a dolphin . '' Paddlers can experience Catalina from the water 's surface , with tours that visit secluded coves and mysterious caves , all open for exploration . A few strokes of the paddle separate kayakers from pelicans , sea lions and a bison , which watches from land . `` If his tail wags , the buffalo is in a good mood , '' says Rod Jackson , who helps run Hummer tours to see bison . `` But never get too close . '' The bison have been on the island since the 1920s , when they were brought in as film extras . Today , they number nearly 250 and are protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy . `` Sometimes we get a rebel , '' Jackson says , gesturing to a lone bison across from the area 's only inn , The Banning House Lodge . Free hiking permits allow visitors to wander the island at will . Adrenaline junkies will want to tackle Boushay Trail , which climbs 1,800 feet to Silver Peak , the highest point west of Two Harbors . Those who make it to the top will be rewarded with sweeping
-LRB- Coastal Living -RRB- -- Barefoot on the sandy shore of Catalina Island , Kim Francis shades her eyes from the sun and peers back to mainland California . `` I ca n't believe we 're 22 miles from Los Angeles , '' she says , grinning . `` I may never go back . '' Paddlers can experience Catalina from the water 's surface . Behind her , the rugged terrain of Two Harbors stretches over rolling hills crossed by winding paths . Near the ferry dock , the modest village -LRB- a gift shop , an activities booth and one restaurant -RRB- buzzes with visitors . They come here to Catalina 's west end -- away from Avalon , the island 's much larger settlement -- to hike and watch wildlife . Many have their first try at snorkeling and paddling , says kayak guide Jason Clarke . Adjusting his colorful mask and snorkel , Jason plunges from the 45-foot catamaran Garibaldi into Isthmus Cove and encourages a tour group to do the same . `` You wo n't find kelp forests like this just anywhere , '' Clarke says . `` And always cross your fingers for