Catalina Island

Catalina Island sits about 35 kilometres off the coast of Southern California, though this particular listing refers to the Dominican Republic's Isla Catalina, a small uninhabited island off the country's southeast coast. Ships anchor offshore and tender passengers to the beach. The island has no town, no roads and no permanent residents, just white sand, palm trees and clear shallow water. The main activities are snorkelling, swimming and lying on the sand. A reef wall called "The Wall" drops off close to shore and attracts divers looking for colourful coral formations and tropical fish. Tour operators usually set up a buffet lunch on the beach with Dominican rice, chicken and fresh fruit. There is little shade beyond the palm trees, so bring sunscreen and a hat. The island is its own destination, simple and uncomplicated.