Bluewater Avalon

Based in a historic building on the waterfront that once served as a terminal for the SS Avalon and SS Catalina steamers, Bluewater Avalon is a beautifully renovated 6,900-square-foot restaurant that specializes in sustainable seafood and other New American cuisine. The popular eatery boasts modern fish house architecture with a spacious, airy dining room with contemporary décor and a charming 3,000-square-foot waterfront deck with spectacular views. Seasonal dishes of classic New England seafood with a Catalina twist are served such as homemade chowder, fish and chips, humanely harvested local swordfish, sanddabs, lobster, and other locally caught fish.

But more drinks and snacks awaited, so we moved on to Bluewater Avalon, an over-the-bay restaurant with terrific views and a seafood menu. The creamy, dreamy surprise here was buffalo milk, Catalina Island’s favorite drink, originally made at Doug’s Harbor Reef restaurant at Two Harbors in 1977. The smoothie-like drink doesn’t really contain buffalo milk; it’s a combination of vodka, cream, cacao and banana liqueurs, Kahlua and whipped cream.

Recommended Avalon options include the Bluewater Avalon (310/510-7494), a new American restaurant with some dock seating and a full bar. It's on the waterfront in the center of town, across from the Green Pleasure Pier. You will find locals at the Lobster Trap (310/510-8585; www.catalinalobstertrap.com), a casual seafood-and-cocktails joint, is a fun night out where the namesake dish is served so fresh that you can choose your dinner.

This restaurant occupies some of the choicest real estate in Avalon Harbor, right on the water, which is amazingly clear, by the way. The deck is the perfect spot to have a drink, watch the boats bobbing in the bay, sit back and enjoy life. Part of a small restaurant chain which began in San Diego, Bluewater is the only one allowed on Catalina – notice you won’t find any McDonald’s, Taco Bells or Starbucks here.

Bluewater Avalon is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering some of the freshest catches on Catalina Island. Situated on the waterfront, this restaurant boasts stunning views of the marina, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a leisurely lunch. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, from classic fish and chips to inventive ceviches, all prepared with local and sustainable ingredients.

Afterwards we walked to the harbor view Bluewater Avalon seafood restaurant for an IPA beer, cup of clam chowder and plate with shrimp ceviche and crunchy tortilla chips. You would think with all this food we were too full, however the portions are small and the flavors are different at each location, that we all continued to eat every item on our plate and sip every drink placed in front of us.

The city's newest restaurant, Bluewater Avalon should be familiar to SoCal diners with four sister restaurant locations on the mainland. Sustainable, top quality seafood takes center stage at Bluewater Avalon, located directly on the wharf in the middle of town. The San Francisco Style Cioppino with clams, mussels, crabmeat, shrimp, scallops and fish in a zesty marinara sauce is lovely.

Without a doubt, the most recommended seafood restaurant in Avalon is Bluewater Avalon Seafood Restaurant (44) at 306 Crescent Ave. (310-510-3474). This 250-seat restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. You’ll undoubtedly agree that their delicious tasting fresh seafood and a breathtaking harbor views makes dining here an unbeatable combination.

Cook their catch or let them cook yours: Speaking of fresh fish, if you’ve caught something yummy while fishing in Catalina waters, Bluewater Avalon and The Lobster Trap will be happy to cook your catch for you. If you’d prefer to cook for your family at your vacation rental, several locations, including The Lobster Trap, offer fresh fish for sale.

Let’s begin with Bluewater Avalon, a beloved waterfront institution known for its stunning harbor views and exceptional seafood creations. The ambiance is relaxed yet sophisticated, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a memorable meal with friends and family. Their swordfish is an absolute must-try.

Bluewater Grill Avalon: Located right on the water, Bluewater has the best ocean-front patio on the island, and is our go-to lunch spot. (AND they have a great happy hour!) Their Cedar Plank Salmon is out of this world, and if you’re looking for a sweet treat, order the Java Mud Pie.

Bluewater Avalon is located directly on the waterfront in Avalon. Part of the Bluewater Grill, they also have restaurants in select Southern California locations as well as one restaurant in Phoenix. Their original restaurant in Newport Beach was founded over 20 years ago.

Bluewater is a mainland restaurant that took over the spot formerly occupied by our favorite breakfast place, the Busy Bee (RIP). Bluewater doesn’t serve breakfast yet, a shame since dining on the water in the morning is sublime. We started with the Grilled Artichoke.

Bluewater Avalon ($$): Our favorite restaurant in Avalon, this place is located right on the water with the most amazing views and delicious seafood (we got the burger and it was great!) During peak times it’s best to make a reservation as it gets busy.

From the moment I stepped foot into Bluewater Avalon, I could tell it was going to be a great experience. The atmosphere was lively and bustling, with patrons eagerly devouring their fresh seafood dishes. Speaking of which, let's talk about the seafood.

Our server William was very knowledgable of gluten free menu options and cross contamination. He took great care of us. The front desk told us there was gluten free bread but this is not true (other than what look like Udi's GF buns for sandwiches).

Located right on the water with a great outdoor deck to enjoy delicious food and drinks. We loved the beer selection on tap and the fresh seafood options. This is a great stop to come for a drink and split a few appetizers.

Globally sourcing the best fresh seafood – serving high end cocktails, appetizers & entrees. We actually ended up eating here two more times!. It was so good, we decided to go back for dinner & lunch!

Choose an entrée and your choice of side (garden salad, veggies, wild rice, potato chips, scalloped potato, or french fries) and drink (apple, cranberry, orange, or pineapple juice or low-fat milk)

Bluewater Avalon, established in 2013, is situated on the historic docking site of the SS Catalina Ferry, showcasing amazing views of the Avalon Harbor.