Descanso Beach Club
1 Descanso Canyon Road
Avalon, CA 90704
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Contact: Catering Department
Phone: 310/510-7428
www.visitcatalinaisland.com
Why We Like This Place
If your wedding fantasy involves sipping mai tais on the beach under the California sun, then come to the Descanso Beach Club, a little slice of paradise on Catalina Island. This idyllic haven is less than an hour from the mainland by ferry or private boat; visitors disembark in Avalon, which is more laid-back beach town than tourist metropolis—there are no cars, no malls, and not one single billboard! A scenic ten-minute stroll along the shore takes you past the historic Catalina Casino and on to Descanso Beach, a peaceful curve of shoreline that the club calls home.
With such a sublime locale, it’s no surprise that this venue is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Beachfront weddings are popular on the club’s Terraced Lawn, a series of four spacious grass plateaus sloping down towards the water’s edge. Ceremonies are held on the lower terrace: Tiki torches and ribbons mark the aisle, and couples say their vows against the backdrop of the azure ocean. Receptions take place on the upper terraces, which offer the same wonderful view of the beach and the sea, complete with yachts bobbing on the water and the landmark Catalina Casino just up the coastline.
Though weddings are traditionally evening events, luncheon receptions take best advantage of the club’s views and refreshing atmosphere. Sailboats lean into the wind, sea birds feed in the ebbing tide, and the balmy weather ensures sunny dispositions. You’re surrounded by lush greenery and slender palms, whose languorous fronds sway in the warm breeze. With the boundless Pacific Ocean stretching out in front of you, the urban hustle and bustle feels a million miles away. Some people liken the setting to the picturesque coves of the French Riviera, while for others it’s reminiscent of the Big Island. Why not let your imagination run wild, and enhance the natural elements with your own creative touches? Decorate the stage with exotic potted plants and sheer, jewel-toned panels; or string Chinese lanterns across the stage, and give each guest a mutlicolored parasol. Tables topped with linen umbrellas provide a crisp café-style look; or dress the tables with upscale linens and luminarias for a sophisticated soirée.
Whatever you envision, the club’s event pros are eager to help; they’ve got the scoop on local vendors, as well as lodging and transportation. They’ve also got you covered when it comes to culinary matters, offering a variety of banquet menus created by their in-house, world-class chefs. And if you don’t see what you want, just ask! The most requested bill of fare is the Descanso Luau Buffet, with such tropical taste treats as “Kahlua Pig Smoked in Hawaiian Ti Leaves” and “Macadamia-Crusted Mahi Mahi with Coconut-Scented Rice.”
One more benefit of a destination wedding on Catalina: You and your family and friends are in such close proximity for the weekend that you end up spending quality time with each other…and since everyone is in a vacation state of mind, the mood is relaxed and lighthearted. By celebrating at the Descanso Beach Club, you’re inviting your guests to share a true Catalina experience.
Capacity
Ceremony |
Reception/Special Events |
Meetings |
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Max. Seated Indoors: 0 Max. Seated Outdoors: 120 |
Max. Seated Indoors: 0 Max. Seated Outdoors: 200 Max. Standing Indoors: 0 Max. Standing Outdoors: 300 |
Max. Seated: 120 |
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CEREMONY CAPACITY: The Terraced Lawn area holds 120 seated guests. EVENT/RECEPTION CAPACITY: The Terraced Lawn area holds 200 seated or 300 standing guests. MEETING CAPACITY: Meeting spaces seat up to 120 guests. |
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Fees & Deposits
The venue rental fee is required to reserve your date. The balance is due 1 month prior to the event. Rental fees start at $3,000 and vary depending on the season and the space rented. Meals range $45–75/person. Tax, alcohol and a 20% service charge are additional.
Availability
May–October, daily, noon–11pm.
CateringProvidedAlcoholProvidedBYO w/ Corkage Fee Location UsesCeremoniesWedding Receptions Special Events, Parties Rehearsal Dinners Services/AmenitiesCatering: provided, no BYO |
Amplified MusicOutdoorsw/ Restrictions Wheelchair AccessAccess LimitedSite ViewsCanyonCoastline Hills Landscaped Grounds Ocean/Bay Panoramic Venue TypeBanquet Hall/Events FacilityWaterfront/Beach Location RestrictionsAlcohol: provided or BYO with corkage fee |
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