Hotel Metropole

This lovely boutique hotel has an intimate bed-and-breakfast atmosphere, and the relaxed and romantic vibe is a magnet for vacationing couples. It has a pretty, two-story lobby, with a white backdrop highlighting decor done in hues inspired by the nearby bay. A cluster of armchairs is set in front of the reception desk, but guests often opt to sit outside in a charming covered area with brick arches. There's also a cozy courtyard with black wrought iron furniture that’s an equally popular spot, as is the fantastic rooftop sundeck with sweeping views of the bay. The afternoon wine and cheese reception is a friendly affair, giving guests a chance to mingle. 

The Metropole is located in the heart of Avalon’s entertainment district, just a three-minute walk from Avalon Bay waterfront. Most of the quaint island community’s most popular restaurants and shops are less than five minutes away on foot, and many are much closer, including some at Metropole Market Place. The Catalina Island Museum is a two-minute stroll, the landmark Catalina Island Casino & Avalon Theater complex is a six-minute walk, and the ferry terminal is seven minutes on foot.  

Guest rooms have a mix of stylish contemporary decor and classic accents. There's quality wooden furniture with white and espresso finishes, dark-brown hardwood floors, and all-white bedding. Accent lighting has a retro touch, and artwork depicting vintage scenes of Catalina Island and add color and character. Rooms are bright, with large windows and pleasant views of the ocean (full or partial), or the courtyard and surrounding hills. They're also spacious, with desks, small dining tables with chairs, and dressers. 

Larger Superior and Deluxe rooms are available, and there's a Beach House with a kitchen, two bedrooms, and two bathrooms. Some of the upgraded rooms have sleeper sofas, fireplaces, and balconies with spectacular views. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs with DVD players, free bottled water, robes, slippers, free Wi-Fi, and nightly turndown service. 

Attractive vanities are placed outside bathrooms, which have roomy walk-in showers with glass doors and upmarket toiletries, and some higher-end units have whirlpool tubs. Guest rooms are generally quiet, but some past guests in units facing the courtyard or busy street complain of noise.

The hotel has a nice set of features and extra perks that can make a stay feel special. A free continental breakfast is served daily that includes fresh fruit, yogurt, baked goods, and boiled eggs, and there's also a free wine and cheese reception each afternoon. Many guests choose to take their drinks up to the rooftop sundeck, which has panoramic ocean views and a small whirlpool. There's no fitness center, but the hotel wraps around Metropole Market Place, with restaurants including the M Restaurant, which has event space for up to 150 people. There's also plenty of shops and a full-service spa. The hotel concierge can help arrange island adventures such as kayaking, hiking, and golf for an extra fee, although packages that include many of these activities are frequently offered. Wi-Fi is free throughout, but there's no on-site parking.