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The Sandcastle Cottage 140 steps to the Beach

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A room with wooden flooring, a vintage radio, a lamp, a television on a wooden stand, and a bookshelf filled with books and decorative items.
A room with a television mounted on the wall, a wooden chair, a small table with a vase, a bed with striped bedding, and a dresser with a lamp.
A room with a dark grey sofa, a wicker chair, and a small table with a lamp.
A small, single-story building with a blue and white exterior, a visible number '205' on the window, and a sign indicating 'Vacation Rental'.
A narrow hallway with wooden floors and walls, a wooden counter on the left, and a door with a towel dispenser on the right.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Centrally-located

    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.

  • Discover nearby landmarks

    Close to Catalina Island Golf Course
2 bedroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Barbecue
  • Air-conditioning
  • Refrigerator
  • Washing machine
  • Internet
  • Non-smoking

Explore the area

View map
Avalon, CA
  • Place, Catalina Island Visitor Center
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Avalon Port
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Catalina Museum for Art & History
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Airport, Avalon, CA (AVX-Catalina)
    ‪21 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

The Sandcastle Cottage 140 steps to the Beach

Perfect Cottage for your vacation. Our Cottage has two bedrooms one with King size bed and the second one with two twins. In the living room we have a Queen size sofa sleeper that two more people can sleep in. We welcome families and individuals who enjoy the activities of Catalina Island including bike riding, hiking, boating, beach activities and diving. Our rustic cottage was built in 1912 and retains the charm of early Avalon. Come stay in our home and enjoy the ambiance of a genuine historical setting. Amenities include cable TV, Wi Fi, air conditioning, completely equipped kitchen and washer & dryer.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Check out before 11:00 AM

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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

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Events

No events allowed

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Pets

No pets allowed

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:

Wash dishes

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1181096vb
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 indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Avalon

Located in Avalon, this cottage is in the city centre and near the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lovers Cove and Hamilton Beach, while Catalina Museum for Art & History and Avalon Theater are cultural highlights. Three Palms Avalon Arcade and Nature Center at Avalon Canyon are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and mountain biking.
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Map
Avalon, CA

What's nearby

  • Catalina Island Visitor Center - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Avalon Port - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Catalina Museum for Art & History - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Descanso Beach - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Catalina Island Golf Course - 17 min walk - 1.5 km

Getting around

  • Avalon, CA (AVX-Catalina) - 23 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Descanso Beach Club - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Pancake Cottage - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Bluewater Avalon - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co. - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪The Lobster Trap - ‬1 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is The Sandcastle Cottage 140 steps to the Beach pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at The Sandcastle Cottage 140 steps to the Beach?

As of 18 September 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Sandcastle Cottage 140 steps to the Beach on 3 January 2027 start from NZ$1,374, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What time is check-in at The Sandcastle Cottage 140 steps to the Beach?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Sandcastle Cottage 140 steps to the Beach?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Sandcastle Cottage 140 steps to the Beach located?

Located in the heart of Avalon, this cottage is within 1 mi (2 km) of Catalina Island Visitor Center and Catalina Island Golf Course. Green Pleasure Pier and Three Palms Avalon Arcade are also within 5 minutes.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 49 out of 58 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 58 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 58 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 58 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 58 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had such a special stay here. From the moment we walked in, all of our childhood memories came flooding back—from waving to the tour buses through those expansive front windows, to using the rotary phone in the kitchen, to walking down “Memory Lane” in the hallway.We came to Catalina for a trip in memory of our mom, who recently passed, so being able to stay in a home that holds so many memories for our family meant more to us than we can really put into words. Seeing that it was still there, with so much of the same charm we remembered as kids, was incredibly comforting and made the trip even more meaningful.Beyond the nostalgia, the house is in such a perfect location, and the addition of the AC units was an absolute blessing! Haha. We had such a great time and felt right at home.We already can’t wait to come back for another trip down memory lane—not only to remember all the amazing moments we had here growing up, but to create new ones with our family now. Thank you for keeping such a special place so full of the character and charm that we remembered.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 20 August 2026
Thank you so much for your visit and we are happy that we have preserved the memories for you all. The funny thing is people either like that we haven't tried to change it or hate that it isn't modern. It is old Catalina and you have the appreciation for it. We loved having you as guests and we look forward to another visit!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location very close to Catalina Express dock, easy walking to al of Avalon (market, tours, restaurants...).Property is old but very nice, kind funky (in a good way) layout and decorations.Loved it.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 November 2025
Thank you for your comments and we are happy that you enjoyed your visit.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location for this little beach cottage. It is obviously an older place so you only have one bathroom, but everything was clean and they provided everything you need to enjoy the beach in the island.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 August 2025
Thank you for your visit and your comments, they are greatly appreciated.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great location

We thought this little island cottage was perfect for our needs. Great character, great location.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 9 May 2024
Thank you for your visit, we loved having you as guests. Please come see us again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

A marvelous local place to stay!

Excellent local charming cottage nestled in Avalon. Wonderful communication with property manager Michael!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 20 May 2024
Thank you so much for your visit and I am so happy that you enjoyed our quirky little cottage.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Nice place

I have a great time Great place to be in
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 27 June 2024
Great guest, very easy to work and to communicate with. Enjoyed having them as guests!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Surprisingly ample vintage beach cottage

Great place, incredible relic in Avalon
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 22 March 2020
Thank you so much, we enjoyed having you and your family as guests.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Best place in Catalina

My favorite place to stay - I’ve done it twice and will do it again in the future!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 July 2022
Thank you so much for your return visit. We look forward to the next one!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great place

Great spot close to everything. Very clean
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 23 October 2023
Thank you for your visit and we are happy that you enjoyed your stay!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Weekend away

This property was great! Very quaint, clean, and perfect for our family of 4. The property manager was very helpful and we loved being just steps from town. We'll definitely plan to stay here again on our next visit!
Stayed 1 night in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 22 March 2020
Thank you so much for your visit and the kind words, we hope to have you visit again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Relaxing Beach Cottage

This property was very quaint and was clean and tidy. It is so close to everything that you want/need to do: shopping, dining, beach and the grocery store. Check in/out was super easy too!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 20 April 2021
Thank you for your visit and I am happy that the Sandcastle met you needs! Please come visit again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Close to harbor

An older property but it was clean and close to everything.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 28 June 2024
Thank you for your visit and please come again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Prime location, excellent host!

You can’t beat the location of this little house - just far enough off the main drag to be quiet but close to enough to be steps from the action. The house old, but that makes it quaint, and it’s well maintained and clean. Perfect vacation spot!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 May 2022
Thank you for your visit and your comments. They are always appreciated.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Avalon Gem!

Loved the space. Loved the location. Well stocked and comfortable!! Would definitely come and stay again!
Stayed 1 night in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 1 June 2022
Thank you so much for your visit and I am happy that you enjoyed your stay!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cutest house / All the charm!

This house was so dang cute, and had more charm than any house I have ever rented! It was very clean - very close to the pier - close to restaurants - and the host was very responsive! We will definitely book this rental again!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 1 June 2023
Thank you so much and I am pleased that you enjoyed your stay in Avalon. We look forward to a return visit!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Amazing Cottage with excellent service.

We arrived early and our host allowed us to leave our luggage at the Seacrest Inn which was Nextdoor. It was a
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 15 December 2024
Thank you so much for your visit and we are happy that you enjoyed your stay!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Loved the cottage

Quaint and authentic cabin-like cottage seemingly built by a man of the sea. Cool details in all rooms. There were two large bedrooms with a nice usable kitchen with all the amenities. The location is close to the beach, shopping and eateries. Michael was very accommodating, we enjoyed our stay very much.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Historic Cottage

A rather eclectic historic cottage, filled with so many memories from both the past & present. Beds were a bit too firm, but other than a blow dryer, it has all you need. Location is great, close to ferry and downtown. Hotel staff were very kind and accommodating.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 9 October 2023
Thank you so much for your visit and your comments, they are always appreciated.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Best getaway!

After this past year we needed a getaway. The cottage was clean cute and comfortable! Oh! And close to everything! We will definitely be back and I will definitely refer! Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 20 June 2021
Thank you so much and we are happy that you were able to enjoy yourselves after a crazy year! Please do come back for another visit.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Getaway

Avalon is just so much fun. Everyone had an outstanding time. Although the unit is dated, that makes it interesting and fun. Lots of memorabilia of times past! Pots and pans could be improved.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 June 2022
Thank you for your visit and comments they are always appreciate.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Best of everything!

We had a fantastic time in Avalon! The location of this cottage couldn’t be better. The size of the cottage was a lot bigger than expected. Kitchen was equipped with everything needed. The Rooftop BBQ view was amazing. You could see all of Avalon! Micheal our host was very friendly and notified us when cottage was ready and was able to get into it early. I would definitely go back.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 21 August 2021
Thank you so much for your visit and kind words. I hope to see you on your next visit to Catalina Island!
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Just the Right Place

I will start with our host Michael, very easy to reach and was very helpful with everything needed, thank Michael. The properties description was spot on and perfect for myself and my 3 teenage grandsons. We had everything we needed and everything from beach to dining were a short walk away. I would have given a 5 star for the property but there was no outdoor seating area like a patio or deck. It is a dated place but also as described so my expectations were met. The question is always "Would you stay there again?" My answer is yes without hesitation.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 26 August 2022
Thank you for your visit and I am happy that you and your grandsons were able to enjoy Catalina before the school year begins. We enjoyed having you as guests.
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication

Good location

Let me begin by saying that the host was extremely responsive, very easy to work with and courteous. Other positives are that the beds were pretty comfortable and you are close to shops and restaurants. The linens in the bathroom and bedroom were nice and we were supplied with an abundance of coffee. There were three nice TVs which as great. That being said, we were unhappy about several things. There are electrical wires all over, some with knob and tube. We felt insecure due to the fact that not every window had a secure way to lock and the locks on the doors did not appear to be very secure and are not very easy to open and close either. We FROZE the entire time we were there. The host did provide us with some little electric heaters but it was not enough to keep the place warm- the bathroom was particularly frigid. The lighting here is inadequate- it was very dark and cold, but I must add that it is a cold time of year. The shower was lined with some type of crusty residue. Several things were in disrepair, like the ceiling fans and some of the desperately needed lights. The place needs a coat of paint. And finally, we wanted to do a load of laundry (asked permission from one of the workers) and refrained from doing so due to the condition of the inside of the machine- full of residue- icky. We believe this is where linens for the property are laundered as workers were there constantly. So that was a turnoff. The house is full of a lot of old stuff and old furniture, etc. I know that some people are into that but to me, it just looked like a bunch of cast-off things. And the street out front has constant, loud traffic noise, something I was trying to get away from. I appreciated the host but most of the rest of the stay was a big disappointment.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 February 2023
Thank you for your comments they are always appreciated. I did explain the history of the Sandcastle. The old wiring is not connected to any type of power source. I also explained how the over head heaters worked and that the floor heaters were the back up as you were here during the storms that came through Southern California.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very friendly and easy to work with staff. Very accommodating. Was truly walking distance to everything. House was spacious and very cute.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2026
Thank you so much for your visit, we are happy that you enjoyed your stay. Please come and see us again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Pictures don't do it justice

This house is SO cute. We loved checking out all of the collector signs, the wall that so many visitors tacked up a memory on, the old/antique phone in the kitchen, it was just all so cool. So many sliding doors/windows, almost like a scavenger hunt. We have 3 teens (2 x 16 and 1 18) and us and the size was more than enough. It's larger than the pictures make it out to be the I was a bit concerned about only having one bathroom but it's SO big, didn't matter. I seriously loved the cottage and hope to stay again. Amber was a huge help and so sweet, at check in. She showed us around, helped us understand the TV remotes and how to work the AC, just all around wonderful experience. My family was all very pleased with the house
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 6 December 2021
Thank you so much for your visit and I am happy to hear tat you enjoyed your stay. It is a quirky little cottage and all the memorabilia people have left is fun to explore.

About the host

Hosted by Michael Ponce

Host profile image

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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