230 Marilla Ave, PO Box 1295, Avalon, California, United States | (937) 315-4602
Within a 15-minute walk of the center
Large rooms with flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers
All but Standard rooms have kitchens with stoves and full-sized fridges
Free Wi-Fi
Free cab ride from the ferry terminal to the hotel
Quiet patio with a couple of barbecues
Steep uphill walk back from town
Complaints of poor soundproofing
Unstaffed front desk at night
No restaurant or pool
El Terado is a family-friendly mid-range property offering good value in a location a little outside Avalon’s center. The property is geared towards those looking to spend most of the time exploring the island, as there is little more on-site than a quiet patio with two barbecues and tables. Most units here are spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi; even rooms with no kitchens feature microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers. Just note that walls are thin, and that the uphill walk back from the city center may be a little challenging for some.
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Scene
A good pick for families on a budget
El Terado is a no-frills property with few amenities. It offers reasonable rates, large suites with kitchens (most units), and a couple of barbecues in a quiet patio -- but little else. All of its 17 rooms are housed in a single white building with exterior entrances to the units. Decor is generic but mostly contemporary, with basic wooden furniture, and a few dark brown accents. There is no lobby here, just a small office that closes at night. However, there is always a member of the staff on call, so guests can seek assistance after closing time if needed. Grounds are nice and clean, with palm trees, lots of plants, and a few loungers and tables sprinkled throughout the property.
Location
On a hill within a 15-minute walk of the center
El Terado is located on a steep residential street off Avalon’s main drag. This situation offers easy walking access to restaurants, bars and shopping, and quieter nights than in more central areas. However, the walk back from the center and the waterfront is quite steep, so guests with mobility issues may want to take a cab instead. Most of Avalon’s major attractions -- including the Casino building, Descanso and Avalon beaches, and Silver Canyon Pottery -- can all be reached in just under 15 minutes. Catalina Island Golf Club is a quick drive away.
Rooms
Most rooms have fully equipped kitchens.
The property offers 17 rooms, most of which are spacious suites featuring fully equipped kitchens with stoves, full-sized fridges, microwaves, coffeemakers, and ovens. Standard rooms do not have kitchens, but are equipped with microwaves, coffeemakers, and mini-fridges. All rooms also have large flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and either a king or two double beds. Decor is contemporary but generic, with basic wooden furniture, brown carpeting, and a dark brown bed throw with a matching pillow. Larger groups can book one of the townhouses, which have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a dining area for up to six guests.
Features
Free cab rides from the ferry, and a patio with barbecues
The hotel has a pleasant patio with tables, chairs, umbrellas, and two barbecues that guests can use for free. Other than that, there is little else in the way of common areas and features, so this is probably a better pick for those looking to spend most of their time exploring the island’s attractions. The hotel offers free cab rides from the ferry terminal to the property (but not vice versa), and free Wi-Fi throughout.
