Cat Harbor Kiting
The first time we left Catalina Harbor in a small sail boat we prepared for a high wind departure, reefing the sails, donning life vests and reviewing safety protocols. The wind came steady and clean through the gap created by the isthmus that separates Catalina Harbor, on the west side, from Two Harbors, on the east side of the island. The isthmus is the only place on the island where one can easily walk between the leeward and the windward side. When I saw the steep hills rising up on each side of the harbor I suspected that the wind could be a local phenomena, a venturi effect, enhanced by the hot mountains rising out of the cool sea. My suspicion was confirmed as we sailed windward, out of the harbor beyond the looming headland that forms Cat Harbor entrance, and found a perfectly calm sea outside the harbor.
The next time I went to Cat Harbor I brought my kite. There is a large open area free of obstructions that is wonderful for kite flying. The only drawback is that it is a dirt field with fine red clay that dusts your shoes, and if you do not keep your kite aloft, dirties your kite as well. The flying area of Cat Harbor can be reached via a 3/4 mile flat walk from Two Harbors. Catalina Express ferries run regularly during the Summer direct from San Pedro to Two Harbors. There are also Ferries from Dana Point and Newport to Avalon where you can catch a thrilling ride to Two Harbors via the high speed open boat,The Cyclone.
Despite the red clay Cat Harbor was a lovely place to fly kites. The stiff steady breeze which lasts until sunset makes it especially good for steerable and sport kites. We enjoyed practicing loops and dives with my parafoil Slingshot as the surrounding hills glowed with evening light around the boats at mooring in Cat Harbor. Flying the parafoil definitely required attention as with the wind velocity certain distracted flyers were pulled off balance and ended up in the dust. We were not the only ones that recognized it as a great kiting location. We were joined by a young man who was just putting together his first single line kite after completing his day working for the island company. When the wind got too light for our steerable kite, he was still contentedly flying his single line as the sun set.
Catalina Harbor is a scenic spot, reminiscent of old California where the topography has created a great kiting arena.