Blog
A Weekend Escape to Catalina Island Just Got Even Better
04.23.25
Just a short ferry ride from Orange County, Catalina Island makes the perfect weekend escape—with scenic views, laid-back charm, and now, even more to experience. Whether you're craving ocean breezes, outdoor adventures, or great food and drink, Catalina has something new (and nostalgic) in store.
Catalina Horseback Adventures Are Back
After a 17-year hiatus, horseback riding has returned to Catalina Island. Catalina Horseback Adventures now offers scenic rides for visitors and locals alike, ranging from 45 to 90 minutes. Riders can expect panoramic ocean views from clifftops, tranquil valleys, hillsides, and even the occasional sighting of deer or island foxes.
The revival of horseback riding on the island draws on a longstanding tradition dating back to the 1930s, when the Wrigley family—then-owners of Catalina—established El Rancho Escondido. Located 12 miles outside Avalon, the Arabian horse-breeding ranch still operates today and is often open for Saturday tours.
Sip Island-Made Brews at Catalina Brewhouse
Catalina Brewhouse is the island’s only craft brewery, serving six small-batch beers created by brewmaster Danny Gutierrez. Popular picks include the Gariblonariblondie Blond, Rabid Fox Amber, Island Hop IPA, Lovers Cove Wheat, Dancing Goat Harbor Porter, and Buffalo Milk Stout. Each brew features a distinct flavor profile and malt aroma—click here to learn more.
Waterfront Dining at Pier 24
Pier 24 is Avalon’s newest waterfront dining spot, located where Antonio’s Pizza once stood. The modern restaurant pays tribute to the original Steamer Pier—where passengers aboard William Wrigley’s iconic vessels, the S.S. Avalon and S.S. Catalina, once disembarked. Vintage photographs, playful nods to island history, and large harbor-facing windows set the scene, while two patios invite guests to enjoy open-air dining with postcard-worthy views of the Catalina Casino and Avalon Bay.
Casual Fare at Sunset Bar & Grill
Sunset Bar & Grill at the Catalina Canyon Inn is now open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The casual eatery offers a mix of American and Mexican favorites, plus a full bar. Don’t miss the house specialty michelada. The restaurant is operated by Catalina hospitality veterans Francisco and Veronica Bravo and Miguel Chavolla.
Explore Avalon by Golf Cart
Get a local’s perspective on Avalon with custom guided golf cart tours. These 2-hour (or longer) experiences combine history, sightseeing, and local insights. Space is limited, so early reservations are encouraged.
Blog
2025 Breeders’ Cup Returns to Del Mar: Tickets On Sale Now
04.23.25
Tickets are now available for the 2025 Breeders’ Cup World Championships, returning to Del Mar Thoroughbred Club on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. Fans can reserve their spot at breederscup.com/tickets for the 42nd running of the season’s international finale.
The two-day festival will feature 14 Grade 1 races and a full undercard, with more than $34 million in purses and awards. Known as “Where the Turf Meets the Surf,” Del Mar hosts the prestigious event for the fourth time, attracting the sport’s top horses, trainers, owners, jockeys, and breeders.
New this year, tickets must be purchased through SeatGeek. All tickets are mobile-only, and a SeatGeek account is required to complete your order. While tickets are viewable upon purchase, barcodes will become available closer to the event. Visit seatgeek.com/#register to set up an account.
Fans can choose from a variety of seating options, all available in advance and while supplies last. No tickets will be sold at the gate. To reserve group or corporate hospitality packages, visit breederscup.com/groups.
Breeders’ Cup Charities makes its debut this year, giving ticket buyers the option to donate at checkout to support aftercare for Thoroughbreds, industry workers, jockey wellness, equine research, and community programs.
Following a record-breaking 2024 event, which drew $203.7 million in global wagering and contenders from five continents, Breeders’ Cup and Del Mar will invest over $5 million to enhance the fan experience. Upgrades include a new luxury dining chalet, expanded hospitality areas, and additional premium box seating.
Michelin-starred chef Curtis Stone returns to curate the culinary experience, offering globally inspired dishes in select premium areas. Stone, known for Gwen and The Pie Room in Los Angeles, brings his signature style to the World Championships for a third consecutive year.
Attendance will be capped at 37,500. All parking must be purchased in advance, and a designated rideshare lot will be available throughout the weekend. For transportation details, visit breederscup.com/transportation.
Official travel packages, including tickets, hospitality, and exclusive experiences, are available through breederscupexperiences.com.
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from the blog
- 04.25.25 – Hilton Anaheim Debuts Hansen’s Market
- 04.23.25 – Bowers Museum Celebrates $500,000 Lead Gift for Terracotta Warriors Exhibition
- 04.23.25 – A Weekend Escape to Catalina Island Just Got Even Better
- 04.23.25 – 2025 Breeders’ Cup Returns to Del Mar: Tickets On Sale Now
- 04.23.25 – Up to 80% Off at the Beach Riot Warehouse Sale in Tustin
- 04.23.25 – Score Up to 70% Off at the Zumiez Warehouse Sale in Santa Ana
- 04.20.25 – Burger Boss Introduces Halal Poultry, Salmon and Meal Deals
- 04.18.25 – Floral Park’s 32nd Annual Home & Garden Tour Returns April 26–27
- 04.17.25 – Avila’s El Ranchito in Newport Beach Celebrates 50 Years
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- 04.13.25 – Bar Becky Hosts Bougie Easter Brunch in Long Beach
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- 04.15.25 – Easter Hoppenings in Orange County
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- 03.25.25 – Dr. Jennifer Armstrong: Subtle, Beautiful Results That Make All the Difference
- 03.21.25 – Legendary Ramen Nagi Arrives at South Coast Plaza
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