From there, we made our way to San Pedro and stayed overnight before catching the ferry the next morning. That ferry ride—about an hour and fifteen minutes—felt like the beginning of something special. Like we were slowly leaving everything behind and heading into a softer space.

And Catalina… delivered exactly that.

We stayed at Hotel Mac Rae, which ended up being the perfect location—steps away from restaurants, shops, and views that didn’t even look real at times.

Our first day, we took a scenic tour through the island, and I’m so glad we did. It gave us a feel for everything and helped us slow down and just take it all in. No pressure, no rushing—just experiencing.

Somewhere in between riding around the island in a golf cart, laughing and stopping for pictures, and spending time at Descanso Beach Club, I realized this trip was more than just a vacation.

It was a moment.

We explored, visited the horses at Catalina Island Horseback Adventures, ate good food, and just existed together. No distractions. No stress. Just time.

And the simple things ended up meaning the most—watching her relax, seeing her smile in a different way, knowing she felt cared for.

That meant everything to me.

Because the truth is, I wouldn’t be who I am without her.

This trip reminded me how important it is to create moments like this. Not just the big, elaborate plans—but the intentional ones. The ones where you’re fully present.

And in a way, it reset something in me too.

It brought me back—to myself, to what I love, and to the importance of showing up for life in a real way.

So here I am.

Writing again.

Sharing again.

And it feels right.

Travel Notes

Stay

• Hotel Mac Rae — perfect central location with beautiful waterfront views

  
  

Getting There

• Flight: Atlanta → Los Angeles

• Overnight stay in San Pedro

• Ferry: Catalina Express (1 hr 15 min)

Excursions & Experiences

• Discover Avalon Scenic Tour

• Golf cart rental (2-hour island ride & photo stops)

• Descanso Beach Club

• Catalina Island Horseback Adventures

Favorite Eats

• Original Jack’s Country Kitchen

• The Pancake Cottage

• Original Antonio’s Pizzeria

• Bluewater Grill

Packing & Travel Tips

• Catalina mornings and nights can be chilly, even if the afternoons warm up—pack layering pieces (light jackets, cardigans, or sets you can easily add onto).

• Bring cash for the golf cart rental- $70 is needed in cash for 1 hour, and the remaining balance can be paid with a card.

• Comfortable shoes are a must—you’ll be walking more than you think.

• Plan your ferry time ahead—it helps keep your travel day smooth and stress-free.